The Hole

About The Hole: San Diego’s Iconic LGBTQ+ Bar

The Hole in San Diego holds a special place in both the city’s and the nation’s LGBTQ+ history. As one of the oldest LGBTQ+ bars in the United States, its legacy spans over 100 years. Originally opened in 1924 under the name Murphy’s Beer Garden, the bar became a significant part of the community’s fabric. Situated in a depression dug in the early 1900s to access an aqueduct between Mission Bay (then known as False Bay) and San Diego Bay, The Hole’s location carries rich historical significance.

The Rise of a Safe Haven

In the 1940s, the bar began its transformation into a crucial safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in San Diego. The bar’s location across the street from the Sail Ho Golf Club led to it being affectionately known as “The 19th Hole,” but to regulars, it was simply called “The Hole.” The bar was regarded as one of the “secret handshake” bars of the time — a place where LGBTQ+ individuals could gather safely and with anonymity.

A Landmark in LGBTQ+ History

In the 1960s, ownership of The Hole changed, marking the beginning of a new chapter. It was then that The Hole became one of San Diego’s first openly gay bars. The new owners simplified the name, calling it “The Hole” — a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the establishment’s long-standing history. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, The Hole gained popularity as a lively and welcoming hangout, and it was during this era that the famous Hole Sunday Beer Bust was born. The event, which began with fresh fried chicken served to a hungry crowd, became a beloved tradition.

A Legacy of Love and Community

The Hole has had various owners throughout the years, but its role as an LGBTQ+ safe haven has remained unwavering. For the past five years, the bar has been owned and operated by Crosby Roper and his dedicated team, who have maintained its welcoming environment and continued to provide a space for people to connect and have fun. Although the fried chicken is no longer part of the tradition, the “Flaco Burgers” have become a staple at the bar, continuing the legacy of delicious food and good times.

The Hole Today: A Hidden Oasis

Today, The Hole is as vibrant as ever, with a large and loyal following. Located behind a nondescript entrance on Lytton Street, the bar’s hidden outdoor patio is a tropical oasis, offering a unique retreat for visitors. The Hole is known for its weekly events, including Weird Wednesdays, Karaoke Thursdays, and lively weekends filled with music, dancing, and laughter. Monthly events like Dirty Bear and Out&ABT, along with special themed nights throughout the year, ensure there’s always something happening at The Hole.

Looking to the Future: A Continued Tradition

Having served as a pillar of the LGBTQ+ community for over a century, The Hole remains committed to being a vibrant, inclusive, and fun space for all. With its rich history, loyal patrons, and continued dedication to excellence, the bar is poised to carry on its legacy for years to come. Whether you’re a longtime visitor or a first-timer, The Hole offers a warm welcome, lively atmosphere, and a sense of community that’s hard to find anywhere else in San Diego.