San Francisco, home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and iconic film locations, is more than just a city with historical landmarks and rich film history. It is also an unapologetically sexually liberated hub, making it a top destination for LGBTQ+ travelers and anyone embracing their sexuality. Lustmag’s fourth annual Sexually Liberal Cities Index for 2024 revealed that San Francisco is not only the best place in the US for adventurous lovers but also the best destination in the world for it.
The study analyzed cities worldwide, considering factors like the number of gay bars and queer events, the legality of sex work, transgender rights, laws on transphobic and homophobic behavior, and the usage of contraception. San Francisco scored a remarkable 72.5, surpassing Cologne, which topped the list last year.
As you explore San Francisco, you’ll likely stumble upon one of its 42 gay bars, each catering to different tastes, from kink and leather to bright and bold. The Castro, one of the first gay neighborhoods in the US, boasts a vibrant bar scene. 440 Castro, formerly known as Daddy’s Draws, is an iconic gay bar popular with leather-wearing individuals. Open at noon for cocktails, it’s a place where you can have fun in broad daylight or wait until nightfall for an even more lively atmosphere. Monday nights are underwear nights, so be prepared to shed your shirt!
Jolene’s Bar welcomes revelers with a neon sign that reads, ‘you are safe here’. It’s a haven for queer women, offering events like U Haul parties and queer karaoke nights. With its bright pink pool table and dance floor, Jolene’s provides a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Located on Pol Street, in San Francisco’s original gay district, The Cinch Saloon is another iconic gay bar. With its saloon doors, stiff drinks, and delightful peachy exterior, it embodies a wild west vibe.
For those looking to enhance their experience, San Francisco offers 26 sex stores throughout the city, catering to every need. Dollhouse Bettie offers vintage-inspired lingerie and toys, fulfilling pin-up fantasies with peek-a-boo bras, nipple tassels, feathered toys, and risque garters. Good Vibrations on Mission Street caters to everyone, particularly those interested in BDSM, with floggers, cuffs, bondage, vibrators, strap-ons, and plenty of lube. Despite its contents, it maintains a classy appearance. The Castro is also home to Rock Hard, an LGBTQ+-focused sex shop with displays of erotic art to set the mood.
No discussion of a sexually liberated city would be complete without mentioning Pride events. San Francisco boasts 76 large gay pride events and 11 smaller ones. This year marks the sixth year of the San Francisco Pride Golf Tournament, held on September 21. It’s the first ever LGBTQ+ sporting event officially endorsed by the PGA. The Drag Gala, a celebration of the art form, doubles as a peaceful protest against drag bans and attacks on LGBTQ+ culture.
Other notable Pride events include Pride Prom, exclusively for those 21 and older, and the Sundance Saloon Pride Hoedown, offering a country-themed experience with two-stepping and line dancing. For those who prefer active celebrations, there’s Pride yoga and the Pride Run, a 5k or 10k race in Golden Gate Park.
While San Francisco offers a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, it’s important to be aware of the city’s notorious fog, known as Karl, which can obscure views of iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. Packing layers is essential as the city experiences microclimates, with temperatures varying significantly within short distances. For those seeking sunshine, September is the ideal time to visit.
Flights to San Francisco can be expensive, especially during peak season. Return flights from London in July average around £777, while November flights are more affordable at around £450. For even cheaper options, consider breaking up the journey with connecting flights, potentially stopping in France or the Netherlands. Despite the cost, visitors consistently rave about the city’s unique charm, vibrant neighborhoods, stunning sights, and cultural tapestry. Reviews on Yelp and TripAdvisor highlight the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the beautiful San Francisco Bay, making it a destination worth experiencing.
