Clothing Optional Trips

Grin and Bare It: Your First Trip to a Nudist Club

There are a lot of misconceptions about what a nudist club is really like, especially for someone going there for the first time. It’s not a colony. Those are for ants and bees. It’s not the Friday night, swinging singles bar scene either. It’s not a “meet” market. It’s not where people go to show off their naked body in front of others or where people go to check out and stare at naked people. Honestly, a nudist camp or club is a place where people go to be naked. They go there to enjoy everyday camp activities naked. It’s that simple.

As you know, this blog is about answering questions couples have about social nudity and about what to expect in a nude or clothing optional setting. Often that first happens on vacation at a beach or resort in the Caribbean or some other warm vacation spot. A nudist club (although community is probably a better term) is a great place to try the nude experience too.

I believe one reason most people try nude recreation on vacation is because no one knows them. For that reason, I’m assuming most couples don’t try a nudist club first because they are worried they will see someone they know. Believe it or not, privacy is a big part of the experience. My wife and I have been to five nudist clubs throughout the Midwest in the past 20 years and we have never seen someone we knew. We’ll talk more about that later, but first let’s talk about what happens at a nudist club.

Think back to when you were younger and went away to summer camp. You went camping and had campfires. You went swimming and boating. You had picnics and bar-b-q’s. You played games like basketball, tennis and volleyball. You probably took walks in the woods or went fishing.

Now imagine everything I just said, except this time, you’re not wearing any clothing and neither is anyone else around you. That’s the nudist camp experience. Everyone is have fun outdoor and not wearing anything. No one is embarrassed. The people here are nudists and they are doing this because they want to live part of their lives without clothes on, without people gawking or staring; without people making unwanted sexual advances; and without being judged by other who are not accepting of this decision.

So why is a nudist club a good first experience for a couple considering recreational nudity? It’s about as safe an environment as you will ever be. It’s social but it’s private too. The first time my wife and I went to a nudist club, we were surprised about how relaxing it was. Yes, we were anxious because everyone was naked and that did take a little getting used to, but our nudity didn’t stand out. We looked like everyone else. Think about it. Warm all over. No worries about offending anyone. No need to explain yourself to someone who doesn’t approve, and no fear of anyone taking pictures or hitting on you or your spouse.

You’ve seen your spouse naked probably thousands of times. Now how often have you both been completely naked outside without a fear of being seen? Have you ever been naked with them outside while hiking in the woods, swimming, playing a sport or eating dinner? It’s different and while yes, it sounds odd at first, it’s very natural and not a sexual experience.

Here are some tips that you must know to make sure it’s a good experience for you and your spouse. First of all, you need to have this conversation before you ever go to a nudist club. Nudist clubs are nude. They are usually coops owned by members who in some cases, live there. They are not clothing optional. They are nude unless the weather calls for clothing to stay warm or dry. This isn’t like a clothing optional beach or resort where you bear as much as you dare. Talk to your spouse prior to going to make sure you’re comfortable with the fact you will have to take off your clothing. Wear a swimsuit. Wear a thong. No entry.

Call the club you would like to visit. Let them know you are coming out for the first time. Many camps offer a free visit for first timers. Ask them about what you should bring and get specific directions. Many have privacy gates where you will need to be buzzed in. Know before you go. Also ask about any fees and expectations.

Bring your driver’s license or state issued ID. They will perform a background check on you when you enter. This is for their protection and for you when you arrive. Most nudist camps are family oriented. There are children there and privacy and protection for minors is the most important. No exceptions.

Most clubs do not accept single men. Couples and single woman only. There is a lot of debate about this but it seems to be important to keep the balance of men and women equal. One more reason why this is a great activity for you and your spouse. You really can’t do it alone if you’re a guy.

Bring a towel to sit on. Cleanliness is very important so bring a towel at all times so you have something to sit on. Also, bring sun protection. When parts of your body are exposed to the sun for the first time, it can leave an awful burn if you’re not protected.

Absolutely no cameras or cell phones because they all have cameras now. While you might want to take a picture of your spouse to remember the occasion, most clubs do not allow photography of any kind, unless you’re a member. Remember, you’re there for privacy too.

Remember you are being watched while you’re there. Privacy is very important and each club watches to make sure visitors are acting as adults. Often you will have to wear a special sticker or arm band. Nudist clubs are there to enjoy being nude. Not for staring at nude men and women. Go there for you and your spouse. Not to meet anyone or to find a date. It is not a sexual experience and absolutely no inappropriate comments or sexual touching is accepted. This is one more reason why this is a positive and safe environment to try social nudity with your spouse.

Don’t get too personal. No one talks about where they live, work or even gives their last name. Please introduce yourself and be ready for others to say hello too. We have met many wonderful people at nudist clubs but there is always a level of privacy that is respected and maintained.

Perhaps the most difficult part of the experience is where to look when you’re talking to another naked person. Don’t laugh but one of my funniest memories was on our honeymoon in Tahiti. Another couple from Italy had sat down beside my wife and I on the beach. While our spouses fell asleep next to us in the sun, this woman and I talked about the US and Italy. We were having a great conversation. During our discussion and while I had my eyes closed, she took off her bikini top. My wife’s bikini top was still on at that point. When I opened my eyes and realized she was topless, I didn’t know what to do. Should I look away? Look around her? I finally made a point of talking right at her and staring right at her eyes. My eyes were glued to her eyes. To this day, I can’t tell you anything about her breast because I never once looked straight at them. I was incredibly nervous.

When you’re talking to another naked person (man or woman) look them straight in the eyes and talk. Don’t stare. Don’t point and certainly don’t say anything about their private parts. That’s rude. Before long, you won’t even notice they’re naked.

My wife and I visit a local nudist club several times each summer. It’s a great getaway from our kids and jobs where we can enjoy time together to sit by the pool, swim and enjoy a picnic lunch together. As much as we’d like to go to some super, all-inclusive in Mexico or the Caribbean, we simply don’t have the time or money. Our trips to the nudist camp are special because it’s only 30 minutes away and it’s just us.

For the right couple, a nudist camp or club can be a great first step into social nudity. In the heat of the summer, I can’t think of a better place to cool off and enjoy the weather. Interested in trying it out? Better do it quickly. Many clubs in the Eastern US only allow guests between Memorial Day and Labor Day. After that, clubs are often closed and available just for members.

