This iconic Northern California beach (not to be confused with Pirate’s Cove Beach in Southern California's Malibu) can only be accessed by a one-and-a-half-mile hike beginning at nearby Muir Beach. The coastal trail climbs and summits along an incredible cliffside, providing views almost as impressive as the beach itself. Pirates Cove Beach is a small and secluded rocky cove that follows a steep descent – it truly is the "pirate's booty" of Northern California, as its views and environment are absolute treasures. On a clear day, stunning panoramas of San Francisco make for an energetic beach day, while on foggier ones the sounds of the foghorns and the ocean provide a sleepy vibe.
Restrooms and picnic tables line the beginning of the trail but the beach itself has no facilities, so stock up on bounty before heading to Pirates Cove Beach!
Read More...Baker Beach is a picturesque public beach in San Francisco, California, located at the foot of rugged serpentine cliffs west of the Golden Gate Bridge. It offers stunning views of the bridge, the Marin Headlands, and the Pacific Ocean. The beach is about a mile long and is known for its sandy shoreline and strong waves, making it more suitable for sunbathing and picnicking than swimming due to powerful currents and riptides. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially on warm days and weekends. The northern end of the beach is frequented by clothing-optional sunbathers, while the rest of the beach is family-friendly and dog-friendly, as long as dogs are on a leash. The beach provides amenities like picnic tables, grills, and restrooms, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities and relaxation. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Battery Chamberlin, which features a historic 'disappearing gun,' and enjoy hiking trails like the California Coastal Trail. Baker Beach is accessible by car, bike, bus, or the Presidio GO Shuttle, with free parking available at two lots. However, parking can fill up quickly on busy days.
Read More...Secret Cove Beach is a secluded gem located on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, offering a tranquil and picturesque beach experience. The beach is about a quarter-mile long with soft white sand, perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The beach is also recognized as a clothing-optional site, providing a unique experience for those seeking a liberating sunbathing and swimming environment. Visitors can explore nearby hiking trails or take a boat tour around Lake Tahoe for additional adventure. The beach has limited amenities, so planning ahead is essential. The journey to Secret Cove involves a 3/4-mile walk from designated parking lots or a more adventurous trek from the south side of Highway 28. Along the way, you may encounter vibrant wildflowers and native wildlife, adding to the charm of the journey. Upon reaching the beach, the reward is the sun-kissed shoreline and the sense of accomplishment and connection with nature. Secret Cove Beach is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its unique features and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Lake Tahoe.
Read More...Jacob Riis Park is a vibrant seaside destination located on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, New York. It offers a mile-long stretch of oceanfront beach, historic Art Deco structures, and a diverse cultural scene. The park has been a popular spot for the LGBT community since the 1940s, particularly at the eastern end of the beach. It features a boardwalk, picnic areas, and various recreational facilities, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The park's history dates back to 1914 when it was named after Jacob Riis, a renowned social reformer. Over the years, it has undergone significant transformations, including its transfer to the National Park Service in 1974. Today, Jacob Riis Park is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and continues to be a beloved public space. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water activities, while also exploring the nearby attractions like the Marine Parkway–Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge and Fort Tilden.
Read More...UFO Beach, located on South Padre Island, Texas, is a secluded and popular spot known for its clothing-optional sunbathing and lively atmosphere. It got its name from an emergency evacuation pod resembling a small spaceship that washed up on the shore. The beach offers soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. However, it lacks basic amenities like restrooms or showers, making it more suited for those seeking a natural, unstructured beach experience. During spring break, it becomes a hotspot for college students and partygoers. Despite its remote location, UFO Beach is accessible by four-wheel drive or a hike along the beach. The beach's unique feature is its association with a lifeboat pod that has become a piece of environmental art over time. Visitors often decorate it with colorful items and messages. The area is also known for its bird-rich environment, making it a great spot for birdwatchers. While it is not officially recognized as a nude beach, nudity has been a common practice here for years, attracting those interested in naturism. However, visitors should be aware of potential patrols and the need to cover up when necessary.
