Naturist tourism, once seen as the exclusive domain of 1960s-era “hippies,” has in recent years become a mainstream choice for many travelers seeking quiet, self-acceptance and a different kind of connection with nature. This growing demand is also reshaping the landscape: more secluded coastlines are gaining environmental protections, while organized infrastructure and dedicated resorts are developing alongside them.
The 10 beaches on this list reflect a balance between untamed nature and cleanliness and upkeep. From Italian coves accessible through abandoned railway tunnels to the well-known sands of Miami that draw millions each year, these destinations offer the chance to leave a swimsuit behind against some of the world’s most striking backdrops.
The American pioneer: Black’s Beach, La Jolla, California
La Jolla is an upscale coastal community about a 20- to 25-minute drive from downtown San Diego and home to Black’s Beach, one of the best-known nude beaches in the United States. Towering cliffs, rising roughly 90 to 100 meters (about 300 feet), isolate this dramatic coastline from surrounding areas, and access requires a steep descent along a narrow path.
Although nudity is not officially legal in San Diego, the beach has long been associated with a clothing-optional culture. The views from the cliffs are particularly striking, and the atmosphere draws visitors seeking a sense of freedom, detachment and open sea. “The view from the cliffs is simply breathtaking,” visitors say, adding that “it’s a very quiet and respectful beach, a perfect place to disconnect and experience California’s true sense of freedom.”
500 steps to paradise: Wreck Beach, Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, known for its laid-back and alternative vibe, is home to Wreck Beach, Canada’s only legal nude beach. Tucked near the University of British Columbia within Pacific Spirit Regional Park, the beach offers a wild landscape and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors should note that the climb back up includes nearly 500 steps.
The waters of the North Pacific are cool most of the year, making summer the best time to visit, when food and drink stands sometimes operate on-site. “The climb is challenging,” travelers say, “but the beach below is a true gem, with an open and welcoming atmosphere.”
A legacy of freedom: Red Beach, Crete, Greece
Red Beach on the island of Crete gained fame in the late 1960s, when hippies from across Europe flocked there, turning it into a symbol of the era’s free-spirited culture. After landing in Heraklion and traveling to Matala, visitors walk about 20 minutes along a rocky path to reach the beach.
The route involves a somewhat steep climb and descent, but at the end awaits one of the region’s most distinctive beaches, with reddish sand and blue-green water. “Don’t skip the hike,” recent visitors advise. “The colors of the sand and rocks at sunset are unlike anything else in the world.”
The secret at the end of the tunnel: Guvano Beach, Vernazza, Italy
Guvano Beach is an Italian gem of blue waters and pebbled shore, and one of the most secluded spots along the Cinque Terre coast. For years, it was known for access through an abandoned railway tunnel, though today entry is complicated and sometimes closed for safety reasons.
Its isolation adds to its appeal, but visitors should come prepared and not rely on facilities or food stands. “The dark railway tunnel is part of the adventure,” visitors say. “Once you emerge, you discover a private paradise with crystal-clear water.”
A Guinness moment in Miami: Haulover Beach Park, Miami, Florida
One of the most popular and crowded nude beaches in the United States, Haulover Beach attracts more than 1.3 million visitors annually. In July, particularly during National Nude Recreation Week, crowds grow even larger, and the beach has hosted attempts to set Guinness World Records for nude swimming.
Easily accessible and offering white sand, lifeguards and convenient amenities, the beach is a short drive from Miami Beach’s main attractions. “This is the most organized beach I’ve been to,” visitors say, noting that “the atmosphere feels very safe and comfortable, even for first-timers.”
Brazil’s exception: Praia do Pinho, Balneário Camboriú, Brazil
Despite Brazil’s reputation for openness, naturism is not especially widespread, making Praia do Pinho stand out as the country’s first official naturist beach. The site operates under clear rules designed to maintain a respectful and comfortable environment.
Nearby, visitors can also see the massive Cristo Luz statue overlooking the city, inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer. “It’s a beautiful beach with clear rules that create a respectful atmosphere for everyone,” visitors say. “The surrounding tropical scenery is an added bonus.”
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Praia do Pinho, Balneário Camboriú, Brazil
(Photo: Wirestock Creators / shutterstock)
Turquoise waters and pristine dunes: Es Trenc, Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca’s Es Trenc offers a stretch of white sand מול clear turquoise waters. Protected status has helped preserve its natural, clean character, while still providing services for visitors.
It is a top destination for those seeking the tranquility of the Balearic Islands, with naturists typically favoring the southern end of the beach. “The water feels like the Caribbean,” visitors say. “The dunes and wild nature make it the most beautiful beach in Mallorca, by far.”
A clothing-free community: Valalta, Rovinj, Croatia
Valalta is more than just a beach. It is a large-scale naturist resort offering a full vacation experience without clothing. The site includes a wide range of services, from a grocery store and produce stands to beach shops, fitness facilities, a sauna, beauty salon, pharmacy and even a kiosk selling international newspapers.
The expansive complex features bungalows, apartments, mobile homes and camping areas, catering to those seeking a fully naturist holiday. “This isn’t just a beach, it’s a lifestyle,” guests say. “Everything is clean, highly organized and the sense of freedom is addictive.”
A village in southern Crete: Plakias Beach, Greece
Beyond its quiet, protected shoreline, Plakias is also a pleasant village and a destination in its own right. The area offers a range of hotels, restaurants and a convenient base for short trips into the surrounding mountains.
Naturists can be found on nearby beaches, particularly east of the town, where clear waters and a laid-back village atmosphere combine to make it a favorite destination in southern Crete. Regular visitors note the calm atmosphere, calling it “a perfect place for families seeking peace alongside exceptionally clear water.”
A Hawaiian adventure: Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii
Although nudity at Little Beach is not officially regulated, the secluded spot has long been associated with a clothing-optional culture, with enforcement typically minimal. Surf conditions can be favorable at times, and during whale season, whales can sometimes be spotted from Makena and the beach itself.
“There’s a magical, unique energy here that’s impossible to describe,” visitors say. “And the sunsets are the most beautiful you’ll ever see.”
Closer to home: the Israeli angle
Those who prefer to stay closer to home should know that a naturist scene has also developed in Israel. However, there are no officially designated or legally recognized nude beaches, and the community largely operates “under the radar” on secluded stretches where authorities tend to turn a blind eye.
The most well-known and longstanding spot is Ga’ash Beach, north of Tel Aviv, where a remote northern section has served for years as an unofficial hub, within a short drive of central Israel. Another, equally secluded alternative can be found along hidden stretches of sand between Atlit and Hof Habonim, near Neve Yam, drawing those seeking complete quiet away from public view.
But the country’s standout location may be at the lowest place on Earth. Unofficial beaches along the northern Dead Sea, in areas such as Neve Midbar and Metzoke Dragot, have become a notable destination for enthusiasts. CNN recently included the area on its list of the world’s best nude beaches. The combination of desert landscapes, natural mineral mud and a distinctly relaxed atmosphere shows that even in the Middle East, there are places where visitors can connect with nature as they were created.