Naturism at Cayo Largo, Cuba

Although we have been visiting Cayo Largo only since 1999, we learned that naturism on the beaches of Cayo Largo is a reality of this destination since the first beginnings of the tourist rise of this small islet in the early 80's. It exists in Cayo Largo a very peaceful cohabitation between the naturists and non-naturists. Although there is no beach in the hotel zone which is "officially" designated as naturist, the naturist areas were always created spontaneously by the tourists at the extremity of the beach of certain hotels. Please note naturism is ONLY allowed on the beach NOT on the resort.

In addition to the beaches close to the hotels, there are also in Cayo Largo several kilometers of virgin beaches for those who prefer the practice of naturism in private. These endless beaches also make the joy of those who wish to take long nude walks.

Before fall of 2001, the hotel Villa Capricho (and its beach) was the place of predilection of the naturists. However, unfortunately this tiny hotel was destroyed by the hurricane Michelle on November 4th, 2001.

Since 2002 new habits were slowly created again. The Villa Lindamar seems to have now become the preferred choice for many naturists in replacement of the Villa Capricho BUT this resort is no longer available for Canadian. The Italian tour operators have an exclusive contract with the hotel as for Isla del Sur.

The naturists always seem to gather mostly at the following places :

It is important to realize that naturism in Cayo largo is made possible and continue to exist thanks to a « policy » of tolerance adopted by the Cubans, but also due to the respectful behavior of the tourists. That is why it is of the highest importance to adopt a responsible attitude in the mutual respect of everyone, coming as much from the naturists than the non-naturists. If you have walked in front of the hotels outside of the designated zones, why not wearing a pareo? Try not to shock anyone!

We truly think that Cayo Largo is the ideal place for a first naturist experiment, for several reasons. The wild & natural beauty of this Cayo along with its endless beaches provides a feeling of freedom. It is hard to explain with words you have to live off it to understand! Most people will be tempted to try the feeling to be nude under the sun due to :

• The safe and peaceful environment of an uninhabited island.
• The vastness of its beaches which provides all of the desired intimacy often desired for the first experience.
• The history of tolerance towards naturism.
• The fact that there are others.
• The peaceful cohabitation and respect between naturists and non-naturists.
• Or, simply the curiosity to try a new experience!

Definition of naturism according to INF (International Naturist Federation) ...

« Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature characterized by the practice of communal nudity, with the intention of encouraging self-respect, respect for others and for the environment »

Our first experience of naturism was at St-Martin in Orient Bay. Since then, we like relaxing « Au Naturel » under the warm sun of the Caribbean. Unfortunately, there are not many places where naturism is possible. After your first experience, you will not tolerate anymore this piece of clothing. Who said that you have to get dress to bathe?

At Cuba, Cayo Largo and Cayo Santa Maria are well known for naturism which became almost « official ». Visit the section of our website [Things to know] to learn more about naturism in Cuba.

A beautiful collection of beaches (more than 1,000 places) where we can be nude outside (beach and\or center), the magazine UK Bare Beaches. Published in England by Lifestyle Press and in the United States by The Naturist Society. Cayo Largo is in there!

Naturism - code of conduct

For the following texts, I used as reference “L'étiquette du naturisme” as described in the Web site of the Fédération Québécoise du Naturisme, but adapted more specifically to the free beaches and the particular context of Cayo largo.

Most important at Cayo Largo naturism is « tolerated » and not « allowed », where the importance to adopt an adequate behavior so that the naturists continue to represent faithful customers without problems with Cayo Largo.

Naturism on free beaches

• In a general way, the same rules of behavior like the « textiles » to apply in a naturist context. The courtesy and the respect of the rights of the others are important.
• It is impolite to fix intensely « stare ». There is nothing wrong to look at, but avoid fixing (in particular with binoculars or a camera!!!)
• For reasons of hygiene, one ALWAYS uses a towel to sit down on the public benches or in catamarans.
• Respect the environment. Move away from the fragile dunes or other areas. We can lose the access to these beaches if one harms the environment.
• Help to preserve the places clean. Bring a bag where you will be able to recover your garbage. Leave the beach cleaner than it was it on your arrival.
• Get dressed before leaving the naturist sections. Naturism does not consist in offending the others.
• Respect the other people.
• Ask to people their permission before photographing them. It is generally badly seen to take photos on a naturist beach.
• Respect the intimacy of people. Many people come to benefit from nature and do not want to be disturbed. There is nothing evil to adopt a friendly attitude, but be attentive with the reactions and the body language of people.
• If you see people who contravene the acceptable standards, explain to them clearly and politely how they contravene the rules of an acceptable behavior.