The magazine included editorials, nude beach reports, event photography, and cover model layouts, with contributions from editor Dave Patrick.
The magazine also engaged in activism, with staff members such as Miki Demarest, Kat Sunlove, and Layne Winklebleck playing roles in the defeat of California Senate Bill 5 (SB5), which aimed to redefine statewide obscenity standards.
In 1987, the City of Alameda attempted to ban Spectator news racks using zoning laws based on the Renton v. Playtime Theatres case.
The magazine also organized community events, such as Sunlove’s 50th birthday gala at the Great American Music Hall in 1995, which raised funds for free speech advocacy groups.
In 2002, financial difficulties led to the sale of Spectator Magazine to Dara Lynne Dahl, an exotic dancer, and W. Vann Hall, a photographer and software developer.
Despite efforts to revitalize the magazine, including increased community engagement and circulation improvements, financial difficulties proved insurmountable.