Nude Beach Etiquette: Lose Your Clothes, Not Your Manners

By Ivan PetrenkoJun 26, 2024 23:00 PMNews
Share:
Nude person on the beach on the sunset
Nude person on the beach on the sunset. Source: Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

Stripping down to a swimsuit on a sunny day feels freeing, but what about shedding those final strips of fabric and going nude? The naturist movement, which began in Europe in the late 19th century, is now popular worldwide. There are hundreds of clothing-optional beaches globally, where it’s perfectly legal to drop your shorts and your inhibitions.

 

If you’re new to nudity but curious, here are some tips on beach and resort etiquette from naturism experts with decades of experience.

 

Do Your Research

 

"Naturism means different things to different people," says Stéphane Deschênes, president of the International Naturist Federation (INF-FNI). Typically, naturism is about non-sexual social nudity in a family-friendly environment. The INF-FNI helps people find reliable naturist resorts.

 

Take the Plunge

 

When you arrive at your chosen beach or resort and feel like everyone’s looking at you—they’re not. "Nobody knows this is your first time," says Ronna Krozy, a retired professor and long-time nudist. Sometimes it’s better just to dive straight in.

 

Keep Your Distance

 

Behave like you’re at a "church picnic," says Krozy. "Don’t park your chair or blanket too close to anybody." Always bring a towel with you to sit on for hygiene reasons.

 

Don’t Stare or Take Photos

 

Making eye contact and starting up friendly conversations are welcome. "Look people in the eye and don’t gawk or stare," says Krozy. Taking pictures or videos without permission is a huge no-no. Respect people’s space to avoid making them uncomfortable.

 

Don’t Comment on People’s Bodies

 

"You shouldn’t talk about anybody’s body, even if you think it’s a compliment," says Krozy. Naturism is about body acceptance and fostering better relationships by being open and honest.

 

Unwanted Arousal Isn’t a Big Issue

 

A common concern for men is what happens if they get physically excited. It doesn’t happen often in non-sexual environments. If it does, discreetly cover up or take a dip in the cold water. Women concerned about their periods should do whatever makes them comfortable.

 

Don’t Confuse Alternative Lifestyles

 

Naturists shouldn’t be lumped in with sexually liberated groups. "We always get lumped in with the sexually liberated people, and that’s never been who we are," says Deschênes. Each group has distinct practices and should be respected as such.

 

Explore More

 

If you enjoy the experience, consider exploring further afield. France is the top destination for naturism with its many beaches and cultural acceptance. Germany also offers great naturist opportunities in parks and spas. Thailand and the Caribbean have lovely resorts catering to naturists.

 

With this advice in hand, all you need to do is start packing. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
View of Helsinki Airport terminal with passengers silhouetted against large windows

Finland’s Airports to Operate Normally During Peak July Travel After Strike Threat Lifted

Jul 13, 2025 21:28 PM
Delta Airlines Boeing 767 aircraft climbing after takeoff at sunset

New Direct Flight Links Utah to Peru’s Natural Wonders

Jul 12, 2025 21:36 PM

Kimpton Hotel to Open for the First Time in Ubud’s Historic Centre

Jul 12, 2025 13:41 PM

Glasgow Airport Strike to Hit Summer Flights and Holiday Plans

Jul 12, 2025 05:27 AM
Modern train traveling through green landscape on Calder Valley route

Calder Valley Route Boost Ensures Smoother Travel During Huddersfield Station Upgrade

Jul 12, 2025 03:34 AM
Croatia Airlines aircraft in flight against clear blue sky

Croatia Airlines Connects Milan to Zagreb with Direct Flights

Jul 11, 2025 23:45 PM
Boats anchored near Es Vedrà rock off the coast of Cala Molí, Ibiza

EDITION Moves Beyond Hotels with Series of Beach Events in Ibiza

Jul 11, 2025 22:52 PM
Stylish bed with decorative pillows and modern lighting in a villa bedroom

Maldives Beach Villas Redesigned to Meet Growing Demand for Privacy and Nature Immersion

Jul 11, 2025 18:38 PM
flydubai aircraft taxiing on airport runway

flydubai Launches All-in-One Summer Travel Packages for Regional Trips

Jul 11, 2025 16:46 PM

Rail Closures on Brighton Line This Sunday Could Disrupt Weekend Travel Plans

Jul 11, 2025 04:23 AM

Eurostar Updates Route: New Daily Services Between London and Amsterdam

Jul 11, 2025 02:39 AM
Wizz Air aircraft approaching for landing against clear sky

Wizz Air’s Early Return Reconnects Tel Aviv with Key Cities

Jul 10, 2025 23:47 PM
Workers in high-visibility gear conduct railway maintenance using machinery on a curved track under construction

Rail Maintenance in South Wales to Disrupt Travel Near Cardiff Airport and Coastal Attractions

Jul 10, 2025 21:31 PM
Jet2.com airplane flying against a clear blue sky

Jet2.com Expands UK Winter Flights to Key Alpine Destinations for 2026/27 Season

Jul 10, 2025 19:25 PM
Modern hotel bedroom with dark accent wall and stylish bedding

Bangkok’s Historic Anantara Siam Hotel Updates Facilities While Welcoming Guests

Jul 10, 2025 18:48 PM

Free In-Flight Wi-Fi Coming to All China Airlines Cabins This August

Jul 10, 2025 09:32 AM

Bridge Works to Sever Rail Traffic Between Kew and Barnes for Nine Days

Jul 9, 2025 21:27 PM
Passenger using phone during a flight

Wizz Air Launches Mobile Feature to Manage Summer Flight Disruptions

Jul 9, 2025 19:34 PM
Facial recognition scan on man's face with processing overlay

Facial Recognition Boarding Now in Use at JFK Terminal 1

Jul 9, 2025 17:43 PM
Emirates aircraft taking off from runway

Emirates Adjusts Gulf Travel with New Aircraft on Key Route

Jul 9, 2025 09:29 AM
Rail workers performing track maintenance at a train station during daytime

Planned Rail Works to Impact Night Trains Between Llandudno and Holyhead

Jul 9, 2025 07:36 AM
Philippine Airlines aircraft taking off in cloudy sky

Manila Sapporo Air Route Restored This Winter Boosting Winter Travel Choices

Jul 8, 2025 20:42 PM

Ipswich Train Services Updated to Handle Large Crowds During Ed Sheeran Concerts

Jul 8, 2025 18:37 PM

WestJet Expands Winter Flights, Unlocking New Warm-Weather Destinations for Travelers

Jul 8, 2025 16:24 PM
Transavia aircraft taking off under clear blue sky

Transavia opens early booking for popular summer 2026 routes

Jul 8, 2025 14:41 PM
Rail workers conducting maintenance inside a tunnel at night

Severn Estuary Rail Closure to Disrupt Summer Travel to Key Outdoor Spots

Jul 8, 2025 10:38 AM