Nude Beaches

Expanding Access to Clothing-Optional Beaches

From the Board of Directors of The Naturist Society Foundation (TNSF), we want to reaffirm our commitment to supporting opportunities for naturists to enjoy beaches freely and responsibly.

TNSF has long believed that naturism is best experienced in nature, and beaches are a vital part of that experience. Around the country, local groups are working hard to engage communities, advocate for naturist rights, and create family-friendly, clothing-optional spaces. While TNSF cannot directly advocate in these local efforts, we strongly support the individuals and organizations who step up to expand access for everyone

For example, Tampa Bay Free Beaches is actively working toward establishing a county-approved, family-friendly, clothing-optional beach on Florida’s west coast. Their dedication reflects the kind of grassroots leadership and persistence needed to ensure naturists have safe, welcoming, and sustainable places to gather

We encourage our members and readers to stay informed and get involved. To learn more about clothing-optional beach initiatives and how you can support them, visit their website at https://tampabayfreebeaches.com/Letter-Writing-Campaign. Together, we can help create more spaces where naturism thrives.

—The TNSF Board of Directors

Nude beach etiquette is a set of standards, often left unspoken. It leaves offenders without the excuse of ignorance. Etiquette informs newcomers what to expect and that they are not alone. Nobody should feel that they are facing rude people alone. If you want to think of it in terms of rules, there are only three.

1) Respect the boundaries. The beach you save may be your own. Don’t go out of established nude areas. To wander nude into clothing compulsive territory may offend many, and puts the whole beach at risk. No overt sexual activity. Nude is not lewd, but combined with sex, it undermines our image and could cost us our freedom and enjoyment of the beach.

2) Respect the people. Do not photograph people without their permission. It is common courtesy to ask first. Not everyone wants to end up in a stranger’s photo album. Never photograph any children but your own. Respect the privacy of others. If there is a lot of room, then give people a respectable distance. Recognize when you are unwelcome.

3) Respect the beach. Pack it in, pack it out. If you carried it in, you must carry it back out. It is recommended that you pack out a little more than you packed in. Not everyone packs theirs out and much trash washes up from other beaches. Speak up for our standards. If a person seems unaware of beach etiquette, explain it kindly and plainly. Give them a copy of “Nude Beach Etiquette”. Don’t let uncouth individuals ruin our fragile and beautiful place under the sun. The beach you save could be your own!