Read More...St. George Island Beach in Piney Point, Maryland, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its stunning waterfront views and soft, white sand that stretches for about two miles. Located in St. Mary's County, this beach offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Potomac River and explore nearby attractions such as the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum & Historic Park. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife and marine life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The beach is ideal for family outings, with its calm waters and accessible amenities. It's a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. The surrounding area offers a mix of historical sites and natural landscapes, providing something for everyone. St. George Island itself is a beautiful community with waterfront homes and easy access to water activities, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Read More...Moshup Beach, also known as Aquinnah Public Beach, is located on the northwest coast of Martha's Vineyard, beneath the stunning Gay Head Cliffs. This beach offers a serene and less crowded experience compared to other island beaches. It is part of the Aquinnah Headlands Preserve and features fine white sands and smooth rocks along the shoreline of the outer Vineyard Sound. The beach is known for its large waves, making it ideal for activities like body-surfing and boogie-boarding. On calmer days, it's a great spot for fishing and enjoying the scenic views. The area around Moshup Beach is rich in natural beauty and history, with the cliffs displaying vibrant colors from ancient sandstones and clays. Visitors can explore over a mile of coastline, though some areas are restricted to protect the environment. The beach's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal experience.
Read More...We’ve all heard of Miami’s South Beach. Featured heavily in iconic films such as Scarface, Miami Vice, Baywatch, Goldfinger, and Ride Along, it’s one of the world’s most famed and instantly recognizable beaches. With its iconic Ocean Drive, renowned restaurants, luxury shopping, opulent hotels and resorts, and bustling nightclubs, South Beach is possibly the world’s most popular beach destination. Additionally, Miami Beach – South was named theBest Beach in the Top 50 Beaches in the United States list in 2022 by Randall Kaplan, the world's foremost beach expert who is known as "Mr. Beach.”
When you arrive at South Beach, you’ll immediately notice the beach’s incredible views. From the sand, beachgoers marvel at Miami Beach’s skyline. With its art-deco architecture, dramatic modern high-rises, and sky-scraping palm trees, the skyline is arguably South Florida’s most iconic sight.
Once you walk onto South Beach’s glistening golden sand, you’ll see that South Beach is more than just a tourist destination. It’s a naturally stunning beach in its own right. With vibrant turquoise water and glistening golden, it’s the perfect place to lounge and enjoy nature while just steps from the big city. While you’re there, be sure to catch South Beach’s vibrant sunsets, which peak at around 7 pm.
San Gregorio State Beach is an especially expansive beach that is rich with beauty. Take some time for yourself and indulge in the beach’s stunning views, rolling waves, and peaceful ambiance. Even at the beach’s busiest times, you’ll feel almost alone if you walk far enough from the parking lot – bring an umbrella and relax on the smooth sand in complete serenity. San Gregorio is the best location for nature and wildlife viewing; the stunning panorama of the beach includes miles of fine sand, high sea bluffs, and interesting caves. If relaxing on the beach with salt in your hair and sun on your skin seems a bit to slow for you, take on the waves of San Gregorio. Several colorful kites decorate the coastline, as kitesurfing is quite popular here. The beach is especially beautiful because of the pathways along its sandstone cliffs. There are caves and fossils to explore at the northern end – an exciting and unique feature of San Gregorio. Overall, this beach is one that will satisfy both your desire for relaxation and thirst for adventure – the best of both worlds!
Read More...Santa Rosa Beach, located along Florida's Emerald Coast, is South Walton's oldest and largest neighborhood, stretching from Choctawhatchee Bay to the Gulf of Mexico[1]. Known for its sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, this unincorporated community offers a tranquil coastal vibe with a blend of natural preserves and charming local culture[4]. Visitors praise its laid-back atmosphere, unspoiled beauty, and family-friendly appeal, making it a prime destination for relaxation and outdoor adventures[3][5].The area's expansive coastline provides ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, while nearby towns like Gulf Place add art galleries, boutique shopping, and dining options to the experience[1][5]. Its proximity to Grayton Beach State Park enhances its eco-tourism appeal, offering hiking trails and coastal dune lakes unique to this region[5].
