FAQ

As naturism is about removing your clothes, it is one of the cheapest pursuits there is. However, there is one essential accessory – and that is a towel. If you are socialising with others, it is the done thing to  carry a towel with you and use it to sit on, in the interests of hygiene. Other accessories are just a matter of common sense – for instance, if you’re traveling to a remote beach that requires a bit of a walk, bring some sensible footwear and water, and if you’re going on a naked walk on a beach or in the bush, always take a pair of shorts or a sarong to cover up with if you see someone approaching. And if it’s hot and sunny, then an appropriate sunscreen is a must. Just because  you’re a naturist doesn’t mean you have to be a sun-worshipper all of  the time. Stay sensible and safe. There is nothing harmful, shameful or embarrassing about the naked body.

Naturism is a lifestyle of non-sexual social nudity, and the cultural movement which advocates for and defends that lifestyle. Both may also be referred to as nudism. Though the two terms are largely interchangeable, nudism emphasizes the practice of nudity, whereas naturism highlights an attitude favoring harmony with nature and respect for the environment, into which that practice is integrated. That said, naturists come from a range of philosophical and cultural backgrounds; there is no single naturist ideology.

Ethical or philosophical nudism has a long history, with many advocates of the benefits of enjoying nature without clothing. At the turn of the 20th century, organizations emerged to promote social nudity and to establish private campgrounds and resorts for that purpose. Since the 1960s, with the acceptance of public places for clothing-optional recreation, individuals who do not identify themselves as naturists or nudists have been able to casually participate in nude activities. Nude recreation opportunities vary widely around the world, from isolated places known mainly to locals to officially-designated nude beaches and parks. 

What is naturism?

In essence, naturism is a lifestyle enjoyed without clothing. But it can get a little more complex, as naturism means different things to  different people. There are some people who like to go nude 24/7, or as much as possible, whatever the weather. Some like to be social, some are more solitary. For most naturists in Australia, going without clothes is something that is enjoyed when it is appropriate and natural to do so, be that around the house, in a secluded garden, on a naturist beach, or at a naturist club, spa or resort. For many naturists, going nude is  accompanied by a greater attention to healthy living and being in harmony with the natural environment. The bottom line (pun intended!) though, is that being without clothing can be a liberating experience, and there is nothing harmful, shameful or embarrassing about the naked  body.

But what if I am self-conscious about my body?

Once you are among like-minded company (for example, at a naturist  club or on a naturist beach), you will soon find that, although we are  all different, we are all the same too in that very few of us are  perfect. Lumps, bumps, wrinkles and scars are what make us normal human  beings, and naturism is all about body acceptance. Far from feeling  self-conscious, if you join in you will almost certainly forget your hang-ups in no time. In fact, if you’re the only one who’s dressed, you  may feel even more left out. Young, old, fat, thin – it really doesn’t  matter. However, if going naked among friends makes you think more about  how you could look and feel healthier, then this too is a good thing –  but it must be for yourself, and not to please others.

Do I have to strip off?

No-one should ever force you to do anything you don’t want to do, and  most naturist venues have a relaxed attitude towards first-timers and  let them go at their own pace. Venues that describe themselves as  ‘clothing-optional’ are generally recommended for first-timers as they  don’t insist on people being naked all the time. The only place where you are very likely to be told to be naked is in the swimming pool – cossies are a real naturist no-no!

Where can I go?

You can start with your own home. If you like the idea of going  naked, then (if it’s warm enough) try walking around the house nude and  getting comfortable in your own skin. Get used to looking at yourself in  the mirror, even if you’re not happy with your body. It’s your body,  and it’s the only one you’ve got – learn to love it for what it is. Once  you feel ready to join others, there are a host of places in Australia, for starters see our Nudist location map for a comprehensive listing. There are beaches all around the Australian coast where naturism is officially sanctioned and plenty of secluded beaches where it isn't.  There are also scores of naturist clubs around the country, so there’s bound to be one near you. They will have a range of facilities and activities to enjoy as nature intended, and you should receive a warm welcome, as naturists are a friendly, social bunch in general. The Queensland Naturist Association also organises a range of annual events for you to meet others and get involved in the QLD Naturist scene.
 

Do I need any essential accessories?

As naturism is about removing your clothes, it is one of the cheapest  pursuits there is. However, there is one essential accessory – and that  is a towel. If you are socialising with others, it is the done thing to  carry a towel with you and use it to sit on, in the interests of  hygiene. Other accessories are just a matter of common sense – for  instance, if you’re travelling to a remote beach that requires a bit of a  walk, bring some sensible footwear, and if you’re going on a naked walk on a beach or in the bush, always take a pair of shorts  or a sarong to cover up with if you see someone approaching. And if it’s  hot and sunny, then an appropriate sun lotion is a must. Just because you’re a naturist doesn’t mean you have to be a sun-worshipper all of the time. Stay sensible and safe.

I’m a man… will I get an erection, and what will happen if I do?

This is very frequently asked question, to which the answer is  usually: it’s very unlikely to happen. Contrary to popular opinion,  nudity in its simple state is not sexual, and naturist clubs are not sexualised environments. The diversity of young, old, fat, thin should mean that sex is the last thing on your mind. If you’re nervous or stimulated and it does happen, the best thing to do is to  cover yourself with a towel, roll over on to your front until it subsides, or take a dip in the pool. The worst thing you can do is walk around parading it. This is likely to see you get chucked out of your club.

What if it’s my time of the month?

Don’t worry at all – it’s perfectly normal for women to wear bikini bottoms or sarongs if they’re on their period, and everyone will  understand and not think twice about it. You won’t be asked to remove them.

Can I take pictures of my friends?

Be very careful when you get your camera out. Venues might have  strict rules on photography, as obviously people may be sensitive about pictures of them naked appearing where they don’t want them. Make sure you know the club’s policy on cameras before you start snapping away.  Make sure you have the express permission of people you are taking  photographs of (if you’re a professional photographer, ask them to sign a  model release form), and try your best not to get anyone else in the  background in the shot. If you’re on a beach, again, exercise caution.  By all means, take photos of you and your friends, but don’t point the camera indiscriminately, and especially not if there are children  around.

Can I take my children?

Of course! Children benefit greatly from a relaxed attitude to nudity  from an early age. If they are taught that the naked body is something  to be hidden from others, this can lead to severe hang-ups about body  image in later life. Lead by example and show them that there is nothing  wrong at all by being naked. If they catch sight of you coming out of  the bathroom, don’t shriek and grab a towel! Just act naturally around your children. Many clubs in the Australia have family-friendly facilities –  and, quite simply, families are vital for many clubs continued success,  and for the health of naturism as a lifestyle. Your children are safe within naturist clubs.

What will other people (my friends and family, for example) think if I tell them I’m a naturist?

Well, here is your opportunity to tell them, and dispel any myths!  They will only think it’s weird and wrong if they are misinformed, and you as a naturist have a great chance to put them right about what the lifestyle really is all about. You could direct them to websites such as this one  which promote a healthy, non-sexual approach to nudity. You really would be helping the movement progress. It is understandable though, that some naturists choose not to tell others  about their lifestyle. We do sadly still live in an age where the mention of nudity sends some people into a fit of the vapours, and people in some child-centered professions such as teaching choose to keep  their naturism secret as it might lead to more trouble than it’s worth.  This is sad, as naturists have nothing whatsoever to hide, and there is  nothing shameful or wrong about nudity. We would always advise openness and honesty wherever possible – because if you are secretive, it looks like you do have something to hide, which is not the right impression.

If you have any questions or would like to find out more, please don't hesitate to message us.