The State of Naturism & Nudism in Australia

Naturism and nudism have long been part of Australian culture, with thousands of Australians regularly embracing body freedom. But just how many people in Australia engage in naturist activities? The numbers may surprise you.

How Many Australians Participate in Naturism?

Based on estimates from various sources, the participation rates in naturism and nudism across Australia are as follows:

  • Regular naturists: Approximately 200,000 to 513,000 Australians engage in naturism on a consistent basis. This equates to around 1.9% of the population.

  • Occasional naturists: Roughly 3.4 million Australians (about 12.75% of the population) participate in naturist activities occasionally, whether at beaches, private resorts, or events.

Where Do These Numbers Come From?

Understanding the size of the Australian naturist community requires looking at various data sources and industry insights:

1. Surveys and Membership Data

Organisations like the Australian Naturist Federation (ANF) and local clubs offer membership data that provide a glimpse into the community. However, many naturists prefer independent participation without joining official groups, meaning the actual number of participants is likely far higher than formal memberships suggest.

2. Cultural Participation Trends

Australia has a thriving nudist culture, with clothing-optional beaches such as:

  • Maslin Beach (SA) – The first legal nude beach in Australia, attracting thousands annually.

  • Werrong Beach (NSW) – A remote and scenic naturist haven.

  • Cobblers Beach (NSW) – Popular for its proximity to Sydney and vibrant community.

Attendance at naturist events like the World Naked Bike Ride, Nude Olympics, and local nudist gatherings also supports the idea that many Australians engage in occasional nudist activities.

3. Lifestyle Data & Public Surveys

Studies and reports indicate a growing interest in body positivity, wellness, and alternative lifestyles, particularly among younger generations. Increasing numbers of Australians are exploring activities such as:

  • Nude hiking

  • Naturist yoga

  • Skinny-dipping and open-water swims

While there is limited official research, informal surveys conducted by publications like The Sydney Morning Herald and various naturist groups reflect a rising acceptance of naturism.

4. Global Naturist Federation Statistics

The International Naturist Federation (INF) regularly tracks global trends in naturism. Countries with progressive attitudes and abundant naturist-friendly spaces—such as Australia—show increasing participation in nude recreation. These trends align with Australia’s strong outdoor culture and openness to alternative lifestyles.

Where to Go: Official and Unofficial Clothing-Optional Beaches in Australia

Official Clothing-Optional Beaches

New South Wales:

  • Lady Bay Beach – Located near Watsons Bay in Sydney Harbour, legally designated since 1976.

  • Cobblers Beach – Situated in Mosman, officially recognized for clothing-optional recreation.

  • Obelisk Beach – Also in Mosman, within Sydney Harbour National Park.

  • Armands Beach – Near Bermagui, officially clothing-optional since 1993.

  • Birdie Beach – Located in Lake Munmorah, legally recognized for nude bathing.

  • Samurai Beach – Near One Mile in Port Stephens, also features a clothing-optional campground.

  • Werrong Beach – Located in the Royal National Park.

Victoria:

  • Sunnyside North Beach – Near Mount Eliza on the Mornington Peninsula, officially clothing-optional since 1986.

  • Point Impossible Beach – Found in Torquay, legally designated for nude bathing.

  • Southside Beach – Also near Torquay, officially recognized as clothing-optional.

South Australia:

  • Maslin Beach – South of Adelaide, the first official nude beach in Australia (declared in 1975).

  • Pelican Point – Located in Barmera, legally recognized for nude bathing.

  • Murrippi Beach – Near Whyalla, officially designated as clothing-optional.

Western Australia:

  • North Swanbourne Beach – Situated in Perth, officially recognized.

  • Warnbro Beach – Located in Rockingham, legally designated for nude bathing.

  • Mauritius Beach – Found in Exmouth, officially clothing-optional.

  • Ten Mile Lagoon – Near Esperance, legally designated for nude bathing.

Australian Capital Territory:

  • Kambah Pool – Located on the Murrumbidgee River, Canberra, the northern end is designated as clothing-optional.

Northern Territory:

  • Casuarina Beach – Situated in Darwin, officially recognized.

Unofficial Clothing-Optional Beaches

New South Wales:

  • Belongil Beach – Near Byron Bay, commonly used by naturists.

  • Little Congwong Beach – Located in La Perouse, popular among naturists but not officially designated.

  • Washaway Beach – In Sydney Harbour National Park, used by naturists.

  • Marley Beach – In the Royal National Park, frequented by naturists but not officially recognized.

Queensland:

  • Alexandria Bay – Near Noosa, popular but lacks official status, with recent crackdowns.

  • Buchan Point – At the southern edge of Ellis Beach, near Cairns, known for unofficial nude bathing.

  • Cow Bay – Within the Daintree Rainforest, used by naturists.

Tasmania:

  • Bakers Beach – In Narawntapu National Park, known for unofficial nude bathing.

  • Seven Mile Beach – Near Hobart, frequented by naturists but lacks official designation.

Please note that the legal status of clothing-optional beaches can change. Always check local regulations before visiting and respect community standards.

Why These Numbers Matter

Despite the clear demand for naturist spaces, many Australian councils and government bodies have been slow to recognize and support naturism. This lack of recognition underscores the need for initiatives like the 2025 Australian Public Decency and Nudity Clarification Bill, which aims to:

  • Clarify public nudity laws and protect naturists from unnecessary legal challenges.

  • Encourage local councils to designate clothing-optional areas.

  • Promote naturism as a valid lifestyle choice.

Join the Movement

NaturismRE is dedicated to advocating for greater acceptance of naturism in Australia. If you support our mission and want to stay informed, join us and help make a difference!