Oasis
If you’re staying in Condado, Oasis will quickly become your friendly neighborhood bar. The staff is welcoming and the happy hour deals are terrific, especially the $5 two-for-one special for the local beer, Medalla. There are kitschy disco lights and a go-go dancer or two who might dance up on you, but they’re not on the prowl.
Circo Bar
Circo is one of the largest and most popular queer bars in San Juan. Located in Santurce (just a short ride from Condado or Old San Juan) the club starts bumping around 11:30 p.m. and really gets going at 2 a.m. There’s no cover. You’ll find an outdoor dance and video bar. On Thursday night, try your best Adele impersonation during karaoke night. Parking is a hassle so plan on taking an Uber or taxi.
Tía María Liquor Store
Don't be fooled by the name, the Tía María Liquor Store is a fun and vibrant bar, warm and welcoming and attracting both LGBTQ guests and their allies. It’s a place where locals chill and enjoy after-work happy hour. It’s also close to the clubs if you want to stay out with friends.
La Sombrilla Rosa
In Old San Juan, La Sombrilla Rosa is a small bar on Calle San Sebastián where the margaritas flow and the Jello shots go down fast. Medalla are 3 for $5. Come with friends and meet the welcoming gay and straight locals that make this bar their neighborhood hangout.
The Bear Tavern
On Calle Loiza, The Bear Tavern is catered toward, well, you guessed it...bears, otters and cubs! Open Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. the bar is frequented by gay locals and serves tasty tapas.
Zal Si Puedes Mini Bar
Zal Si Puedes Mini Bar is a hard-to-find bar that caters to a 40-plus male crowd and their young admirers. As tiny as it is, this self-proclaimed gay 'mini-bar' features nightly acts with drag queens, singers, strippers and poets. Shows usually start at midnight.
Temptation
One of Santurce’s newest dance clubs, Temptation has a backroom, hunky go-go boys and a sexy vibe. The space also plays host to a weekly bear party.
Oceano
Oceano is a chic restaurant and lounge on the beach attracts gay, lesbian, queer and straight allies for cocktails, appetizers, and an oceanside view of the stars.
UNDERGROUND QUEER SCENE PLACES
The underground queer nightlife scene in San Juan is among the most raucous, diverse, and artistic as any in the Caribbean. In Santurce, mid-sized underground venues like El Local, El Hangar, and La Respuesta are hotspots that hosts DJs and performers. Nearby in Rio Piedras, you’ll find Club 77, another underground favorite.
