Welcome to another month of News of the Nude, our monthly media review that comes on the last Friday of each month. Lots to share this month, from stories of censorship of nudity and cultural expression to topless equality protests and naturist-themed museum exhibits. Exciting stuff! Let’s get into it.
But first, some news of our own
AMA in the substack chat
I’m thrilled to introduce a new way for us to connect during our monthly media review. Today, I’ll be joining the Substack subscriber chat to discuss stories, answer your questions, and explore topics in more depth with you. The chat is exclusive to all subscribers—free and paid—so if you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s a great time! Click below to join the conversation. I’ll be online and chatting TODAY from 10 am until 12 noon PDT (1-3 pm EDT).
Naked fun for puzzleheads
We’re always looking for ways to add value to your subscription. This month, we’re excited to introduce a new feature to News of the Nude: a nudist-themed crossword puzzle! It’s perfect for the puzzle enthusiasts among you, with clues inspired by this month’s stories. Don’t miss it at the bottom of this post—here’s a sneak peek!
If you’ve been enjoying these stories, you’ll love the puzzle at the bottom. All the answers are within the stories in this edition. Complete the puzzle and share your score in the comments!
Consider supporting Planet Nude
Starting now and going forward, paid members will begin receiving exclusive premiere access to weekly webcomics and articles before they become available to free subscribers. What a cool value add!
I’d also like to invite you to consider a paid subscription to Planet Nude. To sustain our work, we need to keep growing, and your support is crucial. For just $6 a month—less than most streaming services—you can help us continue celebrating naturist culture and delivering the news that matters to our community.
We’re aiming to double our paid membership by the end of the year to keep our work sustainable. Your support would mean the world to us.
And now, without further ado, let’s dive into the headlines. 🚀
News of the Nude, Vol. 20 🪐
Naturists set to party in the nude at £295 festival dubbed 'Woodstark'
British Naturism is organizing a three-night nude festival called “Bournemouth Legends Weekend 2025,” where attendees can enjoy live music performances by tribute acts of pop legends like Freddie Mercury, Tina Turner, and Elvis Presley. The event, which costs £295, offers a full experience with dinner, bed, and breakfast, plus access to a private bathroom, swimming pool, and additional amenities. For those seeking more luxury, ocean views are available for an extra fee. 🚀
Germany, nudist museum opens in Hanover: all without clothes at the 'Among Naked People' exhibition
The Herrenhausen Palace Museum in Hanover has launched a unique exhibition titled ‘Among Naked People,’ focused on the history of the nudist movement. Running until September, the exhibition covers the evolution of nudism from 1890 to 1970, highlighting its growth in Germany, where the practice has deep cultural roots. 🚀
Nudists “trespass” from the naturist beach: arguments and protests in Alghero
In Alghero, a conflict has erupted between naturists and other beachgoers at Porto Conte, particularly at Baia delle Ninfe, a designated nudist beach. The controversy centers on naturists who have reportedly been trespassing beyond the official boundaries of the naturist area, causing discomfort among those frequenting nearby beaches. Local residents and visitors to the Porto Conte coast have complained about what they describe as “illicit displays of pudenda” by naturists who wander outside the permitted area. This has led to disputes and mounting tensions along the coastline.
In response, the cultural association Nudiverso has taken steps to reinforce the information signs marking the limits of the naturist beach, despite the issue technically falling outside their purview. This intervention was prompted by complaints from condominium owners in the nearby Mugoni pine forest, who petitioned the municipal administration to address the ongoing issue. The naturist beach, authorized in 2022, spans 200 meters of coastline and is intended to be open to all, not just those practicing nudism. 🚀
For-sale nudist resort Lupin Lodge preps 90th birthday weekender
Lupin Lodge, the oldest business in the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce, is back in the spotlight, not only because it’s up for sale but also due to its recent 90th-anniversary celebration. While the property has been on the market for nearly a year with a $32.8 million price tag, the sudden flurry of news reports seems to stem from Newsweek’s recent coverage, which likely reignited public interest in the listing. The real news, however, as highlighted by Los Gatan and Lupin’s own newsletter, This Week at Lupin, is the lodge’s milestone 90th-anniversary celebration. The event, held last weekend, featured a vibrant poolside party, a historical slideshow, and various activities that brought together the naturist community.
