Gay clubs in panama city

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It’s perfect for dancing, enjoying excellent cocktails, and embracing the spirit of Panama's sexual liberation.

BLG is a significant gay club in Panama, popular among the LGBT community.

I recommend going after 4 pm because the heat can be intense. Known for its weekend drag shows and laser-lit dance floor, this place lives for late nights.

Cangrejo Radio (Vía Argentina)

An indie, queer-welcoming venue fusing cocktails, DJ sets, and a local artsy crowd.

Bocas del Toro offers a relaxing atmosphere perfect for couples and solo travellers alike.

Boquete: Known for its stunning natural beauty and coffee plantations, Boquete is increasingly recognized as LGBTQ+ friendly, offering charming accommodations and welcoming communities.

Panama Gay Events

Panama Pride Parade: Panama City celebrates Pride annually in June with parades, performances, and events aimed at promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and equality.
Gay Film Festivals: Panama frequently hosts LGBTQ+ film festivals, showcasing international and local queer cinema and promoting inclusivity through art.

Gay-Friendly Areas in Panama

Casco Viejo, Panama City: Historical and trendy, Casco Viejo is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, boutique hotels, LGBTQ+ friendly bars, cafés, and shops.
El Cangrejo, Panama City: This neighborhood offers gay-friendly accommodations, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Bocas Town, Bocas del Toro: The heart of Bocas del Toro, offering a welcoming vibe with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.

Gay Travel Tips for Panama

Stay in LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels: Hotels such as American Trade Hotel and Selina Casco Viejo in Panama City, and Hotel Palma Royale in Bocas del Toro actively welcome LGBTQ+ visitors.
Safety and Respect: Panama is generally LGBTQ+-friendly, especially in tourist-centric areas, but discretion is advisable in more traditional or rural areas.
Connecting Locally: Use dating apps like Grindr or attend events advertised on social media to connect with local gay community members.

Things to Do Beyond the Nightlife

Visit El Tornillo (Panama City): An iconic skyscraper, the F&F Tower is famous for its unique spiral architecture.
Explore Beaches: Visit nearby LGBTQ+-friendly beaches like Isla Taboga or the tranquil islands of Bocas del Toro.
Nature and Adventure: Discover Boquete’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and coffee tours or visit the San Blas Islands for pristine beaches and indigenous culture.

Panama is Welcoming and Diverse

Panama has firmly established itself as a prime LGBTQ+ destination in Central America.

It’s open everyday but Monday with $5 admission.

Experience Panama City by helicopter

I always say that the views in Panama City are stunning and now you have the chance to enjoy them in a private helicopter. Panama City’s gay nightlife in 2025 is thriving, but it’s no longer confined to a handful of rainbow-flagged clubs.

Known for its respectful atmosphere, themed nights, and members-only discretion.

Komplices Panamá

Another local bar with a loyal LGBTQ+ following. Our LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Panama covers where to stay, what to see, and how to navigate Panama as a queer traveler.

Experience It All with OUT in Panama

Looking for the perfect way to jump into it all?

The exhibits are in Spanish but they usually have dedicated English-speaking guides that can give you a guided tour. Hike to the highest natural point in the city, spotting wildlife like sloths and toucans, and take in breathtaking 360° views of the skyline, ocean, and Panama Canal—while learning the powerful history of this once-restricted land. BOOK HERE.

AuthorJoey Bonura

I’m Joey—originally from Louisville, Kentucky, but I’ve called Latin America home for over 15 years.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the gay community, nightlife, and culture in Panama.

Panama's gay community is vibrant, diverse, and growing rapidly. You can book a day trip here for $150 that includes a roundtrip ferry, beach club access, lunch, water, snacks, snorkeling, and bathrooms.

And the best part? There is now a huge yearly pride parade that takes place in Casco Viejo, lots of gay-friendly establishments, and overall so many unique experiences to have in Panama.

Does Panama City have a gay neighborhood?

Via Argentina is the unofficial “gayborhood” in Panama City.

Like I mentioned before, the earlier you go the better to have a better chance at spotting wildlife and avoiding the heat.

Or join a gay-friendly guide for breakfast & hiking at Cerro Ancon

Explore Panama City with a gay-friendly local guide! Send a message to hola@pty.life for a special discount or BOOK HERE.

Enjoy a couples photoshoot in Casco Viejo

The hardest part about traveling with a partner is getting good photos together!

It’s not necessarily a place where you will see couples holding hands in public nor is same-sex marriage legal, but this hasn’t stopped a strong queer community of locals and foreigners to be out and proud! They exhibits will be in Spanish but they have English-speaking guides that can help with explanations.

Go zip lining on a city skyscraper

If you’re looking to experience some thrills in Panama City, you can now zip line off the top of a building with Poin Panama.

Additionally, scattered across the city are a handful of gems that I also recommend for an unforgettable stay.

Going out in Panama City

Panama City only has three official gay clubs, but there are a lot of gay-friendly establishments and events to know about. Local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups like Fundación Iguales continue to promote equal rights and visibility throughout the country.