Top 6 Craigslist Hookup Alternatives for Casual Connections

In recent years, the world of online personals has undergone significant changes, particularly with the disappearance of Craigslist Personals. This site was well-known for facilitating connections among people seeking casual encounters, hookups, and even committed relationships. However, in 2018, it terminated its “Personals” section due to the passage of the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA), which aimed to combat sex trafficking online. As a result, many people who relied on Craigslist for their casual connections were left without a reliable alternative.

Fortunately, since the disappearance of Craigslist Personals, numerous alternative websites have been developed to fill the void. These dating sites provide similar services and experiences to Craigslist but with additional safety features and a wider variety of options for users. In this article, we will introduce the top 6 alternatives to Craigslist for casual connections, including Ashley Madison, AdultFriendFinder, and more. So, whether you’re looking for a free sex hookup, a friend with benefits, or even a serious relationship, there are plenty of options available to you beyond Craigslist.

Craigslist Hookup

AdultFriendFinder

AdultFriendFinder is a popular Craigslist alternative available for those seeking casual connections and hookups. Launched in 1996, the website has been in operation for over two decades and has become one of the most well-established and reputable adult dating platforms in the industry.

What sets AdultFriendFinder apart from other Craigslist alternatives is its robust search and filter options, which allow users to find exactly what they are looking for in a potential match. The website also offers various communication and interaction options, including chat rooms, video messaging, and more.

While there are some downsides to using Adult Friend Finder, such as the need for a premium membership to access certain features, the website’s overall user experience is highly positive. The website is easy to use and provides a secure and safe environment for individuals to explore their sexual desires and connect with like-minded individuals.

AdultFriendFinder

Pros:

  • Large user base;
  • Global availability;
  • Robust search and filter options;
  • Various communication and interaction options;
  • Free to sign up and create a basic profile;
  • Option to participate in blogs, groups, and forums;

Cons:

  • Need for premium membership for full access;
  • Some fake profiles were reported;
  • Limited mobile app functionality;
  • Privacy concerns due to data breaches.

Prices

Membership/CreditsDuration/QuantityPrice per Month/One CreditTotal
Standard1 Month$16.99$16.99
Standard3 Months$10.00$29.99
Gold1 Month$39.95$39.95
Gold3 Months$26.95$80.85
Gold12 Months$19.95$239.40

Ashley Madison

Ashley Madison is a popular Craigslist alternative for adults that has been providing individuals seeking casual sex and extramarital affairs with a platform to connect since its launch in 2001. It has become one of the top Craigslist personals alternatives due to its focus on discreet and confidential hookups.

What sets Ashley Madison apart from other dating sites is its emphasis on privacy and security. This online resource allows users to create anonymous profiles and even offers features such as a “panic button” that quickly redirects the user to a different website if they need to exit the site quickly. Additionally, the site has grown to tens of millions of members worldwide, making it one of the largest dating sites for those seeking hookups and affairs. While there have been some controversies surrounding Ashley Madison in the past, such as a 2015 data breach that exposed user information, this best web site has since taken steps to improve its security and privacy measures.

Ashley Madison

Pros:

  • Anonymous and discreet profiles;
  • Over 20 years in the business;
  • Option to blur photos for added privacy;
  • Option to send virtual gifts to other members.

Cons:

  • Need to purchase credits for some features;
  • Reputation for promoting infidelity;
  • Expensive premium memberships;
  • Limited information in profiles;
  • Potential for catfishing and scams.

Prices

Membership/CreditsDuration/QuantityPrice per Month/One CreditTotal
Credits100$0.49 $49.00 
Credits500$0.30 $149.00 
Credits1000$0.25$249.00 

BeNaughty 

BeNaughty is a dating website that has been around since 2000 and is a popular choice for individuals seeking casual hookups and relationships. With a multi-million base of registered members worldwide, BeNaughty has become a popular alternative to Craigslist personals for those seeking fast and easy connections.

This is the site similar to Craigslist which is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and tech backgrounds. The sign-up process is quick and straightforward, with users only being asked to provide basic info such as their age, gender, and location. Once registered, users can create a profile and browse through other profiles, with the option to search based on various criteria such as age, location, and sexual preferences. 

BeNaughty

Pros:

  • 24/7 customer support;
  • Profile verification options;
  • Users can indicate their relationship status and casual sexual preferences in their profiles;
  • Free trial for new users.

Cons:

  • Limited profile information can make it difficult to assess compatibility;
  • Not available in some countries.

Prices

Membership/CreditsDuration/QuantityPrice per Month/One CreditTotal
Premium1 Day$0.99$0.99
Premium1 Week$0.39$2.73
Premium1 Month$45.00 $45.00 
Premium3 Months$16.20$48.60

Victoria Milan

Victoria Milan is a popular Craigslist Personals alternative for those seeking casual dating and discreet encounters. Launched in 2010, Victoria Milan is a secure dating site that boasts millions of members worldwide. It is a better hookup site than Craigslist, offering a safe and private environment for its users. Unlike Craigslist casual encounters and personal ads, Victoria Milan has a modern and user-friendly interface that allows users to easily find like-minded individuals for fast flings. 

Victoria Milan

Pros:

  • Location-based matching and search options;
  • Extensive sexual preference and interest options;
  • Ability to earn points and rewards through website activities.

Cons:

  • Limited communication options;
  • A limited selection of premium subscription options.

