1. Where can I find a nude beach?
If you don’t already know of a nearby nude beach, ask someone who knows. A good source is The Naturist Society, a membership organization that has grown from the Free Beach Documentation Center to become the most respected authority in North America on the topic of nude beaches. Reach The Naturist Society toll free by phone: (800) 886-7230, on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM Central time.

2. Why not just go to a nudist park?
Private nudist parks, camps and resorts are wonderful places. They are businesses that cater to selected segments of the nude recreation industry. Nudist facilities range from tiny to large, rustic to posh, and inexpensive to pricey. They typically offer amenities you won’t find at a beach. But for many people who are looking for a natural experience that doesn’t involve a concrete swimming pool behind fences, walls and gates, nothing will ever come close to the open freedom of a nude beach. 

3. Nude beach etiquette.
Over the years practical guidelines have evolved for clothing-optional beaches. Please respect them, for your own sake and the sake of others.

DO…

• Obey parking regulations and other posted rules. They’re there for a reason
• Bring a towel, blanket or some equivalent. It’s common practice when nude to place something between your bare buns and any public surface you sit or lie down on.
• Ask before taking pictures. You can’t legally be stopped from taking pictures in public places, but asking permission is common courtesy. Not everyone wants to be in some stranger’s photo album. And remember: parents should always be asked before children are photographed.
• Respect people’s property. Don’t assume because you’re sharing a public beach you can “share” other people’s property.
• Respect people’s privacy. It’s not wrong to seek out new friends – but it is wrong to monopolize a person’s time when the welcome mat wasn’t out in the first place.
• Come prepared. Bring the right supplies, such as food, beverages, chairs, towels and sunscreen. Don’t expect others to share with you. Mooching is offensive.
• Speak up for standards. If a person seems unaware of proper etiquette, explain what’s expected – politely of course. If he or she doesn’t respond to polite suggestion, it’s appropriate to notify a lifeguard, a beach user group volunteer, or someone else who can help get the message across.

DON’T…

• Engage in overt sexual activity or exhibitionism. Nude is not lewd!
• Stare at, harass, or otherwise intimidate other beach users. Be polite and courteous, just as you’re expected to be in a clothed social setting.
• Don’t trample on or through environmentally sensitive areas. If the sign says “Keep Out,” obey it.
• Litter. Bring a trash bag and pack out what you brought in. And maybe take some extra trash with you while you’re at it.
• Violate other people’s space with loud music. If you want to listen to the radio or your favorite CD, bring headphones.

4. What is “clothing-optional”?
Most nude beaches are more accurately described as clothing-optional. Just as no one is forced to wear clothing there, no one is forced to be nude. It’s a reciprocal tolerance that makes sense. Of course, since they can be dressed almost anywhere else, most people choose to be nude at a nude beach.