FAQ: Clothing Optional Resorts

Throughout the world--especially in the Caribbean--you'll find clothing-optional resorts. Some offer clothing-optional facilities across the properties; others restrict clothing optional areas to particular beaches and bars.

To answer some of your questions about clothing-optional resorts, we've asked Paul from Jamaica's Rocalta Resort & Spa. Located in Negril, this all-inclusive resort offers guests a clothing-optional vacation throughout most of the property.

What draws many vacationers, especially repeat visitors, to clothing optional resorts?

Nude holidays have come a long way since their early 20th century origins, when most people viewed them as eccentric at best, or a degenerate sexual escapade at worst.

Today, it is all about respect and a sensual experience of freedom. Many first-timers are surprised to find the high degree of courtesy and manners among nude vacationers. Perhaps it's because there are no fashions or brand names to hide behind. With no artificial barriers or facades, people only have only their personalities to present in a social setting.

The result is a very honest encounter among open-minded people. Our guests find this relaxed acceptance so refreshing (mentally and physically) that they want to return again and again.

What surprises many first time visitors about clothing-optional resorts?

It is natural to be a bit self-conscious the first time you venture out nude in front of other people. That is, until you realize you are not surrounded by movie stars and TV model type bodies! We mostly hear people say how surprisingly comfortable they feel once they see other ordinary people all around.

For those new to clothing optional resorts, what etiquette points are most important for them to follow to fit in and feel comfortable?

Well, the same socially acceptable rules apply in a nude or clothing-optional setting as in a clothed setting. You would not have sexual contact in public. Obvious sexual flirting is also found offensive by most nudists, especially in a setting where children are allowed. Courtesy and manners are the way to show respect, and that leads to friendships in any setting!

What is the difference between a clothing optional beach/resort and a nude beach/ resort?

Usually, a nude beach means that clothing is prohibited. You must be nude to enter or remain at that beach.

Clothing-optional means just that, optional. People can chose to be nude, partially nude or remain clothed. We like this idea because it allows first timers to "ease" into the idea of total nudity. Many times a couple wants to try a nude vacation, but the wife just wants to go topless at first.

A clothing-optional venue allows for more flexibility. Some resorts have both types of beaches. We find that most people love the idea of shedding their clothes completely, once they feel comfortable in their surroundings.