Thursday, January 24, 2008

Solair, MA

image courtesy of http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

We had the pleasure of visiting Solair Recreation League in Massachusetts in May, 2007. The membership is comprised of a wide range of ages, from little tikes to people in their golden years. It had, by far, more families in its membership than any other New England club we've visited.

The grounds are well-maintained and there are nice facilities at the disposal of guests and members. Their main clubhouse has a dance floor, [outside] pool, [inside] hot tub, rec room, showers, and snack shop. They also have clubhouses for the kids. In addition to the pool is a nice lake to paddle or swim around on a nice day; it is bordered by a beach area. Rental units and campsites are available.

The club offers a variety of pricing structures. As a day-guest you are permitted 3 visits before being required to apply for membership.

Solair is a fun place with lots of personality and many nice members. Take a visit and see for yourself! We wrote an article for N Magazine (issue 27.1) about College Day at Solair. Click here for a text version.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Caliente Caribe

We have just returned from a wonderful trip to Caliente Caribe! We stayed for 5 days (Jan 11-15) and had a spectacular visit.



The resort has undergone major upgrades, to the facilities and to the amenities since it was Eden Bay. We wanted for nothing during our visit. The staff was attentive, the management made sure we were happy, and the other guests were so lovely. The grounds were impeccably maintained. The different areas of the resort (the upper area with lobby, pool, pool bar, hot tub, spa, and hotel rooms vs the lower area with the beach, bear bar, pools, hot tub, and free-standing units) really lent themselves to the feeling of being in two resorts.

We made great new friendships with other people we met during our stay, and have hopes to see them again (and of course, stay in touch).

Mike and I plan to organize our thoughts and experiences into an article [hopefully] for publication. Once that is ready to roll out, we'll provide more detailed information here. In the meantime, if you have any questions about Caliente Caribe, just send us an email!

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Naturist Places in New England


View Larger Map


The locations provided on this map are not guaranteed to be geographically accurate. Please visit the linked websites for detailed locations.

IDNAMESTATETYPE OF SPOTSOURCE OF DATA
1.Knightsville DamMASkinny Dipping SpotNudeBeachGuide.com
2.CM Gardner State ParkMASkinny Dipping SpotNudeBeachGuide.com
3.CummingtonMABeachNudeBeachGuide.com
4.South Cape State ParkMASkinny Dipping SpotNudeBeachGuide.com
5.Martha's VineyardMABeachNudeBeachGuide.com
6.TruroMABeachNudeBeachGuide.com
7.ProvincetownMABeachNudeBeachGuide.com
9.Cherry GroveNYBeachNudeBeachGuide.com
10.Gunnison BeachNJBeachNudeBeachGuide.com
11.Huntington Gorge
The Summer 2000 issue of N magazine reports this site is no longer open to nude use!
VTSkinny Dipping SpotNudeBeachGuide.com
12.The LedgesVTBeachLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
13.Old Jelly Mills FallsVTSkinny Dipping SpotNudeBeachGuide.com
14.Red Rocks ParkVTBeachNudeBeachGuide.com
15.Shelburne Point
The Summer 2000 issue of N magazine reports this site is no longer open to nude use!
VTSkinny Dipping SpotNudeBeachGuide.com
16.Sun Ridge ResortCTClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
18.Nehantic State ForestCTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
19.Sandy TerracesMAClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
20.Miacomet BeachMABeachLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
21.Pebble BeachMABeachLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
22.Eel PointMABeachLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
23.Nantucket HarborMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
24.MadequechamMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
25.Lucy St. VincentMABeachLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
26.SolairCTClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
27.Berkshire VistaMAClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
28.Heavenly HideawayMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
29.The WhirliesMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
30.Cedar Waters VillageNHClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
31.Cold River PoolsNHSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
32.Fields Brook WaterfallsNHSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
33.Pemigewasset RiverNHSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
34.Sawyer PondNHSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
35.Georgiana FallsNHSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
36.Gordon PondNHSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
37.Dyer WoodsRIClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
38.Block IslandRISkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
39.Big Branch BrookVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
40.Pikes FallsVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
41.Indian Love CallVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
42.Rock RiverVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
43.Tollgate Road FallsVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
44.Lye Brook FallsVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
45.Dorset QuarryVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
46.Buttermilk FallsVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
47.Little Rock PondVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
48.Clarendon GorgeVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
49.Clarendon QuarryVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
50.Silver LakeVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
51.Reading Swimming HoleVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
52.Mad River Punch BowlVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
53.Woodbury QuarryVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
54.Bingham FallsVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
55.Grand Isle State ParkVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
56.Maple GlenVTClubLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
57.Brewster RiverVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
58.Lake Willoughby State ParkVTBeachLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
59.Joiner BrookVTSkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
61.Pond Brook FallsMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
62.Elwell State ParkMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
63.Green RiverMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
64.Quabbin ResevoirMASkinny Dipping SpotLee Baxandall's World Guide to Nude Beaches
65.Coventry Club & ResortVTClubInternet
66.Abbotts GlenVTClubInternet
67.Sunridge ResortCTClubInternet
68.Lighthouse BeachNYBeachInternet

St. Martin Info

We have created this page as a resource for your St. Martin trip. Browse and enjoy!


