Cape town gay scene
LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to South Africa
Interesting Cities to Visit in South Africa
CAPE TOWN
Cape Town has probably the largest and most diverse Gay scene found in South Africa, albeit still small compared to other capital cities. The uppermost concentration of nightlife is found in the Waterkant area. There is a mixture of Diverse nightlife in Cape Town, from smaller bars, where locals meet for a casual drink, to the two well-liked dance clubs, Pink Panther and Crew Bar.
Cape Town’s most popular tourist attractions include the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a large shopping and dining venue; the iconic Table Mountain—the top of which can be reached either by hiking or cable car; and the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Cape Town also has an annual Pride, which takes place around the end of February. This is a very diverse event, with all subsections of the Diverse community being very well represented.
JOHANNESBURG
Johannesburg is the largest urban area in South Africa, and has a large LGBTQ+ people. While Cape Town takes the crown as the ‘gay-capital’ of South Africa, Johannesburg does still offer a vibrant and diverse Homosexual scene. The scene
Cape Town may be a lot smaller than other cities in South Africa, like Johannesburg, but when it comes to queer clubs and gay bars, Cape Town is a winner!
You might immediately Google ‘Best Gay Bars in Cape Town’ when you arrive, but what you should also know is that Cape Town as a whole is very gay friendly – something which we found very genuine during Cape Town Pride.
This means that a lot of bars that aren’t ‘officially gay bars’ in Cape Town will still have a very mixed and diverse crowd. This is especially true if you head to the touristy bars on Drawn-out Street.
That being said, when it comes to gay clubs and gay bars in Cape Town, you will be pleased to know that there is a good selection of options! Receive a look at our up to date list below and let us know where you end up!
Gay Bars in Cape Town
If you are looking for the gay area in Cape Town, the majority of the gay scene is focused around the De Waterkant area. We’ve included addresses for each block so you can see which fall into this area and which are a little more further afield:
Café Manhattan Cape Town
Café Manhattan is one of the oldest gay bars in C Being one of the gay capitals in the world, Cape Town boasts many gay and male lover friendly clubs and bars. CapeTownMagazine.com gives you an overview. Growing up gay in South Africa probably isn't all that different to the rest of the world: fear, doubt and the eventual discovery that there are other people just like you lovely much sum up my journey to making accord with myself. Cape Town was my home for over a decade, and even after living in New York and London, I still think it beats most cities in terms of experiences and the ultimate bang for your buck. Book with André-Pierre to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip. Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you Customized travel planning for your style Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there Unlock perks by contacting André-Pierre to novel your trip. Cape Town is world celebrated for its sandy beaches and they're all queer friendly. The city's politics is quite liberal and you're not very likely to run into conservative types while at the beach.
Nightlife: Gay & male lover friendly bars and clubs in Cape Town
Being one of the gay capitals in the society, Cape Town boasts many gay and gay friendly clubs and bars. Cape Town Magazine.com gives you an overview
The Bronx Activity Bar (reopened)
The oldest and most popular Gay lock in Cape Town, adorned with Hunky wannabe sailor barmen. Here the song pumps all blackout long. Unpretentious party atmosphere. Karaoke on Mondays. *Napier, Cape Town*
Cafe Manhattan
This down to planet joint is one of the favourite hangouts amongst lgbtq+ locals, while Manhattan is definitely not a Gay Only Venue. Keywords: Down to earth, relaxed and friendly. Part of Cape Quarter. Ladies night on the last Thursday of each month. *74 Waterkant Street,Cape Town (+ 27 21 421 6666)*
Bar Code
Cape Town's one and only gay men's leather, rubber, uniform and Jean cruise prevent. Upstairs maze darkrooms, slings, videos and outdoor deck. Strict dress code. * 16 Hudson St, De Waterkant, Cape Town (+27 21 421 530)*
No 89 Woodstock
A laid back retro approach
Gay Guide to Cape Town
Curator’s statement
The Fora Difference
Killer perks
Personalized recs
Insider knowledge
Where to stay in Cape Town
Things to execute in Cape Town
Gay beaches
The best sunsets (and greatest eye candy) can be found at C