Before you go, do some research online. Today there is a lot of information about each club, what to expect, fees and rules. I even found a review site for Nudist clubs and resorts.

Do you have any questions or concerns? Let us know. We’re here to answer your questions and share with you our experiences so you and your spouse have a better experience. Enjoy.

Run on Over to White Thorn Lodge for the Third Annual State Line Streak 5K Naked Run

So did you ever have the urge to streak naked across campus in college? Or learn firsthand if you actually do run faster wearing only running shoes and socks? I never had the nerve or the chance.. until now. The State Line Streak is a competitive 5K trail run sponsored by the White Thorn Lodge, a private family nudist club near the state line of Pennsylvania and Ohio. The event is now in its third year and this year has a non-competitive, 5K Some Colors Run trail run with paint.

So far we’ve focused our blog on being a resource for couples who want to experience a nude beach, resort, or club. We will be publishing a blog on what to expect if you’re considering visiting a nudist club or camp this summer, but a chance to run naked through the forest, that’s too good to pass up!

Social nudity should be an enriching and fun experience for you and your spouse. That’s been a main theme of our blog since we started so why not a naked run? I’m sure the good people at White Thorn Lodge came up with this event to attract younger 20- and 30-somethings to experience social nudity. Let’s be honest, if you can run naked for 5K, you’ll be comfortable nude by the time you finish and what could be better than enjoying lunch, drinks and a pool. Personally I think it’s a great idea to welcome couples (and individuals) to a nude club to experience it for themselves.

I’m sure you’ve got questions. I know I do. There are men’s and women’s categories based on six age groups. The course is a combination of stone roads and trails (and I’m assuming hilly too). They recommend road cross trainer shoes and while all participants must run nude, they do allow women to wear an upper support garment. Here is a review from a first time participant from last year’s race. From our experience, she nailed it when she said it takes about five minutes to get comfortable.

My wife and I visited White Thorn Lodge a few years ago. It’s very nice club located in Western Pennsylvania and is an hour or so from Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Erie, Canton and Wheeling. It’s big with a very nice new pool and lots and lots of volleyball courts. Say what you will about nudist sports, but they do like to play a lot of volleyball and White Thorn has been hosting the Naked Volleyball SuperBowl each September since 1971. With a very nice lodge, campground and other sports and recreation amenities, White Thorn is a first class organization and well worth a visit.

To learn more about the State Line Streak or Some Colors Run, please read their flyer with contact information or sign up for the July 12, 2014 race. The Pittsburgh Post Gazette ran a very good story about White Thorn Lodge last year and what a family, nudist club is all about. For me, I’m going to begin training for the run (with my shorts and shirt on for now). My wife plans to cheer me on as I cross off another item from my bucket list. Let the training begin!

To be nude or not to be nude? There is no question.

I review the stats on our blog to find out what visitors are reading and looking for when they find Our Clothing Optional Trips. It provides interesting details on what people want to know more about or are concerned about regarding going to a nude beach or resort for the first time. It always makes me feel good to see that our blog topics are providing the information you all want to learn.

I was concerned though recently when I noticed several searches that brought people to our blog with topics like this: “My wife thinks her breasts are too small to go topless.” Or “I want to try a nude beach on vacation but my wife thinks she isn’t pretty enough.” And finally, “I’ve always been a little overweight and am concerned if I go naked on the beach.”

Body acceptance is an important part of the entire nude experience at a beach, resort of local club. It sounds funny, but you really need to be comfortable in your own skin. From our experience, a nude beach or resort will quickly get you comfortable. No one cares what you look like in the buff. That’s probably the biggest surprise for anyone who tries going naked with their spouse for the first time in a social setting. No one really cares or notices regardless of how you look in your own mind, good or bad. Are there attractive naked people? Of course there are but want to know what people really go to a nude beach or resort? Go to a crowded place like a store, mall or restaurant and imagine everyone you see naked. That’s what it’s like.

Being naked with your spouse is about enjoying the freedom to do what you want without being hidden behind clothing. We’ve also found that when you remove your clothes, there is no “branding” going on. Think about it. We judge people by the clothing they wear. These brands complement or define who they are. That’s why brands are so powerful.

For me, on most days you’d see me in Polo shirts at the office and t-shirts and shorts at home. I have my favorite brands, but when I meet people at a nude beach or resort, it’s just me. I’ve found the people we’ve met and the discussions we’ve had to be far more honest and real.

During our first visit to Hidden Beach Resort, we met an older couple in their late 60s or early 70s. They were older than most people we have met but that’s not why I remember them. She had had a double mastectomy and had no breasts what so ever. I remember them because she and her husband were comfortable being naked and enjoyed themselves. They laughed. They talked to other guests. They enjoyed swimming and laying out. They didn’t let her surgeries stop them. I admire that. A lot.

None of us has a perfect body but going naked is less about your body and more about your mind. It’s how you feel when you’re naked and I would add naked with your spouse or significant other. It can be relaxing, invigorating, warm, cold, stressful, happy, freeing, scary, wonderful. Increasingly, I believe it’s confidence building too.

If you want to experience a nude beach or resort with your spouse but are concerned about what others will think about your naked body, don’t be. It’s all about you. Once you get over your anxiety, you’ll see that it’s all about you and how you and your spouse feel naked and not about your flaws, imagined or real.

You will see a lot of interesting body types when you’re at a nude beach or resort. You will literally see them all and when you add piercings, tattoos, shaving, it might surprise you too. But we’re all different and what we find attractive is entirely up to us.

From my experience, there is no one more attractive than my wife. Clothes on or off, she is beautiful. The moment she takes off her clothes and is relaxed and warm and we’re together, she is the most attractive woman in the world to me. Does she think she has a perfect body? Of course not, but to me, I wouldn’t change a thing.

You’re never too big or too small. Too fat or too skinny. Too short or too tall. Be comfortable with yourself. My suggestion to you: Don’t change a thing.

Mexico’s Hidden Beach Resort: Our Pick for Best Nude Resort for Couples

The quiet time on a beach when the sun is just rising. Hidden Beach Resort, Mexico.

Does the thought of waking up on vacation and never putting on a swim suit, bikini, shorts, shirt excite you? Or how about relaxing nude with your spouse in the sun and surf, while being pampered with great food and drinks poolside? If you are thinking this is your perfect vacation, you’re ready for a trip to an all inclusive, nude resort. We recommend you consider a trip to the Hidden Beach Resort in Mexico.

