Opinion: Is Public Cruising Making a Comeback?

Cruising has long been part of gay life in many parts of the world. Hendrik Baird offers his perspective on cruising in the digital age.  

In the 1980s, when I came of age as a gay man, public cruising was one of the few ways for men to meet and connect. Spaces like the park at the Pretoria Art Gallery, Zoo Lake in Johannesburg and Graaff’s Pool in Cape Town were not just gathering spots—they were lifelines.

Public toilets, while often stigmatised, also served as discreet meeting points for those looking for intimacy in a world that offered few other options.

Over the decades, however, these spaces have dwindled. Safer, private venues such as Adult World, Camp David, Rec Room, and Club Amsterdam emerged, offering a more structured environment for cruising and sex.

The digital age also brought apps like Grindr, which made it easier to connect without leaving the comfort of home. But these advancements came with new challenges—Grindr, for example, can be dangerous, as I learned during an incident when I was held hostage. It’s also a platform where preferences and judgment can often leave some men feeling overlooked.

Now, public cruising appears to be making a comeback, partly due to platforms like the Sniffies app. Unlike Grindr, Sniffies is designed to facilitate real-time, location-based hookups, often in public spaces like parks or toilets.

What sets Sniffies apart is its role in making cruising safer and more organised. Users mark known hotspots and arrange meetups, adding a layer of structure to a historically spontaneous activity.

While the thrill of cruising remains, the app reduces the risk of wandering aimlessly or misreading social cues. This blend of technology and tradition offers a somewhat safer, more accessible way for men to connect.

Why Cruising Still Works

Globally, cruising has always adapted to the times. In countries with strong anti-LGBTQ+ laws, public spaces remain crucial for queer connection. In others, the resurgence of apps like Sniffies has rekindled interest, with users marking known hotspots for others to explore.

In South Africa, despite the growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights, cruising continues to thrive as an alternative to bars, clubs, and apps. Spots like Zoo Lake in Johannesburg and beaches in Durban and Cape Town remain popular.

For us older or less conventionally attractive men, public cruising levels the playing field. When there are only a handful of people in a park, chemistry and opportunity outweigh superficial judgments.

This contrasts with spaces like Camp David on a busy Friday night, where the sheer volume of options can make anyone feel overlooked.

There’s also an undeniable thrill in the spontaneity of cruising—making eye contact, exchanging unspoken cues, and heading off for a shared moment.

Apps like Sniffies enhance this experience by making meetups easier to arrange. For many, this combination of spontaneity and safety is the perfect balance.

The Etiquette of Cruising

As thrilling as cruising is, it comes with its own set of unspoken rules. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Read the Room (or Park): Make sure the space is a known cruising spot and that those present are open to it. Look for subtle cues like lingering eye contact or body language.
• Consent is Key: Always ensure mutual interest before proceeding. Never assume someone is there to cruise unless it’s explicitly clear.
• Keep it Discreet: Cruising thrives on subtlety. Avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself or others, and always respect the boundaries of the space and those around you.
• Leave No Trace: If you use condoms, clean up after yourself. Respecting the environment ensures these spaces remain usable and safe for others.
• Know When to Walk Away: If someone isn’t interested, don’t push. Rejection is part of the experience.

Staying Safe While Cruising

While platforms like Sniffies add a degree of safety by facilitating planned meetups, cruising still has inherent risks, especially in a country with a high crime rate. Here are some tips to ensure your experience remains enjoyable and secure:

• Trust Your Instincts: If someone or a situation feels off, don’t proceed. It’s better to walk away than to risk harm.
• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of who’s around—police, passersby, or potential threats.
• Don’t Carry Valuables: Take the bare minimum with you.
• Carry Protection: Always bring condoms and lubricant for safer sex.
• Have an Exit Plan: Know how to leave quickly if needed and avoid isolated areas where you might be trapped or vulnerable.

Cruising’s resurgence is a testament to the enduring power of queer connection. It’s a reminder that, even in a digital age, there’s something irreplaceable about the thrill of meeting someone in person, in the moment.

With respect, caution, and a bit of courage, cruising offers an exciting, accessible alternative to the sometimes-alienating world of modern dating apps. 

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Important Note:

While cruising has long been a part of gay culture, it’s essential to be aware of your context and the risks involved.

In South Africa, and in many other countries, engaging in public intimacy remains illegal and could lead to arrest and charges of public indecency. High crime rates also increase the risk of robbery, particularly in isolated areas where cruising may happen. Additionally, there is the danger of encountering violent or homophobic individuals who may react aggressively to any perceived advance. 

If you choose to cruise, prioritise safety and make informed, responsible decisions. Your well-being matters.