About Naturism

If you’ve never tried Naturism before, a new experience awaits!

The next time you go to the beach, just imagine stepping out of all your clothes and feeling the sun warm your whole body as the gentle sea breeze caresses your skin. Then swim in the warm sea.  A delightful, natural feeling that everyone should try.

Bare skin dries much more readily than swimming costumes.  No need for the “towel dance” when getting dressed.  And no wet costume to carry or travel in. 

Photo courtesy of FFN

Nude recreation is a great way to unwind and get back to basics. And the beach is only one place where you can enjoy it.  Clubs, associations and events are available in many countries worldwide, meaning it’s possible to participate in naturism all year round – not just while you’re on holiday.

Naturism is practised by millions of people around the world who understand that it

• is enjoyable
• is good for the mental and physical health
• boosts self-confidence and counters body shame
• isn’t sexual
• is legal in many countries.

Naturism helps us feel more connected with nature, and promotes respect for ourselves, for others and for the environment. It was defined in 1974 as follows:

Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature characterised by the practice of communal nudity with the intention of encouraging self-respect, respect for others and for the environment.

Photo courtesy of FFN

Social nudity

Many first-timers worry about being seen naked by other people.  The experience of many regular naturists is that this feeling wears off quickly – often within minutes – as people realise that nobody is looking at you, bodies come in all shapes and sizes – and it’s OK if you don’t have the body of a film, star, model or super-fit athlete.

Naturists are friendly people – and the definition of Naturism is centred on respect for ourselves and for others.  Social nudity promotes self-confidence and counters body shame.

A way of life?

The 1974 definition of Naturism describes it as a “way of life”.  Many naturists consider Naturism is central to who they are, and embrace social nudity as often as they can.  But there’s a huge spectrum, ranging from dedicated naturists, to people who visit naturist clubs and events at weekends or go on holiday to naturist resorts, and to others who only visit nude beaches when they are on holiday or enjoy occasional naked recreation.

Many people dislike being categorised – and that’s fine.  Wherever you fit on the spectrum, there will be a warm welcome for you among the clubs and federations that make up our worldwide Naturist family.

Whether you’re an experienced Naturist or skinny dipper or if you’re new to Naturism…

Are you a member of a national naturist federation – whether through a club or individually? If you enjoy the pleasure of Naturism on beaches, in clubs, or anywhere else, remember that your right to enjoy going nude is often the result of years of tireless campaigning by your national federation.

If you’re not a member, please consider joining in order to support your federation. Remember, the more members the federation has, the stronger its voice in campaigning for Naturist rights. You can find your national federation here.

If there is no national federation in your country you can join the INF-FNI here.