Maybe you and your spouse enjoy the nude beach experience or even visited your local nudist club or a B&B with a clothing optional pool like the Green House Inn in New Orleans, and now your considering a vacation in the buff. It can be a little intimidating at first: All week surrounded by people wearing little or no clothing. At first it might seem like too much. What we’ve found is when you combine a five-star resort experience with the freedom to be nude all day and surrounded by other fun couples of all ages in a very safe and relaxing environment, the result is heaven on earth.

So why a nude, all inclusive resort like Hidden Beach? I believe my wife said it best. “It’s fun to be naked.” It’s quality time with your spouse in a completely relaxing and tropical environment. Here is our average day at Hidden Beach:

We wake up (nude).
We walk the beach before breakfast (nude).
We go to breakfast (my wife wears a wrap and is usually topless while I’m nude).
We grab towels and find the perfect chairs on the beach (nude).
We sit, talk, read, sleep while enjoying the sun and the surf (nude).
When it gets too warm, we jump into the pool or wade in the ocean (nude).
When the bar opens, we grab drinks and bring them back to our chairs (nude).
We get lunch by the pool (nude).
We lay in rafts in the pool (nude).
We talk with other guests about what we’re doing tonight (nude, us and them).
In the afternoon sun, we fall asleep in palapas on the beach (nude).
We jump into the hot tub in the late afternoon and talk with other couples about where they’re from and what they’re doing tonight (nude).
Finally we go to our room and shower and put on casual clothes to go to dinner at one of five restaurants at the El Dorado Seaside Suites Resort, a sister property of Hidden Beach Resort right next door. It’s usually around 7 and it’s the first time we’ve worn clothing all day. We enjoy a great dinner. Relax at one of the El Dorado’s bars and enjoy talking with other couples.
And then around 11 or so we head back to HBR, go to our room and shed all of our clothing and walk to the hot tub and relax under the night sky (nude again).
Next we either go to our room to enjoy some intimate moments or grab a bunch of towels and fall asleep in each other’s arms in a beach palapa listening to the waves and the wind (nude).

Eventually we go to bed and then get up the next morning and do it all over again. Sometimes we stay at Hidden Beach Resort for dinner (nude) and never go to the El Dorado. Last visit my wife and I didn’t put on any clothing for two straight days. It was wonderful: 48 hours together naked without a need or care in the world. The experience is just a great as the photo gallery on the Hidden Beach Resort website. Look good to you?

Why do we like Hidden Beach Resort? To be fair, we have not gone to any other nude, all inclusive resorts. There are many others on our list that we hope to visit. Here is what we believe to be the best features of Hidden Beach Resort:

The resort is small and intimate but still provides lots of space to relax in private or to talk with other guests. There are only 42-rooms and each is very spacious. The beds are wonderfully comfortable. We highly recommend the swim up suites on the first floor. You can literally walk out your door and step right into the water. The second floor suites are very nice too and all come with jacuzzis for sharing romantic moments with your spouse.

Have you ever been to a bar, nude? Or been to dinner topless? What about dancing to a live band in the buff? All were first time experiences for us too at Hidden Beach and we had a lot of fun. Hidden Beach has a full service restaurant, pool bar and nightclub and all can be enjoyed nude.

Pool or beach? Why not both? Hidden Beach has a wonderful pool made for relaxing and talking. Volleyball games happen throughout the day. There is plenty of space to read, talk or nap. The beach has chairs and palapas to lie down on and get comfortable. We usually start our day on the beach and then move to the pool in the early afternoon and then relax on our patio next to the pool in the late afternoon. Can it get any better than this?

Hidden Beach Resort attracts a fun collection of people. Every time we go, we meet fun new people. To be honest, we’re usually one of the youngest couples there and we’re just into our 40s. Most couples there are 50+. We did meet a couple in their late 20s on our last visit, but I have never seen a couple that young there before. We’ve met couples from all over the US, Canada, Mexico, England and France including a gay couple who were two of the funnest guys we’ve ever talked with on vacation.

While not nude, the El Dorado resort has five restaurants (Italian, Mexican, Asian, Steak House, and World cuisine) to choose from for lunch and dinner. The food is outstanding with different menus every night. Oddly enough while Hidden Beach is wear as little as you want, the El Dorado restaurants have a formal dress code. This actually works out well because the trip pictures you show everyone of the two of you will be taken at the El Dorado. 🙂

Fun bars and nightlife. There is planned entertainment and nightlife at Hidden Beach. The Hidden Beach nightclub also has a big spa in it so you can jump in and relax too. The bars at the El Dorado are a lot of fun too. We’ve met a lot of fun couples and many on honeymoons. Our favorite question? “How come we see you here at the bar every night but we never see you at the beach or pool during the day?” It’s our little secret.

Fantastic service. We have stayed at Hidden Beach Resort four times and the majority of the servers and staff we saw on our first visit are still there. They are very warm and friendly and provide fantastic service. They really get to know the guests. For us, the service is really what makes Hidden Beach so special. We have never gone to the spa but have heard from others that it is an awesome experience.

Hidden Beach Resort is a very safe, private, relaxing experience, but realize it is a nude resort and not clothing optional. You must be nude here. There are resorts in Mexico that cater to the swinger lifestyle. Hidden Beach resort is not one of them. As I’ve mentioned before, we go to nude resorts because it is wonderful experience for us. We don’t want to be “hit on” by other couples. While I’m sure it could happen at any nude resort, this has never happened to us at Hidden Beach. There is a strict code of conduct at Hidden Beach that they ask you to sign when you arrive. If your spouse is a little anxious about being nude with other couples around, let them know it is a very peaceful and non-threatening place to be together.

So before you start packing (the last time we went my wife and I used only carry on luggage), what else do you need to know? Does it sound too good to be true? Like any place there are some downsides that you should know about before you book your stay.

Hidden Beach Resort is expensive. They offer specials throughout the year but be aware that you are getting a first class experience at first class prices. It’s worth it but this certainly isn’t a budget vacation. Rooms can be $300-$450 a night depending on time of year. There are often specials and I’m sure travel agents might be able to get you better rates. Remember, you’re paying for the room (which you really won’t spend a lot of time in), all your food and beverage and a wonderful place to swim, layout and and enjoy. It comes with a price.

