It’s summertime, the temperature has risen to a pleasant level, and the sun is dancing in the sky. You’ve been waiting for this moment all winter and can’t wait to hit the beach – it’s finally time to visit the naturist beach. But what should you bring? And is there a difference between packing for a regular beach and a naturist beach? We’ve put together the ultimate packing list for your naturist beach visit.
We’ve often chosen to visit naturist beaches, both here in Denmark, but mostly in Spain, Portugal, and France. At first glance, there isn’t much difference between going to a regular beach and a naturist beach. And yet, there are some subtle distinctions! What are they? Find out in our ultimate packing list for the naturist beach below.
Basic essentials to bring
Beach Bag
Remember, you’re heading to a naturist beach, which means you won’t have pockets to store your keys, money, or phone. For anyone visiting a naturist beach, a beach bag is essential—after all, where else will you keep your belongings?
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is always important when going to the beach to prevent sunburns. However, it’s even more crucial on a naturist beach since so much more of your body is exposed to the sun. And let’s face it, nobody wants sunburned buttocks, breasts, or other sensitive areas!
Towel
As a naturist, it’s always important to bring a towel to sit on. While you could argue that on a beach, it might not be necessary—after all, who would complain about you sitting bare-bottomed in the sand?—chances are you’ll want to sit somewhere other than the sand at some point. For instance, if you decide to grab an ice cream at a beach kiosk. A towel not only provides a clean surface for sitting and drying off after a swim but also helps avoid getting sand in all the wrong places.
Lip Balm
The combination of sunshine and a refreshing salty breeze can feel amazing but can also take a toll on your lips. Skip the awkward impulse to apply sunscreen to your lips and bring a lip balm instead.
Water
It’s always important to bring plenty of water when spending time at the beach. Staying hydrated in the sun helps prevent dehydration. To protect the environment, we recommend using a reusable water bottle. Bonus: in many countries, restaurants and bars are required to provide free tap water if you ask for it. For naturists, bringing your own water is often even more important, as many naturist beaches lack restaurants or cafés.
Beachwear
Sunglasses
Your eyes need protection! Exposure to strong UV rays can be harsh on your eyes and cause long-term damage. Remember, sunglasses are there to protect your eyes—not to hide behind while you sneak peeks at nude people!
Beach Hat
While the myth that the head is the body’s main radiator has been debunked, it’s still a good idea to cover your head to avoid direct sunlight. This reduces the risk of sunstroke and also gives you a chance to make a fashion statement—it’s the only piece of clothing you’ll be wearing, after all.
Water Shoes / Flip-Flops
Not all beaches have soft white sand free of stones. Many beaches around the world range from small pebbles to larger rocks. In some places, the sand can also become unbearably hot. If you’re on a beach with stones or rocks, walking into the water barefoot can be quite painful. In hotter climates, the sand itself can heat up significantly, so flip-flops or other footwear are a great idea.
Sarong
A sarong is a practical accessory to bring to a naturist beach. You can use it for a quick stroll in areas where nudity isn’t acceptable, or if you plan to eat at a nearby restaurant or café. Sarongs take up very little space and are easy to wrap around yourself when needed.
Find more tips below the image…
Other things worth remembering
Insect Repellent
No one enjoys dealing with bees, mosquitoes, or other biting insects. When you’re nude, there are even more areas where they can bite—and those are definitely spots you don’t want to get stung!
An Open Mind
While naturism has gained significant popularity over the years and many people enjoy bathing without clothing, naturists are still a minority. If you’re visiting a naturist beach for the first time, it’s a great idea to approach the experience with an open mind and simply enjoy the freedom and atmosphere.
Beach Umbrella
It’s wonderful to have the option of stepping out of the sun while still enjoying the beach. At some locations, you might be able to rent a beach umbrella, but this isn’t always the case. Bringing your own beach umbrella ensures you’ll have shade whenever you need it.
Practical tips
- Always Carry a Towel or Sarong
When visiting naturist places, it’s standard practice to use a towel or sarong to sit on for hygienic reasons. - Be Mindful with Cameras
Using a camera around other naturists should be approached with great caution—or avoided entirely. Only take photos of yourself and those you’re with, ensuring everyone’s privacy is respected. - Dress for Dining
Some restaurants and cafés on naturist beaches require you to wear clothing while dining. Make sure to bring something you can easily wrap around yourself if you plan to eat at these establishments.
