Welcome to San Francisco!
San Francisco — America’s gay capital — offers an attractive playground to explore for any open-minded person. Home to Marshall’s Beach, The Castro, Dolores Park — free spirit and a sense of all things are considered prevails throughout the city. Nothing is off-limits! After seeing the cityscape from Twin Peaks and after visiting the bison in Golden Gate Park, will you fully appreciate the city for what it has to offer. More than ever, San Francisco remains open to all those who come. Here are my 6 favorite things every gay tourist must do in San Francisco:
Marshall's Beach
Because of the naked gay men, because of the best view of the Golden Gate, because of the sandy beaches with rocks to play in, Marshall’s Beach is the main spot every gay tourist must visit in San Francisco. On a hot sunny weekend, whether young or old, most hit the beach to take it off and be seen.
The Castro District
With rainbow flags lining the street and with a dozen exclusively gay establishments, the Castro remains your best opportunity to explore the gay side of San Francisco. My recommendations: Hi Tops, The Lookout and dancing at Beaux, a club known to attract a younger demographic. If you’re looking for a sit-down and sip a cocktail-type atmosphere, I suggest Blackbird. Powerhouse, The Eagle, The Edge if you’re into leather. Sunday Fundays bring the boys out in hordes!
Dolores Park
When I go to Dolores Park, I need two things to really enjoy it: a vinyl-lined waterproof blanket and chocolates from the Truffle Man. Diligently, the Truffle Man walks Dolores, selling chocolates 3 for $10 or 7 for $20. Be careful! If you eat too many, you may be subject to a Dolores Park nap. Whole Foods at the corner of Dolores and Market offers the best option to buy picnic essentials or get a quick bite to eat. A cheaper option is the Safeway across from Whole Foods.
Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks — “Eureka” and “Noe” — contain some of the best views of the city skyline. On a clear sunny day, visitors can see the Ferry Building all the way down Market to The Embarcadero. Salesforce Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid are both on full display permitting weather.
Golden Gate Park
Did you know Golden Gate Park is 20 percent larger than Central Park in New York? The vastness — 1,017 acres — offers plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. My recommendations: Sip tea at the Japanese Tea Garden, visit the bison at the Bison Paddock or practice archery at the free shooting range (requires equipment).
The Leather Scene
For some visitors, enjoyment comes from a large paddle, measured in hundreds or thousands, not just a few, swats. There are a variety of options to explore in the leather scene: Mr. S (go for key leather essentials or to visit the deep underground), The Eagle (best Sunday afternoon beer bust), Powerhouse (go for the “backroom” where pants and knees drop to the ground). Whether you enjoy the leather scene or whether you prefer something more vanilla, you can enjoy both as a spectator or fist deep. Your choice!