Travel Reports

Caribbean Travel Roundup
Carol and Eric's Island Reviews and Links
Ray's SXM Page (Trip Reports)

Message Boards

The Friendly Island Forum
Orient Beach and St. Martin Message Board
Travel Talk Online - St. Martin
Turquoise Net Caribbean Discussion Forum

Web Cams

Sunset Beach Bar Webcam

General Information

Bob and Charlene's St. Maarten Picture Page
Carol and Eric's St. Martin Page: Information on the island and links to other sites of interest.
Jeff Berger's SXM Page
Mr. St. Martin: general information on St. Martin
Orient Beach: information on Orient Beach and links to information about the rest of the island.
Paradise at Best: Nice page containing general island information.
Ray's SXM Web Page: Photos, Restaurant reviews, and more.
Sint Maarten/Saint Martin Sights: General Island information.
Sunset Beach Bar: Contains information on the Island, its history, links and a lot of fun stuff.

Where to Stay

Club Orient
Green Cay Village
Caribbean Nature

Car Rentals

Avis
Best Deal Car Rental
National
St. Louis Car Rental
Tropical Car rentals

Friday, January 04, 2008

Nude Beach Etiquette

We always keep nude beach etiquette in mind. We hope you do, too!

Free Beach Etiquette (a guide to gracious sunbathing)

  • Stay on trails. Keep out of dune vegetation, wildlife habitat and other environmentally sensitive areas.
  • Obey parking regulations and other posted rules.
  • Respect the privacy of others. Gawking or staring is rude. Many come to the beach for quiet time alone and don't want to be disturbed. It's OK to make friends, but rude to monopolize a person's time before being welcomed.
  • Ask prior consent for photography. Even on a public beach, it is courteous to obtain the permission of your subject before you snap. Not everyone wants to end up in a stranger's photo album. Parents should also be asked before children are photographed.
  • Keep it quiet. Use earphones for stereos. No boisterous shouting.
  • No overt sex. Nude is not lewd, but sex is for consenting adults in private. A good reputation keeps our beach free.
  • Limit nudity to the beach. Nudity in clothed beaches or parking lots may offend others and undermine our objectives.
  • Respect property of others. Theft of others' property is a crime. Return found valuables to their owners or to the local police.
  • Come prepared. Bring your own towel, sun-screen, beverage, food, matches, etc.. Don't expect others to share these items. Mooching is offensive.
  • Help control litter. Always bring a trash bag and take out more than you brought.
  • No fires. Limit cooking to portable grills so you can take your ashes with you. Follow local fire regulations.
  • Speak up for our standards. If someone seems unaware of our etiquette, give them a copy of these guidelines.

Thanks to the Bay Area Naturists for our use of these guidelines.

Nationwide Naturist Organizations (United States)

We are members of The Naturist Society (TNS) and The American Association of Nude Recreation (AANR) to show our support for naturist issues.


The Naturist Society (TNS)


TNS Membership includes the quarterly publication of the Nude and Natural (N) magazine which keeps us up to date on naturist issues around the county. Nude and Natural has excellent articles on naturism from many different perspectives; it also has current listings of nude beaches, resorts, and events.


American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR)


AANR Membership includes the monthly publication of The Bulletin which provides information on clubs, members, and events. AANR also has a CyberBulletin with
online updates.



The Naturist Society and AANR also help to support national lobbying efforts on behalf of all naturists. The American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) was referred to in the May 2001 issue of Women's Sport and Fitness (WOW!). So, these messages are really getting the word out there... Additionally, there are a lot of international naturist magazines that are great -- be sure to check your local bookstore!

