The dos and don’ts of stripping down at the beach.
Whether spending some time on a nude beach is a regular occurrence for you, a bucket list item, or just a “you-only-live-once” moment, the process isn’t as simple as just running down to the beach sans clothing. Certain courtesy rules should be followed when soaking up the sun au naturel. While not strictly enforced, these boundaries are suggested to ensure everyone has a good time and feels comfortable enjoying the sun, sand, and surf in their birthday suit.
According to the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), there are several rules of conduct that should be followed when heading to a nude or clothing-optional section of the beach.
“It’s all about respect for yourself, others, and the environment,” says Jeffrey Baldasarre, Director of Marketing and Communications at AANR. “The benefits of nude recreation are based on acceptance of self and respecting the individuality and freedom of others.”
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According to the AANR, if planning to visit a nude or clothing-optional beach, doing a bit of research can save a lot of trouble in the long run. Each club or beach may have its own rules, and having a heads up on what they are is a sure way to feel more comfortable when you’re stripping down. When it comes to the comfort and safety of yourself, guests, and other beachgoers, according to the AANR, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best nude beach experience.
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Be Mindful of Your Photos
With the reach of social media, among other things, please be mindful when taking photos. Ask for permission if you are taking scenic shots (written permission is preferred). Otherwise, confine photos only to the people in your party, being mindful to edit or blur others that may appear in the background accidentally.
Defining Your Space
On a crowded beach, it may be hard to pick an area that is at a polite enough distance where you aren’t basically on top of someone else. But, at a nude beach, that may not be the usual case. Try to set up your space so that it is comfortably distant from other parties; however, stay in the confines of the nude/clothing-optional section of the beach if you plan on stripping down.
Avoid Sexual Activity
While you may be naked, sexual activity is a hard stop, says Baldasarre. “As a first-timer, please make this important observation, even though you might anticipate it: a nude environment does not have any special sexual connotation,” he says. Being nude on the beach is about freedom, acceptance, and liberation. Sexual actions are largely frowned upon, especially as some beachgoers also bring their children.
Dress Up
While sunning stark naked is what some people’s dreams may be made of, not everyone is open to the idea of nudity in public places. Pack a spare towel to use while not enjoying your spot on the beach.
“Whether to sit on or wrap around yourself when you walk to public areas such as picnic benches, food stands, and restrooms, you will be more comfortable, as will those around you,” says Baldasarre. He also suggests bringing a cover-up for entering and exiting the beach or to use when you’ve hit maximum sun exposure.
Observe the Signs
While some nude beaches may be part of a resort or club, others are run by state or local authorities. To that, beachgoers should be observing safety signs and beach rules. These are non-negotiables and should be respected.
Respect the Environment
From staying away from nesting areas to cleaning up the garbage in and around your space, beachgoers need to be respectful of the environment. Not only does the AANR suggest that beachgoers clean up after themselves, but they advocate sunbathers to “take more trash out than you brought in.”
Respect Others
According to Jaxson Smith, a travel agent and owner of Travelila, respecting other beachgoers is key to the experience.
“Nude beaches embrace body acceptance and celebrate the diversity of the human form. Expect to see people of all shapes, sizes, ages, and backgrounds. Respectful behavior includes refraining from making derogatory comments or judgments based on appearance,” he says. Smith al
Another piece of beach etiquette that should be followed notes Baldasarre is to be polite to everyone but speak up if someone is making you or others uncomfortable. They may simply be unaware of established etiquette. “If you see someone who is violating the accepted standards, please explain to them clearly and politely just how they are violating the rules and just what the proper behavior is,” notes the AANR.
Something that is often misunderstood at clothing optional beaches, is the application of sun tan lotion on parts of the body that rarely sees the sun. Some could construe it as sexual, but it is not, it is MANDATORY for every part of the body, exposed to the sun, be properly 'annoited' with a high UV blocking lotion. One cannot be dashing off to the privacy of ones hotel room everytime lotion is needed. Just be as discreet as possible when applying to your nether regions. If you don't, you will be sorry!