Read More...Collins Beach is a unique and popular destination located on the Columbia River side of Sauvie Island, just north of Portland, Oregon. It is known for its clothing-optional area, which has been a part of its culture since the 1970s. The beach stretches for about a mile and offers soft, white sand, making it a favorite among sunbathers and beach enthusiasts. Surrounded by a vast wildlife area, Collins Beach provides opportunities for activities like swimming, fishing, and windsurfing. However, it lacks amenities such as restrooms and lifeguards, so visitors should plan accordingly. The beach is part of a larger natural reserve, offering a serene and natural environment. Its proximity to Portland makes it an accessible day-trip destination for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. The beach also features a mysterious, abandoned sailboat, often referred to as a 'spaceship,' which adds to its allure and mystique. Overall, Collins Beach offers a liberating and scenic experience, combining natural beauty with a relaxed atmosphere.
Read More...Hippie Hollow Park is a unique and iconic destination located on the shores of Lake Travis in Austin, Texas. It is renowned for being the only clothing-optional public park in Texas, offering a liberating experience for adults aged 18 and over. The park spans 109 acres, providing ample space for long walks, sunbathing, and swimming. Despite its natural beauty, it lacks traditional sandy beaches, instead featuring rocky shores and shade trees that offer respite from the sun. The park's history dates back to the 1960s, when it became a popular spot for skinny-dipping, earning its nickname 'Hippie Hollow.' Today, it remains a quintessential Austin experience, reflecting the city's liberal and welcoming vibe.Hippie Hollow is not just a beach but a cultural landmark. It hosts events like Splash Day on Memorial Day and Labor Day, which draw large crowds. The park is well-maintained, with paved paths and clean restrooms, making it accessible and enjoyable for visitors. However, it lacks lifeguards, so swimming is at one's own risk. The water temperature is comfortable from May to October, making it ideal for swimming and water activities during these months.Visitors to Hippie Hollow can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and scuba diving. The park is also home to protected wildlife, such as the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Black-capped Vireo, adding to its ecological significance. Overall, Hippie Hollow offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring Austin's more unconventional attractions.
Read More...Little Beach, located in Makena State Park on Maui's southern shore, is a picturesque and secluded gem known for its golden sand, turquoise waters, and striking lava rock formations. It is renowned for its clothing-optional policy and serene atmosphere, attracting those seeking a unique and liberating experience away from crowded shores. The beach offers a tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, with gentle waves perfect for boogie boarding. On Sunday evenings, the beach comes alive with drum circles and fire dancers, creating a vibrant atmosphere that's a must-see for visitors seeking a bohemian vibe. The beach's history is deeply connected to the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s, attracting free-spirited individuals who sought a life closer to nature. Its proximity to Big Beach and the Pu'u Ola'i cinder cone adds to its natural beauty and appeal. Visitors can access Little Beach by hiking a short trail from the north end of Big Beach, making it an off-the-beaten-path destination for those looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas.
Read More...Kauapea Beach, also known as Secret Beach, is a large, secluded beach located in Kilauea on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. It is characterized by its turquoise water and is backed by a cliff. The beach is accessible via a steep, unmarked trail and features a waterfall and tidal lagoons, adding to its unique charm and natural beauty. It offers a serene escape from busy tourist areas and is popular among those seeking tranquility and stunning natural vistas.Kauapea Beach is a haven for nature lovers and photographers, given its picturesque landscape and secluded setting. Its seclusion makes it less crowded compared to other beaches, providing an intimate and peaceful experience for visitors. However, the rugged terrain and lack of direct road access mean that visitors need to be prepared for a short hike to reach the beach.Despite its challenges, the allure of this secret gem attracts adventurers and those in search of a more secluded beach experience.
