Gay Bar in Manila

An informative guide for gay travelers visiting Manila, offering essential safety advice, highlights of the city's vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, recommended accommodations, dining options, and much more!

“Exercise extreme caution in Manila, gentlemen,” was the candid counsel imparted by our Filipino acquaintances residing in London prior to our journey; “…it's exceptionally congested, heavily polluted, plagued by incessant traffic, and rife with petty criminals everywhere!”

However, candidly speaking, the urban landscape of Manila presented no distinct variations from any other major metropolis we had previously visited.

Our initial forays onto the thoroughfares of Malate were cautious, marked by trepidation. Mindful of our friends' admonitions, we meticulously stored all valuables at our hotel, actively avoided dimly lit avenues, and relied exclusively on taxis for transportation. Nevertheless, the apprehension that had steadily mounted within us was swiftly dispelled. By simply adhering to fundamental common sense, one can navigate Manila with ease and security.

Ultimately, we found ourselves thoroughly enjoying the capital of the Philippines. It boasts an impressively lively gay community, characterized by its remarkable affability, which genuinely delights in connecting with international visitors. Filipinos, generally speaking, proved to be the most hospitable individuals we have ever encountered, facilitating swift and effortless formation of local friendships. This particular aspect stood out as our most cherished experience during our time in Manila!

Functioning as the Philippines' central hub, Manila serves as an excellent starting point for those keen to embark on explorations of this truly exceptional nation.

A Quick Note: We simply wished to inform you that this article incorporates affiliate links. This implies that should you arrange a booking through one of these links, we will receive a modest commission, at absolutely no additional expense to you. Such support aids us in sustaining our blog's operation – hence, we extend our gratitude in anticipation of your contribution! ♥

Is Manila a Secure Destination for Gay Visitors?

Manila offers comparable levels of safety for gay and straight travelers alike. Filipinos are inherently amiable and captivating individuals who genuinely take pleasure in presenting their country to foreign guests. Your sexual orientation, whether heterosexual or homosexual, will generally not significantly alter your experience as a visitor, which is precisely why we consider the Philippines among the most gay-friendly nations within the Asian continent.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that this perspective is shaped by our foreign status, viewed through the lens of our somewhat idealized perception of the country. As gay foreign visitors, we are afforded a certain "leniency," but the reality for local LGBTQ+ individuals differs significantly. While the Philippines demonstrates commendable progress regarding LGBTQ+ rights when juxtaposed with most other Asian countries, it remains, fundamentally, a deeply conservative and devoutly Catholic society. Consequently, we strongly advise against public displays of affection (PDAs), especially within more rural localities.

For further insights, we encourage perusing our interview with Rione, a local from Manila, which delves into the authentic reality of gay life in the Philippines.

Manila's Gay-Friendly Hotels

As a gay couple, we encountered absolutely no difficulties when reserving accommodations in Manila. Securing a double bed was consistently straightforward, with no one even raising an eyebrow. Indeed, in numerous establishments, approximately half of the personnel were gay men themselves! Below, we have meticulously compiled a selection of Manila's premier gay-friendly hotels, catering to all budgetary considerations.

Sheraton Manila Bay

Summary

A five-star lodging in the urban core
Proximity to renowned shopping centers and an on-site mall
A delightful outdoor swimming pool
An exquisite rooftop bar for enjoying sunset cocktails

Situated marginally closer to the city's epicenter than our prior suggestion, and equally opulent, is the Sheraton Manila Bay. This 5-star, gay-affirming hotel occupies a stunning building adorned with a glass facade, offering spectacular vistas across the metropolitan area.

The rooftop lounge and bar (as depicted in the image) emerged as our preferred location for savoring a sunset cocktail before venturing out to immerse ourselves in Manila's vibrant gay scene. Furthermore, an outdoor swimming pool featuring an endearing fish fountain provides a true miniature haven amidst the city's bustling energy.

This establishment represents the ideal choice for those seeking extensive retail therapy. The Sheraton Manila Bay is merely a five-minute stroll from The Robinson's Place Mall, a fifteen-minute drive from The Mall of Asia, and remarkably, a four-story shopping arcade is conveniently housed within the very same structure!

