Nude beaches in the US, like the visitors they attract, come in all shapes and sizes. From tropical islands to desert oases and even urban beaches framed by skyscrapers, there are a wide range of nude beaches in the USA to explore and enjoy.
Choose between rugged cliffs, powdery white sands, hedonistic party shores, and chic urban hideaways – there really is something for everyone. Here's our favorite five coastal spots, where clothing is, at most, decidedly optional…
Have a quick browse around popular nude beach in US!
check the video👇
Haulover Beach, Miami, Florida
Nestled between Bal Harbour and Sunny Isles Beach, and just a half-hour drive from Downtown Miami, Haulover is one of the most beloved nude beaches in the USA. More than 1.3 million sun seekers make the trip here every year, drawn by the idyllic white sands, azure ocean and equally laidback attitudes to clothing. With picnic areas, playgrounds, sun loungers and plenty of natural attractions, Haulover is the ideal backdrop for holidays in your birthday suit. Every year in July, National Nude Recreation Week makes this an even more attractive stop for lovers of sea, sand and naked skin.
Haulover Beach is a great starting point for exploration in Miami. Nearby attractions include the Art Deco District, the beachfront, and Everglades National Park. Treat your tastebuds to the Little Havana Cigar Factory and Rum Tour, or set sail on the Millionaire's Row Cruise for a taste of all the glitz and glamor that makes Miami one of the world's most iconic tourist destinations. There's plenty of choice for places to stay: located just over 2 miles (3.6 km) from Haulover Beach, Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach Surfside is the closest, while the Bikini Hostel, Café & Beer Garden is the most affordable. Our recommendation is the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, which features Deluxe bay view rooms, 6 outdoor pools and even its own nightclub.
Little Beach, Hawaii
Located close to Makena State Park on the Hawaiian island of Maaui, Little Beach could just be the most beautiful clothing-optional beach in the USA. Although public nudity is technically illegal in Maui, Little Beach is the unofficial exception to the rule. On Sunday nights, the beach comes to life with song and dance, drum circles and a generally laidback party atmosphere. The perfect place for free spirits and body-positive sun seekers.
Nearby attractions include Makena Beach, Iao Valley, and the volcanic Molokini Crater. Looking for somewhere to stay? The 5-star Fairmont Kea Lani Maui represents the top of the range and is less than 3 miles (5 km) from Little Beach. More affordable, but no less memorable, Honua Kai Resort & Spa provides studio apartments with ocean views, or there's the Royal Lahaina Resort, tucked away on an exclusive stretch of Kaanapali Beach.
Gunnison Beach, New Jersey
If you're staying in the Big Apple, neighbouring New Jersey provides an unexpected chance to drop the fig leaf and enjoy some freedom. Gunnison is the region's one and only legal nude beach, located in the Gateway National Recreation Area, where you can skinny dip with the Manhattan skyline. It gets a bit crowded during weekends in the summer months, so expect company.
A truly stellar range of nearby attractions includes Times Square, the Empire State Building, Staten Island and Central Park – just a handful of the delights New York has to offer. Hotels are dotted all over New Jersey, but generally outside a 6 mile (10 km) radius of Gunnison Beach. We recommend the Hub Middletown Red Bank for the budget-conscious, or The Rockaway Hotel for those looking to spend a little more. The Wave Resort also offers some great views, along with spacious and comfortable rooms overlooking the sea.
Hippie Hollow Beach, Austin, Texas
Located 20 minutes outside of Austin, Hippie Hollow is the only public park area in the state of Texas where it's ok to bear all. Here you can relax on the shores of Lake Travis, surrounded by the secluded beauty of nature. Ringed by flat rocks at the water's edge, this is a great spot for sunbathing, skinny dipping and getting in touch with your inner hippie.
Other great nature attractions nearby include the Hamilton Pool Reserve, the Natural Bridge Caverns and Mount Bonnell. There are also plenty of hotels to choose from in the neighborhood, catering to all tastes and budgets. These include the Woodlands Waterway Marriott, the Westin at the Woodlands, and the Hilton Garden Inn.
Baker Beach, San Francisco
With panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the northern tip of Baker Beach has to be one of the most spectacular and scenic places to disrobe in the USA. Stretching out over a sun-kissed mile, this popular urban beach combines panoramic views of the bay with rugged cliffs at your back. In addition to sunbathing spots, there's also some great hiking trails to explore. Barbecue and picnic facilities are available just next to the car park.
There's plenty to see and do in the surrounding area too – popular attractions include Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown and Lombard Street, all just a short journey from Baker Beach. The nearest accommodation is Geary Parkway Motel, which is ideal for those travelling on a budget. Hotel Drisco is a bit further out, but is well worth the journey. Located just 2.5 miles (3.9 km) from the beach, the elegant Stanyan Park Hotel combines comfort and convenience.
Wherever you travel in the US, you can find a nude beach that's the perfect fit. From sea to shining sea, and with a few stops between, the Land of the Brave is a brilliant place to go clothing-free.
FAQ about Nude Beaches in USA
-
Are nude beaches legal in the USA?
There are a limited number of beaches in the USA where it's ok to strip off. While they're not generally referred to as ‘nude' beaches, it's accepted that clothing is optional.
-
Are the rules the same everywhere?
Not exactly. Depending on where you go, only some parts of the beach will permit nudity, so it's a good idea to find out where the boundaries are. Some beaches will only permit topless sunbathing, while others may have other provisos in place. To avoid embarrassment, check out the local rules before you strip off.
-
What other activities are there for the traveling naturalist?
There's something for everyone in the US, and that includes the nudes. Beyond the beaches, you'll find clubs, lodges, hotels, all-inclusive resorts, campsites, and condos. There's even an American Association for Nude Recreation, so those looking to go au natural will feel right at home.