Nude beaches may seem like a phenomenon reserved for Europe. But you can indeed find some stateside. Rules around public exposure tend to be tighter than across the Atlantic, but there are places throughout the country where skinny dipping is not only allowed but encouraged! Here are the best nude beaches in the US.
Where to find the best nude beaches in the US
From secluded swimming spots to the iconic nudist beaches of Miami, the US has something for anyone who wants to even out their tan lines. Most of these spots on our list are also located in some amazing vacation destinations, so there’s really no excuse not to give a nude beach visit a try.
1. Hippie Hollow, Texas
However, you may not want to go fully nude at this beach; if you want to go in the water, it’s best to bring some water shoes, as the lakebed can be rocky.
Where to stay:
Lakeway Resort and Spa is located on the scenic Colorado River, about 20 minutes away from Hippie Hollow by car.
What else to know:
- There are no lifeguards on duty or changing rooms at this beach.
- A single-visit ticket costs $8 for most people, or you can opt for a day pass for $15.
- You must be over 18 to go naked.
2. Little Beach, Hawaii
Little Beach is actually Maui’s most popular nudist beach, but it’s located in its own secluded alcove separated from the wider beach by a cliff – so you can be sure to find privacy from any gawkers.
Here you can enjoy nude paddle boarding, and step away from social norms and expectations. In addition to nudity it draws a very liberal and open minded crowd. And on Sundays revelers can participate in sunset drum circles, where fire twirlers are often present – just be extra careful to keep track of all your exposed body parts!
Where to stay:
If Little Beach sounds like it’d be up your alley, the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott is a great option for accommodation. It’s located about 10 minutes by car from the beach and boasts incredible views of its own.
What else to know:
- This beach is secluded, and there are limited amenities. It’s recommended to bring your own supplies, snacks, and drinks.
- There are also no lifeguards on duty here.
- No cameras allowed.
3. Haulover Beach, Florida
It’s not as secluded as other nude beaches on this list, which means you can find areas nearby for picnicking and more. The tradeoff is that it attracts thousands of visitors a day, and is more clothing-optional than full-on nude.
Where to stay:
The glamorous Miami Beach Resort & Spa is located about 30 minutes south of Haulover Beach by car.
What else to know:
- This beach offers amenities such as restrooms and showers for rinsing off.
- There are lifeguards on duty.
- You’ll also find places for refreshments nearby, and food vendors on the beach itself are also common.
4. Collins Beach, Oregon
Where to stay:
The Heathman Lodge is about 45 minutes away from Collins Beach by car. It offers a Pacific Northwest feel that’s equal parts cozy and retro.
What else to know:
- You’ll need to pay for parking if you drive ($7/day), but this beach is easily accessible by car.
- Be sure to bring your own drinks, snacks, and games because there isn’t much around except nature, and nudists.
- This spot does get fairly busy in the summer so be sure to arrive early in order to stake out your space on the shore.
5. Secret Cove Beach, Nevada
Secret Cove Beach is located on the Nevada side of the iconic Lake Tahoe. Here you’ll find cool, clear blue waters surrounded by jutting mountain peaks. Honestly, it’s the ideal place to ditch your hiking clothes and really become one with nature, if you know what we mean.
On the shores of this family-friendly swimming spot, you can also find visitors picnicking, playing volleyball, and sunbathing – all in the nude. Note that to reach this beach, you’ll need to head down a fairly steep path, but once you’re down there you can find a few different hiking trails and beaches worth exploring, like the nearby Whale Cove Beach.
Where to stay:
The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is about a 10 minute drive from Secret Cove Beach. There you’ll also find excellent spa facilities and epic views over Lake Tahoe.
What else to know:
- You can bring your dog to this beach, but be mindful of other visitors.
- There are bathrooms onsite.
- Campfires are prohibited.
6. Moshup Beach, Massachusetts
Moving back over to the East Coast, head to Moshup Beach in Massachusetts. Located on the iconic Martha’s Vineyard, this place has classic New England charm with a colorful rustic feel, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches.
This family-friendly nude beach has been popular since the 1960s. Set at the foot of the Gay Head Cliffs, it’s relatively remote and attracts fewer crowds than some of the other spots on our list, making it a more calm and secluded places to take in the coastal views while you skinny dip. You’ll also get to enjoy undisturbed nature, birdwatching, and stunning sunsets at the day’s end.
Where to stay:
Located on the northeastern coast of Martha’s Vineyard, The Mansion House Inn offers a glorious bed and breakfast feel in an old Victorian manor. From there, you can reach Moshup Beach in about 30 minutes by car.
What else to know:
- The clothing-optional area is at the north end of the beach.
- Nearby, you can find the Aquinnah Cliffs overlook, along with shops and a cultural museum.
- While there’s a carpark where you can leave your vehicle, be prepared to walk a ways to reach the northern end of the beach where clothing is optional.
7. Pfeiffer Beach, California
Note that at this beach, nudity is more unofficially acceptable than official policy, but park rangers are not known to enforce any kind of restriction around it.
Where to stay:
The stunning, adult-only Post Ranch Inn is the perfect location for anyone looking to pay a visit to Pfeiffer Beach. Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s the perfect place for watching the sunset.
What else to know:
- Pfeiffer Beach is located in Los Padres National Forest and can be a bit difficult to find, so make sure to check your map.
- Parking near the beach costs $15 per vehicle.
- The beach has strict opening times from 9am – 8pm. Camping is not allowed.
8. Gunnison Beach, New Jersey
Where to stay:
The boutique Bungalow Hotel is the obvious choice in the area. Equal parts chic and unique, it’s a 20 minute drive from Gunnison Beach.
What else to know:
- Alcohol is permitted but not glass bottles.
- Bring your sunscreen because there aren’t many shady spots here.
- Beach parking is $20/day.
FAQs on nude beaches in the US
While you may associate nude beaches with Europe, it’s possible to find them stateside. But it’s best to check where going au naturel is actually permitted to avoid any awkwardness (or fines).
It’s important to respect others’ privacy by not taking photos at the beach, and try not to stare! Also before you bring the whole family, be sure to check whether the nude beach you have in mind is only for people over 18 years of age.
Definitely be sure to apply sunscreen! It’s likely that there are parts which have not seen the light of day. Also be warned that many nude beaches in the US are secluded so be sure to pack what you need ahead of time.