Earlier this year, Planet Nude shared a detailed history of Lupin, and I’m currently collaborating with Lupin owner Lori Kay and Planet Nude contributor Carl Hild, Ph.D., on an official 90-year history of the lodge. This year’s celebration was made possible by Carl’s recent discovery that Lupin was actually established in 1934, a year earlier than previously believed.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the sale, Lupin Lodge’s legacy is far from over. At least two groups are working to ensure the lodge’s future, either by raising funds to purchase the property or by finding new acreage nearby. Lupin’s rich history and enduring significance within the naturist community continue to make it a focal point for both longtime members and prospective buyers alike. 🚀
Read more:
Topless protesters at Boston Common demand gender equality
A topless protest took place at Boston Common on August 17th, 2024, where activists gathered to demand gender equality in laws surrounding public toplessness. Organized by groups like Equalititty and GoTopless, the protest featured chants like “Free your breast, free your mind!” and drew significant attention from onlookers. Many participants emphasized that legalizing toplessness for women would be a crucial step toward achieving gender equality.
Nadine Gary, president of GoTopless, highlighted the inconsistency in laws by holding up stickers representing male and female nipples, pointing out the legal disparity between the two. Massachusetts remains one of the states with ambiguous laws regarding public toplessness, unlike states like Nevada and Pennsylvania where it is outright illegal.
The protest reflects broader struggles faced by naturists and others advocating for body freedom, as outdated and unequal laws continue to impose restrictions on how individuals, particularly women, can express their bodily autonomy in public spaces. 🚀
Sponsor shout-out:
NYC's GoTopless Day Parade Champions Topless Gender Equality
GoTopless, an advocate for women’s rights, is preparing for its 17th annual GoTopless Day Parade in New York City on August 24th, 2024. This event champions topless gender equality, aligning with NYC's history as a pioneer of topless rights since 1992. The parade invites women of all ages and body types to assert their right to go topless, promoting liberation and self-esteem.
Timed around the anniversary of the 19th Amendment, the parade emphasizes that gender equality in topless rights is a constitutional issue. The event will feature live music, speeches from inspirational figures, and a symbolic giant balloon of breasts over the NYC skyline. The parade will begin at 1 PM on West 58th Street and conclude at Bryant Park at 1:30 PM. 🚀
Being around nudity isn’t hurting kids. Take it from me, a dad who owns a naturist park
Stéphane Deschênes, owner of Bare Oaks Family Naturist Park in East Gwillimbury and co-president of the International Naturist Federation, addresses the misconceptions surrounding children and naturism in a powerful Op-Ed for the Toronto Star. Following a viral social media post that sparked controversy, Deschênes defends the benefits of children experiencing social nudity in safe, family-friendly environments. At Bare Oaks, where children are always with their parents, they learn to appreciate the diversity of body types, fostering body acceptance and understanding from a young age.
Deschênes, a friend and regular contributor to Planet Nude, is a powerful advocate for naturism and a leader in our movement. He emphasizes that while predators can be found in any setting, the key to protecting children is educating them about body awareness and boundaries. This Op-Ed serves as a great example of the kind of PR pieces that many naturist organizations and clubs should strive to publish. Deschênes urges a shift in focus from fearing nudity to addressing the real dangers posed by unrealistic body standards perpetuated by social media and pornography. 🚀
More than 700 people form a nudist human chain in Tarragona's beach in Spain
On August 4th, 717 people gathered at Torn Beach in Hospitalet de L’Infant, Tarragona, Spain, to form a nudist human chain, an event organized by the Catalan Naturism Club. This gathering was part of the Third Nudist Record of Catalonia, originally scheduled for July 12th—along with many other beaches participating in similar protests across Catalonia, as we reported on last month—but this beach was postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions. The event was not only a demonstration of the solidarity within the nudist community but also a statement promoting and defending the practice of nudism in the region.