The ocean by Hidden Beach Resort is all coral. This was a big letdown the first time we came because I wanted to go skinny dipping with my wife and swim in the ocean. While you can walk into the water, there is a lot of coral and it really doesn’t get deep. If you want an ocean skinny dipping experience, this isn’t it. That said, the beach has palm trees and palapas and is wonderful but you really can’t swim here at all. I do recommend getting bread and feeding the fish. The sea life is amazing here, you just can’t swim with the fish.

The Nightclub can be noisy. We really like the nightclub at Hidden Beach but you will hear the music in your room if you’re on that side of the resort. It’s not bad, but not quiet and peaceful like the rest of the resort. We try to stay as far away as possible.

There are only 42 rooms at Hidden Beach but when the resort is full, it does feel crowded. It is a small, intimate resort, but when it’s crowded it is sometimes tough to find your own spot.

Hidden Beach isn’t very close to Cancun. It’s about an hour and a half from Cancun International Airport. This may not sound like much but we highly recommend reserving a car to take you to and from the airport to the resort. It’s worth the money. If you take the free, van service it might take up to three hours to get to Hidden Beach. When you get to Mexico, you will want to get to the resort as soon as possible.

For us, Hidden Beach is a special getaway we take every other year to escape the midwest and to get time to refresh, relax and reconnect. My wife feels very comfortable and safe here. During our last visit, she was naked and ready to go to the beach before I had finished opening my suitcase.

We plan on visiting Hidden Beach Resort again soon. We’re due for another visit. We would also like to go to some of the clothing optional resorts in Jamaica too. If you have any questions or concerns about Hidden Beach, please let us know. At this point, I can safely say we are experts and highly recommend it but we know it might not be for everyone. We would also really like to visit Mak Nuk Village in Tulum. While not on the ocean, I’ve read some nice review about it.

Please note we were not paid by Hidden Beach Resort or any travel agent for this review. This review is from our experiences here over the past ten years. We highly recommend you read other travel reviews and check out their website to learn more.

New Orleans’ Inn Perfect for Couples Who Want Romance and Clothing Optional Pool

The clothing optional pool at the Green House Inn, New Orleans.

Most couples experience their first nude or clothing optional setting on vacation. It might be a beach like Orient Beach on St. Maarten or a nude inn like the Terra Cotta Inn located in Palm Springs. Both are wonderful experiences and perfect for the couple who is looking for a nude or clothing optional vacation.

So what if you and your spouse want to try a nude experience but not sure you’re ready to jump all in and be naked, 24/7? I highly recommend a more laid back, bare as much as you dare experience like the one my wife and I had at Green House Inn located in New Orleans.

I would highly recommend the Green House Inn to anyone going to New Orleans looking for a very comfortable B&B near all the main sites in the city. The rooms are very clean and quiet with amazingly, comfortable beds. The fact that their pool is beautiful, relaxing and clothing optional makes it even better.

The Green House is very close to the New Orleans Street Car line, which is a wonderful way to get around and see the city. We loved it.There is so much to see and do in New Orleans. It has wonderful restaurants, art galleries, museums, music and some nightlife too. There is a lot of great information online. I recommend starting your search at the official tourism website for the city of New Orleans.

So why should you consider the Green House as a great place to try skinny dipping or nude sunbathing? Did I mention the pool? The Green House is NOT a nude B&B. You need to wear clothing when walking around the Inn and in the dining area. However, the pool and hot tub are a different story. Here you can be as comfortably clothed or unclothed as you want.

We specifically selected the Green House Inn for our trip because of its location and clothing optional pool. We stayed there in August and we quickly learned why no one goes to New Orleans in the summer. I have never sweat that much before in my life. Locals will tell you not to visit in the summer when the heat index is well over 100 degrees every day. That said, we spent a lot of time at the pool. The Inn was only a quarter full too which made it very quiet and private. Perfect for anyone who wants to slowly try social nudity.

When we arrived at the Inn, it was late morning and already very warm. We went to our room and my wife was disappointed when she saw another couple already laying out by the pool. She was wearing a bikini. He had on a bathing suit. Even after all of the clothing optional beaches and resorts we’ve been to over the years, my wife does not like to be the first or only woman naked by the pool. I completely understand this and told her to do what she felt comfortable. For me though, I picked the Inn because of its pool and I was planning to be naked as much as possible.

We found our spots beside the pool. The other couple smiled and nodded at us when they saw us. My wife took off her cover up to reveal her bikini while I moved chairs and tables around while wearing a robe. I was curious to see what would happen when I took the robe off. While my wife got comfortable laying out by the pool and putting on suntan lotion, I found a floating raft and set it down in the pool. I threw my robe aside and got on the raft and laid back into the pool. For me, I love the feeling of being naked on a raft with warm water surrounding my body. To me, this is heaven. I felt great.

After a few minutes, my wife got comfortable and removed her bikini top. The other couple continued to lay in the sun, keeping to themselves. A little later my wife grabbed another raft and set it in the water next to me. She pulled down her bikini bottoms and sat on the raft next to me. She was comfortable too. For the rest of our stay, she never wore her bikini again.

This type of a setting is perfect for someone who has anxiety about being naked in public. It was private and relaxed. It was comfortable and even for my wife who has been taking off her bikini on beaches for year, it still takes her time to get comfortable and relaxed. I like this Inn because I’m sure even when it is full, there is space for everyone. We laid out nude, skinny dipped and sat in the pool every day we were there. We even used the outdoor showers on our last day before catching our flight home.

A few days later in the late afternoon, the couple we had seen when we arrived sat down on chairs next to us by the pool. We had not seen them since. We were totally naked. They wore swim suits. I’ll admit I am slightly uncomfortable in this situation because I feel so exposed.

They were a delightful couple. We talked about New Orleans, food, restaurants, museums and where we were from with them. Not once did they ever comment on our nudity nor did they take off their suits. Often times people are surprised at how oddly normal it can be to talk with someone who is naked. My advice, just look at their eyes. Before long, you won’t even notice they’re naked.

We had dinner plans and had to excuse ourselves to shower and get dress. That was the only time I joked about our nudity saying, “I guess we need to go inside and put on some clothes. You know what they say, ‘No shirt, no service.'” They laughed.

