Some come because it's a regular habit. Others come for the spectacle. Regardless of the reasoning, the secret is out—Playalinda Beach is one of Florida's most popular nude beaches.

Playalinda is located within the Cape Canaveral National Seashore, right near the Kennedy Space Center. It's a federally owned beach known for its great surfing. Whether by word of mouth or force of habit, there is a remote stretch of the beach that is also well known as a nude beach.

Of course, what better way is there to beat Florida's heat than to take it all off? Just don't forget to pack your sunblock.

Location

There are 13 parking areas along the four miles of beach. Each parking area has a restroom, but there are no shower areas. The fun begins at the north end of Lot 13, the last parking area. Beaches 1-12 are used for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and fishing, and beach entrance 13 is the nude section of Playalinda. You may spot a random nude bather here and there at beach 11 or 12, but if you're looking to let it all hang out, just head straight to 13 and don't follow the random nude stragglers. The beach is hidden behind large dunes so you won't see any nude bathers from the parking lot.

Fun in the (Nude) Sun

Over a mile of sand, you will see naked people tanning areas that generally don't see the light of day. The crowd is generally mixed—including gay men, true naturists, and heterosexual couples—but for the most part, it's an older hippie-type crowd. Although, it's a no-judgment zone, so anything goes.

It's important to note that Florida law doesn't allow nudity in public places. There is a Brevard County ordinance against nudity on the books, but it goes mostly unenforced at Playalinda. The only time authorities are called is if people are acting lewd, reckless, or endangering others. But those who are merely seeking a tan lines-free tan need not worry. Although, if you're going to go nude, it's best to have a cover-up handy just in case.

Directions, Fees, and Hours

From Interstate 95, take Exit 220 (toward Titusville on FL406). After crossing the Indian River, take a right fork onto State Road 402 and continue east to the beach.

From Cocoa Beach, take Highway A1A north to US-1 N then A. Max Brewer Memorial Parkway and follow it to State Road 402 to Canaveral National Seashore Road which becomes Playalinda Beach Road.

Entrance to Cape Canaveral National Seashore is $20 per vehicle for 7 days. There is a $10 walk-on or bicycle entrance fee, also valid for 7 days. Hours for the Cape Canaveral National Seashore are 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.​ ​Facilities are limited to restrooms and a visitor center. And remember, park at lot 13 for the nude-designated section of the beach.