Segimon Rovira, president of the Catalan Naturism Club Association, emphasized that while nudism is legal in Spain, it is still met with social resistance, a lingering effect of conservative attitudes from the Franco era. The event aimed to raise awareness of the rights of nudists and to demand greater acceptance and respect for the practice on Catalan beaches.
Rovira also expressed concern over the decline in nudist culture, linking it to the growing conservatism in society and the intrusion of non-nudists on naturist beaches. The widespread use of social media has exacerbated these issues, making nudists feel less secure and respected. Despite the challenges, the event highlighted the community's commitment to preserving and promoting the nudist way of life in Spain.
Personally, this is the sort of proactive activism and advocacy that I would like to see more in the U.S. The Spanish naturists are not taking for granted that naturism is legal. They’re not getting complacent. They’re working to keep moving the needle forward. 🚀
Mastectomy tattoo artist's social media frustration
Lucy Thompson, a tattoo artist and founder of the Nipple Innovation Project (NiP), the UK’s first mastectomy tattoo charity, has voiced her frustration with TikTok after the platform repeatedly flagged her content as “inappropriate.” The charity, based in Cullingworth, provides free tattoos resembling real nipples on reconstructed skin for breast cancer survivors. Despite TikTok’s guidelines allowing such content, Thompson's account (@lucy_nipple) has been deleted multiple times due to claims of “nudity” and “sexually suggestive” material. Although her account has been reinstated, Lucy continues to struggle with content removal, hindering her efforts to raise awareness and support survivors. 🚀
Indigenous creators are clashing with YouTube’s and Instagram’s sensitive content bans
Indigenous creators are finding themselves at odds with social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram, as their culturally significant content is frequently flagged and removed under sensitive content policies. These creators, who often share traditional dances, ceremonies, and educational material about their heritage, are seeing their work labeled as inappropriate or sexually explicit, despite the platforms' guidelines supposedly allowing such content.
This struggle mirrors the challenges faced by naturists, who also experience disproportionate content bans and removals. Both groups are trying to share non-sexual, culturally significant content that is misunderstood by the algorithms and policies designed to police online spaces. Just as naturists strive to promote body acceptance and non-sexual nudity, Indigenous creators aim to preserve and celebrate their heritage, only to be met with censorship that misunderstands and misrepresents their intentions.
The problem highlights a broader issue: how digital platforms, in an attempt to create “safe” environments, often fail to differentiate between harmful content and material that challenges cultural norms in healthy and educational ways. The experiences of Indigenous creators, like those of naturists, underscore the need for more nuanced content moderation that respects diverse cultural practices and expressions. 🚀
As a Teenager in Europe, I Went to Nudist Beaches All the Time. 30 Years Later, Would the Experience Be the Same?
Chiara Barzini reflects on the changing landscape of topless and nudist beaches in Europe, comparing her experiences as a teenager in the 1990s to today’s more conservative beach culture. Growing up in Italy, Barzini recalls a time when toplessness was ubiquitous and unremarkable, a natural part of life on the Mediterranean coast. However, in her recent attempt to revisit those memories, she found that nudity has become far less common on European beaches, replaced by a new kind of nudity that’s more prevalent on runways than in the water. Despite her own long history of embracing topless sunbathing, Barzini noticed a cultural shift, with even traditionally nude-friendly spots becoming more reserved.
In her essay, Barzini explores how societal changes, from the #MeToo movement to shifts in fashion and gender politics, have influenced the perception and practice of public nudity. She contrasts the nostalgic freedom of her youth with the current climate, where being topless on a beach can feel like a radical act. Through her journey, Barzini attempts to reclaim her connection to naturism, finding that, despite the changes, the spirit of liberation she cherished is still alive. 🚀
I turned my holiday home into a nudist resort — even my parents came to stay
Karie Jane, a 57-year-old former theatre producer from Derbyshire, transformed her holiday home in Fuerteventura into the BHH Naturist Resort after her divorce in 2013. Embracing naturism during her first visit to a nude beach in 2000, Karie has now fully immersed herself in the lifestyle, creating a welcoming and safe environment for naturists. Her resort features five apartments and offers activities like naked yoga and ladies’ retreats, attracting a diverse group of guests, including first-time naturists and breast cancer survivors. Karie takes pride in fostering confidence and body acceptance among her guests, many of whom return regularly.
