Did you know that the Spanish mainland has 300 nudist beaches dedicated for the use of naturists? Nudism is legal throughout Spain (except Barcelona), the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, so no need to feel shy!
Costa Natura Nudist Resort, Estepona, Costa del Sol
Proving that Spain can do naturism just as well as the French, the country also offers dedicated resorts where clothes are superfluous. The Costa Natura Resort opened in 1979 and is just south of the city of Estepona in the popular Costa del Sol region. The dedicated Andalucian village is made up of little houses nestled together in exotic gardens overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The resort is located on a public naturist beach and offers facilities such as al-fresco dining as well as sports such as volleyball, yoga and table tennis.
Faro de Trafalgar, Cadiz, Costa de la Luz
The most southern coast is also known as Costa de la Luz, aka The Coast of the Light, and fronts the tempestuous Atlantic coast of Andalucia. The city of Cadiz itself is thought to be the oldest settlement in Europe and offers much in the way of cultural heritage as well as sublime beaches. And amongst these is the Faro de Trafalgar beach which is dedicated to nudists. The waters and breeze can be pretty fierce so a windbreak is recommended. Other naturist beaches in the Costa de la Luz include Bolonia in El Chorrito and the idyllic Zahara de los Atunes, backed by sand dunes and pine forests.
Playa de la Mar Bella, Barcelona
Most travellers already know that Barcelona has endless culture, superb architecture and world class dining. But did you know that the seaside city of Barcelona is actually clamping down on public nudity? It’s best to keep your naked activities to one of the especially designated beaches to avoid a potential fine. And the best pick of the nudist beaches along this stretch of coast, is the Playa de la Mar Bella which is actually just 2 kilometers away from Barcelona’s Main Square. Head along the main Barceloneta beach and the designated naturist section is located behind the sand dunes. Other popular spots include the Playa de las Rocas beach which is dotted with secret coves and the Playa de Sant Sebastià (Barceloneta) beach which is also popular with surfers.
Puerto Cabopino, Marbella, Costa del Sol
The popular cosmopolitan beach resort of Marbella emerged from a traditional fisherman’s village. Today it offers plenty of activities such as golf, horse racing and parasailing. In addition it also boasts several naturist-friendly beaches such as the Cabopino, which is also known locally as Atol beach. Actually located between Marbella and Fuengirola, the beach takes its name from the local pine forests which line the beach. There is a specially designated naturist area close to the sand dunes. Other clothing-optional beaches along the Costa del Sol include Benalnatura near Benalmádena and Gaudalmar beach which is just a few minutes away from Malaga.
El Torn Beach, Tarragona, Catalonia
In southern Catalonia is the city of Tarragona, which is home to Roman history, winding medial streets and one of the most popular naturist beaches in the country. It also happens to be one of largest naturist beaches in Europe and is usually pretty quiet all year round as it’s fairly isolated. Facilities are fairly limited but there are toilets and sunbed rentals along the beach which stretches for around 1.4 kilometers.
Platja Balmins, Sitges, Costa Dorada
The Mediterranean town of Sitges is best known for its International Film Festival and Carnival which is held annually. The town was popularised during the 19th century when wealthy merchants built their lavish mansions here. Today Sitges is considered the gay capital of Spain and its annual programme of lively and colourful festivals reflect that. Many of the beaches are also gay and nudist friendly, such as the Cala del Home Mort (Dead Man’s Beach) and the mixed nudist beach of Platja Balmins which is between the port of Aiguadolç and Sant Sebastià.
Cantarriján Beach, Granada, Costa Tropical
In the south of Spain is the diverse Costa Tropical (no, me neither) where it’s said that travellers can hike the snow-capped mountains in the morning, then swim and laze on the pristine beaches beside the Med in the afternoon! The two shingle bays within Cantarriján Beach are secluded and protected by cliffs and is reached via a steep track. The first bay has two restaurants and a few facilities, whereas the second is much quieter. Other clothing-optional beaches in the Costa Tropical include the Playa el Muerto (beach of the dead) at Almuñecar and Negratín Reservoir, which is one of the few landlocked naturist sites!
Image Credit; Aitor Méndez from Spain