Read More...Located in the small town of Muir Beach, Muir Beach is a quiet beach that is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Redwood Creek forms some wetlands, wetlands, and a lagoon near Muir Beach that is home to several shorebirds, amphibians, salmon, monarch butterflies, and water-loving plants.
Located to the north of Trinidad, College Cove - also known as College Cove Beach - is a secluded beach with brown sand and interesting rock formations. This beach is situated below forested oceanfront bluffs and is the northern part of a larger state-protected beach named Trinidad State Beach. A large offshore rock formation named the Pewetole Island is present near this beach. In addition, there is a rocky archway near this beach named "The Portal" which separates College Cove Beach from the main portion of Trinidad State Beach. During rainy weather, a waterfall named "College Cove Falls" can also be seen near this beach. As an interesting fact, portions of the 2001 Jim Carrey film The Majestic were shot on this beach. College Cove does not have lifeguards. However, the area around this beach has picnic tables and restrooms. Dogs on leash are allowed on the beach.
Located to the north of the village of Surfside, Haulover Beach - also known as Haulover Park Beach - is an immensely popular and large white-sand beach. This one-and-a-half-mile long beach is situated adjacent to a park named Haulover Park and Haulover Beach Park.
Located on a peninsula named Sandy Hook, Gunnison Beach – also called Beach G – is a large two-mile-long beach with light brown sand. This beach is a part of a national recreation area named Gateway National Recreation Area that is 27,000 acres in size. The southern portion of this beach is popular with the LGBTQ+ community and it is often used as a nude beach since the late 1970s and the early 1980s. Gunnison Beach is very popular and was named as one of the “8 Best Nudist Beaches Across the U.S.” by the digital media company Travel Noire. It was also listed as one of “20 Best Beaches in New Jersey'' by the New Jersey Monthly magazine, and is a favorite of Randall Kaplan, the world’s foremost beach expert who is known as Mr. Beach.
Gunnison Beach hours between 6 am to 9 pm.
Located on a Massachusettsan island named Martha’s Vineyard, Lucy Vincent Beach - also known as Lucinda Vincent Memorial Beach and previously known as Jungle Beach, Blue Mailbox Beach, and Barn House Beach - is a popular beach with white sand, nearby beach grass, and a few rocky portions in the town of Chilmark. The beach is situated below steep oceanfront bluffs. The beach and the shoreline around it are known to have many unique large rock formations - these rock formations are known to be at least thousands of years old. One of the most prominent rock formations of the beach was a naturally-formed rocky spire - this spire was often the subject of many artworks and photographs by local artists and photographers. Unfortunately, this spire collapsed in 2020. Lucy Vincent Beach has been named the 34th Best Beach in the Top 50 Beaches in the United States list in 2022 by Randall Kaplan, the world’s foremost beach expert who is known as "Mr. Beach."
Located in the small town of Islamorada, Anne’s Beach is long and narrow beach situated at the center of the island city of Key West. The beach was named after a local environmentalist Anne Eaton and is filled with many locals. Anne’s Beach is surrounded by coconut trees, has beautiful beige-colored sand, and has shallow waters making it a perfect destination for swimming. Anne’s Beach is very popular among kiteboarders, jet skiers, sailors, and paddleboarders.
Located on the shores of Half
Moon Bay within the community of San Gregorio, San Gregorio Private Beach -
also known as San Gregorio Nude Beach - is a small beige sand beach. The beach is actually a smaller part of the
famous San
Gregorio State Beach, which is positioned on its northern end and is
separated by a bluff. It is important to
note that the beach itself is a public beach, whereas the area surrounding the
beach is private property. It has an
amazing backdrop of many grassy bluffs, cliffs, and sea caves, which together
provide spectacular views of the rugged coastline of Northern California,
especially during sunset. The beach is
managed by the California State Park
System, which protects its natural and cultural resources, so we
recommend abiding by park rules and regulations to preserve the environment.
