The Ultimate Gay Men’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta: Clothing Optional, Wild Parties & After‑Dark Fun
Okay, y’all… let’s just get into it.
This was at Los Amigos, a famous local bar, that has sadly been closed. :(
After living in Puerto Vallarta for over a year — and honestly being outside way more than I planned — I feel like I can officially say this:
Gay men don’t just visit Puerto Vallarta… we FLOCK here... This is the GAY capitol of Mexico, period.
And once you get here? It’s over. Its important to really embrace the LGBTQ community, as it is really prevalent here, and why not?
I’ve seen EVERYTHING — the clothing‑optional pool clubs, the chaotic day parties, the 5 a.m. dance floors, the bathhouses, the “oh wow I wasn’t expecting THAT” situations.
So here’s your real, no‑sugar‑coated guide to navigating PV if you’re looking for freedom, fun, flirtation, and a little bit of mess (the good kind).
But first, I wanted to let you know about my NEW Puerto Vallarta Guide. I’m offering a 50-page guide that tells you literally everything you need to know to make it successfully here.. whether you’re staying for a while or just a week, this guide is packed iwth the information you need to know to have the best time. So grab the guide and get planning today!
Clothing Optional Spots You Have To Experience
Cheeky Pool Club
The pool at Cheeky’s
Let’s just say… Cheeky lives up to the name. Very body‑positive, very open, very “confidence activated.” Whether you’re fully nude or just toe‑dipping, the vibe is playful and social without feeling too predatory. You can read more on my thoughts in this review here.
Best for: Sun + cocktails + flirt energy
Casa Cupula
Casa Cupula pool during the day — they have really fun pool parties!
Luxury, sensual, and grown‑gay. Clothing optional areas but still classy. You’ll see couples, solo travelers, and men who clearly moisturize and mind their business.
Best for: Relaxed optional nudity with spa vibes
Spartacus Bathhouse
Not for the shy. Period. This is where fantasy meets reality and curiosity gets bold. Go with awareness and intention. As with every bathhouse, obviously, consent is cute. Babe, if a man doesn’t want to do anything with you, turn the corner, someone else will be willing. The best times to go here are later, like 11ish PM, and weekend days (Thursday-Sunday). But you never know — the off days could be randomly poppin’ off and less guys may be in your favor. The world is your oyster. Go and have fun! Don’t go wasted, they will not let you in. They literally will breathalyzer you if they feel you’re too drunk. I know from experience, lol, we listen, we don’t judge.
Best for: Adventurous nights + after‑fiesta exploration
Day Parties, Pool Chaos & The PV Circuit — the 411
Villa Tita Casitas knows how to throw a fun day pool party!
PV knows how to throw a party — from afternoon pool scenes that casually turn into night events, to wild themed parties where everyone coincidentally forgot half their clothing.
You’ll find:
DJ‑led pool parties that start innocent and evolve quickly — don’t be surprised if you sporadically end up at some mansion or some villa that has a nice pool and you’re there and you don’t know how you ended up there but its fun and the vibe is right, so you’re good.
Hotel takeovers during Pride and Beef Dip.. a lot of hotels do special parties for these events. Just be aware you may be upcharged or charged extra for these.
Rooftop scenes with unmatched views + unexpected hookups 👀
The rule? Hydrate (Liquid IV is your best friend). Don’t forget to eat. Set boundaries. But always have fun.
After Dark: The Real Nightlife Tea
Me and the bestie at CC’s when he came to visit me in January of 2025 for New Years Eve!
Once the sun dips, the energy shifts. You’ll find:
Circuit parties pulsing till sunrise — literally it’s so funny going on a morning walk on a weekend day because you will see the gals strugglin’ for dear life walking back to their villas after a full night of fun. Hey, no judgement, lol. We’ve all been there before.
Bars with dance floors that feel like chosen family reunions
Dark rooms that go from mysterious to memorable real fast. Some of the hottest men in the world are here, I swear.
This is the zone where PV goes from “vacation” to "core memory.
For My Soft Life Gays
Me enjoying a relaxing dip in my rooftop pool at my apartment in Vallarta
Not everyone is here for chaos and cruising. If you’re more brunch‑then‑bed, PV still eats.
Think:
Sunset dinners by the ocean. Or even just hanging out on the beach. I love just going to the OXXO and grabbing a six pack and just popping a squat on the beach and enjoying the vibe. Literally some of the best days!
