Best destinations to get naked in Australia

THE average Aussie doesn’t get nude in public, but if you’re so inclined, these are the hot spots. WARNING: Nudity, obviously.

WARNING: CONTAINS NUDITY

AU NATUREL is a term not commonly associated with the average Australian. While most Aussies prefer to walk around fully clothed, there are a growing number of us who prefer to roam the earth as nature intended ... naked.

Here are some of the best places in Australia for nudists (or naturists, as they prefer to be called) and for those who just don’t feel like covering themselves up.

• Naked bushwalking in the Blue Mountains, NSW

The bush is probably not a place you would consider stripping off. The walks are guided by the Fat Canyoners Club, a group of mates who started the club because of a mutual enthusiasm for bushwalking, canyoning and all things outdoor-activity related.

The idea originally sparked from a discussion about one member’s passion for skinny-dipping, and quickly became a regular activity where people from all ages, shapes and sizes take part.

Enjoying the view at Fortress Canyon, Blue Mountains.

During the walk, you have the opportunity to explore the park’s terrain and take a dip in the gorges and creeks. The group regularly end their tours with some yoga on the rocks, or even a canyoning adventure. They’ve also been known to surprise regular holiday-makers and campers who have just come for a regular, clothed experience.

It’s a liberating and educational experience. Be careful though, sunscreen won’t be the best protection against ‘friendly’ critters.

• Nude retreat in the Whitsundays, QLD

If you don’t fancy the cooler weather when getting naked, why not try Queensland’s warmer climate? Seclude is a naturist retreat located in the Whitsunday Ranges between Proserpine and Airlie Beach. Hidden among 166 acres of rainforest, it’s the perfect location for being naked and undisturbed.

Your own, self contained villa is equipped with free Wi-Fi, heated spa, quality kitchen facilities and airconditioning. Not to mention you are constantly surrounded by the rainforest rich in native flora and fauna. You’re also only a short bike ride away is Cedar Creek Falls, where you can explore the surroundings or take a skinny dip in the water.

No need for clothes here. Cedar Creek Falls.

• Skinny dipping for the Winter solstice in River Derwent, Hobart TAS

First time and long time nudists prepare to de-towel. Source: Nikki Davis-Jones

Not for the weak hearted, Dark Mofo’s Winter solstice festival on the River Derwent sees hundreds of people standing on Sandy Bay beach on a crisp winter morning. Braving the 11 degree water temperatures, there’s a feeling of both nervousness and excitement. Many stay in the water only momentarily before opting for the warmth of their towels.

In its second year, the festival has brought wide media attention and naturists alike.

• Bare all at Twisting Peacock Yoga, Perth WA

It’s not just east coaster’s who are passionate about nudity. Twisting Peacock Yoga studios in Perth have been at the forefront of the naked yoga trend.

Instructors at the studio believe being naked should focus on self-liberation and allowing yourself to be comfortable with your unhidden exterior. The female-only class (sorry, boys), is a relaxed, easy to follow mix of Yin, Hatha and restorative yoga.

Stripping back insecurities at naked yoga.

• Compete for the best bum at the Pilwarren Maslin Beach Nude Games, SA

For the competitive nudists, try your hand three-legged racing or a sack race at the Nude Games at Maslin Beach. One of South Australia’s most spectacular beaches, the southern end is allocated for nudists only. Legalised in 1975, it became Australia’s first official nude beach.

Held in January every year, the games are an event for all ages; the day attracting people from both interstate and overseas.

The competition looks tough.

The most popular event though, is the ‘Best Bum’ competition where all kinds of derrières are judged based on firmness and shape.

The day is to promote naturism and raise awareness for nudists around Australia. With a BBQ and drinks available, the hosts also sell small money pouches — where else do you think you would keep your change?