Karie’s story has garnered significant attention, being featured across multiple major media outlets. This widespread coverage highlights her success in attracting press, as she continues to break down misconceptions about naturism. Notably, this isn’t the first time Karie has made headlines; her story has consistently captured international media interest, demonstrating her ability to promote and advocate for the naturist lifestyle effectively. Her achievements at the Naturist Travel Awards and her appearances on popular shows like Channel 5’s The Canary Islands with Jane McDonald further cement her reputation as a leading figure in the naturist community. 🚀
I discovered naturism in my teens, why I've embraced it in my fifties
Andrew Welch, the commercial manager for British Naturism, shares his journey of discovering naturism as a teenager and fully embracing it in his fifties. Despite the chilly climate in the UK, naturism is gaining popularity, with more people searching for naked camping holidays and participating in naturist events. Andrew credits the Covid-19 lockdowns for reigniting interest in naturism, as people sought freedom and comfort during a time of great uncertainty.
Welch explains that naturism is more about mindset and community than simply being naked. At naturist campsites, people experience a sense of liberation and connection with nature, free from the societal pressures of appearance and clothing. He encourages newcomers to overcome initial embarrassment and embrace the joy and freedom that comes with naturism, whether in the UK's drizzly outdoors or under the warmer skies of Europe. 🚀
Clinging on naked in a Norwegian waterfall: Svante Gullichsen’s best photograph
Finnish photographer Svante Gullichsen shares the story behind one of his most powerful images, captured during a trip to Jotunheimen National Park in Norway. The photograph, taken in a waterfall, depicts Gullichsen naked and clinging to rocks, symbolizing the struggle against external forces and his personal battles with mental health, particularly OCD.
Gullichsen’s use of nudity in his work is not just for artistic effect but as a means of honest expression. The stark contrast between his bare skin and the harsh natural elements highlights his vulnerability and the therapeutic nature of these challenging stunts. This photograph is part of a trilogy documenting his journey through illness, therapy, and recovery, culminating in an exhibition in Helsinki that marked both the end of the series and a significant personal closure for the artist. 🚀
Groom Is Furious His Sister Won't Attend His Clothes-Free Wedding At A Naturist Resort
A woman has caused a family rift by declining her brother's wedding invitation due to its strict dress code—no clothes. The wedding is set at a naturist resort where all guests must be nude. The woman, who supports her brother's naturist lifestyle, feels uncomfortable being naked in front of strangers and refuses to attend.
Her brother's fiancée couldn't understand the discomfort, even though other family members shared similar concerns. The bride-to-be remarked that if she had the sister's looks, she'd go nude all the time, missing the point that the issue isn't about body image but comfort levels.
The woman, invited to be a bridesmaid despite not knowing the bride well, felt particularly uneasy about walking nude down the aisle. Many Reddit users sided with her, pointing out that while naturism promotes body acceptance, imposing it on others, especially in such a setting, is unreasonable.
The broader naturist community also chimed in, suggesting that forcing this lifestyle on guests, especially with a photographer present, crosses boundaries.
How do you feel about the controversy? Is it fair to impose such a dress code on wedding guests, or should there be a compromise to accommodate everyone's comfort? 🚀
Enjoying Planet Nude?
We visited New Jersey's only nude beach. Here's what to expect
Gunnison Beach, nestled within the Gateway National Recreation Area at Sandy Hook, is New Jersey's only nude beach and a rare gem on the U.S. East Coast. This article offers a firsthand account of what visitors can expect at this unique shoreline. The experience begins with the heavy scent of sunscreen, an essential for beachgoers looking to avoid painful sunburns in places not accustomed to UV exposure.
The beach, described as “the friendliest beach around,” welcomes a diverse crowd ranging from topless college students to retirees, all united in the freedom of being clothing-optional. The scene is likened to a typical Jersey Shore day, but with the distinct absence of clothing. Despite the high concentration of male visitors, particularly in the southern, quieter section often favored by LGBTQ+ beachgoers, the author notes feeling safe and comfortable throughout the visit.
