Nervous about your first (or next!) nude beach or swinger event? Here are some tips to help you ditch your worries, embrace the vibe, and make every experience amazing for you and everyone around you.
Below you’ll find the most common (and juiciest) etiquette questions about nude beaches, with honest, practical answers. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned adventurer at nude recreation, you’ll leave this guide feeling confident, sexy, and ready to play by the best rules on clothing-optional beaches in the lifestyle!
1. What is the #1 rule at a nude beach or swinger event?
Consent is EVERYTHING at a naturist resort or swingers event. Always be respectful about other people’s personal space and ask before you touch, photograph, or join a conversation or play at a nude beach. A respectful “May I join?” or “Would you like company?” is as hot as a great outfit—and a “No, thank you” should always be met with a smile and grace. Don’t forget: NO always means NO!
2. Do I have to be nude all the time at a nude beach? What are the clothing rules?
Nope! At Teddy Bare Picnic and Sandy Bottoms Resort Clothing-optional means choice as is the case on most nudist beaches. At TBP and most lifestyle events and naturist organizations, you can wear as much or as little as you want—except where requested (like clothing-required areas). Bring soft wraps, hats, playfully sexy attire, and always cover up in public or shared spaces as posted.
At the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), an organization that “promotes the benefits of nude family recreation and works to protect the rights of nudists in appropriate settings, such as sanctioned nude beaches and public lands set aside for that use; as well as homes, private backyards, and AANR-affiliated clubs, campgrounds and resorts.”–Wikipedia, clubs range from clothing optional to no clothes allowed. Be sure to check out the “beach etiquette” depending on which nude beach you visit. Nudity on most public beaches is NOT allowed and is illegal. Various rules in a naturist community will also differ as well.
3. How do I start conversations without being awkward?
Friendly smiles and genuine compliments work wonders on nudist beaches. Ask open-ended questions (“What’s your favorite party night?”) or join group activities. Trust: everyone remembers their first time, and most are thrilled to welcome newcomers.
4. Can I bring my phone/camera to nudist beaches? What’s the photo policy?
For safety and privacy, cell phones and cameras are not permitted anywhere on a nude beach resort, except for inside guest rooms.
5. What about sexual invitations? How do I make (or refuse) one politely?
Not all nude beaches allow sexual conduct or a public display of affection. So, make sure to know the RULES first. At Teddy Bare Picnic, nudity and sexual swinging, go hand and hand. Still, be sure to act respectfully. Keep it flirty but respectful! If you feel chemistry, try “Would you like to join us?” If declined, thank them and move on. Don’t take it personally. If you’re not interested, “No, thank you, but enjoy your night!” is always classy. Make sure to create boundaries around your personal space as well.
6. What if I’m just curious, or want to watch but not participate?
That’s perfectly valid! Let folks know you’re new or observing—you’re welcome as long as you’re discreet, respectful, and understand participation is NEVER required. However, gawking will not be tolerated. Any complaints of gawking will be addressed and dealt with aggressively.
7. Any big DON’Ts I should know about nudist beaches?
Don’t make loud/critical comments about lifestyle choices or bodies. Never touch or join a play area uninvited at nudist beaches. Keep public spaces clean for others. Avoid outside drama—remember, discretion is sacred.
8. What about hygiene and comfort tips?
Shower before using pools or play spaces at naturist beaches. Sit on a towel, not shared surfaces. Bring wipes, body-safe sunscreen, and keep play gear clean. Little things go a long way in keeping everyone healthy and happy.
9. I’m feeling nervous! Any advice for first-timers?
Totally normal! Find a mentor or ask for a tour. Attend mixers or welcome meets—those are designed to break the ice. Relax, breathe, and remember, EVERY sexy regular was a newbie too!
10. What about body acceptance? Are all body types welcome?
Yes, all body types are welcome and nude beaches have naked people and public nudity in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Body positivity is encouraged, derogatory remarks are not, and are a serious faux pas. Feel free to be empowered by your self image at naturist beaches, and when in clothing optional areas.
11. Where can I read more about etiquette for nudist and swinger events?
For more information about naturist beaches, check out our blog here or FAQs page. Read more about the naturist movement.
Ready for the time of your life? At Teddy Bare Picnic, respectful, playful etiquette creates a space for true freedom, uninhibited fun, and real connection. Keep these FAQs in your back pocket and let your adventurous spirit shine!
