If you’re on the lookout for the top beaches to get a full body tan (no tan lines!) and get that gorgeous summer glow, look no further! There are an abundance of opportunities for a nude vacation all over Europe.

When it comes to nudism and nudist beaches, there are some myths floating around that they aren’t the nicest of places. They might be dirty. They might be littered with all kinds of junk. They’re probably not as good as regular beaches… Or are they?

Where do these myths come from? Lots of people believe that the rumors about nudist locales being seedy places extend to the beaches themselves. And while they might be shrouded in an air of mystery, nudist beaches are far from inferior to regular “textile” beaches.

Actually, in many cases, they’re much cleaner, more beautiful and blissfully less crowded than their clothes-wearing counterparts. This is partly due to them being less frequented (on average) than textile beaches, and the increased awareness many naturists have on the environment.

Just because they aren’t rated top on Google or TripAdvisor (due to the nudist factor, sigh) doesn’t mean they’re anything less.

On the contrary, they’re arguably the best beaches around!

Let’s take a look at some of our top clothing-optional and nudist beaches in Europe.

Nude beaches in Spain

Los Castillejos, Los Caños de Meca

Spain is the obvious choice when it comes to choosing beaches. The sunshine, the laid-back Spanish atmosphere, and the miles and miles of stunning coastline are just a few reasons why. Oh – and the abundance of naturist hotspots and nude beaches.

An area that was once a popular hippie hangout, the sandy beaches of Los Castillejos, with their little coves, bays and hideaways are perfect for first-time nudists and seasoned nude beachgoers alike.

Grab your sandals and explore the long stretch of coastline, walking past giant rocks and caves to find secret little caverns hidden in the cliffs.

Scramble over the rocks to an area known as Las Cortinas at the far end of the beach. Here, you’ll be rewarded with the natural waterfalls gushing down the cliffside.

Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera

Situated a short boat ride away from the famous island of Ibiza lies the tiny island of Formentera, known for its crystal-clear azure waters and white sandy beaches.

There is an abundance of beautiful nudist and clothing-optional beaches for you to choose from on this magical island. However, Playa de Ses Illetes seems to be the most popular among nude beachgoers.

Is it because of the incredible blue waters? Is it because of the powdery white sand? Is it because of the breath-taking sunsets the beach offers?

Give it a visit and find out for yourself!

Nude Beaches in France

Cap d’Agde, Agde

Cap d’Agde is a famous French seaside resort in the south, on France’s Mediterranean coast. Although the name actually refers to the entire town, Cap d’Agde is used to refer to a specific section of beach in the Naturist Quarter of the French town.

And the title “Naturist Quarter” really speaks for itself! This part of town is filled with shops, restaurants, clubs and bars, all of which welcome nudists spilling over from the nearby beach. Make the most of going to the nudist beach by strolling around in the buff in this quarter and let your free nudist spirit soar.

The quaint and beautiful sandy beach is frequented by local and international nudists alike, so expect to see people from all across Europe here.

Plage de Tahiti, Saint-Tropez

Plage de Tahiti is a jaw-droppingly gorgeous nudist beach which looks like it could have been lifted from somewhere in the Caribbean and gently laid down on France’s warm Mediterranean shoreline.

This white sand turquoise water beach is known for its famous visitors, French and international celebrities alike. This is the place to go if you want the life-of-luxury atmosphere to engulf you as you sunbathe nude, sipping a fancy cocktail.

The glamorous cafés, restaurants and beach bars certainly draw in the crowd and create an air of laid-back luxury on the French Riviera. You’ll definitely not want to miss out on this nudist hotspot.

Nude Beaches in Italy

Porto Ferro Beach, Sardinia

Head to the northern end of this small, beautiful stretch of beach to find one of Sardinia’s best kept secrets.

The golden sand beach scattered with large rocks and spectacular scenery is sheltered from the wind and from curious eyes, meaning you can strip off in peace and without getting sandblasted.

Although the area is sheltered though, the nudist section of the beach might get a little busy in the summer. It’s a popular stop-off for nudist tours, so expect to have some company while sunbathing!

Do make sure you’re on the nudist part of the beach before stripping off though, as getting naked in non-designated areas could result in a hefty fine.

Spiaggia di Guvano, Corniglia

Behind the mountains and colorful landscape of Cinque Terre lies a little cove that’s a hidden gem for naturists and thrill seekers alike.

To get here though, you’ll need to either trespass through the old railway tunnel from Corniglia to Guvano or take the longer route through difficult terrain. Though it’s technically not allowed to enter through the tunnel – closed off by locals for safety purposes – people still do as it’s the easiest way to the beach.

Once you get to the hidden cove though, the journey – whichever you decide to choose – pays off completely. The gorgeous dark pebble beach is framed by tall cliffs, and what was once a chill hippie hangout in the 70s has now become a much-loved nudist hotspot for Italians.

Nude Beaches in Greece

Paradise Beach, Mykonos

Paradise Beach is one of the few beaches on the party island on Mykonos, is nudist and clothing-optional. If you’re looking for an upbeat party atmosphere, this is the place to go!

There’s a very good reason this clothing-optional hangout is called Paradise Beach. The soft sand, turquoise waters and straw umbrellas are a haven during the day, and party beach during the night, catering to young and old, early-birds and night owls.

