HYDRO Caribbean Festival 2023

HYDRO Weekend 2023

Hydro Festival returns with its epic 5th anniversary edition in November, making Puerto Rico the gay epicenter of the Caribbean.

• Visiting Puerto Rico for  Stay at the O:Live Boutique Hotel Located in the exclusive Condado neighbourhood, featuring Mediterranean décor and stylish suites.

The Event

• November 10th to November 13th, 2023 – Hydro Caribbean Festival bring together the biggest DJs from around the world to some of San Juan’s best gay-friendly venues.
• Gay guys from across the United States, Mexico, Columbia and beyond descend upon the Island for a weekend of fun in one of the most gay friendly cities in the region.
• Celebrate together while you are surrounded by the most beautiful Caribbean scenery and vibes.
• Take a look at our Local San Juan guide for tips on where to stay and play on the island.

The Next Edition

• Enjoy 3 main event parties and two after parties.
• Line up includes Alex Acosta, Ben Backson, Jerac, Marti Frieson, Ed Wood, Sam Gee, Joshua Ruiz, Fred Martin and Cesar Hernandez.
• With a special live performance by the XXXX Influencer and star, Diego Barros from Brazil.
• Make sure your vacations are at this “ endless summer” paradise.
• Upgrade your stay in San Juan at the AC Hotel, located in the stylish Condado district, featuring a superb rooftop pool, spacious rooms and excellent location.

The Lineup

• Friday 10 Nov – Opening: Dj Joshua Ruiz & Dj Alex Acosta  (10 pm-5 am) Kweens Klub
• Saturday 11 Nov – Main: Dj Ed Wood & Dj Ben Bakson  (10 pm-5 am) Kweens Klub
• Saturday 11 Nov – After: Dj Fred Marin & Dj Sam Gee  (5 am-11 am) Club Tabú
• Sunday 12 Nov – Closing: Dj Marti Frieson & Dj Jerac  (10 pm-5 am) Toxic Night Club
• Monday 13  Nov – After: Dj Cesar Hernández (5 am-11 am) Toxic Night Club

Kweens Club

• Kweens Klub – Dive deep into the dazzling epicenter of San Juan’s LGBTIQ+ scene! Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santurce, KK isn’t just a nightclub; it’s a shimmering galaxy where stars—both local and international—shine brightly every night. ourney to their second floor and revel in a heartfelt homage to Puerto Rico’s drag royalty.
• Every picture tells a story of glamour, defiance, and fabulousness.
• Need a breath of fresh Caribbean air? Drift to their outdoor oasis and bask under the stars.
• Stay close to both the beach and the parties at the HiBird Apartments and Suites Hotel, rated “Wonderful” by guests with spacious apartments, superb views, modern gym, excellent pool and epic views. Our top choice.

Club Tabu

• Club Tabú – Visit the legendary Tabú, a sparkling jewel in the heart of Puerto Rico! With its rich history of hosting iconic talents, this local treasure has undergone a stunning transformation that’s turning heads.
• Its blend of international allure and heartfelt local roots is simply unmatched. Expect to be dazzled by the venue’s vibrant ambiance.
• Whether you’re sipping on a tantalizing drink, enjoying impeccable service, or simply soaking in the “REBOOT” vibes, Tabú guarantees a top-tier clubbing experience.
• Located 5-minutes drive from Kweens Club.

Toxic Night Club

• Toxic Night Club – Step into the pulsating heart of San Juan’s nightlife at Toxic Night Club, the island’s reigning champion of LGBTQ+ revelry! From show-stopping drag performances to electrifying circuit parties, Toxic knows how to turn up the heat.
• Enjoy two grand stages, exclusive V.I.P. spaces, and bartenders who not only serve the best drinks but serve them with flair.
• With beats by international DJs and top-tier security ensuring you dance without a care, Toxic promises nights that blaze on until dawn… and then some!
• Located just a 1-minute walk form Kweens Club.