With personal butlers accessible around the clock (24/7), you are sure to experience a profound sense of indulgence, as they are capable of arranging any request, from organizing a city tour to preparing a luxurious bubble bath. The property features four distinct dining venues and a compact VIP gymnasium, allowing guests to maintain their fitness regimen. We particularly cherished the quaint garden and gazebo, which served as yet another tranquil oasis, enabling one to momentarily forget the intense activity of the surrounding urban environment.

The personnel at the Sheraton Manila Bay are undoubtedly one of its primary attractions; they are consistently helpful, genuinely amiable, and exhibit no discomfort whatsoever with two men sharing a bed. The guest rooms are notably spacious and beautifully appointed, featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that afford magnificent city panoramas.

LODGE WITH A QUEER LOCAL

Misterb&b functions as the LGBTQ+ community's version of Airbnb. In contrast to Airbnb, you are assured your host identifies as gay, thereby averting any unpleasant surprises upon check-in. It also provides an excellent avenue for connecting with local gay residents and exploring the city's more clandestine queer culture. Click the link below to receive a €10 / $10 reduction on your initial reservation.

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Red Planet Manila Binondo

Key Features

An outstanding option for budget-conscious travelers
Immaculate, cozy private accommodations and restrooms
Nestled in the core of Manila's Chinatown
LGBTQ+-friendly with obliging personnel

For gay travelers operating on a constrained budget, the charming Red Planet Manila Binondo presents an unparalleled choice. Red Planet operates a network of exceptional value-for-money hotels throughout Asia (consider enrolling in their membership program for even greater price reductions), where guests can still anticipate all standard hotel amenities, but without the burdensome expense.

Occasionally, the desire to economize exists, yet the prospect of lodging in a hostel bunk bed simply holds no appeal. We understand completely! Fortunately, Red Planet hotels furnish all necessary provisions for times when you anticipate minimal time spent within the hotel (thus allowing more time for exploration), yet still desire a comfortable and private sanctuary for rest.

The accommodations are meticulously clean and inviting, equipped with bespoke beds, a writing desk, and a flat-screen television, in addition to a private bathroom complete with complimentary toiletries. The Red Planet Manila Binondo's prime location in the heart of the globe's most ancient Chinatown guarantees an abundance of delectable dining establishments! Furthermore, it lies within comfortable walking distance of the Lucky Chinatown Mall and Cinema.

Choosing to reside here also positions you conveniently near some of Manila's most significant landmarks, such as Fort Santiago and the National Museum of the Philippines. The staff members are exceptionally supportive and highly attentive, always eager to provide recommendations or address any queries you might have. Throughout our stay at this location, we consistently experienced feelings of comfort and acceptance.

Pacific Bay Grand Suites

At a Glance

An economical gay-friendly accommodation
Endorsed by local residents and gay globetrotters
Spotless, comfortable rooms with inviting beds
Prime location in proximity to Malate's nightlife district

Our sojourn at the Pacific Bay Grand Suites in Manila provided precisely what we sought: an affordable, pleasant, and remarkably convenient experience for gay visitors.

It is conveniently situated close to the Jefz Café gay bar, where we enjoyed several evenings. The room itself was immaculate and cozy, featuring a bed that offered truly divine comfort.

The hotel's personnel displayed immense hospitality towards hosting a gay couple, consistently greeting us with smiles, which instantly fostered a sense of belonging. While certainly not a luxurious establishment, its value for money makes it a solid option for budget-conscious travelers.

We greatly appreciated its close proximity to the bay and the renowned nightlife of Malate. Whether your visit is a brief stopover or an extended stay to absorb Manila's unique charm, this venue stands out as an excellent selection for those seeking both affordability and a genuinely welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Rates for the Pacific Bay Grand Suites commence from $46 per night:

Discover prices now

Manila's Gay Bar Scene

Manila's gay scene presents a rather peculiar landscape. Historically, it was concentrated in Malate before gradually shifting to various other districts within Metro Manila. However, in the aftermath of the pandemic, a significant number of establishments, particularly gay bars, permanently ceased operations and did not resume business. As of the current date, only a single gay bar remains operational in Manila, though we earnestly anticipate a rapid change in this situation.

