gay Palm Springs | Celebrate Diversity

The Sunday T-Dance at Jeffrey Sanker's White Party in Palm Springs.

Photos courtesy of Greater Palm Springs CVB

The Coachella Valley is not only a sun-kissed oasis brimming with amazing art and architecture, fabulous functions and fêtes, and the happiest happy hours on earth, it’s also a place that celebrates diversity and offers acceptance like no other.

With annual events that draw like-minded revelers from around the globe, such as Greater Palm Springs Pride, Dinah Shore Weekend, Jeffrey Sanker’s White Party, and the AIDS Assistance Program’s Evening Under the Stars, to name a few, the valley is packed with plenty of parties, parades, and powwows — as well as more gay and gay-friendly eateries, bars, hotels, shops, and other businesses per capita than any other gay destination.

Looking for some cozy one-on-one with your one and only? In the mood for a new love connection? This resort-casual gay paradise with its charming shops, laid-back attitude, and seemingly endless entertainment, food, and dancing (and let’s not forget the bars that pack the gay epicenter of Arenas Road in Palm Springs) is the perfect vacation spot to get your gay on.

Whether you’re sipping creative cocktails and enjoying the retro lounge vibe at Tropicale, feasting on TRIO’s California take on comfort food, shaking your well-toned booty at Toucans, or belting out your favorite show tunes at Spurline, there’s always plenty of fun to be had here, both in and out of the brilliant sunshine.

Ask a Local

Reggie Cameron, aka The Party Captain, is a publicist and marketing consultant extraordinaire for Greater Palm Springs and San Francisco Pride. Here, this full-time resident shares what he loves.

Favorite Party Spots: “Arenas Road has had much new activity for the LGBT set. Chill Bar has opened with a large patio and dance area. Hunters Palm Springs has completely renovated their dance floor area adding cryo cannons, laser lights, and a gigantic video wall that makes for the most impressive dance floor in the desert when paired up with the sexiest go-go boys. This spot is a staple in the gayborhood!”

Favorite Staycation: “The newly renovated Santiago Resort boasts the largest pool of any LGBT resort in the desert. On a recent visit, I was impressed by friendly staff, the variety of guests, the quality of rooms, and their amenities. The Santiago Resort will interest those seeking a tasteful setting for intimate and sexy experiences.”