Tracy's First Time

When I first learned that Mike was a naturist, I didn't know what to think. I was totally at a loss. I just did not know what to think about being naked outside. After all, all kids are told to keep dressed as they grow up (or so I thought at the time). I started reading up on naturism as the winter months passed and my interest grew. By the time late spring/early summer came, I was ready to give naturism a try. We had plans to spend the weekend in New Jersey and it turned out that Gunnison beach (a widely known nude beach) was nearby. We decided to spend Sunday at the nude beach. Before we went, Mike and I spent a lot of time talking about how comfortable or uncomforable I might be at a nude beach. I have never had a wonderful body image (I think my breasts are too small, my hips are too wide, etc.), and I was unsure how it would feel to show my imperfections to a bunch of strangers. I went with the consolation that everyone new to nude beaches has, if you don't want to get naked, you don't have to.

When Mike and I arrived at Gunnison, the parking lot was nearly full, and it was only 9:00. Wow! We gathered our belongings and made our way to the beach. Signs declaring "You may encounter nudity beyond this point" welcomed us to the beach ahead. We found a spot in the sand and spread our towels out. I must say, I have never seen so many naked people before! There were at least 2,000 people at the beach on the day we went. It was the most incredible experience# There were all of these people in different shapes, sizes, and colors enjoying the beach without the hinderance of clothes. And let me tell you, there were very few people that had a "perfect" body. My negative body image quickly disappeared, and I shocked Mike by having my swimsuit off before he could remove his.

Being nude in the sun is the most relaxing thing I have ever done.It beats reading a good book and working out, probably because you canread and work out (most nude areas seem to be a bit of a hike to get toand walking through sand is more work than you might imagine) while you are outside and naked!

Mike's First Time

My first social nude experience occurred while I was in college. Two friends and I went to the Cape Cod National Seashore in Massachusetts. I had always heard about nude beaches along the national seashore, I spent my child hood summers on Cape Cod. My friends had also heard about the nude beaches on the otter cape. We joked a bit, laughed, and then went to the beach. As we walked down the beach a bit, we saw naked people walking about. We put our towels on the sand and laid down. One of the people in my group suddenly stood up and took her bathing suit off. She said something like "it's too hot out here" or "Hey, it's a nude beach". I don't remember exactly. After a while I slid my suit off and laid on my stomach. The third person in the group eventully took her suit off as well. We all enjoyed the day despite our sunburned bums. As we were leaving the beach one of the people in the group said she was never going to wear a bathing suit again. It did feel good and I wanted to try it again. For a few years I struggled with regular beaches. Until one day my girl friend and I drove to Cape Cod and walked to a deserted part of the beach. We both laid down, and within a few minutes I slid my bathing suit off. Eventually I got the courage to get up a walk to the water and at times take walks down the beach. For years that was my naturist life. The beaches of Cape Cod.

Mike's First Naturist Experience with Tracy

After Tracy and I met, we started a long distance relationship. Our love for each other sprouted and grew quickly. Over the phone, through emails, and on weekend visits we learned a lot form each other. However, I worried about what Tracy would think when she found out that I was a naturist. One day we were having lunch and she asked why I didn't have any tan lines. I hesitated for a minute, then told her that I go to nude beaches. She sort of looked at me for a quick moment, then started asking me questions. We both love and care for each other very much, so I didn't want to keep anything from Tracy.

Over the next several months we occasionally talked about going to a nude beach. Once the summer arrived we made plans to go to Sandy Hook, a nude beach in New Jersey. We went with the understanding that the beach was clothing optional. We approached the end of the boardwalk I wondered what Tracy's thoughts were seeing 2000 naked people relaxing on the beach. I thought she would be too uncomfortable to sit on the beach wearing her bathing suit. As we walked onto the beach Tracy surprised me by getting naked before we could put our towels and beach bags down.

The naturist experience has helped Tracy and I become comfortable with our own bodies and with each other. It has been an experience that we both enjoy and can share with each other. Naturism is a wonderful opportunity for couples to experience traveling to fun new places in the company of friendly non-judgmental people.

With Tracy by my side, I have move well beyond confining my nudist lifestyle to the beaches of Cape Cod. Tracy and I have explored new "nude" beaches from New England to Florida and all the way to France. We have even explore the more organized nudist community by visiting nudist resorts and attending nudist gathering. We have both become comfortable with our nakedness..

Books


Title: Bare Beaches

Written by: Mike Charles, Selina Gibbs, and Nick Mayhew-Smith

List Price: $32.00 (includes shipping!)



Jock Sturges: New Work
Title: Jock Sturges: New Work 1997-2000

Photographer: Jock Sturges

--Only available used

Jock Sturges: Jock Sturges


Title: Jock Sturges

Photographer: Jock Sturges

--Only available used
Jock Sturges: The Last Days of SummerTitle: The Last Days of Summer

Photographer: Jock Sturges

List Price: $45.00 (Hardcover)

For a lower priced alternative, try the Paperback version (List Price: $29.95).

