Where to Go Out: A Queer Nightlife Guide to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Looking for a queer-friendly night out in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria? Good news: you’re in the right city. While it’s not as internationally famous as Maspalomas for its gay nightlife, the island’s capital has a surprisingly cosy and welcoming scene — if you know where to look. Whether you’re after drag shows, reggaeton-fueled dance floors, or just a solid cocktail and some flirty glances, here’s the inside scoop on where the LGBTQ+ community is going out these days.
🦩 La Flamenca: The Community Favourite
If you ask around, chances are someone will name-drop La Flamenca within the first few seconds. Tucked close to San Remo, it’s a laid-back, slightly kitschy spot where regulars mix with newcomers over drinks and laughter. Think rainbow-friendly without being rainbow-exploitative.
🎤 Instinto: For the First Drink and a Drag Show
Just behind Parque Santa Catalina, Instinto is the go-to for early evening energy. The drinks are decent, the staff are friendly, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a drag performance that ranges from hilarious to heartwarming. Music leans heavy on reggaeton, so be ready to dance, or at least sway with conviction.
💃 Distinto: Turn It Up and Let Loose
Looking to keep the night going? Just head a few steps away from Instinto to Distinto. It’s a full-on club vibe, popular for after-midnight dancing, drag shows, and flirting in dark corners. It’s where the pre-drinks from Instinto usually lead… and yes, the reggaeton continues.
🎸 Motown: The Unexpected Gem
Not strictly a gay bar, but Motown has earned its stripes in the queer community. It’s owned by a gay couple who used to run the iconic Lolita bar, and the vibe is welcoming, live-music-friendly, and refreshingly chill. Think beers, guitars, and that rare mix of queer-friendly without the pressure to pose.
💬 Is There a Scene Though?
Yes… but it’s discreet. Locals say you don’t need a gay bar in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria — the whole city feels safe and welcoming. And while that’s mostly true, there’s still something nice about having a space where you know you can strike up a chat, flirt without second-guessing, and maybe find your next date (or dance partner).
🌈 Why Not Just Go to Maspalomas?
Maspalomas is still the mecca for all things gay in Gran Canaria, especially during Pride or any long weekend. If you’ve got the energy (and a free evening), it’s totally worth the trip — just an hour away by bus or car. But if you’re in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and want something local, low-key, and queer-friendly, the options above are a great place to start.
🕺 Final Sashay
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria may not have the biggest queer scene in the world, but what it offers is genuine, friendly, and full of potential. So grab your friends (or make new ones), check out one of these bars, and remember — sometimes all it takes is one “hey, wanna go out tonight?” in a Slack channel to get the party started.
If you discover a new spot or want to help plan the next queer night out, give us a shout. We’re always up for a drink and a dance.
