What Not to Do at a Nude Beach

Nude beaches can be found all over the world, from Hawaii to Mexico, Greece to Croatia, and even the coasts of New Jersey. If you’re looking for a carefree and clothing-optional trip, these hotspots are perfect. But, before you go to a nude beach, keep in mind that politeness is paramount. Most clothes-free locations have more rules than a boarding school. Here’s the lowdown on what not to do at a Nude Beach.

Topless sunbathing and nude beaches are popular throughout Europe, South America, and the Caribbean. In the United States, though, naked beaches can raise a few eyebrows.

However, contrary to common assumptions, “no-clothing” beaches are neither vulgar nor indecent. Everyone is more comfortable, and beachgoers are more considerate because they are all naked.

From Hawaii to Mexico, Greece to Croatia, and even the shores of New Jersey, naked beaches may be found all over the world. These places are great if you want to have a relaxed and clothing-optional vacation.

However, keep in mind that decency is vital before visiting a nudist beach. In fact, most clothes-free facilities have more rules than a boarding school. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do when visiting a nude beach.

Nude beaches have their own code of conduct—but no clothes doesn’t mean no rules.


The Do’s and Don’ts of Going to a Nude Beach

Aside from forgetting your towel, there are a few faux pas to avoid when you’re on a nude beach. If you’ve never been to a nudist beach but have always wanted to, we’ve compiled a list of guidelines for you to follow. Here are some things you should know.

1. Don’t Assume That a Beach Is Clothing-Optional

If you read somewhere that a beach is clothing-optional, it doesn’t necessarily indicate that the beach is actually. Make sure the place is genuinely secure for your naked patronage. 

To get you started, the American Association for Nude Recreation has compiled a brief list of nude beaches in the United States (there aren’t many), and Tripon has compiled a list of some of the best nudist destinations around the world.

And if you’re ever in doubt about whether or not a nudist beach is indeed a nudist beach? Continue to wear your clothes. Public nudity is a serious offense that can result in a fine in many areas (or worse).


What Not to Do at a Nude Beach

2. Don’t Forget to Research Naturist Resorts

Naturist resorts cater to fully clothed vacationers, so instead of a one-time visit to a nude beach, consider these possibilities if you want to go all in (or off). There’s a nudist resort option to suit your style and budget, from family-friendly campgrounds in the Poconos to opulent all-inclusive in the Caribbean.

Each of these resorts has its own set of rules, and many are exclusively for adults. Before booking, read the resort’s regulations carefully, just as you would for any other hotel stay.


3. Don’t Stare At A Nude Beach

Don’t stare, gawk, point, or chuckle once you’ve arrived at a nudist beach. You’ll have to glance at your fellow sunbathers at some point, whether it’s to greet them or to retrieve their Frisbee from your beach towel.

But keep your cool: most nude beach claim that it’s simple and that after a while, you’ll stop seeing all the exposed skin. Are you unable to cope with the realities of polite naked society? That’s fine, but for the sake of everyone’s comfort, stick to beaches where clothes are required.


4. Don’t Expect Too Much at Nude Beaches

Contrary to popular belief, most nudist beaches aren’t sexy hangouts straight out as shown in Hollywood movies. Patrons come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of physical fitness, and are far more likely to resemble a dad bod than Channing Tatum in the buff.

So don’t expect models at a nude beach and then be disappointed when you see, well, normal humans in all their hirsute glory.


What Not to Do at a Nude Beach

5. Don’t Photograph People Without Their Permission

This is basic etiquette in any public place, but it’s extremely delicate when there’s a lot of skin involved. Just because someone is at ease enough to let it all hang out doesn’t imply they aren’t concerned about their privacy.

If you must, take a quick photo of yourself or the beach for posterity’s sake, but then put your phone aside and enjoy the vista in person. 

Furthermore, even if you’re fine with someone taking a photo of you, bear in mind that you have little influence over where that photo winds up online, from travel review sites to social media to less pleasant places.


6. Don’t Go Naked in Certain Public Areas

Many areas at nude beaches and resorts, such as parking lots, cafes, and shops, may need clothing due to local rules. Consult any posted notices for clothing-required places and pay attention and follow them. If you need to suit up to use the facilities, pack a waterproof beach tote with easily accessible clothing. Towels are also required to be used on public chairs at most nude beaches and resorts.


7. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

While this does not fall under the category of etiquette, it is nonetheless important to know when visiting a nudist beach: Yes, those sensitive areas ordinarily shielded by swim trunks and bikinis will require a layer of sunscreen, preferably one that is mild on sensitive skin.

Test it out a few weeks before going to a nude beach to make sure you don’t wind up with an unpleasant rash someplace you don’t want one.


8. You Should Bring Your Own Towel

When using shared amenities like benches, it’s common courtesy to place a towel or sarong between you and the seat. It can also be useful for men who only need to cover up for a brief time.

The naturist society is usually relaxed about it as long as you’re not aggressively bringing attention to yourself. Things happen; no one else will notice if you don’t make a big deal out of it.


What Not to Do at a Nude Beach

9. Keep Your Valuables Safe

Even on a nudist beach, theft can happen.
So, whether you ask someone to keep an eye on your valuables or take them with you when you leave your place, keep them safe at all times. If you wish to go swimming, you should always invest in a waterproof beach bag with zipper so that you can carry your possessions into the water with you.


10. Respect Other People’s Personal Space

Don’t irritate people and allow them plenty of room, just like on a regular beach.

Keep an eye on your surroundings and where you’re going; no one wants to wake up from sunbathing to find you jumping over them to get by.


11. Get Dressed Before You Leave

It’s fine to wear your birthday suit while in your designated nudist beach area, but when you’re ready to leave, please put your clothes back on! It’s important to show respect for those who aren’t nude.


12. Relax

Tanning, reading, snoozing, going for a walk, taking a swim: these are activities that are what being at nude beaches is all about. Relax!


What Not to Do at a Nude Beach

13. No sex on the beach

This should be a given, but don’t assume that just because you can get naked on a nudist beach that you can take your relationship to that next level.

Remember that you could get into serious trouble for doing anything sexual in a public place.


You Might Also Like


FAQ’s About Do’s and Don’ts of Going to a Nudist Beach

Is there a community for nudists?

Yes! More information can be found by searching Google about nudist beaches or visiting naturistsociety.com. Naturist Etiquette is a great resource for other etiquettes, and it goes into further detail about other social non-sexual nudist circumstances for nudist beaches.

Can you have sex on nude beaches?

Yes, technically. But please don’t do it in front of others. If you’re on a private or empty beach, then perhaps!

Can I bring my kids?

We noticed a lot of families on the nudist beaches in Croatia. We thought it was nice to see tiny kids running around and playing in the sand, and there was nothing lewd about it. Again, I can’t speak for all nudist beaches; you’ll need to do your research.

I’m a single female, should I go to a nude beach alone?

Ultimately, I believe, is a judgment call you must make. Before you go, it can be a good idea to acquire a sense of the beach’s ambiance. If there are families and other groups present, it may be a fantastic location to unwind; however, if there are only single males around, you should reconsider.

I’m scared everyone is going to stare at me if I go to nude beaches, do you have any advice?

Unless you’re disfigured, I doubt you’ll cause much of a stir. Some of these folks have seen, as I mentioned previously. Everything. It’s all about feeling relaxed and calm while you’re naked! So don’t be concerned about your look.


What Not to Do at a Nude Beach

Tell Us In the Comments Your Opinion About What Not To Do At A Nude Beach!

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with Tripononline. Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway

Leave a Comment