Jock Sturges: Radiant IdentitiesTitle: Radiant Identities

Photographer: Jock Sturges

List Price: $45.00 (Hardcover)

Sally Mann: Immediate FamilyTitle: Immediate Family

Photographer: Sally Mann

--Only available used
Sally Mann: At TwelveTitle: At Twelve: Portraits of Young Women

Photographer: Sally Mann

List Price: $40.00 (Hardcover)

David Hamilton: 25 Years of an ArtistTitle: David Hamilton: Twenty-Five Years of an Artist

Photographer: David Hamilton

List Price: $55.00 (Hardcover)

David Hamilton: A Place in the SunTitle: A Place in the Sun

Photographer: David Hamilton

Price: $39.95 (Hardcover)

-- Only available used
David Hamilton: Age of InnocenceTitle: Age of Innocence

Photographer: David Hamilton

--Only available used
Imogen Cunningham: On the BodyTitle: Imogen Cunnigham: On the Body

Photographer: Imogen Cunningham

--Only available used
Title: The World's Best Nude Beaches

Author: The Naturist Society

List Price: $25.95
AANR: North American Guide to Nude RecreationTitle: North American Guide to Nude Recreation

Author: AANR

--Only available used
Chris Santilli: The Naked Truth about Hedonism II (2nd edition, updated for 2004)Title: The Naked Truth about Hedonism II: A Totally Unauthorized, Naughty But Nice Guide to Jamaica's Very Adult Resort (2nd edition, updated for 2004)

Author: Chris Santilli

List Price: $24.95

Ross Velton: The Naked Truth about Cap D'AgdeTitle: The Naked Truth about Cap D'Agde

Author: Ross Velton

List Price: $22.95

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I am interested in going to a nude beach, but don't know how to broach the subject with my partner. Do you have any suggestions?
A: We think honesty is the best approach. When Mike first told me that he was a naturist, I was suprised, but I was also interested. Taking the time to explain why you are a naturist (or why you want to explore naturism) makes a real difference. It is also important to affirm your spouses importance in your life. The Naturist Society is a great resource that can educate you and your mate together.

Q: I have told my partner that I am interested in going to nude beaches and/or I have gone in the past. While my partner accepts my choices, he is reluctant to accompany me. What should I do?
A: Naturist places are clothing optional. Just because your partner does not want to go nude does not mean they cannot accompany you. Why is your partner reluctant to accompany you? If he feels uncomfortable about the way he looks, he will probably find that nude beaches don't live up to the stereotypical perfect body ideal that many folks have. The most important thing is to communicate with your partner and make them feel welcome to accompany you -- clothed or naked.

Q: I would like to visit a nude beach, but I am afraid I will get an erection. Has this happened to other people? What should I do if it happens to me?
A: Many newcomers have this fear, but rest assured nude beaches are not sexual! The great thing is that after a few minutes, you forget that everyone around you is nude. It is unlikely you will end up getting one, because you will be enjoying the sunshine and comfort of the beach. If you do get an erection, you should lay on your stomach or sit with a towel over your lap until the erection goes away.

Q: I enjoy being naked in my home, but I am embarassed about other people seeing me naked in public. How do I know if I look good enough to go to a nude beach?
A: Everyone's body is different. There is no perfect body; this is apparent when visiting a nude beach. Rather than being uncomfortable about themselves, most naturists have a better body image after visiting a nude beach. After all, nude beaches have nothing to do with how you look, they focus more on enjoying nature and appreciating the freedom of an unclothed body.

Q: My spouse and I would like to go to a nude beach, or maybe try a resort, but we aren't sure if we should bring our children. Have you seen any families where you go?
A: Naturism is a family activity. We have seen children ranging from infants to teenagers every place we have visited. The kids play together and enjoy the beach, some clothed some naked. If you are unsure, we suggest researching your destination before you arrive.

Q: Is it common for people at nude beaches to shave?
A: As you have noticed, we both shave. We shave for comfort and because we like the way it looks on us. We feel genital shaving is no different than shaving your legs or your face. There seem to be a good number of people who shave where we have been. However, this seems to be vary from beach to beach and club to club. Some people don't like shaving, and that is okay, too. We have never felt uncomfortable or out of place being shaven. We believe that naturists welcome one another's differences, no matter what they may be.

Links

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Links (Submitted)

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Nude Photography Resources

We have had a long time interest in naturist photography. Finding settings and poses that convey a beautiful message has filled many hours over the past few years. Now we would like to begin collecting Fine Art Nudes. It is no simple task -- there are many talented photographers to choose from and many styles and settings.

