CNN's selection criteria are based on principles such as visitor safety, discretion, and beautiful scenery. Below is a list of the best nude beaches to experience in 2026.

Playa Naturista Chihuahua, Uruguay

Located about 20 minutes from Punta del Este, Playa Naturista Chihuahua is Uruguay's most renowned nude beach. Its picturesque sand dunes and water temperatures reaching up to 25 degrees Celsius even in winter enhance the beach's appeal.

After decades as an unofficial destination, Chihuahua gained legal recognition in 2000. Image: Booking

Nida Nude, Lithuania

The chilly waters of the Baltic Sea might not immediately appeal to nude swimmers. However, Nida Beach is one of Europe's most beautiful places for visitors to freely immerse themselves in nature, without the need for clothing.

Wildflower-covered dunes and a coastal forest create a scenic backdrop for the beach. In the 19th century, it became an artists' hub, attracting many leading painters, poets, and writers of the era. Image: Tripadvisor

Oriental Village, Thailand

Public nudity is not socially accepted in Thailand. However, Oriental Beach Village, a resort on the western shore of Kho Khao island in Phang Nga province, is an exception.

The beach operates under Thailand's legal "clothing-optional" model, offering nudists a rare chance to relax on powdery white sands and in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. Image: Facebook/Destination Clothes Free

Ågesta, Sweden

Ågesta, located by Lake Magelungen, about 15 km from central Stockholm, is Sweden's only official nude beach.

Open from May to September, the area is regularly maintained. It offers picnic tables, BBQ areas, public restrooms, and a children's play area, ensuring convenience for groups and families. Image: Tripadvisor

Little Palm, New Zealand

Legally, residents and visitors can be nude on any beach in New Zealand, a country known for its emphasis on personal freedom. However, nudists often gather at designated "clothing-optional" beaches, notably Little Palm Beach on Waiheke Island.

After swimming, visitors can explore other attractions on Waiheke Island, such as wineries, restaurants, and art galleries. Image: Reddit

Nugal, Croatia

Enclosed by steep cliffs and shaded by green pine trees is Nugal, a secluded nude beach located opposite Croatia's Brac island. Visitors must follow a narrow, rugged trail to reach this area.

Visitors should bring a thick towel or a beach chair, as Nugal, like many Croatian beaches, is primarily pebbly rather than sandy. Image: Book away

Other beaches mentioned by CNN in its list include: Moshup, USA; Lady Bay Beach, Sydney, Australia; Studland Bay, Dorset, England; Wreck Beach, Vancouver, Canada; and Buhne 16, Sylt, Germany. Video: Tiktok/Adventure Travel

Anh Minh (According to CNN)