Love ’em or avoid them at all costs, there are a handful of nude beaches scattered around BC that you might want to check out. Say bye-bye to tan lines and let it all hang out – or don’t – this list is by no means a complete beach roundup. But if you’re looking for some private (and not so private) spots to sunbathe sans clothing, we’ve got you covered. Well, as covered as you can be at a clothing-optional beach.
Let’s get into it. Here are 5 clothing-optional beaches to take a dip in around BC.
Wreck Beach, Vancouver
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Of course, we had to start off this list with Wreck. It’s arguably the most well-known clothing-optional beach in BC and a popular destination regardless of whether or not you decide to shed some clothes. The legally nude shoreline stretches over 5 km, so there’s plenty of space to carve out your own corner and unwind.
Characterized by the 490 steps leading from NW Marine Drive down to the beach, Wreck is certainly a great spot for getting your daily steps in. But the water is also some of the clearest blues we’ve seen in Metro Van – and the temperature airs on the warmer side when you compare it to Spanish Banks or Jericho. Perfect for a swim!
Where: South West Marine Drive
Three Mile Beach, Penticton
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A scenic mix of sandy and rocky beaches, Three Mile Beach is located on Okanagan Lake between Penticton and Naramata. A small peninsula juts out into the lake, and it’s here that local nudists eventually won over the legal attempt to make it clothing-optional. Part of the area, that is.
There are two distinct beaches on either side of the peninsula that meet in the middle to choose from. First, there’s fine sand, stunning views, and clothing-optional. On the other side, there’s a beach facing Penticton that’s a bit rockier, but still a lovely spot to settle in for a picnic and a swim (not clothing-optional).
Where: Three Mile Road, Penticton
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Crescent Rock Beach, Surrey
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If you’re looking for a Wreck-esque beach with similar vibes but fewer crowds during the warmer months, this may be the spot for you. Crescent Rock has been used by nude sunbathers for over 50 years now, and for good reason.
Just south of Crescent Beach is a 200m strip of shoreline with scattered boulders and cliffs that conceal the area from the main beach and train tracks. The sweeping view across Mud Bay towards Tsawwassen means you’re definitely in for some gorgeous sunsets, too!
Pro-tip: Bring sandals if your feet aren’t huge fans of pebbly beach!
Where: At the end of 24th Avenue, Surrey/White Rock
Ram Creek Hot Springs, Skookumchuck
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Tucked away in the East Kootenays are the natural Hot Springs that aren’t exactly defined as “clothing-optional,” but folks sure tend to frequent the nook in their birthday suits anyway. Power of persuasion, right?
Plus, the environment totally calls for it. The Ram Creek Hot Springs is pretty much the stuff of fairytales, only accessible by an uphill hike through a seemingly remote forest, with stunning views of the meadows below. Soak away your stress in a natural, unadulterated setting surrounded by spruce trees.
The undeveloped rock pools can be found just off the logging roads, but you’ll definitely want to check out specific directions here.
Where: Trailhead for Ram Creek Hot Springs
Little Tribune Bay, Hornby Island
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Last but certainly not least, we’ve got the beautiful Hornby Island. Specifically, Tribune Bay, with white sandy beaches that have earned it the nickname “Little Hawaii.” The south-facing Tribune Bay easily boasts some of the best views on the east side of Vancouver Island – making it an ideal day trip destination if you’re up for the drive & multiple ferry rides.
Little Tribune Bay is the popular nudist beach located in the southwest area of the larger Tribune Bay. Clear, shallow waters meet near-tropical temps during the warmer months. So much so, in fact, that Little Tribune Bay is considered to be one of the warmest saltwater swimming areas in BC.
Where: Little Tribune Bay, Hornby Island
Well, that’s all for now, Vancouver! Enjoy some unabashed sunbathing this season.