Gay San Juan Bars and Clubs by Neighbourhood

In San Juan, the LGBTQ+ nightlife isn’t confined to just one “gayborhood.” Instead, bars and clubs are dispersed across various districts, each offering its unique flavor and vibe. For a comprehensive experience, we suggest exploring the diverse venues throughout these neighborhoods.

Hato Rey

A hub for local bars attracting a younger crowd, especially on college Thursdays A short drive from Santurce, make sure to mingle with the locals and dance the night away.

• Amigos del Jangueo: A bustling local gay bar with a dance area and pool table.
• Atrévete Bar and Cafe: Focused on women/lesbians, hosting local queer artists, and welcoming everyone.
• El Cojo & Pal Frente: Intimate local gay bars on the strip, perfect for dancing and mingling.

Old San Juan

Steeped in history and charm, it’s the perfect blend of historic sites and queer-friendly bars. Roughly 10 minutes from Santurce, a walk along its blue cobblestone streets and past colorful colonial buildings is a must.

• La Sombrilla Rosa: The go-to queer bar with community-supportive owner Rosa.
• Maralyn’s: A cozy cocktail bar that’s very gay-popular.
• Ostra Cosa: A beautiful, gay-owned restaurant and bar supporting the LGBTQ community.
• Check out the top hotels close to these venues in Old San Juan.

Miramar

A trendy enclave filled with music and delightful dive bars. About 5 minutes from Santurce, it’s a great spot to soak in some live local tunes, especially on Thursdays.

• Watusi: A fun local dive bar with live surrounded by great eateries like Antillano.

Santurce (near Walmart)

The pulsing heart of San Juan’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, just moments away from an array of clubs, bars, and cultural spots. While here, don’t miss a stroll through La Placita, especially on weekends.

• Kweens: The largest gay nightclub offering discounts for Coqui del Mar guests.
• El Purgatorio: A bar and restaurant combo with reasonable drinks and a local vibe.
• SX, the Club: Known for gogo boys, strippers, and a dark room – keep belongings secure!
• Toxic: A lively nightclub with exciting drag shows, walking distance from other clubs.
• XSteamWorks: The only gay bathhouse in Puerto Rico.
• Check out the top hotels close to these venues in Santurce

La Placita del Mercado

A stone’s throw away from central Santurce, it’s the perfect spot to sip on street-side drinks, nibble on tapas, and immerse yourself in a fabulous blend of locals and tourists. While there, the rhythm might just persuade you to join the impromptu dance sessions that often spring up!

• Chueca: Fabulous inside and out, offering street-side drinks, tapas, and a mix of tourists and locals.
• El Techo: A stylish rooftop bar, not exclusively gay but, well, pretty gay!

Santurce (Further on Ponce de Leon)

A vibrant artery running through Santurce, Ponce de León teems with culture, arts, and a sprinkle of queer nightlife. Just off the main hub of Santurce, explore this street’s eclectic mix of galleries, theaters, and bars. Don’t miss the chance to pop into the local drag bars or to appreciate the murals and street art that dot this dynamic avenue.

• Tia Marias: One of the oldest gay bars, great for Karaoke and a chill atmosphere.
• Zal Si Puedes: A smaller drag bar with shows and an older crowd.

Tourist areas: Condado

Sun, sea, and a touch of gay beach flair! Only 5-7 minutes from Santurce, don’t forget to visit the gay beach section on Sundays, and maybe grab a brunch at a beachfront restaurant.

• Oasis: Near the gay beach, especially popular on blackout Monday nights, with a mix of tourists and locals.
• Wicked Lily: Beachfront with a fun Sunday drag brunch and a prime spot for Sunday gay beach gatherings.

San Juan Hotels

Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to the city’s top attractions:

O:Live Boutique Hotel,    AC Hotel by Marriott,    Condado Ocean Club,   Coqui del Mar.