Craft cocktails and sultry conversation. Spark up conversation with locals, or other tourists… most people are here to be friendly and meet people. And, if you see me, say hi! No need to be weird and message me on Grindr saying you saw me but didn’t wanna speak. LOL! Its okay, I won’t bite — even if I have my resting bitch face on.
Rooftop vibes with music low enough to flirt to… The rooftop pool party after the Tryst Sunday Brunch is a timeeeee honey!
You deserve pleasure without pressure. Check my restaurant reviews here for more on the spots I know and love and frequent often.
Safety, Boundaries & Knowing Your Comfort Level
Let’s be real — with freedom comes responsibility. Read more about safety in Vallarta here.
This city is incredibly welcoming, but knowing your limits is power. Whether exploring clothing‑optional spaces or nightlife, trust your instincts, protect your energy, and move intentionally.
Consent, communication, and self‑awareness are what keep the fun respectful.
Selected Gay Nightlife Bars You Should Know
Mr. Flamingo
Camp, colorful, and unapologetically fun. The MidWest’s favorite. This is where the music is pop, the drinks are strong, and the crowd is ready for a good time. They will wear out the same songs but its a good little trip down memory lane.
Best for: High-energy dancing + playful chaos
Paco’s Ranch
An iconic PV institution. Two floors, drag shows, and packed dance floors that feel like a queer fever dream (in the best way). The midnight show is more English pop performances, while the 3am show, if you can make it up that late, leans more Mexican.
Best for: Classic PV nightlife experience
Industry Nightclub
A polished club experience with drag performances, themed nights, and top-tier production. They have a big back room that transforms into an incredible space night after night with different vibes for different times. Great place for BIG holidays or BIG weekends like BeefDip, if that’s your jam!
Best for: Late-night dancing + performance lovers
La Noche
Intimate, vibey, and perfect if you want flirty energy without full-on circuit madness.
Best for: Chill sexy atmosphere
CC’s
Great and easy to catch drag shows happening in the front room on most nights.
Best for: Comfy casual queens that are friendly and great dancers, too
Where Should You Stay?
Where you stay in Puerto Vallarta matters, especially when your plans involve nightlife, beach clubs, and late nights. You can always go the Airbnb or rental moment, but if you’re interested in getting a hotel, the following are great options. You can also view my all-inclusive guide here, or you can take a look at more favorite GAY AF hotels here or book directly through the map below:
Casa Cupula (Luxury + Gay-Owned)
Casa Cupula is tucked away into the luscious trees and jungle of Vallarta — STUNNING views from up there!
Adult-only boutique hotel with clothing-optional areas, stunning views, and unmatched hospitality. Ideal for comfort, privacy, and community.
Almar Resort
One of the more party-friendly hotels, within reason, of course.
Right near Mantamar Beach Club, this is prime real estate for party lovers who want luxury and location.
Pinnacle Resorts
Pinnacle Resorts fabulous pool area… LOVE LOVE LOVE!
Modern, stylish condos with rooftop pools and ideal for longer stays or digital nomads.
Tryst Hotel
Tryst Hotel lobby
Fairly new and modern and always has something going on, located foot steps from the beach, pier, and nightlife.
FAQ: Clothing Optional & Gay Travel in Puerto Vallarta
Is Puerto Vallarta safe for gay travelers?
Yes. PV is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Mexico, especially in the Romantic Zone. But obviously, no matter where you go in the world, situational awareness is always key. Read more on safety here.
Are clothing-optional venues common?
Yes — but they should always be approached with respect, consent, and personal comfort in mind.
What’s the best area to stay for nightlife?
Zona Romántica is the heart of gay nightlife, restaurants, and safe walkability.
Which hotels are best for gay travelers?
Casa Cupula (luxury), Almar Resort (party energy), Tryst (Modern, new), and Pinnacle Resort (longer stays, great rooftop) are all good options.
Make sure you add this to the Pinterest board, and pin it!
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta is where desire, joy, freedom, healing, and community collide. Whether you leave with a tan, a new friend, a situationship, or simply peace — PV will change you.
And the secret? There is no right way to experience it. Bare it all. Or don’t. Dance till sunrise. Or sip quietly.
Just move in ways that feel good, safe, and true to you.
This isn’t just travel. This is living. If you’re still stuck on where to stay, feel free to email me, and I can help you out!