Since the initial publication of this piece more than a decade ago, we have observed considerable transformations within Manila's gay community, and we continuously endeavor to update this information as comprehensively as possible. In this context, it is regrettable to note that the iconic Catch 272 gay bar in Manila unfortunately closed its doors indefinitely in early 2024, as did Jefz Cafe in early 2025. To commemorate gay bars that have become part of history, we also acknowledge that the legendary Che'lu and Mixed Nuts gay bars in Manila were forced to shut down due to the COVID-19 crisis and have not since reopened.

Fred's Revolución

Nestled in what is affectionately dubbed “the hipster capital of the Philippines,” Fred's Revolución, located within the Cubao Expo, offers a charmingly rustic atmosphere perfect for enjoying beverages and simply unwinding. It is a diminutive establishment featuring eclectic furniture, walls adorned with portraits of Che Guevara, and various currencies from across the globe. While not a venue for energetic dance floor revelry, it does host enjoyable drag nights, making it a welcoming locale for gay individuals seeking an authentic taste of local Manila culture.

Hours of Operation: Fred's Revolución welcomes patrons daily from 5 o'clock in the evening until the stroke of midnight.

Physical Address: One can locate it at Cubao Expo, Gen. Romulo, Quezon City, Philippines, postcode 1112.

Gay Clubs in Manila

Manila boasts a considerably extensive gay clubbing environment, predominantly influenced by Club Adonis and O Bar during weekend hours. We have delineated the primary venues below. When exploring Manila's gay club scene, anticipate encountering an abundance of exotic dancers and drag queens!

It should be noted that the renowned Nectary gay club in Manila permanently ceased operations in December of 2024.

O Bar

O Bar stands as Manila's preeminent and most sought-after gay dance club, having maintained its strong presence for over ten years. Its clientele is quite diverse in terms of age, and it features exceptionally amusing drag performances, which guests can enjoy from their seats. As the evening progresses, the venue transforms into an expansive dance floor… and then, even later, that very dance floor becomes filled with an array of attractive, shirtless men dancing!

Operating Hours: O Bar is open for business from Thursday through Sunday, commencing at 11:30 PM and continuing until 6:00 AM.

Venue Location: It is situated on South Drive, just off Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, within the Ortigas Center of Manila, Philippines, with the postal code 1604.

Club Adonis

Club Adonis holds an established reputation within the male entertainment sector. The demographic here is predominantly young and local, encompassing a significant number of students and their admirers! Adonis serves as a cornerstone of Manila's gay scene, offering a plethora of alluring exotic dancers, live performances, and periodic drag competitions. The bar staff are just as personable and engaging as the performers themselves, so endeavor not to become overly distracted…

Operational Schedule: Club Adonis operates from Tuesday through Sunday, opening at 9:00 PM and closing at 5:00 AM.

Precise Address: It is located at 83 Timog Avenue, in the Barangay South Triangle area of Quezon City, Philippines, postal code 1103.

Manila's Gay Saunas

Regrettably, the proliferation of Grindr, coupled with the adverse impact of Covid-related lockdowns on smaller queer enterprises, has led to the permanent closure of most gay saunas and bathhouses in Manila, including Aftermale (The WereHouse). More recently, in November 2024, the well-known F Club (Fahrenheit Cafe and Fitness Center) was compelled to cease operations permanently by the Quezon City Council following an outbreak of Monkeypox cases. This unfortunate development leaves only a single surviving establishment within Manila's gay sauna landscape: Club Bath Philippines.

Club Bath Philippines

Given that it describes itself as “Asia's inaugural and longest-standing gay bathhouse,” a visit to Club Bath is an absolute must during your time in Manila! Spanning three levels, the facility encompasses communal showering areas, a steam room, a fitness center, a labyrinth, a mini-bar, a movie lounge, private cabins, and a dark room. Overall, Club Bath provides a more tranquil and laid-back environment compared to some other gay saunas, yet it still offers ample opportunities for some lighthearted escapades.