I’d like to believe that we inspired them. A short time later we came out to the pool, all dressed up to get some pictures. The couple we had been talking to was now sitting in the hot tub. He was sitting naked on the side of the tub while his wife enjoyed the warm water and bubbles. I could clearly see her glowing white breasts in the bubbling water. I thought she might be going topless until my wife pointed out that her bikini top and bottom were sitting on her chair. They were all in and enjoying it too. We smiled and waved to them and told them to have fun.

And that is why spending time together, by a pool or in a hot tub, nude with your spouse is so powerful. It’s why we do it. It’s a chance to connect and enjoy a truly shared experience. I don’t know if that other couple went skinny dipping later or just hung out in the hot tub. We never saw them again, but from their tan lines, I’m guessing they hadn’t done that before or at least not for a long time. I hope they enjoyed their time together at the Green House Inn as much as we did.

I should note that the Green House Inn is not a nude or clothing optional B&B. Only the pool and spa areas are clothing optional. There were only a handful of guests there when we were and aside from two 20-something sisters flashing their mother one afternoon, we were the only ones hanging out nude by the pool during the day. On vacation, we prefer to be around other nude people but there was plenty of space and everyone was very respectful of one another. It really was an interesting mix of people. At one point there were four of us laying on floating rafts in the pool. The two 20-something sisters in bikinis, an older woman in a one piece suit and my naked wife.

There are other clothing optional Inns and B&Bs in New Orleans. We loved the Green House Inn, but my research also turned up The Burgundy, which has a clothing optional hot tub and sun deck (no pool); The Dive Inn which has a clothing optional pool. We liked the sound of this Inn but found their pool was indoor. We wanted sun; The Country Club, which is a nude/clothing optional pool, spa, and restaurant. If we had had more time, we would have checked this one out. It appears to be more of a party atmosphere.

Again, we have not personally been to any of these other options but would like to check them out. If you have stayed or been to one of them, please let us know what you think.

If you’re headed to New Orleans and going with your wife/husband or girlfriend/boyfriend, check out the Green House Inn. It’s romantic and the perfect place to take off your clothes and relax with your spouse. We’ll be back!

NOTE: We did not receive any incentive from the Green House Inn to write this review. As of right now, they know nothing about it but I hope they’re pleased when/if they read it. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgable and we really enjoyed ourselves. I’ve stayed at a lot of hotels in New Orleans including several in the French Quarter. For me, the Green House Inn is the best by far. Tell us what you think.

Preparing to Get Naked: The Talk to Have Before Dropping Your Bikini Top or Swimsuit

Some nude beach can be the most beautiful places on Earth.

Thank you to everyone who has visited our blog since October, 2013. My wife and I have taken a lot of nude vacations and getaways over the past 20 years and our goal for our blog is to remove any stigma or anxiety for couples interested in trying it and to be a good resource of what to expect.

While researching where to go for a clothing optional trip or first time nude sunbathing with your spouse experience can be fun, if you and your spouse haven’t discussed it first, you might be headed to couples counseling later. My opinion, the worst thing you can do is surprise your spouse by just showing up at a nude beach or clothing optional location and expect them to jump right in. Not a good idea at all. In fact, they may never want to go back. We saw a couple at a local nudist park and honestly thought she was going to have a nervous breakdown. She and her partner had clearly not discussed it before and I felt really bad for her and was glad when after an hour he put his clothes back on (she never removed her clothing) and left. I can only imagine the conversation in the car later. He was wrong for putting her through that and not making sure she was comfortable first.

So what do you do first before finding a beach like Haulover in Miami or a bed and breakfast with a fantastic clothing optional pool like the Green House Inn in New Orleans? Sit down and talk. Explain why you want to try this with them. Talk about why you want to experience a clothing optional setting and any doubts, concerns or anxieties you and they might have. Discuss it all, including any sexual concerns like what happens if he gets an erection (turn over, it will go away).

Now, your spouse might be as excited for the experience as you are and be onboard immediately, in which case planning and reading forums about the place, setting, etc. can be a lot of fun. Often your first nude experience is a vacation and who doesn’t like to go on vacation?

Chances are though, even if your spouse does want to go, they are a bit nervous and have reservations. That’s completely understandable. I know my wife and I both did. So let’s discuss this and share our observations and thoughts on the topic.

First a little history. When I was growing up, I had gone skinny dipping a few times. I loved the feeling of swimming naked and being nude in the sun. It felt great to be warm all over (a feeling I still enjoy 25 year later). I did this a few times but always alone at a small lake near my home. I knew it was something I enjoyed and skinny dipping with others was something I wanted to try. My wife also had gone skinny dipping with friends (girls and boys) when she was in high school late at night one summer. She laughed telling me about it because she remembers it looked like she and all of her girlfriends weren’t actually naked but instead wearing glowing white bikinis from their tan lines. Later in college, she took a trip to Europe and went to a topless beach but was too intimidated to shed her top with all of her friends around. That was it for both of us. Neither one of us could be called a nudist (then or now).

Fast forward a few months before our wedding and honeymoon to Tahiti. I mentioned to my wife (then girlfriend) that she could go topless on our honeymoon and that I would like to try to find a place where we could go skinny dipping or even sunbathe nude. This is when we had our talk.

She told me she loved the idea of us finding a place to go skinny dipping with me but sunbathing nude or even skinny dipping with people around us made her uncomfortable because other people would see her. I told her that I understood her concerns and that I didn’t know how I felt about other people seeing me or her naked but that my desire to see “how it felt” was important to me. I wanted to be naked, outside with her. While I didn’t know it at the time, this was a turning point for us.

Key point here is that we talked and discussed why we wanted to experience this and what fears/anxieties we had. Later, when we went to Tahiti, my wife was topless most of the time there. She loved it. And I loved watching her sunbathe, swim and walk without her bikini top on. I never realized that this could be a turn on to me, but it was.

I did some online research and was amazed at how many men asked for tips on how to get their wives to try topless or nude sunbathing. Many women, like my wife said originally, were uncomfortable of people looking at them naked. A few women also said that they would like to try topless sunbathing but their husbands were super protective of other men looking at them while clothed, let alone naked.