We have compiled this list of links as a resource to anyone who is conducting the same kind of search. If you know of other talented photographers or have advice for us, please E-Mail Us!


  • Artnude-Romali French photographer Roger Tassin has a variety of studio and outdoor photos that are very nice.
  • Artistic-Nudes A list of links to Nude Photographers, Galleries, and Books. This is an extensive listing of information.
  • Dejan Dizdar Dizdar, from Israel, has galleries organized by model. Photos are in color and in black & white. Quite an impressive selection.
  • Jean Christophe Perie Perie calls himself an amateur photographer, but has a large collection of studio, outdoor, color, and b&w photos. We are not sure if his prints are for sale.
  • Michelle 7 Fine Art Nudes Compliation of many photographers from around the world.
  • Nude Photo Index Another list of links, without a preview of the photographer's style. The page is basic but contains lots of links to artists.
  • Manolis Tsantakis Tsantakis is a Greek photographer whose photos are displayed around the world. The colors are exquisite.
  • Vincent O'Byrne O'Byrne opened the Clickteck Studio in Dublin in 1988. His photos are very classy and in some ways mystical...
  • The Mind's Eye Photography Lara and Fred are a husband and wife photography team who live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll find beautiful natural images in their gallery.

Genital Piercing

Naturism at its core is the expression of body acceptance and indivuality. We all are beautiful because of how we look, no matter how different we look from others. We accept one another for what is inside, rather than the package. Many naturists have added to their blank canvas as a way of self-expression. It is common-place for women to have their ears pierced and to accessorize their bodies and beings with the earrings they wear at a given moment. Mainstream America has accepted other forms of piercing to be normal, too. It is not at all uncommon to know [or to be] someone whose navel is pierced and adorned with jewelry. Similarly, genital piercing is an extension of that self-expression. We believe that genital piercings are not only a sign that someone accepts and embraces their bodies fully, but also that they are proud to be the person they are.

Discreet genital piercing, meant as an adornment for the body, is becoming more common than it was even 5 years ago. Gone are the days when someone who was pierced was an offbeat individual who you rarely encountered. Tracy has had a vertical hood piercing with a small gold hoop for more than three years. She got it for herself because she thought it would be a fun way to express her body freedom. Few people notice it, and it is not her goal for everyone to see it.

In 2004 it was brought to our attention that our home club, Berkshire Vista, prohibits genital piercings. The reasoning, we are told is that "the line has to be drawn somewhere." It is important to note that AANR has no by-law regarding the issue and leaves that policy entirely to the club. The pertinent question, however, is what is this line we are drawing, and what are we trying to define? Some believe that piercings below the waist are a sign of overt sexuality or that they call unneccessary attention to the genitals. But does a piece of jewelry make a person a sexual predator? Does it imply that a person is not nude for the sole purpose of enjoying the outside in their natural state, but rather they want to act out sexually? We believe the answer to both of these questions is "No". Those who display overt sexual behavior do so regardless of the body adornments -- piercing, tattoos, even breast enchancements. There is no stereotype that covers all problem individuals, least of all the presence or absence of genital piercings.

We believe that it is entirely appropriate [for clubs] to draw a line about what behavior is acceptable. Social etiquette is a must no matter what environment a person is in. However, generalizations based upon someone's appearance go against the naturist ideal.


**Update (June 27, 2005): After grappling with this issue for numerous weeks and dealing with the emotional strain, Tracy decided to remove her jewelry while at Berkshire Vista. Our ongoing attempts to discuss the matter with the owners have resulted in an adamant refusal [on their part] to consider revising the rule. We don't want to lose the joy of naturism in our limited New England summer. However, the fight to preserve body freedom will continue.

Gay Head, Martha's Vineyard



Martha's Vineyard is home to the best nude beach in New England. It is serene and refreshing to enjoy absolute peace. The clay cliffs make a breathtaking backdrop to the beautiful ocean. Since the Vineyard is further south than most other nude recreation areas in New England, the water tends to be a bit warmer here.

The trip to Gay Head is an adventurous one that requires a bit of planning. No bridge spans the Atlantic Ocean between mainland Massachusetts and the island, so all travelers must take the ferry. The ride is a quick 40 minutes, just enough time to wake up in the morning and nap in the evening. The beach is accessed by bus from the ferry. Gay Head is a great place for a first nude experience. Everyone is friendly, but at the same time you are given as much privacy as you desire.

