THOUSANDS of revellers stepped out of their comfort zone and stripped down for the fifth annual Sydney Skinny.

A record 1,335 people joined the life-affirming event to celebrate courage, acceptance, community, charity and the beautiful Sydney Harbour — including Australian neurosurgeon Charlie Teo and World Champion surfer Layne Beachley.

media_camera Some of the participants make their way to the shoreline. Picture: Adam Wards

media_camera Lots of laughter pealed through the air. Picture: Adam WardPicture: Adam Ward

media_camera Naked but for a tattoo or two. Picture: Adam Ward

media_camera The most nervous entered at speed. Picture: Adam Ward

media_camera Plenty of men joined in the fun at Middle Head. Picture: Adam Ward

media_camera And in they went for a short swim around the purple buoy. Picture: Adam Wards

Nigel March, event founder said, “The Sydney Skinny is a fantastic day out with lots of laughter, a supportive vibe and a focus on happiness.

“And importantly, it’s not about being seen nude or seeing anyone else nude. The Sydney Skinny is about leaving all pretences behind, kickstarting a new and exciting chapter in life and focusing on the things that unite us and make life worth living.”

media_camera Some of the women taking part in the nude swimming event at Cobblers Beach, Middle Head. Picture: Adam Ward

media_camera There were a record number of bottoms on show. Picture: Adam Ward

media_camera Many came with a strong message to tell. Picture: AAP.

media_camera Taking photographs was a tricky business. Picture: Adam Ward

media_camera And Layen Beachley was there. Picture: AAP

Presented by Nudie Foods, the nude swimming event encourages participants to practice gratitude, adopt a healthy body image and support those around them. The organisers say many participants use it as a line in the sand each year to introduce positive change into their lives.

The Sydney Skinny event raises money for a number of Australian charities and causes, including event partner Charlie Teo’s Cure Brain Cancer Foundation and the Foundation of National Parks and Wildlife.