Believe it or not, the hottest trend in vacationing these days are clothing optional retreats, even in somewhat puritanical North America. Most of us may be squeamish at the thought of going au naturel in front of perfect strangers, but for those unmoved by modesty issues, there are quite a few reasonably priced options.
Contrary to popular belief, nudists are just regular people and not perverts who simply want to gawk at others in their birthday suits — and it also isn’t an open hotbed of sex and seduction. They are pretty much doing exactly what we do on a trip — swim, sunbathe and eat. The only difference is that the do it in the nude.
- Terra Cotta Inn & Spa: This Palm Springs, CA, spot is known for treating it’s guests well, and LA Magazine rated them highly for vacationing couples. The spa provides for reasonably priced treatments such as massages (1 hour is $80), facials and waxing. There’s not a heap of activities, as the the theme here is really about relaxation, but you do have access to the local Palm Springs golf, tennis and shopping.
- Hidden Beach Resort Au Naturel Club: Here’s an interesting twist on nude vacationing, not only do you get to hang out at the resort in Cancun — but you get to fly from Miami to Mexico on a nude flight. This all-inclusive adult resort is for singles or couples, and takes going natural to new heights. The site is very private, and it is rich in amenities. There is a pool with a lazy-river, disco and a restaurant that can all be enjoyed in the buff. A sister hotel is right next door, but you must wear clothing to visit.
- Cedar Creek Park: Nudism doesn’t just happen on beach resorts, and you can just as easily ski in the buff or camp in a beautiful mountain setting. South Carolina’s Cedar Creek offers the ability for the whole family to vacation together in a safe and fun setting. There are natural trails, miniature golf, swimming and year round social activities. It is also famous for Nudestock, an annual music festival in September.
- Cypress Cove Resort: This 300 acre spa and resort in Orlando has a beautiful lake and gives naturists the opportunity to stay in a cute, rustic villa apartment or rough it in a camper. You can indulge in a spa treatment - massages are $60 bucks for 50 minutes - or hit the gym. They offer online reservations, and kids are welcome. In fact, they provide a Weekend Kidsfest service that takes the little ones off your hands while you take in tennis or golf with your partner. There are also weekly planned events such as Oktoberfest and Vegas Night.