Based on these very real concerns, here is our advice. Ask your wife or husband to give it a try and see if they can become comfortable. Plan to go to a clothing optional beach or bed and breakfast and let them know they can shed as much or as little as they want to with no pressure from you. Do not go to a nude resort where you are required to be naked. This can be very intimidating and I’ve seen it work out badly when trying to introduce social nudity to someone who is not ready for it. The experience should be comfortable not scary. You might be a little anxious. That’s normal but not uncomfortable.

After a while, your wife may take off her bikini top or swimsuit or your husband might relax and realize that others there might give a pleasant nod but rarely will someone stare. It really doesn’t happen and if it does, you have ever right to put your clothes back on. The key here is being comfortable and doing things slowly. Your wife may feel great sunbathing without her top on, but want to put it back on when she swims or walks on the beach. Your husband might be fine naked on his stomach but be completely uncomfortable sitting up or laying on this back. Do what feels right. After a while it will feel very natural and right. And if it doesn’t, that’s okay too. This may not be a couples activity you can do.

Your wife or husband may decide they never want to be naked outside of your home but that they’re comfortable with you sunbathing nude. We’ve seen this at beaches many times. He will be naked but she is wearing a bikini or she is topless but wearing the smallest thong bikini bottom ever seen. Or she is naked but he is wearing his swimsuit. I’ve covered our experiences with first time social nudity in several of our blog posts already. I encourage you to read them again.

I do want to call attention to one point I saw mentioned several times in online forums on the topic of asking your husband/wife to go naked for the first time. There are people who believe if you truly love your spouse, that you would never want anyone to see them naked. That you are wrong for asking them to show their bodies to the world and perverted for being naked and wanting them to be naked with you. I saw comments like this in many forums. If your spouse shares this opinion, this may not be an option for you.

Please let us know what questions or concerns you have. I will tell you that our time together naked on a beach or at a resort has been wonderful. For us, it’s about being completely relaxed and comfortable. When we first went nude together many years ago, we were comfortable but not relaxed. It takes time. And it can be a stimulating experience for you both but not at the time. Later, in the privacy of your bedroom. Social nudity as we have described it is not overtly sexual. There is a right time and place and it’s not at a public beach or resort, but in privacy later.

Talk to your spouse and see what they think. Summer will be here before we know it. Let us know your questions. We’ll do our best to share insights. Good luck.

Where to stay in South Beach to be near the Surf, Sea and Nude Sunbathing at Haulover Beach

Welcome to Haulover Beach. You WILL see nude sunbathers beyond this point.

You really can’t find a better or easier nude beach experience than Haulover Beach in North Miami. It is one of our favorite clothing optional beaches anywhere: Haulover Beach, you really can’t stay closer to Haulover than the Daddy O Hotel in Miami.

You can't ask for a closer or better hotel than the Daddy O Hotel if you plan on going to Haulover Beach. — You can’t ask for a closer or better hotel than the Daddy O Hotel if you plan on going to Haulover Beach.

It’s very clean, very fun, very hip and very reasonably priced and is less than 10 minutes from Haulover. We have found room 222 to be our favorite. It’s roomy and private, but a long walk to the front of the hotel. The staff at the Daddy O are friendly and they have beach towels and chairs available for you to use. What more do you need?

You are about 20 minutes drive from the restaurants and clubs at South Beach. You will want to go to South Beach each night. It’s awesome and worth the trip. For lunch food, beer and other treats, go to the Publix in Surfside. Google it and you’ll find the location. They can make sandwiches for you. I recommend the Cuban. It’s easy to get to from the Daddy O Hotel in Bal Harbour and you’ll be on the beach enjoying the sun, surf and sand before you know it. Food, beverages and chairs and umbrellas are available for purchase/rent on Haulover Beach. Remember there are no glass bottles allowed at Haulover and the only thing you’ll want and need to wear is lots of sunscreen.

Unfortunately the food and art scene in Bal Harbour isn’t really happening unless you only want to shop at the Bal Harbour Shops, which does feature many high-end retailers. We highly recommend going to the Lincoln Road Mall or Espanola Way in South Beach. Great food, good shopping and incredible people watching. The only thing better is watching the people you will see nude at Haulover. It really is an interesting bunch. Not at Haulover, but well worth the visit, is the Effusion Gallery in South Beach. It’s one of our favorites and perhaps one of yours too. Give it a look. It’s well worth the visit. Every time we’re in South Beach, we have one dinner on Ocean Drive in South Beach. Truthfully, it is rarely worth the money. The food is okay, the people watching great, but the price doesn’t justify it. That said, we eat on Ocean Drive every time hoping it will get better, but it doesn’t. Espanola Way and Lincoln Road Mall are the places to go. Trust us.

Enjoy nude sunbathing and skinny dipping at Haulover beach and the restaurants and people at Espanola Way and Lincoln Park Mall. You’ll have a great trip. Just don’t get sunburned. Tell us what you think!

What to expect on your First Trip to a Nude Resort

It’s New Year’s Day and cold and snowy in the Midwest US and I’m dreaming of the sun, sand and surf of Mexico. Specifically the Riviera Maya area. I am dreaming of Hidden Beach Resort (HBR) next to the El Dorado Seaside Suites Resort just south of Playa del Carmen. HBR wasn’t the first nude resort my wife and I went to but it’s our favorite and one of the most wonderful experiences we have ever had together nude ever.

Before I get into what makes a vacation to HBR so special, let me first tell you why a nude vacation with your spouse is a great experience for the two of you. Recently we revealed to friends of ours that we enjoyed taking nude vacations. While they were surprised to hear how and where we like to vacation, their biggest question was what do you do at a nude resort other than lay out in the sun? We replied, the question is what don’t you do?

The Treasure you Find Walking on the Beach... nude. — The Treasure you Find Walking on the Beach… nude.

You do everything you would do normally at an all inclusive resort except you don’t wear any clothing. That’s it. Sounds too simple right? But here is why we believe time together at a nude resort is so valuable for a busy couple like us. Who doesn’t want to spend more time with their partner naked? Chances are you and your spouse aren’t spending as much time together nude as you would like and I’m not talking about sex or intimacy either. Think about it.

To me, my wife is the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. We sleep together nude each night. I might see her getting into the shower in the morning or drying her hair before she puts on her clothes. Sometimes I get to sneak a peak at her when she is changing into her workout gear before going to the gym. When we are naked, usually the lights are off or we’re moving quickly to get dressed to take care of the kids or go to work. She is beautiful but I rarely see her naked and it’s almost never long enough to really enjoy. My guess is that I see my wife naked less than 15-20 minutes a day. For us, that’s not enough. Sound familiar to you?

