First Time Questions

What is the difference between a club and a clothing-optional beach?

Clothing-optional (or CO) beaches are public areas which have become nude through use by naturists. Clubs are private grounds which are owned either by individuals or by the members. They are private businesses.

Will I have to undress right away?

No. Naturists understand that you cannot shed years of socialization as soon as you arrive. Most clubs allow visitors to remain dressed at first. You may feel pressure to undress. That feeling is probably self-induced by the fact that you are the only fully dressed person within sight. Funny, isn't it, to be uncomfortable because you are dressed?

In most clubs, it is not appropriate to swim with a bathing suit. On naturist beaches, there is no expectation that you need to undress, since they are clothing- optional. If you are clothed and appear to be gawking you may be approached by others. Taking off your clothes helps allay suspicion.

Do I have to be nude all the time?

No. Naturists prefer to be nude but dress when appropriate. Clothes keep us warm in cold weather and protect us when doing dangerous work. We just don't believe that clothes exist to hide our bodies.

In private clubs, the rules vary on when dressing is appropriate. In some clubs, people are nude all the time. In others, you may find that people dress for dinner.

How do I act when talking to others?

It is often difficult for new people to know where to look. To a naturist, there is no difference between being dressed or nude. Try to act as you normally would.

It is OK to look. Out of curiosity you may initially look longer at others' genitals and breasts. Just don't stare. In time, you'll be less curious about these areas and concentrate again on the face and eyes.

Do I have to join something to visit?

Clothing-optional beaches are public and thus do not require membership. Most clubs will allow you two or three visits before you must decide to join. Members of one club are usually allowed to visit other clubs as many times as they want without joining, for an extra daily fee.

How do I find a club/beach?

There are many sources of information. Most naturist organizations, like the FCN, sell guides which list beaches and clubs. Different locations are often reviewed in the organization's magazine. There are travel agents which specialize in naturist travel. The Internet has also become a large resource of information for naturists.

For more information on finding a club or resort click below:

FCN list of Canadian Clubs | FCN list of Canadian Beaches

What if I meet someone I know?

They are there too, just as nude as you are. They are probably very comfortable with naturism, since they have probably been there before. They will probably be happy to see you. Just think, you have discovered a mutual interest!

Are single people welcome?

All CO beaches and most clubs welcome singles. However, many clubs try to maintain a balance between the sexes. Check ahead for a club's policy.

What should I take with me?

The same things you would take when going to the beach (except a bathing suit!): a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, two towels (one to sit on), a chair or mattress, something to read, and something to play with (volleyball, Frisbee, etc.). When visiting a club, you will probably need some money. On a CO beach, you may need water and food, since there may not be places to buy anything.