Popular Gay Cruising Areas in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, with its sizeable LGBTQ+ community, is home to a variety of gay cruising spots. WeHo is practically a gay colony, populated by some of the world’s hottest gay men. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular cruising areas around the city, each with directions to help you find the more secluded spots.

Vaseline Alley

Location: Off Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood
Vaseline Alley is arguably the most famous cruising spot in LA. Tucked behind gay venues along Santa Monica Boulevard, including Or Bar and Circus of Books,  this alleyway has a long history within the community and is well-known for its late-night activity. It’s best accessed by heading to the side streets between the West Hollywood bars. Look for the quieter, less-lit spots—just remember to be discreet, as it’s still a public space. Weekends are particularly lively. The famous cruising section is behind Circus of Books.

Griffith Park

Location: Los Feliz Boulevard, Los Angeles
Griffith Park’s sprawling grounds and secluded trails make it an effective cruising destination, especially at night. Popular areas within the park include Fern Dell Drive and the nearby parking lots. Head to the area behind the Griffith Park Observatory or explore the trails accessible from Los Feliz Boulevard.

John Rechy put Griffith Park on the map as a cruising spot with Numbers, his 1968 novel. The book chronicles an encounter between two men in the park. Head up into the hills and see what you find. There are plenty of discrete areas where you can get to know each other.

Silver Lake Reservoir

Location: Silver Lake Boulevard, Los Angeles
In June 2024, the last of the “No Cruising” signs were removed in Silver Lake. These signs were prominent in the 90s before the advent of Grindr, when gay men had little choice but to find other gay men out in the wild, so to speak. The signs were a testament to a more homophobic time.

Some cruising still takes place in this area. The Silver Lake Reservoir, with its scenic views and tree-lined paths, has become a discreet meeting spot for those in the know. The cruising scene is mostly around the lower loop of the reservoir, where wooded areas offer a bit of privacy. Enter near Silver Lake Boulevard, and make your way along the more shaded paths. While activity peaks in the evening, late afternoons can also see some traffic here.