Club Bath can be found at 2456 FB Harrison Boulevard in Pasay City. It welcomes visitors on weekdays from 6:00 PM until 2:00 AM, extends its hours on Friday until 3:00 AM, and on Saturday, it operates from 3:00 PM until 3:00 AM.

Where to Access STI and HIV Testing and Treatment in Manila?

Nothing is more likely to mar your journey through the Philippines than an unusual discharge… Fortunately, Pulse Manila stands ready to assist you. This outstanding gay lifestyle clinic, situated in Makati, provides a comprehensive range of services, including full diagnostic testing, PrEP, PEP, and complete treatment options should you unfortunately contract something of concern(!).

Pulse Manila additionally extends its services to include mental health consultations for individuals grappling with anxiety or depression, alongside comprehensive screening and mental well-being support specifically tailored for transgender individuals.

The complete address for Pulse Manila is: Unit 202 Plaza 100 Building V.A Rufino, Corner Dela Rosa Street, Legazpi Village, Makati, 1223 Metro Manila.

A heartfelt gesture from us to you: Avail a 5% price reduction when procuring PrEP online from PULSE or when utilizing any services at PULSE by applying the code nomadicboys!

Manila Gay Pride and Other LGBTQ+ Events in the Capital

The gay scene in Manila is quite exhilarating. Regarding LGBTQ+ events, the city certainly vies with both Gay Bangkok and Taipei, hosting numerous parties and Pride celebrations throughout the calendar year. Below, we have outlined the most prominent ones for your consideration:

Metro Manila Pride (March)

The primary LGBTQ+ Pride celebration is known as Metro Manila Pride. This event occurs annually in March, drawing nearly one hundred thousand attendees, which solidifies its position as one of Asia's largest gay gatherings. It also holds historical significance as the pioneering gay Pride event to take place in Asia, having commenced in June of 1994. Regrettably, in locales such as the Philippines, Pride still fundamentally functions as a protest, where participants vocalize their demands for equitable rights and liberation from discrimination.

White Party Manila (June)

Having thrived for two decades, Manila's White Party stands as the most extensive event of its kind, unfolding across the thoroughfares of Orosa and Nakpil in Malate. Its timing in June aligns with global Pride celebrations and commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Engaging in dance with hundreds of fellow members of our magnificent gay community directly in the streets is an extraordinary sensation, with superb DJs delivering pulsating dance and EDM rhythms.

Quezon City International Pink Film Festival (November/December)

The QC International Pink Film Festival ranks as the largest of its kind in Asia and holds the distinction of being the sole one in the Philippines, featuring LGBTQ+ cinematic works from around the globe. It typically spans approximately one week during November or December, offering film viewings, open discussions, and presentations by speakers on various gay-related topics, ultimately culminating in another Pride march at the Quezon City memorial. If you appreciate cinema, championing gay rights, and engaging in enjoyable activities, then planning your visit to coincide with this festival is certainly worthwhile!

Quezon City Pride March (December)

The Quezon City Pride March is the demonstration that occurs at the conclusion of the Quezon City International Pink Film Festival. Both of these happenings are orchestrated by the Quezon City Pride Council, which was the first body in the Philippines established to uphold LGBT rights, as well as gender-based policies and initiatives. The march itself is genuinely vibrant and lively, featuring a float competition, an evening celebration, rainbow-themed stalls, and a fashion showcase. When a city hosts two distinct Pride parades at separate times during the year, it undeniably signals a destination you simply must experience, wouldn't you agree?

Activities to Undertake in Manila

To be entirely frank, regarding sightseeing, we harbored modest expectations for Manila. Our perception leaned more towards its role as a transportation hub for reaching destinations like Palawan and Boracay. Nevertheless, we were agreeably surprised to uncover a substantial array of captivating attractions and experiences in Manila, perfectly suited for gay travelers. Below, we have enumerated some of the prominent ones worthy of your exploration:

National Museum

Although the National Museum of the Philippines comprises four distinct branches, our personal preference gravitates toward the National Museum of Fine Arts.

This magnificent edifice, situated within Rizal Park, offers a superb venue for immersing oneself in Manila's rich historical narrative through its impressive collection of paintings and diverse artistic creations.

