The key addresses in San Francisco — verified and regularly updated. Clicking takes you straight to the location page.
The Powerhouse in SoMa sees itself as a cruise bar for uncomplicated encounters in a rough, masculine atmosphere. Inside, strong drinks and house music create a great atmosphere, but the real hotspot is the backyard. Underwear parties and gear nights with outfit prizes, go-go dancers and a mix of bears, muscle guys and fetish fans characterize the evenings.
Finding a gay sauna in San Francisco is possible again today, even if the offer is manageable. During the AIDS crisis, the city banned the classic bathhouses, and it was not until 2021 that this ban was lifted. The central address in the city is Eros, which has been operating since 1992 and moved from the Castro edge to Turk Street in the Tenderloin in 2022, in the middle of the historic Transgender District. Among other things, a steam room, showers, a lounge area and playrooms on the upper floor are offered.
If you are looking for a classic bathhouse with a large wellness area, drive across the bay to Berkeley, where Steamworks is a traditional facility with gym, sauna, steam bath and whirlpool. From San Francisco, it is easily accessible by BART train. The crowd in the saunas is mixed, from locals to travelers to first-time men, and the vibe is highly dependent on the day and time. In San Francisco, cruising is not a taboo subject, but part of the history of the scene, visible at the Folsom Street Fair and Dore Alley, for example. Before your visit, check opening hours, possible theme nights and admission prices so that the evening fits your plans.