Nude Beaches
While going nude is slightly frowned upon in most places, it is, for the most part, widely accepted within major hotels and resorts in tourist areas. Beach goers who like to have the option to go nude should have no problem doing so at the Costa Rican beaches. It is true that there are no actual beaches targeted for nudity. However, there are plenty of “clothing optional” hot spots throughout the entire span of this beautiful Central American oasis.
Manuel Antonio Beach
Manuel Antonio Beach. This is a popular place for all kinds of tourists, and is primarily a more conservative place to sunbathe and play, however, north of the public area is a nice little area where you will find a lot of topless basking. Sometimes, though rare, you will even find completely nude beach-goers. This is also known to be the gay and lesbian friendly part of the beach. The locals call it Playa de Playos.
Montezuma Beach
Montezuma Beach (or Playa Montezuma) is the perfect place for those who are of the “bohemian” persuasion. With backpackers, gypsies, surfers, street musicians, and other tourists and locals, you’d be sure to see a colorful spectrum of liberal minded folk. You can take a scenic drive or hike a little farther north of Playa Montezuma and behold Playa Grande, a secluded yet vibrant patch of beach that comes to life with art, surfing, bonfires, and of course, the option to go bare!
Hotel Villa Roca
Hotel Villa Roca is a Gay owned resort for the gay, lesbian, and transgendered community, found within the city of Quepos, overlooking the Pacific Ocean with grand views of the rain forest. Though this is not a designated nude resort, clothing is optional after 10pm. Quepos, on the road to Manuel Antonio, is a world renowned gay/lesbian hot spot and tourism firehouse. Not only is this resort nestled in perhaps the most beautiful region of Costa Rica, the owners take pride in their environment and run all of their jacuzzis on solar power. Enjoy nature, and wildlife, and feel free to take off some clothes after ten!
Club Mi Amor
Club Mi Amor is a nudist/clothing optional resort, and the only of its kind found in Costa Rica. Right between San Jose, the capital city, and the coast, about 40 miles from Juan Santa Maria Airport, it is easy to locate and convenient for tourists and travelers. Accommodations include luxurious poolside rooms, with breathtaking views of the scenic Central American landscape complete with a spectacular waterfall to gaze upon on those hot, clothing optional nights. Club Mi Amor takes up about sixty thousand square meters, and offers twenty different high quality suites both poolside, and garden-side, with color television, central air conditioning, and private wash facilities.
Most clothing optional areas are found within the walls of adult’s only, or swingers clubs and resorts, tucked away from the eyes of tourists and not-so-liberal-minded locals. Even Manuel Antonio’s own Playa de Playos is threatened by new developments in so called “upscale” business, that frown down upon the openness of its visitors. Generally, however, the further South you travel, in Costa Rica, the fewer tourists you will see, which leaves you plenty of opportunities to get some all over sun, without the tan lines. In most cases, locals and authorities will overlook the festivities, just make sure to respect the customs of the smaller towns, and make sure its okay before you disrobe!
By Diana Wilson