Directions: We take the ferry from Woods Hole (see fares and schedules on the Steamship Authority website). If you land at Vineyard Haven, you can take the number 3 bus (Vineyard Haven to West Tisbury) to the number 5 bus (West Tisbury-Chilmark-Aquinnah). There is a map with these routes at the Vineyard Transit Authority website. The bus fares are quite reasonable. The beach can be reached by taking the beach path at the bottom of the road to the boardwalk, then following the beach down until you see other naked people.

Cedar Waters Village, NH


If resorts are you style, Cedar Waters is a fun place to go. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, and the surroundings are incredible. The people here make you feel comfortable and welcome. The property is privately owned, and many naturists lease land to live on (in RVs or cabins) for the season/year. Cabins and tenting sites are available for rental.

The lake is a lot of fun to paddle or swim around and the buildings are well kept. They have social gatherings most weekends (plays and such) that are great fun. This is great family atmosphere and a nice way to meet people! Overall a great place, we hope to return soon.

The Ledges, VT


Vermont is truly a haven for nudists. The Ledges, recently sold by NEPCO, is only one of many natural basking spots in this state. The area is open to all, so there is a tendency for textiles to be present as well.

The Ledges are actually rocks that form the shoreline of the Lake, making for limited sunning space on beautiful summer days. No soft sandy beaches at this place. The water is cool, crisp, and clear even on hot summer days. You should get there early if you want a prime spot in the main area!

For more information, see our article in N magazine issue 27.2 or go to the Friends of the Ledges website to find out how you can support the Ledges.

Cap D'Age, France Trip Report (1999)

April 30-May 3, 1999







Day One
We arrived in Agde from Avignon, with sheer excitement that we would be spending the next three days au natural. We were pleased to find that Pru and Larry put us in an apartment that can accommodate eight people (Dave and Ann have since taken over the rentals for Pru and Larry). We had all kinds of space, and two beds to chose from. Our accomodations were only $40 a night since it was still shoulder season, so we really enjoyed the great deal we got!

We took a walk around the naturist quarter, then headed to the beach. The serenity and beauty was magnificent. We walked the sandy beach and inhaled the refreshing ocean smells, wishing we could be a permanent part of this community. That evening we went out to dinner at ?? The food was outstanding! We got wine, pizza and two huge salads for around $15 US. All the food called for a nice naked walk around the town, then we were off to bed.



Day Two
We started our second day in Agde with a trip to the bakery for fresh bread... What a treat! We spent the day in Agde (the first full day there) was spent at the beach. We got in the Mediterranean and soaked up the rays like natives. We made a pasta dinner and had some wine, then headed out to enjoy the local night scene. We visited a couple of bars, and things were hopping! One was outside, so were free to enjoy the crisp evening and lovely stars. The second bar was inside, but we still had a lot of fun.

Day Three
Our third day (the second full day) was Michael's birthday. We celebrated by hanging at the beach again. The weather was great (it was a bit warmer and sunnier than the previous day), and we felt like we were in heaven. Tracy made Michael birthday dinner and we filled up with wine (we had to enjoy the local drinks). We followed dinner with a nice walk on the beach, then visited a bar for another bottle of wine.




Day Four
Our final day in Adge, the third of May, was filled with rain. We departed the town around 2:00 with plans to head to Paris via Marseille. We got to Marseille without incident, but were surprised to find that the TGV we intended to take was cancelled, as was the next TGV (don't you love those strikes??), so we would have to wait 2 hours for another TGV. It came as scheduled, much to our delight, and we were fortunate to get seats (reservations were not being taken, also because of the strike).

We did not realize how fortunate we were until the train filled completely, and people were standing in first class [some were sleeping in the aisle] for the next 4 hours. Wow!

Cap D'Agde, France



We spent three days and three nights in Cap D'Agde,France, a naturist town with 40,000 residents. The town is complete with night clubs, food stores, banks, resturants and everything else a small community needs. We stayed in a charming two story villa near the center of town, and were naked most of the time we stayed in Cap D'Agde. It did get a bit cool at night, so we had to dress after sunset.

The town is beautiful and the french wine is inexpensive which were nice bonuses. Plus, it was a luxury to be naked anyplace in the town any time we wanted. We have excellent contacts for apartment/villa rentals in Cap D'Agde. You can email us for more information or visit the Cap D'Agde Rentals website (if you book, please tell them that we referred you!).

We spent several days in Agde in 1999. Click here to read about it.

Berkshire Vista, MA


Located in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, Berkshire Vista is a beautiful naturist resort where you can forget all of your troubles. The pool is refreshing, and the hot tubs help you melt all your worries away.

