Never Do This on a Nude Beach
The idea of going to a nude beach may sound exciting, intimidating, or both, but if you find it tempting, it’s worth trying at least once in your life. Communicating with nature in your own natural state is relaxing and empowering, and there is no shame in having a body or showing it to other people. (Just saying National Skinny Dipping Day is July 9th.)
But in addition to packing lots of sunscreen , there are some special etiquette and behavior you need to know before you go (bottomless) so your walk doesn’t get awkward or worse.
don’t look
Everyone on the beach to have some fun, maybe some make up and relax. In this context, nudity means something very different, and it’s important not to treat people as objects. According to Frommers , the “ground rule” of a nude beach holiday is that you can’t stare. Of course, you can watch – everyone will watch, at least a little. But it’s important that you don’t stare long enough to make someone uncomfortable. To this end, British Naturism, an organization dedicated to naturism, has developed a code of conduct for nude beaches . It includes “don’t be an exhibitionist” and “stay out of trouble”.
Wear sunglasses to make it less obvious where you’re looking, which isn’t an invitation to look, so bring something with you so you won’t be tempted to do nothing. Try reading a book, doing a crossword puzzle, or taking a nap on a pretty pillow. After all, this is a beach; you can and should do the usual beach activities.
Don’t ignore your surroundings
Read every sign you come across for real. Some beaches are divided into nude and non-nude areas, and you don’t run the risk of going into the wrong area. Keep a towel or cape with you in case you need to go to a non-nude area, and be aware that you will likely need to sit on your own towel in any common areas, such as a sun lounger or at a table.
Also look out for other published rules, as well as any sign that note cameras are not allowed. Use common sense when shooting waves or people from your company or family. Try to keep strangers out of the frame and make it obvious. Don’t do anything that will make someone else feel uncomfortable or like they’re being hunted. Be aware of your surroundings.
Don’t try to make it about sex
As noted in the British Naturism guide to nude beach etiquette, “any sexual activity is just as objectionable and just as criminal [on a nude beach] as in any other public place.” Even with your own partner, do not engage in any distant sexual relationship.
Again, when you think of a beautiful beach where everyone is naked, it may seem inherently sexy to you, but that’s your problem, not a reflection of reality: people are really there to relax. Don’t be a pest. Don’t make people feel fear or discomfort. Do not expect bacchanalia and do not try to impose it on anyone.
If you’re publicly aroused, lay low for a while. You should have enough space between your towel and other people’s towels, so stay on your towel in a lying position until it passes, or wrap yourself in a blanket and go to the bathroom or to the beach until everything settles down. Take a dip in cool water. There is no shame in getting a little excited, but there is shame in getting someone to notice.
Don’t embarrass anyone who doesn’t want to be completely naked
Naturists refer to people who prefer to be clothed as “textiles”, and British naturism warns those who prefer to be naked against “confronting or approaching” them on such beaches.
In an old Reddit thread about the worst experiences people have had on nude beaches, one user recalled , “This guy kicked me and my friends shit for not taking their clothes off… I was just about to get naked when he came over.” They called it “pretty weird” and it is. Some people may find it uncomfortable to completely undress, and this is normal as long as they follow the rules of behavior on the beach. It’s really none of your business.
Don’t get burned – literally
Issues of etiquette aside, the usual tips for going to the beach are still relevant, perhaps more so than usual. Apply and reapply plenty of sunscreen, follow every rule to the letter, and do your best to get sand off yourself and your belongings before you leave. UV rays and sand will hit even more parts of your body than usual, and you won’t want to walk away from this experience with sunburn or intimate scratches. Otherwise, have fun, relax and enjoy naturalism. Just be a decent person while you’re at it.