Naturism in Spain
Spain has a long naturist tradition and hundreds of nudist beaches. What the rules say and how to behave.
Key points
- In general, nudity on the beach is allowed in Spain unless a local by-law expressly bans it.
- There are estimated to be more than 400 areas with a nudist tradition along the Spanish coast.
- Some councils have regulated or banned nudism on their beaches: check the local rules.
- Everything rests on respect: no photos of other people and no staring.
What the rules say
Nudity itself is not a crime in Spain. As Público explains, it is allowed on any stretch of coast unless the town council expressly bans it. Some municipalities have passed by-laws that restrict or ban it on their beaches, and the Spanish Naturist Federation (FEN) has challenged or criticised several of them.
Etiquette
- No photos of othersDo not photograph or film other people without their permission.
- No staringVoyeurism and exhibitionism have nothing to do with naturism.
- Always a towelTo sit on, for hygiene and out of respect for others.
- Mutual respectOn mixed beaches, everyone decides how to bathe.
Where the nudist beaches are
There are nudist beaches on almost every coast: the coves of Almería and Cabo de Gata, Cádiz, the Costa Brava, the Balearics, the Canaries, Galicia and Asturias. The nudist beach map shows those listed as such in the Spanish Ministry's beach guide (via Wikidata) and on OpenStreetMap. The FEN also publishes its own guide to naturist spaces.
Frequently asked questions
Is nudism legal on Spanish beaches?
Generally, yes: nudity on the beach is not a crime and is allowed unless a local by-law expressly bans it in that place.
What are the rules on a nudist beach?
Respect: do not photograph other people, do not stare, use a towel to sit on and respect those who prefer to wear swimwear on mixed beaches.