Beach Nudity

The Origins of Beach Nudity

Bathing, whether outdoors or indoors, was something men and women did separately in the ancient world. As such, there was no question that they did so naked. This was more practical than anything else. Even if they were just having fun in the water, as opposed to trying to get clean, swimsuits didn't really take hold until the Georgian era. The conventional wisdom of the day was, why waste fabric in such a silly way? Besides, it was considered healthy to bathe in the nude.

It wasn’t until public bathing became more of a family event that beach nudity was generally discouraged in much of the world. Some Scandinavian countries have a clothing optional policy at all beaches, and European countries tend to be more tolerant of nudity overall. But nude beaches, referred to as naturist beaches by those who frequent them, are usually remote.

Visiting a Naturist Beach

Many people are uncomfortable with the idea of a naturist beach, thinking they will see nothing but supermodel bodies and that they will be sized up and sneered at. Consequently, a number of visitors are shocked to see bodies of all ages and sizes. The Western, and particularly American, obsession with youth and thinness is so ingrained; there is an attitude that says anyone, especially a woman, who doesn’t fit the bill, shouldn’t allow herself to be seen even in a bikini, much less wearing nothing but a hat. The more open and realistic attitudes of many other countries goes a long way toward promoting better mental health and personal comfort in your own skin.

Nude Beach Etiquette

The point of a naturist or clothing-optional beach is to relax, have fun and perhaps enjoy a complete tan. However, there are some strict rules that you must be aware of so that everyone has a good time.

• First, don’t stare. You may think that’s impossible, but it’s considered rude and even predatory. Likewise, most physical contact is frowned on. Holding hands is fine, but anything else can find you removed from the beach and even arrested.

• Ask permission before taking photos. In fact, most clothing-optional beaches forbid cameras altogether.

• Carry a towel wherever you go. Etiquette demands that you sit on a towel on public benches and the like.

• Keep the beach clean, in every sense of the word. Public rest rooms are readily available.

• Be discreet and sensible when applying your sunscreen. Speaking of sunscreen, you may want to opt for an organic sun block so as to avoid using harsh chemicals on your most sensitive skin areas. And while the idea of a full body tan might be appealing, remember that you are exposing skin that is almost always covered, so please be extra careful with protecting it.

Toddlers and Beach Nudity

On a clothed beach, there are many parents who like to let their toddlers go naked. While a number of naturist and clothing-optional beaches are family friendly, you should always keep your toddler well-wrapped in waterproof diapers. Besides the obvious concerns, your toddler’s skin is far too sensitive to be exposed to that much sun. Moreover, the water at many beaches will not be as clean as you’d like, which is very bad for a little one’s absorbent skin. It’s better for all if they’re properly covered.

Enjoy What Nature Provided

Most people who go to a clothing-optional beach report feeling at one with the earth. Since these beaches are kept so clean, you can enjoy the sand, air and water in a way you can’t on most beaches. This is one time when you don’t have to feel concerned about your appearance. Just relax and enjoy yourself; you’ll never forget it!