Where you go along the beach really determines the amount of clothes the beachgoers wear, from fully clothed, topless or completely nude. If you’re uncomfortable being nude among clothed tourists, best to find a spot with other nude bathers.

Red Beach, Crete

On the island of Crete off the south coast of Greece you’ll find the picturesque Red Beach bordered by breath-taking crimson sandstone cliffs. The deep reds of the cliffs contrast dramatically with the clear blue of the sky, and the scenery all around.

This is one of Crete’s most photogenic and touristy spots during the high season though. Although the beach is clothing-optional, expect to see a lot of clothed tourists and photographers during peak season.

If the thought of being one of the few people in the buff on the beach doesn’t really appeal to you, make sure to visit this locale either early or late in the season, to ensure less tourists.

Regardless of this though, Red Beach is worth a visit for its stunning scenery alone!

Nude Beaches in Portugal

Ilha Deserta, Olhao (also known as Ihla da Barreta)

A 45-minute ferry ride away from Faro (15 minutes by speedboat), the so called “Deserted Island” is a refreshing escape from the crowds of tourists on the mainland. The island’s gorgeous and unspoiled nature offers visitors a piece of paradise on the Algarve.

The nudist section of the beach can be found on the western side of the island, around 30 minutes’ walk from where the ferry pulls in.

The island is home to 7km of beaches and uninhabited nature, with soft golden sand and clear, calm waters. Walk long enough and far enough along the sandy coastline and you’ll discover the beach really is deserted – your own private piece of paradise!

If you’re longing for some peace and quiet while sunbathing in the nude, this is the place to go. The island’s idyllic vibe – stemming from the lack of cars, inhabitants and buildings – is great for a day trip and for sunset watching too.

Just make sure you don’t miss the last ferry back to the mainland!

Praia de Adegas, Odeceixe

Another of Portugal’s seven official naturist beaches, Praia de Adegas is located in the Atlantic west coast of the Algarve region in southern Portugal. It is a beach largely unexplored and rarely frequented by tourists, making it perfect for a calm day nude at the beach.

If you want to experience nude beach life but are a little shy when there are hordes of other people and tourists around, this is the beach you’ll want to go to – and keep returning to!

The beach is a tranquil stretch of sands, dotted with rocks and boulders, and little coves for beachgoers who want to explore.

Nude Beaches in Turkey

Patara Beach, Patara

The soft sand, warm water and natural beauty of Patara Beach make it an ideal beach for just about anyone.

At 17km, this beach is the longest on the Turkish Riviera and is also a protected nesting site for Loggerhead sea turtles.

This means that the beach and waters are meticulously combed for glass and litter, and you might even be able to catch a glimpse of some baby turtles while swimming!

To reach the beach you’ll have to pay an admission fee equivalent to a couple of euros, but those staying for a longer period of time can get a 10-day beach pass. It’s also important to note that the beach is closed from sunset to 8.30am – for the sea turtles’ parties of course!

Nude Beaches in Germany

Ahlbeck Beach, Ahlbeck

On the island of Usedom on the Baltic coast lies Ahlbeck nudist beach. Often called Sunny Island, this Baltic sea spot is split between Germany and Poland, and has more sunlight on average than anywhere in the two countries put together.

With its laid-back atmosphere and soft sandy beach, it’s no surprise that it’s a popular nudist hotspot.

Just a short walk away you’ll come to the busy seaside resort complete with a pier, grand mansions and little shops and booths too!

Buhne 16, Kampen, Island of Sylt

Buhne 16 is known to be the oldest nudist beach in Germany. Despite there being a plethora of clothing-optional and nudist friendly beaches available in the country nowadays, locals and tourists still favor the historical significance of this beach.

The chilled out and tranquil atmosphere of Buhne 16, with its small dunes and striped deckchairs guarantees a great day out for nudists and clothing-optional beach lovers.

If you’re a shy nudist, this is a great beach to whip off your swimsuit and dive in to naked beach life, as nudism is not only tolerated at Buhne 16, but encouraged too. You might even find yourself out of place walking along the beach wearing clothes.

This beach is rated one of the top nudist beaches in the whole of Europe, and with its fantastic nudist atmosphere, golden sand and calm waters, it’s no surprise why.

Nude Beaches in Croatia

Valalta, Rovinj

As well as being a nudist beach, Valalta is located on a proper, fully-functioning nudist campsite. A so-called “blue-green Mediterranean oasis for naturists and nudists” to have fun and bare all in a like-minded community setting.

As well as having all the regular amenities you’d want at the beach – restaurant, deckchairs – Valalta boasts a range of facilities that you wouldn’t really find elsewhere at a nudist beach.

There’s a swim-up bar for you to relax and enjoy drinks by the pool, a brewery to taste the local beer, and a waterslide too. And of course, a lot of nudists!

Nude Beaches in Denmark

Bellevue Beach, Klampenborg

If you’re looking for something more up north, Denmark’s well-known Bellevue Beach is stunning picturesque haven with white sand, deep blue (although possibly slightly cold) waters.

About 10 minutes from Copenhagen right by the country’s famous coastal road Strandvejen, you’ll find this popular beach where young Danes come to sun their fair skin and locals sunbathing topless.

There are plenty of opportunities to play volleyball, with the nets strung up around the beach, and a modern style lifeguard tower designed by the famous architect Arne Jacobsen.

There’s our list of the 15 Best Nude Beaches in Europe! What do you think? Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you.