The weekend nights are made fun by dances that help keep you in shape after a nice day of sunning. The people at Berkshire Vista are warm and fun, and will help you to feel right at home. We have been full members at Berkshire Vista with a site in the Ghetto since 2002. We love the members...

Look for an upcoming article about Spaghetto in the Ghetto in N Magazine (maybe issue 27.3).

Avalon, WV

Avalon, located in the mountains of West Virginia, is truly a get-away. The grounds are expansive and offer nice trails for hiking, two pools (one indoor, one outdoor), tennis courts, pentaque, camping, RVing, and more. We stayed in one of their lodge rooms for four days, and found the prices reasonable. The resort offers a restraunt and snack bar -- we tried both out and enjoyed what we got. A word to the wise: If you want to bring your own food and drinks, stock up before coming to Paw Paw. We thought we could just "run to the store," and were surprised to find the nearest supermarket was a 40 minute drive...

Terra Cotta Inn, CA


This write up is provided by Candy Mejia, the manager of The Terra Cotta Inn. She was only 22 years old when she wrote this -- that is the youngest manger of a naturist resort in the world! The Terra Cotta Inn is a very special and unique clothing optional resort. Our guests range from 21 year old couples to 80 year old couples. No other nudist resort in the U.S. has younger guests than us. We have had guests from over 64 different countries stay with us.

The Terra Cotta Inn is unique in that we understand the needs of couples trying nude sunbathing for the first time. Our motto is "Only nice customers are booked here, Grouchy people are never allowed."(smile) Probably the only people that don't fit in at the Terra Cotta Inn are wild, obnoxious, party people and snobs. Nice people have a fantastic time and that is why our repeat guest rate is so high.

In September 2003, the Chicago Tribune Newspaper selected us as one of the top 10 BEST clothing optional resorts in the world. Then in November, The Vancouver Sun newspaper in Canada reported on our being the BEST clothing optional resort in the States. CBSmarketwatch.com reported on us being the most mainstream clothing optional resort in the U.S. and on May 13, 2002, Newsweek Magazine in an article called "Size Matters: Small is Good," selected us as being one of the BEST small businesses in the U.S. Only in America, do nudists get the opportunity to stay at one of the best resorts in the country.

St. Martin Trip Report (2000, 2002)

We honeymooned at Club Orient in St. Martin in November 2000! We had a wonderful time. The Island was beautiful and the people were friendly. Our goal was to have a warm, relaxing, NUDE honeymoon. This was all possible at Club Orient in St. Martin. We returned to St. Martin and Club Orient in November, 2002. We found the place as wonderful as we first remembered. We enjoyed Club Orient and the entire beach nude all day long. We meet many more friends from around the world and from St. Martin.

The roads are steep and narrow, the drivers are fast and furious, the air and water are warm, and the people are friendly. The island is relatively small -- you can drive around it in about an hour.

We found the atmosphere between the Dutch and French side of the island to be quite different from one another. The Dutch side reminded us of an Americanized culture, complete with numerous casinos, American fast food, and nightclubs. The French side is more low key. We found many small restaurants and relaxing beaches. There is little nightlife on the French side of the island,but you can make your own with a nice bottle of wine and walk on the beach! This is truly an island paradise.



Club Orient



Accomodation
We stayed at the Club Orient naturist resort on the eastern edge of Orient Bay. The resort is located just a few feet from the white sandy beach. The rooms are actually free standing double chalets. All rooms are equipped with a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and and an outdoor shower.


We stayed in a Mini-Suite. It was nicely sized for the two of us. The room had a queen sized bed, sitting area, and a table with four chairs. The kitchen had a nice
range of pans and utensils, a refrigerator/freezer, and adequate storage. The suite also had a nice table on the patio.

The outdoor table was wonderful! We ate all but two of our meals outside. The view was nice and we met several people while we were lounging on our back patio. With the perfect weather, we wanted to enjoy every minute outside that we could.

The housekeeping at Club Orient was very good. We got fresh towels daily and clean sheets every 3 days. After the second night we realized that sand would get in the bed no matter what we did... The housekeepers cleaned the suite each day and even put a flower on the bed one day (a sweet touch)!

Club Orient is a wonderful resort in a perfect location. The grounds are well maintained. The staff and security personnel friendly and helpful. The two mile long clothing optional beach adjacent to the resort made allowed us to take several nude power walks every day.

L'Orientique

L'Orientique, the on site gift shop/grocery store, was a great convenience. It was a
holiday when we first arrived on the island, so we stocked up on basic food stuffs at L'Orientique. We went every morning for our bread and pastries yummy!).

