7 Iconic Hawaii Nude Beaches Unveiled

Welcome to paradise! Today we’re exploring the serene beauty and tranquil allure of the finest nude beaches in Hawaii.

Hawaii, known for its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters, offers more than just picturesque sunsets and lush greenery. It’s a haven for those seeking a more natural and uninhibited beach experience.

Our journey takes us through hidden gems where the sun kisses the sea, and the sand embraces the sky, all in their most pristine and untouched forms.

Whether you’re a seasoned naturist or simply curious about the liberating experience of sunbathing au naturel, join us as we share our favorite Hawaii nude beaches, where freedom and nature coalesce into an unforgettable experience

Can You Sunbathe Nude on Hawaii Beaches?

In Hawaii, public nudity, including nude sunbathing, is generally illegal. This is in accordance with state laws that prohibit disrobing in public places, including beaches. While Hawaii is known for its beautiful and diverse beaches, there are no officially designated nude beaches.

This is different than say Florida nude beaches where they have officially designated portions of certain beaches for nude sunbathing.

However, there are certain beaches or remote areas of beaches in Hawaii that have become known unofficially as places where people sunbathe nude. These areas tend to be more secluded and less frequented by the general public.

Can You Sunbathe Topless in Hawaii?

Now topless on Hawaii beaches is a different story and the short answer is yes.

Mayor Alan Arakawa was asked this exact question and here was his reply.

“Sunbathing topless is permissible by Hawai‘i law, which only prohibits open lewdness or intentionally exposing one’s genitals “to a person to whom the person is not married under circumstances in which the actor’s conduct is likely to cause affront. The laws do not forbid one from exposing their breasts, so sunbathing topless is not a criminal offense.”

Perhaps the most important take away from all of this is to use common sense and discretion. While it may be legal that does not mean it won’t offend other beachgoers.

If you pull up to a secluded beach it’s probably not the best idea to to go full nude right next to a family. A little common sense goes a long way and below are some general nude beach etiquette rules worth following.

First Things First… What Is The Proper Etiquette To Follow When Visiting A Nude or Topless Beach?

CHECK OUT ➡ 11 Nudist Beach Etiquette Tips

1. Respect personal space: Give fellow beachgoers ample space to relax and sunbathe. Avoid crowding or standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
2. No staring or gawking: It’s natural to be curious, but avoid staring at others or making them feel uncomfortable. Treat everyone with respect and focus on enjoying your own experience.
3. No photography or recording without consent: Do not take photographs or record videos of others without their explicit permission. Respect people’s privacy and adhere to any rules regarding photography at the beach.
4. Keep it family-friendly: Nude beaches are often welcoming to visitors of all ages. Refrain from engaging in overtly sexual behavior, and be mindful of your actions and language.

The Unofficial ‘Clothing Optional’ Hawaii Nude Beaches Map

1. Little Beach – Maui Nude Beaches

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Nestled between the Makena caldera and the Pacific Ocean along the Wailea-Makena coastline in South Maui, Little Beach, or Puu Olai, is a secluded golden-sand paradise.

Often referred to as the best nude beach in America, this secluded beach is only made better by its soft sand and warm waters perfect for swimming.

Little Beach, which is part of Makena State Park, is only reachable via a trail from the larger and more frequented Big Beach. Its lack of direct parking and hidden location means many visitors pass by unaware.

This seclusion has earned it a spot among Maui’s Top 10 secret beaches. When we went to little beach we were actually surprised how quiet it was and there was about a 50/50 mix of people taking part in the clothing optional choice and a little nude sunbathing.

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2. Secret Beach (Kauapea) – Kauai Nude Beaches

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Kauapea Beach, often referred to as Secret Beach or Secrets, is a hidden gem on Kauai’s North Shore, invisible from the highway but offering breathtaking rewards for those who seek it out.

This expansive, secluded nude beach in Kauai, is an oasis far from resorts and crowds, where serene seascapes dominate the view.

The official ‘clothing optional’ area is towards the end of the 3,000 foot long beach.

True to its name, Secret Beach is a hidden destination without clear signage or easy access. To reach this clothing optional beach, you’ll find a somewhat steep, but brief, trail at the end of the first dirt road on the right after turning onto Kalihiwai Road from Kuhio Highway.

3. Polo Beach – Oahu

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Polo Beach, near Haleiwa on the western edge of Oahu’s North Shore, offers a serene and untouched sandy stretch of beach that’s frequented by nude bathers.

Despite its close proximity to everything, it feels rather secluded and has a nice backdrop of trees that give it some privacy. When we visited Polo beach it was very quiet despite being a weekend.

There has been some friction with local residents over recent years so it is recommended that you stay further out of view towards the eastern end of the beach if you do want to nude sunbathe.

4. Kahuku Beach – Oahu

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Kahuku beach is one of our favorite spots on the North Shore. While it’s not exactly hidden it is a bit tricky to get to thus making it a popular nude beach on Oahu.

To access it, you’ll need to walk across Kahuku Golf Course. While we did find it strange to have to scurry across the golf course it was well worth it once we got to the beach.

Kahuku beach is another great clothing optional beach just down from Polo beach

5. Kahena Beach – Big Island Nude Beaches

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This black sand beach also known as Dolphin Beach is on the east coast of the Big Island in Puna. The unofficial clothing optional beach has just enough privacy as it is well tucked in between trees and coastline.

The beach got its name from the Spinner dolphins that call the area home living just offshore. Interestingly, the beach was just recently formed in 1955 from a lava outflow from the cliffs above it.

This nudist beach is best accessed by following the path leading from the left side of the parking area. Keep in mind on most Sundays there’s a drum circle gathering which draws a lot of people.

6. Red Sand Beach – Nudist Friendly

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Located at Maui’s far-western end, Red Sand Beach is known for its remoteness and challenging accessibility. The descent to the beach involves a precarious hike along a narrow path, perched high above the ocean, often described as treacherous by visitors.

But in doing so you’ll be rewarded by this very unique beach that gets its colors from the iron rich lava. There’s even a rock sea wall which provides a break from the crashing waves making it an ideal spot for some nude sunbathing.

7. MAKALAWENA BEACH – Favorite Nude Beaches In hawaii

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Makalawena, arguably the Big Island’s finest beach inaccessible by road, boasts several stunning bays along the Kona Coast, characterized by pristine white sands and ample shade from palm trees.

The hike required to reach Makalawena deters large crowds, particularly on weekdays, making it a serene escape perfect for nude sunbathing.

It’s challenging to find a more idyllic nude beach in the Hawaiian islands. Swimming here is generally safe, especially when the waters are calm.

You may also enjoy ➡ 14 Best Nude Beaches In Florida

Final Thoughts On Nude Beaches In Hawaii

Hawaii, known for its stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters, also hosts some of the most serene and picturesque nude beaches. These hidden gems, often tucked away in secluded areas, provide a tranquil escape for naturists.

From the lush, palm-lined shores of Kauai’s Secret Beach to the remote and untouched sands of Maui’s Little Beach, Hawaii’s nude beaches offer a unique blend of natural beauty and peaceful solitude.

You can bask in the sun, swim in the warm Pacific waters, and connect with nature in its purest form, all while enjoying the privacy and freedom that these lesser-known spots provide.