To some, skinny dipping means a hot date and a jacuzzi. For others, however, nudism is a way of life and finding the perfect location for a quick dip sans clothes is often more difficult than one might imagine. Thankfully, there are dozens of out-of-the way spots where naturists can enjoy a swim without fear of repercussion. We took a poll for suggestions and found the following amazing nude beach destinations.
Haulover Beach, Florida
Haulover Beach is the only legal nude beach in Florida. The beach is secluded from all other beaches, though it can become crowded with naturists at times. Clearly marked as a nude beach, nudists of any age and sexual orientation are welcome to visit; though there is a separate section designated for gay nudists and another for nude sports. Be cautious – going nude on any other beach in Florida aside Haulover Beach may result in fines or arrests.
Folsom Lake, California
In Folsom, California you’ll find Folsom Lake. The lake itself is bustling with activity year round, but if you dare to explore some of the more secluded coves you’ll find a nude beach hidden safely away. The nude beach, otherwise known as Bare Cove, can be found by entering the park from the Granite Bay entrance. Simply park at Beek’s Bight and begin hiking along the water until you find a cove surrounded by rocks. You’ll know you’re there when you see a rock with a sign signaling your arrival at the nude beach.
Gunnison Beach, New Jersey
In Sandy Hook, NJ you’ll find Gunnison Beach. Not far from New York Harbor, the sunny beach provides incredible views of Manhattan, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, and more. Gunnison Beach is one of the only beaches on the east coast that is recognized legally as being clothing optional. Secluded from clothing-only beaches, this beach is complete with lifeguards and a police presence to keep everyone safe at all times.
Cherry Grove, New York
The beach at Cherry Grove in New York is part of the Fire Island National Seashore. Fire Island can be found just off the southern tip of Long Island, and the island is a very popular destination for members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community. While there is plenty of entertainment throughout the entire Cherry Grove resort community, the beaches are the most popular attraction, where – yes – nudity is perfectly acceptable.
Abbott’s Glen, Vermont
Abbott’s Glen campground in Vermont is a popular destination for nudists year round. Alright – so the pond isn’t really a lake or ocean, and the grass isn’t really a beach, but a day spent nude tubing on the pond is as relaxing as any day on the beach and we thought this hot spot should be included on the list. If you hike a bit away from the resort buildings, you’ll find the North River and beach as well. Abbott’s Glen features seasonal activities and dining accommodations year round – all of which cater to the avid naturist.
Little Beach, Hawaii
On the west coast of Maui you’ll come across Little Beach. Legally, nudity is not allowed in Hawaii but you’d be hard pressed to find an officer enforcing that regulation. Therefore, Little Beach is now considered an “unofficial” destination for those wishing to experience a clothing-optional day of sun and sand.
Red Beach, Greece
For those who wish to travel a little further from home, Red Beach in Crete, Greece is yet another popular naturist destination. The resort is comprised of incredible ancient ruins, mysterious caves, beautiful cottages, and miles of warm sandy beaches. Nudity is acceptable everywhere on resort property except for the dining room – seems fair enough to us.
Montalivet, France
More appropriately named Centre Helio Montalivet in Vendays Montalivet, France, this beach resort is considered to be the birthplace of naturism. The resort has been in operation for almost 60 years and features beaches, camping, shops, sports, and recreation for the entire family.
Samurai Beach, Australia
Samurai Beach in Australia is one of the few places in Australia where nudism is tolerated. The small beach is always busy, with sunbathers and volleyball players regularly dotting the shores. Samurai Beach is known as the home to the Nude Olympics, held annually.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Ocho Rios in Jamaica is home to Couples Resort. While the resort isn’t dedicated to naturists alone, it does feature a secluded place where couples who want to dabble in the nude can explore this alternative lifestyle. The resort owns a separate island featuring a beach, bar, lounging areas, and a pool. This island is the only place on the complex where clothing is optional.
Remember, respect at any nude beach or destination is the number one priority. Regardless of where you end up, though, each of these nude beach destinations provides a safe and fun environment for naturists from all walks of life.
Image credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
The best nude beach I’ve been to is in Biarritz France. The cool thing about nude bathing (or nudism in general) is that it isn’t about sex. Americans get so caught up in nudity being somehow naughty that when an American sees ‘nude beach’ he thinks: wild sex in the open! But this has not been the case. After my third visit to the nude beach in Biarritz I found myself talking w/ a four people at one point: a 30-something woman, an 80-something man, and a 17-year old girl. We were talking about restaurants in town, and escargots in particular. (I know, how clich?) As we were conversing I was realizing: the fact that we’re nude has nothing to do with our conversation. None of us is sexually excited or motivated. We are 4 people on a beach in the sun, talking about where we may have dinner that night.
And THAT is what I find so liberating about nudity.
I used to live near Little Beach on Maui… you should warn of the horrors of stumbling upon overweight gay sex in the bushes there. Happens to folks way too often. *shiver* =(
I’ve heard a similar statement to what ELBSeattle made, that when people gather on a nude beach, the last thing on their mind seems to be sex.
Well perhaps not the last thing, but you get my point.
I don’t fully understand this, I mean, sexuality is on our minds while we’re clothed. Why wouldn’t we be even more sexually aroused when nude? Maybe its the secret that turns us on? There has to be some guy who goes to nude beaches and constantly has an erection. Is he looked down upon? Since everyone is thinking “Hey, no orgies here!”
What if you do get an erection when you look at a nude 17 year old girl?
What if you get one when you look at the 80 year old man? What if it has nothing to do with the guy, or even the girl? What if it does? This sort of sexual acceptance still isn’t tolerated. I mean, I have a feeling people might get pissed off if I’m at a nude beach, and I’m talking to some guy surrounded by his family, and it’s a casual conversation, but his fifteen year old daughter starts talking to me and I get an erection.
I agree with the above comment. People have sex in back of their mind whenever they go to these nude beaches. Now, it is really up to you whether you can control your feelings and behave normally, which i find somewhat hard.