Prices

Membership/CreditsDuration/QuantityPrice per Month/One CreditTotal
Standard Plan1 Month$39.99$39.99
Premium Gold3 Months$59.95$179.85

Fling 

Fling is an online dating service that aims to connect people for discreet hookups and other kinks. Similar to Craigslist, it provides a spot for singles to post personal ads, browse other users’ profiles, and connect with potential partners. As one of the hookup sites like Craigslist, Fling offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate and find what you’re seeking. It’s completely free to sign up and browse profiles, but certain features like messaging and video chats require a paid membership.

Women seeking men can post ads and search for partners based on their preferences, such as location, age, and interests. The site also offers a feature called “Fling Live Girls,” which allows users to interact with live webcam models. Here’s a review from user Jbphilly****: 

“This live streaming stuff is something else, I must say. My profile gets more views once I go live.”

Fling

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface for easy navigation and use;
  • SSL encryption for secure data transfer and protection of user information;
  • Large and diverse user base, allowing for greater choice and potential matches.

Cons:

  • Lack of advanced search filters;
  • Clunky on mobile devices.

Prices

Membership/CreditsDuration/QuantityPrice per Month/One CreditTotal
Gold2 Days$0.48$0.95
Gold1 Week$1.42$9.95
Gold1 Month$34.95$34.95
Gold6 Months$11.65$69.90 
Gold12 Months$9.99 $119.88

Plenty of Fish

Plenty of Fish, also known as POF, is a popular online dating spot that allows users to create a profile and search for potential matches. With tens of millions of registered users, Plenty of Fish is one of the largest dating sites available. POF offers a variety of features, including advanced search options, messaging, and the ability to see who has viewed your profile. Overall, Plenty of Fish is a reliable and user-friendly option for those looking to connect with others in the online dating world. Here’s the success story of Purity and Cameron

“Cameron was the first to send me a message. I thought it was the POF crew welcoming me because it happened so quickly. We have talked every day since then and have never looked back. Without Plenty of Fish, we would never have met. POF makes our love story special, and being an interracial couple, we even feel more special. Thank you, POF, for connecting two soulmates together.”

Plenty of Fish

Pros:

  • Large user base with a variety of interests and preferences;
  • Advanced search and matchmaking tools for finding compatible partners;
  • The platform offers a free option with many features, including video chat;
  • Users can search for matches based on various criteria, such as location and interests.

Cons:

  • There have been reports of fake accounts on Plenty of Fish, which can lead to spam messages and scams;
  • The matching algorithm is not always accurate;
  • Certain features, such as seeing who has viewed your profile, are only available for a fee;
  • The user interface is not always intuitive, which can make navigation difficult.

Prices

Membership/CreditsDuration/QuantityPrice per Month/One CreditTotal
Upgraded User2 Months$19.35$38.70
Upgraded User4 Months$12.75 $51.00
Upgraded User8 Months$10.18$81.40

‘Person Seeking Personal Ads Pages’: Alternatives to Craigslist

Conclusion

In conclusion, Craigslist was a highly popular platform for personal ads and casual encounters. However, after its closure in 2018, several alternatives have emerged, such as AdultFriendFinder, Ashley Madison, BeNaughty, and Victoria Milan. These platforms offer various features for those seeking casual dating, hookups, and secure dating sites. While they have their own pros and cons, users have more options to choose from than before, making it easier to find a suitable alternative to Craigslist personals.

FAQ

What Are Some Tips for Finding a Successful Hookup on Craigslist?

Some tips for finding a successful hookup on Craigslist alternatives include being clear about your intentions, being honest about yourself and your preferences, using good photos, and staying safe by meeting in public places first. Additionally, being patient and persistent can increase your chances of finding a successful hookup.

How Can Users Stay Safe when Using Craigslist for Hookups?

To stay safe when using Craigslist alternatives for hookups or sex partners, users should exercise caution and use common sense. It is important to thoroughly research and vet potential partners, meet in public places, and communicate boundaries clearly. Additionally, users should be aware of scams and frauds that may occur on dating sites such as Craigslist and other similar hookup dating sites.

What Are the Risks Associated with Using Craigslist for Hookups?

The risks associated with using Craigslist alternatives for hookups include encountering fake profiles, scammers, and even potential physical danger. As with Craigslist personal ads or other classified ads, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks when meeting up with casual sex partners from online dating sites.

Are There Any Alternative Platforms to Craigslist for Finding Hookups?

Yes, there are several alternative platforms to Craigslist for finding hookups, such as online dating services, personal ad websites, and other classified ad sites. The list of alternatives to Craigslists Personals includes AdultFriendFinder, Ashley Madison, BeNaughty, and Victoria Milan. These sites cater to various preferences, including men seeking women and other types of casual sex encounters.

How Does Using Craigslist for Hookups Differ from Traditional Dating Apps or Sites?

Using Craigslist for hookups differs from vanilla dating apps or sites because it offers a more casual and anonymous approach. The best Craigslist hookup sites allow users to explore their casual sex fantasies with like-minded individuals who are looking for a quick and discreet encounter. Regular dating apps and sites, on the other hand, are geared towards forming long-term relationships and often require a more extensive profile and screening process.

What Replaced Craigslist Personals?

After Craigslist personals shut down in 2018, many alternatives have emerged, such as Doublelist, AdultFriendFinder, and Ashley Madison. However, the shutdown of the personals section has impacted sex workers who relied on the platform to find clients. Many have since turned to other dating sites or social media to continue their work, while others have faced increased risks and challenges.