Article Summary: Taboo time explores nude beaches with an honest look at the culture, etiquette, and liberating appeal of clothing-optional destinations worldwide.
Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii – Little Beach, located on the island of Maui, is deemed an “unofficial clothing-optional beach”. Although sunbathing nude is illegal in Hawaii, the law has not been enforced on this isolated strand in years. Surrounded by volcanic rock, high shrubbery and driftwood, it is secluded from the eyes of those in surrounding areas. A beautiful beach to visit, it is also a great place for whale watching and body surfing.
Red Beach, Crete, Greece – The name originates from the red rust color of this beaches sand, which makes this a truly beautiful picturesque locale with the stunning cobalt blue water contrasting. A naturist favorite, this beach, as well as the resort that sits upon it, allows nudity throughout (except for the dining room where clothing must be worn). The sand is coarse so sunbathers are cautioned to lie on towels when sunbathing (ouch!). The beach also features ancient caves to check out if you’re feeling adventurous and a coffee bar.
Samurai Beach, Australia – Samurai, a half-mile stretch of white sand beach, is home to the annual naked beach Olympics and nudist picnic. You can participate in egg and spoon races, sack races, and body painting competitions, among other events. The location itself is beautiful and private, but make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen. Above Australia, you will find the thinnest areas of the ozone layer.
Praia do Pinho, Brazil – Rio may have made the skimpy G-string bikini popular, but if you head south you will be expected to cover even less, and by less, we mean nothing at all. Known as the “clothing not optional’” locale, tourists from around the world flock to this private stretch of beach to bare all. Unaccompanied males are not allowed on the beach without a female friend or a membership to the International Naturist Federation. If you plan to make a weekend out of it, the beach has an inn and ocean view cabins nearby. Just think of how light you would have to pack.
Saline Beach, St. Barts – One of the hottest of the hot spots, this sizzling beach is home to A-List stars and the rich and famous. When stars want to bare all, secluded from the peering eyes of the paparazzi, they head to this long stretch of sand on the posh islands southern coast. A word of caution, the winds here can get quite rough which can cause rough swimming conditions.
While some may find the idea of hitting the beach au naturel embarrassing or too extreme, those that support the naturist movement express that they love to live life exactly how they were born. Next time you want to hit the beach, you have got a choice to make… bathing suit or birthday suit? A benefit to the latter, no tan lines. Just something to think about.
Published in the SU2014 Issue of RUNWAY.
