5 Things We Always Tell Gay Friends Visiting Palm Springs for the First Time
We’ve lived in Palm Springs for five years now, and let us tell you – there’s simply nowhere else quite like it. If you’re a gay man looking to live your best vacation fantasy (and maybe even flirt with the idea of staying for good), Palm Springs is the sun-soaked, speedo-clad, cocktail-in-hand escape of your dreams.
Palm Springs isn’t just gay-friendly – it’s practically gay-designed. From the moment you land, the mountains flirt with you, the boys wink at you, and the warm desert breeze whispers, “Take off your shirt, sexy.”
Whether you're coming to party, relax, explore, connect, or disconnect, here are the 5 things we always tell our gay friends before their first visit.
If you have anything you’d like to contribute to this article, please email us and let us know (and let us know why)!
1. Yes, it’s hot here in the desert – but it’s not like how you imagine.
Here’s the truth: desert heat hits differently. If you’re coming from a humid place like NYC or DC, 80° there feels like 110°. But here, a dry 105° can actually feel... dare we say... refreshing. Or at least comfortable.
That said, don’t get cocky about it. The sun is strong, the booze is stronger, and the dehydration is real. Hydrate often (we love a reusable water bottle), layer on that SPF, and bring a fan you can snap open for dramatic effect (yaass, Queen).
Pro Tips:
Do your hiking, brunching, or grocery shopping early.
Head indoors mid-afternoon – think Palm Springs Art Museum exploration, or a stylish air-conditioned nap.
Take the Aerial Tramway to escape the heat – temps up there can be 20° cooler (and the views are magnificent)!
With more pools per capita than anywhere in the country, take a dip – day or night.
2. You’ll feel more seen here than anywhere else you’ve been – so embrace it.
Palm Springs is proudly over 40% LGBTQ+. That means wherever you go – whether it’s the farmer’s market, a drag brunch, or Trader Joe’s – you’ll feel like you belong here.
Don’t hold back. Hold hands. Rock the mesh tank. Flirt with strangers. Be the main character at brunch. Whether you’re 25 or 75 – a twink, a bear, or a daddy – you’re part of the tapestry here.
From our local government and police force to our local businesses and eateries – there’s something magical and deeply healing about being in a town where your queerness is celebrated.
3. Most of our resorts for men-only are clothing-optional – but that doesn’t mean what you think.
Yes, most of our resorts for men-only clothing-optional. But that can mean different things depending on where you stay.
Looking for a relaxed, classy vibe with a friendly crowd? Start with Santiago Resort – perfect for first-timers. Ready to crank up the steam? Casa Oliver brings the heat (and then some).
Etiquette 101:
Be yourself, but embrace the opportunity to be as free as you’d like.
Keep your phone to yourself (no photos!).
Respect everyone’s vibe – friendships and flings happen naturally.
And who knows? That stranger in the hot tub might just become your new bestie. It happens all the time here.
4. Check out the theme parties – but pace yourself!
Palm Springs nightlife comes to life when a good theme calls. At Tool Shed, underwear night is always a popular weekly attraction. Be sure to wear your sexiest jock strap and leather harness for this – or make a pit stop at Gear Leather & Fetish next door.
Pro tip: the “Palm Springs pour” is not for amateurs. One drink here is often a double (and it’s still 90° outside), so sip wisely, gurrrl.
After Dark Suggestions:
Start at Tool Shed or Dicks on Arenas
Dance it out at Chill Bar or Quadz in the Arenas district after, or…
If you're in the mood for more... Club 541 (Palm Springs’ new sex club) is across the street.
Take a Lyft or Uber. Nobody looks cute getting a DUI in a harness.
5. During in-season (September–May), make those dinner reservations in advance – and leave time for a disco nap.
Palm Springs is a seasonal lady – and when she’s in-season, everyone’s out. Tables book up fast, especially at hot spots like:
Bar Cecil (try booking 1–2 months out!)
Clandestino, Lola Rose, and Ponzu are also go-to faves.
Shows, concerts, and drag revues can start early (7 or 8 PM), but the bars don’t start hopping until 9 or 10. Our advice is to plan ahead for dinner, take a disco nap, then head out looking rested and radiant.
Why Gay Palm Springs Is Always a Good Idea
Year-round sunshine, breathtaking desert views, and one of the most welcoming LGBTQ+ communities in the world? Yes, please.
From chill pool days to wild theme nights, from world-class dining to once-in-a-lifetime friendships, Palm Springs invites you to strip off the expectations, dive into freedom, and just… be exactly who you are inside and out. You’ll come alive here.
If you could give one piece of advice to a gay friend visiting PS for the first time, what would it be? What surprised you most during your first visit to Palm Springs? Share your experiences!
If you’re curious to learn more about all the fun you can have here in Palm Springs and our beautiful Coachella Valley, check out some of our blog favorites, like Best Gay Nightlife in Palm Springs, Escape to Bliss: Best Gay Men's Spas and Spa Resorts in Palm Springs, and Santiago, Descanso & Twin Palms Resorts: A Three-Way Comparison.
Curious About Buying, Selling, or Relocating?
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
In addition to being one half of The Palm Springs Guys – Glen Nadeau is one of Palm Springs’ top-producing Realtors, known for his no-pressure approach, deep market expertise, and genuine commitment to his clients.
A member of The Caldwell & Linger Group – ranked a Top Real Estate Team by Palm Springs Life Magazine – Glen is also backed by COMPASS, which remains the #1 ranked brokerage in the country. Glen takes great pride in knowing that his clients are in such good hands.
“Hospitality is what drives me because helping folks achieve their real estate goals is essentially helping them build a better life for themselves.”
Visit Modern Living Palm Springs, or reach out to me directly. Ask me anything – I promise to give you much more support than ChatGPT, Google or the news will.
Your Palm Springs Insider,
Glen Nadeau (pronounced “Ned-oh” as in “meadow”)
📱 Call or Text: 805-220-8097
📨 Email: glen.nadeau@compass.com
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