Looking for that all-over tan or just the feeling of freedom that comes with going nude? There are many Caribbean islands that have certain beaches where nudity is allowed. While many more are topless-friendly, you’ll still find some for going au naturel, particularly in the Dutch and French islands. For example, all-nude sunbathing on St. Barths will hardly raise an eyebrow, whereas wearing a skimpy bikini off the beach may be frowned upon in the Bahamas. However, these top nude beaches in the caribbean are sure to fit the bill.
Hawksbill Bay, Antigua
Hawksbill Bay is the only nude beach on the island of Antigua. Crescent-shaped, it’s divided into various sections with one reserved just for nude sunbathing. You won’t find any amenities, just incredible tranquility and breathtaking scenery with views of the strikingly clear aquamarine sea. If you’re a bit shy about being out in the buff, this is a good one to start with as it’s often practically deserted. If you want to spend most of your time there, you might want to stay at Hawksbill Bay by Rex Resorts which offers all-inclusive packages and ocean-view bungalows.
Orient Beach, St. Martin
Located on the French side of St. Martin, Orient Beach lies along a spectacular stretch of the south coast and is a relaxing clothing option beach. The Bikini Beach Bar and Kontiki are especially popular. As the two-mile stretch of pristine, powdery white sands are protected from the waves by a reef, it’s ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
Playa Zipolite - Oaxaca, Mexico
Playa Zipolite in Oaxaca is Mexico’s only public nude beach and it’s one of the best in the world. It offers the ultimate secluded paradise for nude sunbathing, safe from judgment or creepy stares. Everyone walks freely naked here and there’s also a nude hotel, aptly named Hotel Nude. You can relax and unwind au naturel at the pool, bar, restaurant and beach area. While it’s not the best for swimming with strong riptides here, it is ideal for total serenity and natural beauty, in more ways than one.
Seven Mile Beach, Negril
Negril is known for its fun, laid-back lifestyle, with topless sunbathing common here, including Seven Mile, one of Jamaica’s most famous beaches. If you want to get totally nude, it’s best to head to one of the establishments with a private stretch of beach like Grand Lido Negril which has its very own nude beach as well as a secluded au naturel pool. Of course, if you wander to one of the other resorts or restaurants, you’ll want to toss some clothing on. It’s worth it as you’ll find a wide range of dining options in this haven for foodies, from trattorias to steakhouses, Tex-Mex and seafood.
Booby Beach - Booby Cay, Jamaica
Booby Cay is a tiny outlet that might elicit some giggles but it actually gets its name from the booby birds that inhabit the island, using it as their nesting grounds. Locals refer to it as “Gilligan’s Island,” perhaps for its relaxing, secluded nature with no crowds or busy resorts. It can be reached in just minutes by ferry or water taxi from Negril, and while there are few amenities, renowned restaurants can easily be reached by hopping back on that water taxi. There are a number of adults-only resorts for overnights here as well.
Grande Saline Beach, St. Barth's
Grand Saline sits at the southern end of St. Barth’s and is especially popular among European travelers. Nude sunbathing and body-surfing are the norms here so there won’t be any odd stares. The beach is peaceful and there are typically few others to share it with, though there are no facilities or shade so you’ll want to bring an umbrella, a beach blanket or chairs, and plenty of sunscreen and drinks. The water is stunningly clear, as if it’s a natural swimming pool. Nearby Eden Rock hotel in St. Jean, has a beach where you can sunbathe topless, as well as a beach bar, bistro and restaurant with ocean views. Keep in mind that people won’t be freely walking around in the nude here, however.
Hidden Beach - Tulum, Mexico
Located in the Tulum area, Hidden Beach is just 30 minutes south of Cancun and is part of the couples-only Hidden Beach Resort, an au naturel resort ideal for foodies. This is the property’s very own, secluded private stretch of sands, and it has an upscale atmosphere along with world-class eateries. There are also rooms with swim-up pools and balcony ocean views. While guests can walk around the resort freely nude, including while dining, the surrounding public beaches are clothing-only and if you visit the nearby resorts be sure to put some clothes on too.
Anasco Beach, Puerto Rico
While few other than locals known about Añasco beach, this one is ideal for nudists who visit Puerto Rico. It’s hidden away near the town of Añasco on the west side of the island near Porta del Sol. It’s a public beach that’s divided, with the north end secluded, providing nude sunbathing where you’ll probably see more dogs than humans. The south stretch requires at least a swimsuit. You’ll find lots of great hotels and resorts for which to base your stay, including Rincon Beach Resort.