Located to the north of the city of Montara, Gray Whale Nude Beach – also known as Edun Beach and Gray Whale North Beach – is a wide beach with golden sand that is situated below oceanfront bluffs. A large natural rock wall is also present on this beach. A peculiar structure named Devil’s Slide Bunker is present in the blufftop area above this beach. This structure is an old World War Two-era bunker that was installed for protection against coastal attacks.
Located near the southern end of the iconic and world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, Mile Rock Beach is a narrow and rocky beach that is situated along the eastern shoreline near the bluff-top Lands End park in the city of San Francisco. The beach is situated in a cove and is a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Mile Rock Beach is littered with logs, so we recommend being careful while walking here.
Located in the town of Stinson Beach, Red Rock Beach is a small, rocky, and remote beach that is a part of Mount Tamalpais State Park. Also known as Little Stinson, Mickey’s, and Redrock Beach – Red Rock Beach is a clothing-optional beach. Hot springs are the only amenity offered at Red Rock Beach.
Located in the southern part of Canaveral National Seashore, Playalinda Beach is a nude beach with pale cream sand on Florida’s eastern coast. Playalinda Beach is located in Canaveral National Seashore which has nearly 24 miles of beach – and which contains nearly 58,000 acres of barrier island, open lagoon, coastal hammock, pine flatwoods, and offshore waters.
Reader's Digest listed this nude beach as one of the best beaches in Florida, and Conde Nast Traveller magazine also listed it as one of the best beaches near Orlando. This Playalinda Nude Beach was listed as one of the best nude beaches in the world by the swimwear brand Pour Moi in 2023. This beach is usually open between 6 am and 8 pm.
More Mesa Beach, located along the Santa Barbara County shoreline, is a secluded, narrow beach with light brown sand. This serene spot lies beneath the blufftop More Mesa Open Space, an undeveloped natural area perfect for those seeking a quieter experience.
Located near the city of New Smyrna Beach, Apollo Beach is a large five miles-long east-facing beach with white sand. This beach is a part of a national seashore named Canaveral National Seashore. Apollo Beach was featured in The Daily Telegraph newspaper’s article “Find out-of-this-world beaches on Florida’s Space Coast.”
A part of this beach is popular with clothing optional visitors – this clothing optional portion is located near the southern end of the beach.
The beach is usually open between 6 am and 8 pm.
Coast Dairies State Park, including Bonny Doon Beach, is situated near Davenport, California, and is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and diverse beaches. The park's beaches are backed by rugged cliffs and offer a range of activities, including sunbathing and hiking. Bonny Doon Beach itself is a natural cove with unique rock formations and is known for being clothing-optional, particularly at its northern end. The beach is accessible via a short walk from a parking area off Highway 1, where Liddell Creek flows into the ocean. Bonny Doon Beach is part of a larger state park property that has been preserved to safeguard public access to the coastline, protecting around seven miles of shoreline and thousands of acres of coastal land. The park is managed as part of Wilder Ranch State Park. Visitors can explore the bluffs around Bonny Doon for hiking trails that connect to other local attractions like Panther Beach and Shark Fin Cove.
Read More...Kehena Black Sand Beach is a secluded and picturesque destination located in the Puna District of Hawaii's Big Island. Known for its dark, soft sand and clothing-optional policy, it offers a unique and alternative atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic lava rock walls, providing shade and a tropical feel. It's part of the iconic Red Road and is popular for its offbeat charm and stunning coastal views. The beach is not large, but it offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for sunbathing and swimming, despite the challenging shore break and rip currents. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant community vibe and participate in local gatherings like the weekly food and music event nearby. Kehena Beach is also close to other natural attractions, including lava fields and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural wonders.
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