Gay Local Tips in Los Angeles

California dreamin'!

Here is Samuel and Fernando's extensive guide to LGBTQ+ life in Los Angeles. From the hip restaurants in Melrose Place to the chilled-out vibe of Venice Beach and Santa Monica, follow these misterb&b hosts' suggestions to stay like a gay local in the City of Angels, a favorite destination in gay California.

What makes your city a favorite gay destination?

Los Angeles is a gay man’s paradise. From the rainbow-soaked party town of West Hollywood to the bohemian vibe of Silverlake to the hip, light-studded, cosmopolitan setting of Downtown LA.

We have everything from beaches to hiking to shopping to some of the greatest drinking and dining in the world. And – let’s not forget – it’s sunny almost all year round here. It hardly ever rains and never gets cold!

How gay-friendly is Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is one of the most gay-friendly places in the United States. People from LA are laid-back, open-minded and celebrate diversity. No matter who you are or what your tastes, you'll find it here.

What are the best gay events that take place in LA?

Los Angeles Pride every June is always a must for those who haven’t been. In fact, there are a variety of pride events to suit your tastes: every August is DTLA Pride in Pershing Square downtown, nearby Palm Springs has its Pride event every November, and San Diego usually has it at the end of July.

We only have 48 hours in LA. What can’t we miss?

The Getty Center in the Sepulveda Pass above Westwood. Even if you're not big on museums and art, the architecture alone is worth the trip. The gardens are immaculate, and the views of the city are incredible. The best part? Admission is free. You can lose yourself for an entire day here and be perfectly happy. Did I mention there are pieces by Monet and Van Gogh?

Getty Center gardens © flickr/John Sequeira

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite to eat?

Marix Tex Mex in West Hollywood is a great go-to with a large, fun patio where the Margaritas flow, the boys are friendly, and the food is great. El Coyote Café in the Fairfax District is known for its campiness, colorful atmosphere, and strong Margaritas made from scratch. Home in Los Feliz is a great brunch venue where Sunday morning celebrity sitings are almost guaranteed!

And a gay place for brunch on weekends?

Do you like campy decor, strong drinks and drag queens? Then try Hamburger Mary’s on Santa Monica Boulevard in central West Hollywood. There's a disco ball in the men’s restroom, and ABBA’s Dancing Queen is always playing!

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer?

While there are lots of options for cheap beers on Sunday afternoons all over the city, the top destination is the Faultline on Melrose Avenue in Silverlake. It’s a well-known institution known for its attitude-free atmosphere, where guys of all shapes and sizes come to congregate, get tipsy and have a terrific time on the cheap!

OK, we’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

If you want a taste of the quintessential LA gay scene, don’t miss The Abbey and Micky’s in West Hollywood… high-end cocktails, sexy bartenders, foxy stripper boys, and DJs that will keep your hips moving all night. Rising rapidly in popularity is Precinct DTLA downtown, famous for dancing on Saturday nights.

Rainbow Nights at The Abbey © The Abbey

Want something different? Oil Can Harry’s in Studio City (on the other side of the hill from Hollywood) offers country and western two-stepping during the week and then retro, disco 70s and 80s madness on Saturdays.

Akbar in Silverlake is also known for its laid-back but high-energy dance parties on the weekends. Nearby, The Eagle is known for its manly atmosphere and sexually charged themes most nights of the week!

Any beaches, parks, or best other places to chill out?

Venice Beach is unique, with a ‘hippy’ vibe, known for its quirky inhabitants, medical marijuana stands, and endless options for food and drink. There are tons of hiking options in the Hollywood Hills and Santa Monica Mountains.

In addition to Griffith Park (the largest urban park in the U.S., where you can hike up behind the letters of the Hollywood Sign), there is hiking (and good celebrity sighting) in Runyon Canyon Park in Hollywood and Fryman Canyon in Studio City.

Finally, where can we get the best views of Los Angeles?

Griffith Park is actually one of the best options, with 360-degree views. If you're feeling brave, take the elevator up to the top of the U.S. Bank Building downtown where you can ride a glass-bottom slide from the 70th to the 69th floor and see an unforgettable view of the city! ●