In today’s article, we’re going to break taboos and talk openly about nudism. Yes, you read that right. If you’re visiting old Europe in the summer and planning to go to a European beach, you should know that you might come across nudist beaches. Europeans are quite progressive and have beaches dedicated to nudism, truly paradisiacal beaches hidden from the eyes of onlookers, ideal for starting your nudist adventure.
Experiencing Nudism
By now, you might have dared to practice topless and now you want to take it a step further and discover the wonderful sensation of feeling your body without the constraints of wet swimsuits sticking to your skin or feeling the warmth of the sun drying the droplets of water on your body. In any case, if this is your first time, here are some practical tips to ensure you have a good experience.
The Beauty of Nudism
One of the most wonderful things about being a nudist is that it’s a space where you can feel safe without feeling judged. Yes, you read that right, because there’s incredible respect for the human body. No one is going to be looking at or criticizing your figure, whether you have a few extra pounds, or you’re simply getting older and gravity is starting to show. Here, it doesn’t matter who you are or what your body looks like, but there are correct nudist practices that should be followed for good coexistence and respect.
Reasons Why Nudism Can Be a Positive Experience:
Freedom and Comfort: Being naked can help you feel freer and more comfortable in your own skin.
Connection with Nature: Nudism is often practiced in natural settings, allowing you to connect with nature on a deeper level.
Self-Acceptance: Nudism can help you accept your body as it is, with all its imperfections.
Community: There is a global community of nudists who are friendly and welcoming.
Health: Some studies suggest that nudism can have health benefits, such as improving circulation and reducing stress.
Tips for Going to a Nudist Beach
- Sun Protection: This is very important for all of us, lesbian women, queer women, LGBTQ women, without exception. First of all, protect your butt cheeks. If it’s the first time they’re seeing sunlight, you need a good, no, a great sunscreen with a high protection factor because I assure you, you won’t want to sit for a week if you burn your cheeks. You’ll also need to protect your boobs, whether it’s the first time they’re exposed to the sun or not, as it’s a very sensitive area and you really want to avoid burns.
- No Photos or Staring: Just like on “normal” beaches or in nudist jargon, known as “textile” beaches, you can get into trouble if you take photos, as it’s considered invasive and rude. Similarly, staring at other bathers’ bodies, even if you’re hiding behind sunglasses, is frowned upon.
- Entertainment for LGBTQ Women: I recommend bringing some entertainment. This will help you relax and gradually lose any fear or embarrassment. A good book or listening to music are good options.
- Avoid Public Affection: Very important for all women, but especially for queer women, lesbians, and LGBTQ women. If you’re going with your partner, I recommend not getting too affectionate, especially while lying on the sand. A kiss or two is fine, but avoid 100% any heating up or lust. If you and your partner get too “excited” being naked together, it’s better to go back to the hotel. People go to a nudist beach to relax and enjoy the sea. Keep in mind whether the nudist beach is hetero or gay-friendly, as this advice is VERY important, as you might feel harassed by other bathers and end up hearing annoying comments.
- Keep Clothes Handy: Always have your clothes ready or nearby because you might need to cover up when going to the bathroom or grabbing a drink at the nearest beach bar (called chiringuito). In this case, a sarong works well too.
- Go at Your Own Pace: Everything takes time and it’s necessary to adapt. Anyone who frequents nudist beaches knows this and has gone through it on their first time. So, once you arrive and find a spot where you feel calm and comfortable, you don’t have to undress right away. Take your time, feel at ease, and once you’re ready, just enjoy.
- Avoid Eye Contact: If you’re going alone, never make eye contact with anyone, especially if you’re an LGBTQ woman and not on a beach specifically for the community. The person you made eye contact with might approach thinking you were looking for something more and may offer to put sunscreen on your back or find any excuse to start a conversation. Friend, don’t do it, say you can manage yourself and avoid misunderstandings.
Nudism is the intimacy of feeling nature and the freedom of showing ourselves as we are, completely rejecting any sexual undertone.
Above all, it’s important to relax and enjoy. Despite all these recommendations, nudism is an activity that can change your perception of life. If you feel comfortable doing it, you’ll surely repeat it more than once, especially after that first swim in total contact with the ocean.
LGBTQ+ Nudist Beaches in Europe
While nudism is not exclusive to the LGBTQ+ community, there are some beaches in Europe that are especially popular among LGBTQ+ women and offer a safe and inclusive environment. Here are some of them:
La Mar Bella (Barcelona): This beach is known for its lively and diverse atmosphere. It has a specific section for LGBTQ+ with beach bars, music, and a festive ambiance.
Playa del Muerto (Sitges): This beach is known for its calm and relaxed atmosphere.
Balmins (Sitges): This busy beach in a sheltered bay has nudist areas, showers, and a beach bar serving cocktails.
El Albir (Alicante): This Costa Blanca beach is one of the most popular for nudism in Spain. It has a specific area for LGBTQ+, as well as beach bars, restaurants, and shops.
Maspalomas: One of the most popular destinations in the Canary Islands for the LGBTQ+ community and for those who enjoy nudism. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, tolerance, and beautiful beaches.
Cap d'Agde (Hérault): Known as the "world capital of naturism," Cap d'Agde is a complete nudist resort offering a wide range of services and activities for the LGBTQ+ community.
Boudigues (Var): This beach in Provence is a popular spot for nudism and the LGBTQ+ community. It offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Sveti Jakov (Rovinj): This beach in Istria is one of the most popular for nudism in Croatia. It has a specific area for LGBTQ+, as well as beach bars, restaurants, and shops.
Punta Skala (Hvar): This beach on the island of Hvar is a popular spot for nudism and the LGBTQ+ community. It offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Vathy (Sifnos): This beach in the Cyclades is one of the most popular for nudism in Greece. It has a specific area for LGBTQ+, as well as beach bars, restaurants, and shops.
Super Paradise (Mykonos): This beach on the island of Mykonos is a popular spot for nudism and the LGBTQ+ community. It offers a lively and festive atmosphere with music, bars, and restaurants.
Kolona (Skiathos): This beach on the island of Skiathos is a popular spot for nudism and the LGBTQ+ community. It offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Note: It's important to keep in mind that these are just some of the many LGBTQ+ nudist beaches in Europe. Before your trip, I recommend checking the most recent information about each beach, as rules and regulations may vary.
We hope this information has been helpful.