The idea of nudism is as old as Adam and Eve, but the official naturist community dates back to the turn of the 20th century.
With movements against body shaming and towards acceptance gaining traction across the world in the last few years, naturism may be having its moment in the sun…
The culture promotes an easygoing, free-spirited mentality, with the simple ideas of loving your body and feeling comfortable in your own skin at the heart.
When you think nude beaches, you may think swingers, but these beaches are actually pretty strictly regulated and lewd acts are frowned upon. There is a big difference between nudists and exhibitionists (flashers)—the two are not to be lumped together. Naturists are their own community, with a code and set of values.
France
France is considered the spiritual home of nude beaches. In 1903 the first naturist community was founded in France, and in 1948 the Fédération Française de Naturisme was born.
It’s not surprising that nudism caught on easily in France, where going topless is commonplace on most beaches, and Speedos are the most common swimwear for men.
Unsurprisingly, most of the nude beaches are located in the South of France, where the weather and beaches are best. On average, the coldest it gets here is the low 50s Fahrenheit.
The most popular nude beach in France is so much more than just a beach… The naturist resort of Cap d’Agde, near Montpellier is often called “the world’s
most famous nude beach,” and it attracts thousands of visitors during the high season every year.
Cap d’Agde is a full naturist resort town, with hotels, restaurants, shops, and even banks where clothing is optional.
Farther down the coast is another of the most famous nude beaches in the world: Saint-Tropez, made famous by Brigitte Bardot back in the 50s.
These days, it generally attracts an older crowd. You might possibly spot the next Brigitte Bardot here… but you are more likely to see one of her contemporaries.
Spain
A strong online community provides up to date information on all the nude beaches and what to expect throughout the country.
Tenerife has two of Spain’s premiere beaches: Playa de la Tejita, located at the foot of a mountain and known for its bohemian vibe, and Playa de la Pelada, tucked away behind some rocks (you can be sure of some privacy while you work on your all over tan).
Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria is the most popular of the island’s many nude beaches. The sand dunes make it seem like a mini desert, which is its unique selling point—bring some shoes with you; walking across the sand dunes can get blisteringly hot.
Another island location that’s naturist-friendly is the Balearic Islands—and it’s possibly the most nudist-friendly destination in the world. Formentera, the smallest of the Balearics has an exceptionally relaxed attitude that allows for nude sunbathing on any beach.
The most well-known of the beaches is Ses Illetes, which sits on a lagoon near to the town of Sant Francesc. Although pickpockets are known to operate in the Balearic Islands, they pose no threat to nudists!
Italy
Italians have always enjoyed the benefits of an all over tan, but nude beaches didn’t actually become legal until 2006. Italy has a strong nudist community, these days, managed by the Federazione Naturista Italiana. As well as advising on the best naturist beaches, the federation takes time to organize a range of nudist activities for its members, including naked horse riding, volleyball, and hiking.
Italy’s most famous nudist beach is Bassona Beach in the Emilia Romagna region. It’s over one kilometer long and has a long history as a nudist beach, plus, unlike many of Italy’s beaches, no admission fee is required.
There’s also Capocotta Beach close to Rome, an established naturist beach set in a nature reserve that became popular in the 1980s. It also offers free admission and a range of facilities.
Costa dei Barbari is a quiet rocky point, with clean, clear seas about 10 kilometers from Trieste. Most naturists stay within the concreted areas, so if you explore a bit farther, you’ll find more secluded spots. The beach has few facilities apart from nearby restaurant. (If you’re feeling funny, order a dressed salad.)
Bonne route,
Kat Kalashian
Editor, In Focus: Europe
