There are a number of nude and/or naturist beaches and clubs in Central America and the Caribbean, but to date, relatively few in South America.
"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."
International Naturist Federation
After visiting the famous beaches of Rio de Janeiro where the skimpiest amount of cloth passes for a tanga, thong bathing suit, or the even minuter version called fio dental or dental floss, and beach goers revel in exposing almost their entire bodies, it isn't surprising that Brazil is one of the few South American countries that have legalized nude or naturist beaches and resorts.
Not without a struggle, though. The traditional and conservative attitudes toward nudity prevail in most countries of South America, and try to set limits, even in Rio de Janeiro: Rio cracks down on nude sunbathers, article from 2000, but not successfully.
- todo naturismo
- Associação Naturista de Minas Gerais
- Colina do Sol
- Amazonat Jungle Lodge
- Recanto Paraíso
- Galheta, clothing optional beach in Florianópolis
- List of official beaches and non-official nudist beaches plus The Right to Bare Arms and All the Rest.
- In October, 2003, after a decade's debate, Rio authorities approved a nudist beach in Abrico in western Rio de Janeiro.
Brazilian Naturism has its following and is rising in popularity with internationsl nudists and naturalists who take note of various resorts including Praia do Pinho in Balneário Camboriú, Santa Catarina state and Colina do Sol for a preview of the resort before visiting.
A word about topless: only in Brazil on designated beaches where women are allowed to go topless is this tolerated. Elsewhere, in all countries it is not allowed. Go topless at your own risk.
Other countries:
- Near Punta del Este, Uruguay: Playa Chihuahua. "The entrance road is marked and is about 100meters past the 115km marker coming from Montevideo. Just past the Punta del Este Airport It has three lifeguards in the high season (Jan-March) and a Bar/Snack building. It is patrolled by the Prefectura on a regular basis. There are many Argentine couples there and is very safe. They have two portable toilets in the car park with an attendant, and are very clean and free. From late December till March, they rent Beach Umbrellas and recliners. The car park also has an attendant and sometimes two to watch the cars. If you want to know any further details you can get in touch with Carlos, who is the Beach President, a very pleasant man who is there most days and tries to meet and introduce himself to every newcomer His e mail is camaluza@hotmail.com, cell #094417001. He has said he will be very happy to answer any questions."
Information submitted by a reader who speant a 'pleasant month' there. b]La Escondida in Mar del Plata, Argentina. - SerNudista.com.ar for nudist sites in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil, plus European sites.
No matter where you find a nude or clothing optional beach, there are certain courtesies to Visiting a Nude Beach.
Don't forget your sunscreen!
To visit one of these beaches, check flights from your area to a nearby location. You can also browse for hotels and car rentals.
