If you’re looking to experience the freedom of nude sunbathing or simply see a new beach culture, here are the top 17 nude beaches around the world:
1. Haulover Beach - Miami Beach, Florida
With over a mile of white sand just north of Miami, Haulover Beach has been a popular nude destination since gaining official status in 1991. The northern section is designated for clothing-optional use. Here you'll find nude bathers of all ages, shapes and sizes enjoying the sunny South Florida weather. Thanks to its spaciousness and tolerance for nudity, it's one of the few US beaches where public nudity is fully accepted.
2. Red Beach - Thira, Santorini
Famed for its volcanic cliff backdrop, Red Beach on the island of Santorini has long attracted visitors wishing to sunbathe in the nude. The direction it faces provides privacy from boats offshore. To access Red Beach, you must hike down a steep path carved into the crimson cliffside. While stunning, it can get crowded in summer, so arrive early to secure a spot.
3. Playa Zipolite - Oaxaca, Mexico
On Mexico's Pacific coast, Playa Zipolite has been a favorite retreat for nudists since the 1980s. Though not an official nude beach, nude bathing is common and widely accepted. Visitors praise its laid back, open vibe. With budget hotels and eateries nearby, it's easy to make a nude beach day of it. Take care swimming, as rip currents can be strong.
4. Praia De Tambaba - Tambaba, Brazil
In Brazil's lush Paraiba region, Praia de Tambaba is a naturist paradise tucked between jungle and steep cliffs. As Brazil's first official nude beach, complete nudity is the norm. Reachable only by boat or a challenging two-hour hike, its remoteness keeps crowds at bay. At just half a mile long, this sandy cove offers a level of seclusion and privacy for nude beachgoers.
5. Playa De Los Muertos - Carboneras, Spain
While the name is ominous, Playa de los Muertos in southern Spain is actually idyllic. Located in Andalusia, nudity is permitted on the middle section of this sunny, sandy beach. As one of Europe's long-standing nude beaches, you'll feel comfortable letting loose. But beware of strong waves and currents when swimming in the Mediterranean.
6. Little Beach - Wailea Makena, Hawaii
On the island of Maui, Little Beach is a picturesque tropical spot where nude recreation has become accepted over time. Though clothing is optional, you'll see a mix of nudists and swimsuit-clad beachgoers. Flanked by rocky points, the sandy shoreline and crystal waters make an inviting backdrop for nude sunbathing. Arrive early on weekends for more privacy.
7. Praia Do Pinho - Camboriú, Brazil
Nestled between mountains and Atlantic rainforest, Praia Do Pinho has allowed nudity since the 1980s, attracting naturists seeking seclusion. The chillier waters are less ideal for swimming, but the beach is idyllic for nude sunbathing. Vendors provide refreshments, and you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Watch the crowds, as some days skew more clothed.
8. Plakias Beach - Plakias, Greece
On the southern coast of Crete, Plakias Beach unofficially allows nude sunbathing towards its west end, near the rocks. While public nudity is banned in Greece, the remote position of Plakias has attracted nudists here for years. Enjoy nude sunbathing with a mountainous Mediterranean backdrop before exploring charming coastal villages nearby.
9. Banana Beach - Sithonia, Greece
Hidden within a rugged cove on the Sithonia Peninsula, Banana Beach has retained its clothing-optional status despite recent crackdowns on nude beaches in Greece. Nudity was even more open in the past, but nude sunbathing remains common. The beach's secluded setting, ringed by forested cliffs, adds to its appeal for nudists seeking privacy.
10. Little Banana Beach - Skopelos, Greece
Little Banana Beach on the island of Skopelos is a secluded stretch of pebbly shoreline where nude sunbathing is known to occur. Like Banana Beach, it lies nestled between steep cliffs lined with vegetation, offering a sense of escape. While nude sunbathing happens, exercise discretion. Bring supplies, as there are no facilities due to its isolated location.
11. Moshup Beach - Aquinnah, Massachusetts
On the cliffs of Martha's Vineyard, Moshup Beach has been a haven for nude beachgoers for decades. Its remote position below the iconic multi-colored Aquinnah Cliffs allows nudity to be tolerated. Be aware that the entire beach is not clothing-optional, with nude sunbathing occurring on the left side away from the main access path. Arrive early, as the small parking lot fills up fast.
12. Lady Bay Beach - Sydney, Australia
Lady Bay Beach lies on the harbor side of Sydney's Watsons Bay. Officially nude bathing has been prohibited here, but that hasn't stopped nude beachgoers flocking to its scenic shoreline. While legal issues persist, Lady Bay remains one of Australia's go-to nude beaches. Come early on weekends for the most privacy, as it can get crowded.
13. Wreck Beach - Vancouver, British Columbia
Recognized as Canada's first official clothing-optional beach, Wreck Beach is a haven for nudists just west of Vancouver. Nestled among forested cliffs, its natural setting offers privacy and seclusion. Stretching over a mile, the sandy shore draws thousands of nude visitors on summer weekends. While public nudity is illegal in Canada, Wreck Beach is the exception.
14. Grande Saline Beach - St. Barts
On the French Caribbean island of St. Barts, Grande Saline Beach lives up to its name with a spacious stretch of dazzling white sand. Though technically illegal, public nudity has been a tradition at this beach since the 1950s. Known as St. Barts' only nude beach today, it remains a tropical haven where visitors can sunbathe, stroll and swim in the buff.
15. Praia Massarandupio - Bahia, Brazil
Along Brazil's northeastern coast, naturists flock to Praia Massarandupió for its rustic beauty. Tucked between jungle-cloaked hills, nudity is commonplace on this near-deserted 2-mile beach. Despite its seclusion, basic amenities like showers draw nude beachgoers. But be prepared to hike in, as the bumpy dirt road prevents all but 4x4s.
16. Spiaggia di Guvano - Vernazza, Italy
On the picturesque Cinque Terre coast, this rocky beach within a secluded cove has been a haven for nudists for decades. To access Spiaggia di Guvano beach, you must walk through a long, dark tunnel. While public nudity is illegal in Italy, the remoteness of this beach has allowed nudism to thrive over the years.
17. Paradise Beach - Thasos, Greece
Despite Greece's recent crackdown on nude beaches, nudity remains common on Paradise Beach on the island of Thasos. Visitors note the friendly, easygoing atmosphere where nudity and swimsuits coexist peacefully. Flanked by forested hills, nudists congregate towards the east end. Amenities like sunbeds and water sports provide beach comforts.
So whether you’re looking for privacy or a lively nude scene, these are the top 17 clothing-optional beaches around the world where you can comfortably bare it all. Just be sure to research local laws and etiquette beforehand to have the best nude beach experience.
