THE sound of waves crashing into the sand, the fresh ocean breeze in our hair and the warmth of the sun on our skin... we all feel overtaken by the sensations of happiness when being at the beach and connected to nature.
For some people, this happiness of being in nature also includes stripping off to enjoy it in our natural state: naked!
But which beaches are the highest rated in the world? In the spirit of feeling free, OnBuy sought to find out by analysing Google review data.
The top 10 high-rated nudist beaches in Europe
Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain, 4.8 stars
This hidden gem in the Island of Formentera has been crowned the top nudist beach, being awarded an impressive 4.8 stars from the public. The crystal-clear waters and fine white sand will make you feel like you're in paradise! It’s no wonder 2,500 people worldwide search for this beach every month on Google!
Close to the party island of Ibiza, the only way to reach this beach is by ferry, bus or cab - making it even more special! Ses Illetes is a quiet destination and perfect for those who want to enjoy summer with their swimsuits off.
Knoll Beach, Dorset, England, 4.7 stars
Next up is Knoll Beach, found north of Studland Bay in Dorset, England, with a 4.7-star rating. The beach, which has been officially labelled as a 'naturist beach' by the National Trust, is one of the UK’s most popular naturist beaches spanning 900m of the Dorset coastline. In fact, we found that 800 people search for this beach per month in the UK alone.
Knoll might not be the biggest naturist beach you will find, the coast is enough to make naturists welcome, with a dedicated gay section and local naturist B&B if you feel like being au naturel for more than just a few hours.
Valalta Beach, Croatia, 4.6 stars
Croatia’s Valalta Beach, based in southeast Europe, with 4.6 stars! This beach is heaven for naturist lovers from all over the world.
Whilst the crystal blue sea is breath-taking, it's the soft sand (rarely found in Croatia) that makes this beach so special.
If you're looking for a family atmosphere, Valalta is the best naturist destination for you with a family-orientated campsite nearby.
Playa de Los Muertos, Lavante, Spain, 4.6 stars
Playa de Los Muertos – also known as Deadman’s Beach or Beach of the Dead – in southern Spain is also awarded 4.6 stars of out a possible five. The beach's mysterious name comes from the legend that pirates killed the crew of a transport ship, killing all on board and leaving the beach covered in bodies.
But, despite the name and haunting story, the beach is far from scary.
This heavenly spot is filled with volcanic cliffs and small lakes formed by rocks, so if you’re looking to flee the hustle and bustle and cast aside your swimsuit, this spot is perfect.
Steeped in bundles of history and picture-perfect views, it’s unsurprising that this beach is searched on Google 25,000 every month worldwide!
Praia das Adegas, Aljezur, Portugal, 4.6 stars
Adegas Beach is one of the few official nudist beaches in Portugal, stretching approximately 200 metres, also receiving a respectable 4.6 stars on Google. This small beach is part of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park on the Western coast of the Algarve and described as “an unspoilt paradise in the Algarve West Coast”.
Adegas is in a small cover with magnificent waters and dramatic cliffs that invite you to discover the wild and rugged nature of the Portuguese coastline. If you're lucky enough to be there at low tide, it's possible to walk around the cliffs and admire unique landscapes in your birthday suit!
Calette di Porto Ferro, Sardinia, Italy, 4.5 stars
Next on our top 10 nudist beaches in Europe list is Calette di Porto Ferro, the first official nudist beach of Sardinia, with a 4.5-star rating.
This rare find on the coast of Sardinia is beautiful. From the picture-perfect transparent sea, to the unique range of yellow and orange hues on the beach floor – this beach is definitely a must visit if you’re looking for a natural spot to be fully nude!
Gigaro Beach, Saint Tropez, France, 4.5 stars
Saint Tropez on the French Riviera hosts many naturist beaches, both loved by locals and naturist tourists alike.
Gigaro Beach is no exception, with a Google rating of 4 and a half stars overall.
Although just 10 minutes from Saint Tropez, this beach is the best hidden spot to get in the nude, soak up the sun and those stunning views out onto the Mediterranean coast.
If you stay long enough, you’ll enjoy an amazing sunset in the evening too.
Little Banana Beach, Skiathos, Greece, 4.5 stars
Also awarded 4.5 stars is Little Banana Beach, situated on the west coast of Skiathos in Greece – not to be confused with Big Banana Beach down the road.
Both beaches are well-known for the calm blue waters and soft golden sand, but Little Banana is Skiathos' official nudist beach.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind and soak up the sea air, whilst getting an 'all over' tan in luxury sunbeds and sun loungers, Little Banana should be on your holiday list!
Buhne 16, Sylt, Germany, 4.2 stars
Buhne beach in Germany is next on the list, with an overall rating of 4.2 stars from beachgoers.
Who would have guessed that the North Sea Island of Sylt would be a naturist paradise?
Wearing clothes on the beaches of this island is optional, but there's something about Buhne 16 that attracts naturist tourists and locals more than others.
Despite the chilly weather during summer, this secluded beach is perfect to watch the sunset on the German coast.
Bredene Beach, Bredene, Belgium, 4.2 stars
Closing the top 10 most highly rated nudist beaches on Google is Bredene Beach, the only nudist beach found on the Belgian coast.
It’s the perfect spot for people who love nature - and want to enjoy a naked de-stress.
With 2.5 miles of dunes, stunning blue water, golden sand and 4.2 stars on Google, this unexpected gem is a spectacle every nudist should experience in their lifetime.
After seeing so many natural wonders you might feel inspired to give nude sunbathing a go.
But don't forget to pack your sunscreen (of course) and a towel – some nudist beaches require you use a towel to sit on public chairs.
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