Orient Beach/Orient Bay
ClubOrient is located on Orient Beach. Despite some people's misperceptions, the entire beach is clothing optional. We excercised our right to be nude every day by walking the entire length of the beach nude. Some of the businesses along the beach are nude friendly, some are not. We just asked the shop/restaurant manager if we could come in naked before entering. Many said it was fine; only a few said we had to cover up. When the business realized we wanted to spend money, they let us in just the way we were... nude of course. We even jet skied nude, and we saw a group of people nude para sailing. This has to be paradise. We got to know several people and shop owners along the beach, they would always wave a friendly hello every time we walked by. We meet several local beach people and they were all willing to offer information on the island and engage us in conversation. In fact, our last nude walk down the beach involved several good-bye hugs. It was difficult to leave.

Food

We didn't venture out to all the fabulous restaurants on St. Martin. We're not very big eaters, and we wanted to stay naked for as much of our honeymoon as possible. So, we stayed in and around Orient beach. Tracy made several wonderful dinners in the room. We also eat at Papagayos, Pedros, and Baywatch.

Baywatch


Be sure to visit Andy and Cheryl, the owners of the Baywatch beach restaurant. Baywatch is located on Orient beach next to Pedros. Just look for the New Jersey road signs. They have a very full and delicious menu. You will not be hungry when you leave this place. Tracy's favorite meal was the chicken finger hero, but the cheese steak won a spot in Mike's heart. Andy and Cheryl are wonderful hosts. We got to know them over the many lunches we enjoyed there and can't wait to go back! We feel a trip to Orient Beach would not be complete without a breakfast or lunch at Baywatch. Baywatch is Clothing Optional -- you can enjoy your meals nude.

The 7 Continent


The 7 Contient beach Bar is a little further down the beach. We both enjoyed late afternoon drinks at the 7 Continent, the staff and regular patrons are very warm and welcoming. We enjoyed many nude visits to the bar at various times of the day.

The Pirate


The Pirate is just two doors down the beach from Baywatch. You will recognize it from the blue and white paint. Glenn the owner will welcome anyone (nude or not) to enjoy great food and drinks. We enjoyed many late afternoon beers and an occasional lunch at the pirate. Be sure to stop in to say hello on your many naked walks down the beach.

Pedros


This place is right next to Baywatch, and it's the first restaurant you will come to when you walk down the beach from Club Orient. The food is good, the beers are inexpensive and the restaurant is nude friendly. You can eat there naked! Pedros is a great place for a few beers and quick snack. They also have a band there several afternoons during the week.

Papagayos
Papagayos is located on the grounds of Club Orient. We enjoyed happy hour almost every night and ate several dinners at Papagayos. The half price beers and frozen drinks special during happy hour (5:30 - 6:30 daily) are a great deal. The food is okay, depending on the cook for the night. The service at Papagayos is poor. The restaurant itself is new and clean. The best thing about Papagayos is its location. It's right on the beach and within the Club Orient resort. You can sit back during happy, sip your frozen drink, watch the ocean, and feel the breeze coming off the
water. It's great way to relax after a tough day on the beach.

Car Rental


There are many car rental agencies on the island. In low season, reservations do not seem to be a necessity, however, reserving is recommended for High Season. We made reservations with Hertz. They have a desk at the airport and drove us the rental lot. They provided us a clean new car. The car return was fast and easy.
We found that we spent most of our time on the beach. When we return to St. Martin, we will only rent a car for a few days of our trip. Lucky for us, Club Orient has a Hertz desk on site!

We found out after we returned home that our personal car insurance would not have covered damage to a rental car in St. Martin. It's an international rental. We would have been responsible for the high deductible if the car was damaged. We recommend you check to see if you credit card provides this type coverage, if not, pay for the 12 dollar per day insurance coverage. The chances of damaging a rental car in St. Martin seem pretty high.

Watch out for the other drivers. Local people drive fast and don't always stay on their side of the road. The best approach is to be confident but cautious. Overall the driving was fun. At one point Mike said "Hey I am from Boston, I can drive anywhere!" He said this as he was pulling out into traffic.

Weather




The Island weather was wonderful during our trip to St Martin. The day time temperatures were consistently in the mid to upper 80s. It cooled down at night, but we stayed naked as much as possible. We were even able to take long walks down Orient Beach with nothing between us and the cool night time breeze. Watch out for the occasional rain storm. We encountered a few heavy showers, but the rain always passed quickly. As you can see you just have to make the most of a rain shower!



Click here for more information on St. Martin