The 9 top nude beaches to get your kit off at

Australia

04 Sep 2024

These beautiful beaches are well worth a visit for the nude curious.

Australians love a reason to get naked. While there’s no official nude beach in Queensland, a (mostly) warm nude-friendly climate coupled with the world’s best beaches, means there are plenty of amazing Australian nude beaches for those who dare to go bare.

A recent worldwide study by pour moi put Australians as the keenest to nude sunbathe, closely followed by New Zealanders. So, here’s our list of Australia’s top nude beaches.

1. Lady Bay Beach, Sydney, NSW

This well-known, gay-friendly, nude beach in Sydney Harbour National Park has been a popular spot with naturists since it became one of Australia’s first nudist beaches in 1976. It’s a pretty small beach, so if you like your space it’s best to visit at low tide when there is more sand, given its city locale it can get busy.

the entrance of Lady Bay Beach — Dare to bare at Lady Bay Beach. (Image: John Yurasek)

Address: Between South Head and Camp Cove in Sydney Harbour National Park. From Camp Cove car park follow the South Head heritage trail to the beach.

2. Casuarina Coastal Reserve, Darwin, NT

Casuarina Coastal Reserve encompasses a large coastal area, including eight kilometres of white sand beaches, in Darwin’s northern suburbs. The central section of the reserve includes a ‘nudist zone’ on the beach north of Darriba Road.

Perfect for those taking their first foray into nude sunbathing given its remote setting and ample space to find some privacy. Combine your visit with a look around the heritage-listed ruins from World War II that can be found dotted through the reserve.

sunset at Casuarina Beach, Darwin, NT, Australia — Admire sunset views over Casuarina Beach.

Address: 445 Trower Rd, Brinkin, NT 0810

3. Armands Beach, Bermagui, NSW

Armands Beach is the only nude beach on the Sapphire Coast in NSW. A secluded and serene beach, there is very little shade so remember your beach umbrella.

Named after Armand Lemmeric, a French man who owned a farm behind the bay and regularly swam nude at the beach, nude cricket matches were reportedly played here in the 1930s, but it wasn’t given its official ‘clothing-optional’ status until 1993.

Address: Barragga Bay, Kullaroo Road, Bermagui, NSW 2546

4. Samurai Beach, One Mile, NSW

Pack light and make a weekend of it at Samurai Beach in Port Stephens as behind the dunes that line the beach is a clothing-optional campground. A 4WD is a prerequisite to drive along the access trail that leads to the campground, via Gan Gan Road. Pristine waters, good surf and clean expanses of white sand in a beautiful setting make this a top spot.

Aerial shot of Samurai Beach — Show your skin some love at Samurai Beach, One Mile. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: Tomaree National Park, (Near Port Stephens) One Mile, NSW 2316

5. Kambah Pool, Canberra, ACT

Not technically a beach but the sandy banks of Kambah Pool at the northern end of the reserve that sits on the Murrumbidgee River in Canberra’s south are nudist-friendly. Enjoy tranquil river views and perhaps a spot of fishing as you become one with nature.

Address: Off Kambah Pool Road, Kambah, ACT 2901

6. Sunnyside North Beach, Port Philip Bay, Vic

Sunnyside North Beach can be found on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. This small, sandy beach has held clothing-optional status since 1986.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council ran a survey in early 2022 with locals to gauge whether the beach would continue to be nudist. The consultation showed strong support for this secluded beach to retain its clothing-optional status.

Address: North of Sunnyside Road Car Park. Mount Eliza, Vic 3930

7. Maslin Beach, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA

This three-kilometre-long beach on the Fleurieu Peninsula was Australia’s very first nudist beach. With its beautiful sandstone cliffs as a backdrop, it has an allocated nude sunbathing area, and a good snorkelling spot too, so don’t forget your goggles and your water-resistant sunscreen.

an aerial view of Maslin Beach, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA — Laze on the soft sands at Maslin Beach.

Address: Maslin Beach, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA 5170

8. Point Impossible, Torquay, Vic

This long, open, dog-friendly beach on the Great Ocean Road has a designated clothing-optional section for those wanting to enjoy a day at the beach in their birthday suit, rather than their swimsuit. It’s a popular surf spot for the locals, providing some good entertainment while you catch some rays.

Address: 425 The Esplanade, Torquay, Vic 3228

9. Long Beach, Hobart, Tas

You’ll be hard-pressed to find an official nudist beach on the Apple Isle, amongst the abundance of ‘unofficial’ ones. So, if you’re looking to toe the line your only chance may be at Dark Mofo’s annual Nude Solstice Swim at Long Beach in Hobart.

In temperatures of around three degrees, this isn’t for the faint-hearted. Gather at dawn before running into the River Derwent en masse with your fellow nudists for an invigorating start to the day.

Dark Mofo’s annual Nude Solstice Swim at Long Beach. — Get nude at Dark Mofo’s annual Nude Solstice Swim at Long Beach. (Image: Dark Mofo and Rosie Hastie)

Address: Long Point Road, Sandy Bay, Tas 7005

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Your guide to slowing down in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

By Gemma Kaczerepa

12 Nov 2025

There’s no better place to unwind than the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – a leafy and idyllic region shrouded in mist, fern-filled gullies and a peaceful atmosphere.

