When people think about what turns men on, the mind usually goes straight to the obvious: the penis. And yes, with its glans and shaft packed with nerve endings that make even the slightest touch feel electric, it’s no wonder it gets all the attention. But here’s the truth—pleasure for men isn’t limited to one body part. Just like women, men have several erogenous zones that, when touched the right way, can trigger intense arousal.

According to Jess O’Reilly, Ph.D., host of the Sex With Dr. Jess podcast, erogenous zones differ from person to person. “The best way to find out what your partner likes is to ask them,” she explains. Experimentation, communication, and a willingness to explore can unlock new pathways to pleasure. So if you’ve only been focusing on the obvious, it may be time to broaden your horizons. Here are nine surprising hot spots you may not be paying enough attention to.

1. Nipples

Nipple play isn’t just for women. Men can enjoy it too, and in some cases, it can even lead to orgasm. Stimulating the nipples can release oxytocin, a hormone linked to bonding and relaxation, and may even activate the brain’s genital sensory cortex—the same area that lights up during genital stimulation. That said, sensitivity varies. For some men, it’s intensely pleasurable, while for others, it can feel overwhelming or even uncomfortable.

2. Sides of the Chest and Underarms

The skin just below the underarms is surprisingly sensitive to light touch, temperature, and pressure. You can tease with fingers, breath, or even your tongue. If you’re feeling bold, explore the armpits themselves. Intimacy expert Miyoko Rifkin explains that the natural scent of your partner can stimulate neural pathways of pleasure. What might feel unusual at first could become an incredibly erotic experience.

3. Inner Thighs

Given how close they are to the genitals, it makes sense that the inner thighs are highly erotic. Slowly trailing fingers, lips, or even a tongue along this area can build anticipation and arousal. Don’t stop there—try behind the knees too. It’s not a spot that gets much attention, but for some men, it can be a surprising turn-on.

4. The Happy Trail

That line of hair leading from the belly button down to the pubic area, often called the “happy trail,” is more than just aesthetic. It’s loaded with nerve endings, and stimulating it can heighten blood flow to the genitals, increasing arousal. Instead of rushing past it on the way down, take your time here. Gentle kisses or teasing touches along this path can send shivers through your partner.

5. Ears

Ears are full of sensory receptors, making them one of the most sensitive zones on the body. Light nibbles, whispers, or gentle breaths can spark instant arousal. They’re often overlooked, but when used as part of foreplay, ears can be a powerful tool in setting the mood.

6. Perineum

Located between the scrotum and the anus, the perineum—sometimes called the taint or gooch—is a powerhouse of sensation thanks to the cluster of nerves in the area. Applying firm pressure with fingers, a toy, or even vibrations can stimulate the inner bulb of the penis and, in many cases, lead to more intense orgasms. It’s an underrated spot worth exploring.

7. Scalp

Think about how relaxing it feels when someone washes your hair at the salon. Now imagine that sensation dialed up in an intimate setting. Massaging the scalp during foreplay or sex can be deeply soothing and arousing for many men. Not everyone enjoys head touches, but for those who do, it’s an unexpected but highly pleasurable addition.

8. The Anus (Outer Rim)

Taboo often makes things more exciting, and that’s exactly why the outer rim of the anus can be such a turn-on. Packed with nerve endings, it responds to both gentle teasing and firm pressure. Some couples experiment with fingers, toys, or even oral stimulation (rimming). The key here is comfort and communication—this spot isn’t for everyone, but for those open to it, it can be incredibly rewarding.

9. The Lips (Bonus Classic)

While not exactly surprising, the lips deserve a mention. Kissing—whether soft, lingering, or passionate—remains one of the simplest yet most effective ways to spark arousal. Pairing lip play with these other hot spots can create a layered, full-body experience.

Final Thoughts

Men’s bodies are just as complex and full of possibilities as women’s. While the penis is often the center of attention, it’s far from the only source of pleasure. The key to unlocking new sensations lies in curiosity, communication, and the willingness to experiment. Not every man will respond the same way, but by exploring these erogenous zones together, you and your partner can create a more exciting, intimate, and satisfying sexual experience.