This is why the atmosphere at a nude resort is perfect for a couple like us. It’s laid back, relaxed and you don’t have to worry about the kids walking in on you naked. Everyone you meet at a nude resort is nude just like you or they work for the resort. The staff is always professional and doesn’t seem to even notice or care if you’re walking around nude, topless, shorts, t-shirt, etc.

So why go to a nude resort? I’ll share more about HBR in a later post, but here is our average day at HBR or any other nude resort: We wake up (nude). We walk the beach before breakfast (nude). We go to breakfast (my wife wears a wrap and is usually topless while I’m nude). We grab towels and find the perfect chairs on the beach (nude). We sit, talk, read, sleep while enjoying the sun and the surf (nude). When it gets too warm we jump into the pool or wade in the ocean (nude). When the bar opens, we grab drinks and bring them back to our chairs (nude). We get lunch by the pool (nude). We lay in rafts in the pool (nude). We talk with other HBR guests about what we’re doing tonight (nude, us and them). In the afternoon sun, we fall asleep in palapas on the beach (nude). We jump into the hot tub in the late afternoon and talk with other couples about where they’re from and what they’re doing tonight (nude). Finally we go to our room and shower and put on casual clothes to go to dinner at one of five restaurants at the El Dorado. It’s usually around 7 and it’s the first time we’ve worn clothing all day. We enjoy a great dinner. Relax at one of the El Dorado’s bars and enjoy talking with other couples. And then around 11 or so we head back to HBR, go to our room and shed all of our clothing and walk to the hot tub and relax under the night sky (nude again). Next we either go to our room to enjoy some intimate moments or grab a bunch of towels and fall asleep in each other’s arms in a beach palapa listening to the waves and the wind (nude). Eventually we head to bed and then get up the next morning and do it all over again. Sometimes we stay at HBR for dinner (nude) and never go to the El Dorado. Last visit to HBR, my wife and I didn’t put on any clothing for two straight days. It was wonderful. Compare 48 hours naked together vs. 30 minutes in two days.

After sharing all of this, our friends asked us if we ever felt embarrassed walking around naked or if it was at all sexual. I can honestly say the only time I have ever felt uncomfortable at a nude resort is when I’m naked and the people around me aren’t. This really doesn’t happen and most people who are clothed are just arriving. You usually see them naked within 15 minutes of their arrival.

Regarding the atmosphere being sexually charged, I would say it is but it isn’t. At first you feel like you’re breaking a rule by walking around naked. If this is your first time, it feels right but so wrong at the same time. Sure there are attractive people around you but no one is gawking, staring or making comments. I’m sure some men could get physically excited when experiencing this but, put a towel in your lap or flip over until the feeling subsides. It has never happened to me but everyone is different. That said, when you spend so much time with your spouse naked and with others naked all around you, when you finally get alone time, it’s fantastic.

We always enjoy our time together at HBR. It often feels like you’re teasing each other all day and when you finally alone in your room, it’s wonderful. This is in the privacy of your room and not in the open, which is never permitted at HBR or most other nude resorts.

For me, a nude resort is for you and your spouse. You can be as private as you want to be or as social. We have met some great couples at HBR and other nude resorts. Several I have done business with later. We exchange holiday notes with other couples we’ve met. When you met another couple and they’re completely naked, there is very little to hide about yourself. That’s a good thing. During our stays at HBR we’ve met:

A couple who saw me taking pictures of my wife during our morning walk on the beach. While taking pictures of us for our private album, they mentioned that their kids and grandchildren would never believe that they went to a nude resort twice a year. I should say that most people we have met are 40+ with many 55+. Where are the young people?
Another couple who is probably one of the neatest people we’ve ever met. We’ve done business together several times since and continue to talk about other great places to go on nude vacations.
A woman and her husband who had had a double mastectomy. To this day, I am impressed with her willingness not to let her surgery prevent her from enjoying herself and her time with her husband nude.
A gay couple from Palm Springs who are two of the funniest guys we have ever met while traveling.
A couple that we met at Haulover Beach years ago and ran into HBR on our last visit. They and we couldn’t believe we recognized each other years later. We had fun catching up with them.
And finally, a 20-something honeymooning couple from Buffalo we saw each night at a bar at the El Dorado Resort who couldn’t figure out why they never saw us on the beach during the day. We finally told them we were staying next door at HBR. His response, “Do you mean you’re nudists? Do you sit around naked all day over there?” I told him we weren’t nudists but yes, we did sit around naked all day. I invited them to join us. I wasn’t surprised when they didn’t show the next day but I hope they try a nude resort or beach sometime soon in their relationship.

I should note that no one has ever hit on us and asked us to join them later. Again, that’s not what we’re into or looking for when we vacation. We’ll share more with you about HBR and some of the other nude resorts we’ve gone to in the past 15 years. Also we have never received any money from a nude resort such as HBR for this blog post.

Have questions? Let us know. We’re here to help you enjoy your trip. Your nude resort vacation will be the only trip you ever take with just carry on luggage.

Best Nude Beach on Kauai is no Secret… Secret Beach Shouldn’t be Missed

When my wife and I first visited Kauai, we were looking for a tropical island getaway. We wanted to go somewhere we had never gone before (ruling out Mexico) and for this trip, we wanted to find and enjoy all of the nature and beauty of Kauai without our clothes. It was the first trip we had taken specifically to find and enjoy a nude beach.

Sure, we did all of the tourist activities too and there is a lot to do here. If you’re headed to Kauai you must visit Waimea Canyon aka the Grand Canyon of the Pacific; Wailua Falls (the water fall from the TV show Fantasy Island); and the incredible Napali Coast, which can be seen via boat or by hiking. YOu can fill a week with amazing sites and activities on Kauai. Researching this blog is making me want to go back and visit sooner rather than later.

You might not realize it but you’ve probably already seen Kauai’s beaches, rain forests and mountains in many of Hollywood’s biggest movies like Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark and South Pacific to name a few.