Wrapped in the crisp mountain air, ancient ferns and ethereally verdant landscapes of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges , you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in another world (or at least another part of the planet).

But this gorgeous pocket is under an hour from Melbourne, a mix of top-notch food and wine, boutique stays and forested scenery that make for an easy weekend away or even a midweek escape. In fact, visiting during the week can offer a deeply relaxing experience, with fewer crowds and more space to linger.

If you’re keen to unwind, here’s how to spend your time in this idyllic neck of the woods.

Where to eat

Yarra Valley Dairy — Treat your taste buds to Yarra Valley Dairy. (Image: Visit Victoria)

From farm gates to cosy eateries, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges house a plethora of places to feast. Start your day with a leisurely brunch and coffee at Ripe . This local hangout combines warm hospitality and hearty cafe fare against a backdrop of the hills’ iconic tree-fern canopies. It’s also nestled in the heart of Sassafras, the quaint village that best captures the Dandenong Ranges’ old-world charm.

Next, take yourself on a gastronomic adventure. Visit Yarra Valley Dairy , a regional favourite doing handmade cheeses, or Cherry Hill Orchards , where in summer you can pick your own cherries and enjoy them in the farm’s picturesque grounds. Treat yourself to a tasting at one of the Yarra Valley’s renowned wineries to finish – Rochford , Re’em and De Bortoli are standout picks for a sample of the region’s signature drops.

By night, book a table at either Citrine in the mountain town of Olinda or restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley. Both do elevated seasonal fare paired with excellent drinks.

And if you’re simply in the mood for a tipple, you’re spoiled for choice. The Alpine Hotel in riverside Warburton is a historic and character-filled spot pouring pints and locally made drinks, while Four Pillars is a must for gin lovers. The distillery’s award-winning spirits are famed nationwide, but here you can try them right from the source.

Things to do outdoors

two people walking through Dandenong Ranges National Park — Wander the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

A motley patchwork of misty rainforest, rugged bushscapes and beautifully tended gardens, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are some of Melbourne’s most scenic pockets. No visit to the region would be complete without a wander through its lush surrounds, either by bike or on foot.

The Ngurrak Barring trail stretches 39 kilometres through the Dandenong Ranges, connecting the towns and fern-filled forests that make the hills so unique. Along the way, be immersed in thought-provoking art installations and cultural stories, sharing a different perspective of this ancient landscape.

While in the area, wander through Cloudehill Garden & Nursery and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens , situated in Olinda. The cooler climate, rich volcanic soil and consistent rainfall offer both gardens ideal conditions for vivid and vibrant flora.

Over in the Yarra Valley, the 40-kilometre Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a flat and family-friendly path perfect for leisurely bike rides and longer walks. It takes you through vine-lined scenery and towns like Seville and Wandin. Biking enthusiasts should head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, a network of 160 kilometres of trails that traverse through untamed terrain.

For a more laidback outing, Alowyn Gardens encompasses seven acres of themed gardens perfect for a meandering stroll. The nearly 100-metre-long wisteria archway that connects different garden zones is a highlight – especially in October, when the lilac blossoms are in spectacular bloom.

The arts and culture scene

TarraWarra Museum of Art — Take in the displays at TarraWarra Museum of Art. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges are havens for arts and culture thanks to their inspiring landscapes and thriving creative community. Naturally, a slower escape should include a visit to some of the region’s best studios and galleries.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville showcases modern and contemporary Australian art, with both a permanent collection and a rotating display of thoughtful exhibitions. The building and grounds are well worth exploring: a striking architectural landmark amid landscaped lawns and open-air sculptures overlooking the Yarra Valley.

Delve into the area’s rich history at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum , a treasure trove of more than 13,000 unique pieces. See everything from Indigenous artefacts to archival photographs and historical objects that tell the region’s story.

On your way back to the city, stop by the leafy enclave of Eltham to discover Montsalvat . This five-acre artistic playground is Australia’s oldest continuous art community, combining galleries, Gothic-style buildings and expansive heritage gardens.

Stay at a local retreat

Re’em yarra valley accommodation — Re’em is an ideal pick for an indulgent stay.

No matter your style, and no matter your budget, you’ll find a suitable spot in the region to rest your head. If the weather is warm and the sky is clear, set up a tent at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park or Pine Hill Cabin & Caravan Park. The former has secluded camping spots surrounded by tranquil bushland and local wildlife, along with glamping pods and cabins. The latter has powered and unpowered sites suitable for all kinds of campers, and is pet-friendly if you’re travelling with your four-legged friend.

Or, book yourself into the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort – a sprawling retreat complete with stylish rooms and luxe amenities that invite you to unwind. Relax at the day spa, tee off at the 18-hole golf course, or recharge with a round of tennis or a few laps in the pool.

And if you’re after something truly indulgent, Re’em is an ideal pick. A boutique collection of just 16, the luxuriously appointed rooms feature plush linens, high-end amenities and oversized baths with panoramic views across the estate. A gourmet breakfast showcasing gorgeous local produce is also included.

Start planning your reset getaway at visityarravalley.com.au.