For those with a penchant for museums, the National Museum of Natural History and the National Planetarium are also conveniently located within Rizal Park, thus requiring only a brief stroll to access.

Fort Santiago

Found within the historically significant walled section of Manila, known as Intramuros, stands Fort Santiago, a Spanish citadel.

Erected in the year 1593 during the Spanish colonization of Manila, it famously served as the incarceration site for José Rizal, one of the revered national heroes of the Philippines.

Additional notable points of interest include Manila Cathedral, Casa Manila, and perhaps consider a charming horse-drawn carriage excursion throughout the ancient walled city &128578;

Acquire Skills in Filipino Culinary Arts

If you have been following us for any length of time, you are undoubtedly aware of our profound love for food and our dedication to mastering the preparation of local culinary specialties wherever our travels lead us.

The Philippines presents an extensive variety of delectable dishes to sample. Hosts Greg and Oscar facilitate these instructional sessions at their homestay, commencing with a visit to a local marketplace to procure ingredients before guiding participants in preparing a delightful meal, complete with dessert.

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church holds the distinction of being the most ancient stone church in the Philippines, its construction concluded in 1607, and it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Situated within the walled city of Intramuros, it has stoically observed Manila's historical unfolding for several centuries. The church exemplifies exquisite Baroque architectural design, featuring an adjoining museum replete with Spanish-era ecclesiastical garments, furnishings, and religious art pieces.

We highly recommend exploring this site as a component of a comprehensive full-day museum tour, particularly if your enthusiasm for art and history mirrors our own.

Masungi Georeserve

The Masungi Georeserve, a designated conservation area nestled within the Sierra Madre mountain range to the east of Manila, is an ideal destination for a day excursion from the sprawling metropolis.

It is characterized by its dramatic limestone karst formations and montane rainforests, alongside a network of caves housing fascinating rock structures.

Additionally, a distinctive attraction known as the Sapot (meaning "cobweb") features suspended netting and elevated platforms allowing visitors to ascend above the forest canopy, complemented by hanging bridges, rope courses, and nature-friendly trails.

Where to Dine in Manila

The culinary traditions of the Philippines exhibit a rich tapestry of influences, drawing from various parts of Asia, Spanish heritage, and even the Americas. Its gastronomic offerings are remarkably diverse, presenting a vast array of dishes to experience. As the nation's capital and most populous city, Manila serves as home to some of the country's finest dining establishments. Below, we have curated a selection of our top recommendations for you:

Purple Yam

Purple Yam is an extraordinary local eatery that became our go-to whenever we yearned for authentic Filipino cuisine. Located within a charming residence, it cultivates an ambiance akin to simply visiting a friend's home - albeit, friends who are remarkably talented chefs! The majority of the ingredients are locally sourced, and the dishes literally melt in your mouth. Furthermore, the waitstaff provides exceptionally personalized service. A professional tip: ensure you order their renowned buko pie for dessert; your taste buds will thank us later!

Cafe Ilang-Ilang

Cafe Ilang-Ilang, situated within The Manila Hotel, offers a magnificent venue to sample a diverse array of global cuisines all in one location. The restaurant boasts an expansive selection of buffet items, alongside interactive live cooking stations, freshly hand-rolled sushi, and the most astonishing artisanal ice cream station we have ever encountered! The entirety of the dessert section is, quite frankly, a sweet paradise, so do ensure you have reserved ample space before making your way to Ilang-Ilang.

Market Cafe

Market Cafe stands as another exceptional dining establishment nestled within a hotel, specifically the New Coast Hotel Manila. It, too, operates as a buffet restaurant, though its focus is primarily on Asian culinary traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines. The interactive kitchen areas are the most captivating feature, where talented chefs present captivating live cooking demonstrations, allowing you to observe them expertly craft their delectable dishes.

Craft Your Itinerary

We have compiled a collection of practical suggestions and valuable insights to assist you in meticulously planning your upcoming journey to Manila. Continue reading to discover all essential information that a gay traveler should be aware of prior to their departure.

