By Jorge Coromina Sánchez
Perhaps the best way to express personal freedom at its finest is through total and uninterrupted nudity. It is true that there are not many places where one can walk "naturally", but there are several beaches around the world, and in the Caribbean there are some of the best.
It should be borne in mind -and this is important- that nudist beaches are very abundant in most of the Dutch and French islands, such as Saint Barthelemy and Saint Martin, while the British ones are a little more reserved. Now, if what you are looking for is a beach where you can walk as God brought you into the world, this selection from Caribbean News Digital can meet your expectations.
Hawksbill Bay (Antigua)
Hawksbill Bay is the only nude beach on the island of Antigua. It is shaped like a half moon and is divided into several sections, one of which is reserved for sunbathing in the nude. You won't find any kind of amenities, just incredible tranquility and stunning scenery overlooking the surprisingly clear aquamarine sea.
Orient Beach (Saint Martin)
Located in the French part of Saint Martin, Orient Beach sits on a spectacular stretch of the southern coast. The Bikini Beach Bar and the Kontiki are especially popular. Its three kilometers of crystalline white sand are protected from the waves by a reef, making it ideal for snorkelling and swimming.
Zipolite Beach (Oaxaca, Mexico)
Zipolite Beach, in Oaxaca, is the only public nudist beach in Mexico and one of the best in the world. It offers the ultimate secluded paradise for naked sunbathing, safe from judgment or prying eyes. Everyone walks freely naked here and there is also a nude hotel, aptly named Hotel Nude.
Seven Mile Beach (Negril, Jamaica)
Negril is known for its fun and laid-back lifestyle, and topless sunbathing is common here, even on Seven Mile, one of Jamaica's most famous beaches. If you want to be totally naked, it is best to head to one of the establishments with a private beach strip, such as the Grand Lido Negril, which has its own nude beach, as well as a secluded natural pool.
Grande Saline Beach (San Bartolomé)
Grande Saline is at the southern tip of St. Barth and is especially popular with European travelers. Naked sunbathing and body surfing are the norms here, so there will be no "strange" looks. The beach is quiet and there are usually few people to share it with, although there are no facilities or shade, so bring an umbrella, a blanket or beach chairs, and plenty of sunscreen and drinks. The water is incredibly clear, like a natural pool.
Hidden Beach (Tulum, Mexico)
Located in the Tulum area, Hidden Beach is just 30 minutes south of Cancun and is part of the Couples-only Hidden Beach Resort, an “au naturel” resort ideal for foodies. It is a private and secluded stretch of sand of the property, with an upscale atmosphere and first-class restaurants. There are also rooms with pools and balconies with sea views. Guests can freely walk around the complex naked.
Añasco Beach (Puerto Rico)
Although few, apart from the locals, know Añasco Beach, it is ideal for nudists visiting Puerto Rico. It is hidden near the town of Añasco, on the west side of the island, near Porta del Sol. It is a public beach that is divided, with the isolated north end, offering the possibility of naked sunbathing. The southern section requires the tourist to wear a bathing suit.
Pointe Tarare (Guadeloupe)
Narrow and hard to find, but popular, Pointe Tarare was the first legally open nude beach in the Western Hemisphere. Sunbathing here is almost a guarantee, as there is very little shade on this beach. Separated from many of its more popular and touristy areas, Pointe Tarare is among the most secluded places in Guadeloupe and is one of the best nude beaches in the Caribbean.
Anse du Gouverneur (Saint Bartholomew)
The most intrepid nudists may want to go to the Anse du Gouverneur, which is difficult to access. Its isolated location also offers beautiful and wonderful views of the neighboring islands of San Cristóbal, Saba and San Eustaquio. There is free parking, but it will be difficult to find restaurants, restrooms or many other services.
Las Suecas Beach (Panama)
In the heart of Contadora Island, in Panama, Las Suecas beach is located, a true paradise for naturism and nudism in the Central American country. While the island has five beaches in total, only Las Suecas is nudist in nature. Canadian, French and German are its most acclaimed visitors.