Honestly, Kauai is well worth the trip for all the reasons I have mentioned, but with a nude beach like Secret Beach (also know as Kauapea Beach), the island is the perfect place for a couple’s first clothing optional experience. It is laid back, not crowded and a natural wonder that can not be enjoyed simply by visiting for 15 minutes. You need to stay for the day.

Secret Beach is just west of Kilauea Point Lighthouse, which is another landmark to visit while on Kauai. Secret Beach has it all. The best clothing optional beaches are hard to get to (they require a walk usually down a very steep hill) and are immediately memorable as soon as you walk on the beach. I’m not taking about naked bodies. Secret Beach is memorable because it is cut right out of the cliffs and features beautiful soft sand with black lava rocks breaking through the sand and all with tropical rainforest behind it. In the summer, tidal pools can be found near the east side of the beach while in winter, the waves are huge and crash into the shore with great force. Depending on the weather there are several natural waterfalls on the beach too.

We visited in late January/early February. The view from the beach is incredibly beautiful, especially in the winter months when whales are birthing their calves. We saw whales breeching only 200-300 yards off the beach. Am I painting a pretty amazing picture here? It gets better.

So why is Secret Beach perfect for a couple looking for their first nude beach experience? First off, it’s a big beach with plenty of space for you to find your own piece of paradise. You won’t be on top of one another like Haulover beach in Miami, which is another great nude beach but a polar opposite to Secret Beach.

Second, it’s mainly tourists who visit the beach. Most, but not all, are there as first time nudists or others who have visited here before. When you’re all trying something for the first time, it’s a lot less intimidating. You won’t find many gawkers running around which can be very intimidating for the first time nudist. It’s laid back, relaxing and let’s you and your spouse get started at your own pace. On it’s busiest day, there was 30 people on the beach. It was winter so I’m expecting it to be more crowded in the summer months, but it really is a great laid back setting.

Third, and forgive me if I sound a little too granola here, but for me, this is the perfect beach setting best enjoyed nude. Imagine one of the most beautiful beaches ever, your spouse is next to you. You’re both relaxed and comfortable. You’re listening to the waves crash on the shore. You’re laying comfortably on the beach with black lava boulders near by and beautiful flowers and lush tropical plants going up the cliff behind you. She looks beautiful (Handsome if it’s your husband:). You’re both naked as the day you were born and you couldn’t be happier. You don’t want to go because it’s a total sensory experience between the smell of the ocean, warmth of the sun, the crash of the waves and the paradise around you. This is why this is the perfect beach to visit, especially if you want to experience a nude beach for the first time. It should be on your list.

So what should you be prepared for other than sunscreen? Water and food come to mind immediately. This beach is not easy to get to and you’ll want to stay all day. Bring food and water so you don’t have to leave early. Also, and this is important, if you bring it to the beach, be sure to take it away. Don’t litter or leave your garbage. There are no facilities here, including a bathroom.

I should note during our week long stay here we never went swimming at Secret Beach. The winter surf is very dangerous here and while beautiful, this is a very deadly beach with many drownings. Any online references to Secret Beach note how dangerous the surf is even during the summer months. When we visited, the waves were huge as in way bigger than I am tall. There was no way I was going into the water. Please be careful. There is no life guard here.

And what about Hawaii’s nudity laws? Technically you must wear a bathing suit at all times. Secret Beach is traditionally a clothing optional beach meaning it is shared by those wanting an all over tan and those wanting tan lines. I saw many references to the east end of the beach being nude. Share the beach and keep your eyes open for any reasons to put your suit back on, such as a police officer. I haven’t heard of any tickets being written lately but it has happened in the past.

There are many other nude beaches on Kauai and yes we did go to a few but none were the same experience as Secret Beach. I would go back in heartbeat. It was that amazing. If you’re interested in learning more about Secret Beach, I highly recommend visiting the Kauai Beach Scoop Website. It has great photography and video information for anyone wanting to plan a visit. The photography really is amazing. Enjoy.

Topless in Tahiti? Baring it all in Bora Bora? Yes, but it’s not as easy as you might think.

So does your wife want to go topless in Tahiti? Or do you both want to sunbath in the buff in Bora Bora? I’m guessing yes, based on reviewing the web analytics on our blog. Going topless or nude in Tahiti has been the main search that has brought people to read our blog.

So here’s what I can tell you. Women can go topless in French Polynesia (Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, and 300 other smaller islands), unless a resort prohibits it like the St. Regis Bora Bora. My wife’s first topless experience was on our honeymoon in Tahiti and it couldn’t have been better. Read our blog post to learn more.

But what if you want to bare all in French Polynesia? When we were there 15+ years ago, the Sofitel Resort in Bora Bora had a private island for nude sunbathing. Unfortunately, they built a private resort on the island and it’s no longer an option for clothing optional travel.

So how can you be naked in Bora Bora or the other French Polynesian islands? Here is what I found.

1. Ask someone to take you by boat to an uninhabited motu aka island. This is probably your best option. Just make sure no one is there because while French Polynesian’s are comfortable with women being topless, male or female nudity is a big no-no. Read our blog to learn more about how we found that out. We still laugh about it.

2. If you have the money and I do mean money at $600+ per night, the overwater bungalows are amazing. They offer an incredible view, are super romantic and create an unforgettable experience. During my research on finding clothing optional options in French Polynesia, several people mentioned skinny dipping from their private overwater bungalows and sunbathing nude from them if they could do it privately. Again, this will depend on the resort, but this could be a good option.

3. Look for a private, sponsored trip by a tour company that caters to those of us who like to travel with just a carry on. Several tour companies offer nude cruises and trips to French Polynesia. Do a Google search to learn more.

4. Finally and this will take some work, try finding your own private beach. French Polynesia is a nation of islands… hundreds of them. Finding your own little piece of paradise shouldn’t be to difficult, but be careful to not offend the locals.

I hope this information helps. French Polynesia and specifically Bora Bora are amazing places. My wife and I highly recommend vacationing here. It is the perfect honeymoon location too. And as I mentioned before, it is a great place for women to go topless for the first time.

If you know of a clothing optional resort in French Polynesia or have other suggestions on where to go, please share them here. And if you happen to own a resort in French Polynesia and want to make a lot of money, consider offering a clothing optional option for guests. From what I can tell, there is a big demand and no viable options right now.

Planning a trip to Tahiti and have questions or better yet, know of the perfect place to go skinny dipping or lay out nude while you’re there and want to share? Let us know.