Travel Protection: There's no need to overcomplicate this; it's straightforward: secure travel insurance before embarking on your trip to Manila! One can never anticipate unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage, a missed flight, or even a sprained ankle during an energetic night of dancing, but possessing travel insurance guarantees coverage in the event that things go awry. We consistently advocate for Heymondo travel insurance, having personally utilized their services for many years with consistently positive experiences. Their coverage is remarkably comprehensive, and the process of filing a claim, should the need arise, is both rapid and uncomplicated.

Reaching Your Destination: The vast majority of international visitors will typically arrive in Manila via air travel, landing at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which is also commonly referred to as Manila International Airport or NAIA Airport. The airport comprises four terminals, which are situated in either Pasay City or Parañaque City, and regrettably, no direct metro or subway system connects them. Accessing the city center of Manila from the airport is achievable either by utilizing a complimentary shuttle bus service or by local taxi.

Entry Requirements: The Philippines permits visa-free entry for a period of up to thirty days for citizens of most nations (Brazil and Israel are granted a fifty-nine-day stay!). However, you will be required to present proof of a return or onward travel ticket and must also ensure your passport retains at least six months of validity from your arrival date. It is imperative that you verify your specific visa requirements for the Philippines before finalizing your travel arrangements.

Navigating the City: While Manila's principal tourist zones are generally suitable for walking, venturing further afield is facilitated by an extensive public transportation network. Beyond the entertaining jeepneys and conventional taxis, the city also provides public bus services and a comprehensive rail system.

Immunizations: Individuals traveling to the Philippines should ensure they are current with all routine vaccinations (including, for example, measles, mumps, and rubella), while the CDC additionally advises obtaining immunizations for hepatitis A and typhoid. Depending upon the specific regions of the country you intend to visit and the activities you plan to engage in during your stay, further vaccinations, such as for rabies, might be necessary. For more exhaustive details, consult the CDC's official website, and most crucially, seek advice from your physician or a travel nurse before making your way to Manila.

Local Currency: The monetary unit employed in Manila, and indeed throughout the Philippines, is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Prices are generally indicated with either "PHP" or "P$." To provide a sense of exchange rates, one US dollar ($1) typically converts to approximately fifty PHP, one Euro (€1) to about fifty-five PHP, and one British Pound (£1) to around sixty-four PHP.

Gratuity Practices: Generally, in Manila and the Philippines as a whole, tipping is not routinely anticipated, primarily because most establishments incorporate a ten percent service charge into your total bill. Should a service fee not be included, it is certainly appropriate to offer a gratuity – our recommendation is to consider ten percent as a general guideline, though this ultimately depends on the quality of service you have experienced.

Internet Connectivity: The majority of hotels in Manila provide complimentary WiFi, and free WiFi hotspots are also available in shopping malls and airports. A word of caution: internet speeds in the Philippines can occasionally be slow.

Where to Stay: We consistently rely on Booking.com for discovering accommodations in Manila, as they offer the most extensive selection at the most competitive prices. Their online customer support is accessible around the clock (24/7), and they typically feature adaptable cancellation policies – which is perfectly suited for those who, like us, enjoy spontaneity while traveling!

Excursions and Experiences: While we have highlighted only a handful of Manila's intriguing sights and activities, for more comprehensive options, we direct you to GetYourGuide. They consistently present an excellent array of enjoyable tours and activities (at competitive rates), and the online booking process is notably user-friendly.

Optimal Visit Period: The Philippines experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season, although the climatic conditions can also vary depending on the specific region of the country. Manila generally remains hot and humid throughout the year, but the period between January and April offers the most agreeable weather. This timeframe also coincides with the peak tourism season; therefore, if your aim is to save money, you might consider traveling during the off-season – provided you can contend with substantial rainfall and humidity!

Gay Map of Manila

We have developed a map illustrating the precise locations of all the places discussed within this piece, designed to simplify the planning of your magnificent journey to Manila:

Explore More Travel Narratives Like This in Our Publication!

We have published our very own book on gay travel, titled ‘Out in the World.' It encompasses all our practical safety guidance, firsthand recommendations, and compelling travel anecdotes from some of our most cherished destinations.

Our hope is that it will inspire you to embark on a delightful and secure adventure!