Historically, New Jersey had several nude beaches, but Gunnison remains the last, thanks to its location on federally owned land, which keeps it free from local regulations. The article concludes by endorsing Gunnison Beach as an ideal spot for those curious about nude beaches, offering a tranquil and liberating environment. 🚀
At New York’s Fat Queer Beach Day, Everyone Is Hot
This article captures the vibrant and affirming atmosphere of New York’s Fat Queer Beach Day at Riis Beach, an event created by model and activist Jordan Underwood to celebrate the intersection of queer identity and fatness. The event was a part of Body Week, Them’s annual series exploring the lived experiences of queer bodies. Underwood, alongside cohost Emma Zack, founder of the size-inclusive vintage shop Berriez, sought to create a space where fat queer individuals could feel seen, celebrated, and comfortable in their own skin—a place where the word “fat” isn’t just neutral but a badge of pride.
Throughout the day, attendees connected over shared experiences, expressing a collective sense of belonging that transcended societal pressures. The event drew in others who, even without prior knowledge, felt an immediate kinship with the gathering. The participants shared stories of overcoming shame and embracing their identities, underscoring the importance of community and visibility in fighting against fatphobia and celebrating body diversity. This beach day became a powerful reminder that everyone, in their authentic selves, is hot. 🚀
Women’s rights – tackling the difficult issues
At a recent Women’s Declaration International conference in London, Professor Sheila Jeffreys presented an interesting but controversial theory on naturism. She argued that naturism allows men to engage in voyeurism and indecent exposure under the guise of social acceptance, posing increasing harm to women. She noted that the normalization of naturism makes women uncomfortable and potentially unsafe, particularly on nudist beaches where fears of harassment and unauthorized photography are rising. This view is not positive for naturists and adds to the complexity of the broader discussion on women’s safety and rights in public spaces.
Of course, the article above presents this as the opinion of Jeffreys and does not offer much by way of data to back up the claims that naturist spaces are any less safe for women than they are for men.
What do you think? Particularly interested in hearing from women readers.
‘Naturist Paradises’: A Nudist Exhibit In France Where Visitors Can Go Naked
We reported on this last month as well, but the ‘Naturist Paradises’ exhibition at the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (Mucem) in Marseille continues to attract attention. This unique exhibit, running until December 9, allows visitors to explore the history of naturism and even attend certain viewings in the nude.
The exhibition features over 600 photos, films, magazines, paintings, sculptures, and everyday objects, tracing the evolution of nudist communities from the 1920s to today. France, recognized as the world's leading destination for naturists, showcases its rich history and thriving communities.
This really cool look at various nude and nude-adjacent practices underscores the therapeutic powers of intentional nudity, promoting body acceptance and a healthier lifestyle. The exhibit invites visitors to reconsider societal norms and embrace a more liberated way of living. 🚀
News of the Nude, Vol. 20 Crossword
All of the clues in the puzzle come from the stories above. Write the puzzle out on a separate sheet of paper, or click the button below to play an interactive puzzle online (opens in a new page).
Across
3. Spanish city where 717 people formed a nudist human chain
6. Historic nudist resort celebrating its 90th anniversary
7. Focus of the topless gender protests in Boston and NYC
8. City hosting the 'Among Naked People' exhibition
9. Three-night nude festival organized by British Naturism
10. New Jersey’s only nude beach located at Sandy Hook
Down
1. City in France hosting the ‘Naturist Paradises’ exhibition
2. Naturist park owned by Stéphane Deschênes
4. Location of a naturist beach with boundary disputes
5. Association reinforcing boundaries at a naturist beach in Alghero
Let us know how you did in the comments!
Answer key will be revealed in next month’s News of the Nude!
That’s a wrap for this month’s News of the Nude. Crazy shit, right? Summer is waning. In some areas it’s already up. Here in SoCal, it’s still warm, but there’s been a shift in the air. Still, there’s a few weeks left to swim and hike and do all the fun stuff that Summer enables. There’s a lot of bad news out there, but we’re here each month to try and keep things sunny. 🪐
News of the Nude, Aug. 2024