Top 10: Nude Beaches :)
Top 10: Nude Beaches
10. Ocho Rios, Jamaica
I don't know what it is about Jamaica, but there must be something. While Hedonism is more for singles, I would argue that Ocho Rios is the answer for couples. The place offers private islands and everything else you can expect and desire. Just make sure to bring some clothes, because most of the resort has dress codes.
9. Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii
A reader told me that this beach stands out because while Hawaii does not allow nude sunbathing, the law is applied "loosely," adding that Little Beach is the "unofficial clothing-optional beach." While you will surely be more than busy watching the beach bums (pun fully intended), make sure to see local artist Dr. Leisure's souvenir paintings.8. Haulover Beach, Florida
Floridians meet Canadians meet Europeans at this government-run "clothing optional beach." Just in case you were wondering, this beach has certified lifeguards, just in case you drop dead from watching all those naked women. Haulover is halfway between Miami Beach and Hollywood (Florida, of course).
7. Praia do Pinho, Cambori, Brazil
Even though nude beaches aren't all over the place, surely Brazil would not be omitted from this list, considering its wealth of beaches and shoreline. Despite the relative newness of nude beaches here, Pinho Beach is in Santa Catarina (in the South), and opened in 1987 as the first legitimate nude beach. One thing for tourists to note is that while many nude beaches are actually clothing optional, this one's regulars are more keen on nudity than people on other beaches.6. Red Beach, Crete, Greece
You will be glad to know that you can be in the buff at all times and at all places, except, of course, in the dining room. Unlike most of the other spots, Crete's rustic side is highlighted by the cliffs, charming cottages and beautiful water, with Ancient Greece's ruins as the backdrop. This is really far more than a visit to a beach though, as Crete's ancient caves and rich history will captivate your imagination.
Time to take it all off...
5. Red, White and Blue Beach, Santa Cruz, California
This one is a personal favorite for various reasons. Santa Cruz is very open-minded, which helps. Also, this beach is privately owned, so guests may do as they wish so long as they respect others. Another plus is that consistent with Californian behavior, preserving the ecology is very important, so camping overnight (in the nude) is a relatively more pleasurable experience.
4. Wreck Beach, Vancouver, BC, Canada
I was on the plane recently and read something interesting about this little beach, and knowing that I had to write this article, I asked the pilot to bust a U and take me to Vancouver for some skin. In fact, Wreck Beach spans 3 miles and has everything for everyone. Just make sure to catch Vendors' Row for some souvenirs... although this begs the question: where do you keep your bills?
3. Samurai Beach, Australia
You've got to hand it to the Aussies for having the most sport-oriented nude beach in the world. It is thus fitting that the annual Nude Olympics (I'm not joking) are held here every November, with events such as torch relay and surfing, yes, in the nude. Of course, if you're going there simply for some rest and relaxation, then pick any month besides November — or another beach.
2. Hedonism, Negril, Jamaica
Whether you wish to visit the lush garden of pure pleasure at Hedonism II, or the oasis of pure pleasure at Hedonism III, nothing will satisfy your primal needs like a visit to Negril, Jamaica. Hedonism is special because it's more than just a nude beach; it's a getaway of epic dimensions for adventurous couples and singles alike. What is it they say about Mecca and Muslims? Well, there is a similar saying for single people and Hedonism.
1. Montalivet, France
Surely you knew that number one would have to go to zee French, and the spot I recommend is Le Centre Hélio Montalivet, a spot that many purists would claim to be the birthplace of the international naturist movement. The resort dates back to 1950, when the area on France's Atlantic Coast began to accommodate nudists with a safe, and for once, legal area. Go camping and live in the wild, the way it was meant to be. It's far and away the spot for families to hit.
