Nude beach...how to start a chat?
Been to a couple of nude beaches in FLA and CA. Still a newbie though. People seem friendly especially in FLA, but as a single (straight) man I'm on my own. Would like to talk to the experienced locals without appearing strange. Just to acknowledge what we are doing and thank them for the friendly atmosphere. Was at Playalinda today and was feeling a bit left out! I'm travelling on business when I'm there so little or no chance of taking my wife.Any suggestions?
I am not able to advise you about beach etiquette; although I can relate my own first experiences of social nudity which may help.
After too many years of home nudity I decided to take the plunge (literally) at my local swim club. Having read a lot of negative stuff about single males and the way they are treated I did not know what to expect. However I need not have worried, everyone is very friendly and not at all concerned that I and many others are single.
My advice would be to try out a local swim club as, from what I have heard most of them are very accepting of single males. At my club a large proportion of the members fall into that category. And at least 2 of the committee are among that number: one is single, the other is a "single" married (wife does not have an interest in social nudity, but has no problem with him indulging).
If you have a look at this website https://www.bn.org.uk/activities/placestogo.php you may be able to find somewhere suitable. Alternatively if you do a search for health and efficiency magazine they used to have a listing of venues in there.
I am sure you will very quickly gain the confidence that you currently lack and enjoy yourself. I was worried about talking to folks at first; but if anything it is easier than starting a conversation in the street. Because you know that the reason folks are there is to be social and interact with others and that you all have at least one thing in common: the love of body freedom.
On my second or third visit someone recognised my photo from a British based naturist forum and very soon I was also talking to his wife (who was as nude as we were).
Any way enough waffle, I must get some ugly sleep (beauty sleep is for the ladies). Good luck and have fun.
I was wondering the same thing myself. I went to Haulover once when I was still living in Florida, although I went by myself and didn't socialize with or meet any regulars. Of course I was there on a Thursday afternoon in November and it wasn't particularly crowded. Now I'm in eastern PA and would like to go to Gunnison next season.
If you're going to a public place that allows it, take a puppy (even if it's the neighbors). Greatest conversation starter I ever had (Especially if the puppy is a yellow lab that's afraid of the water :)- she eventually learned that swimming is fun, then I couldn't get her out). Everyone loves the puppies.
John aka cobeachbum
I suppose it's like any other beach. Some people are there to enjoy the sun and read a book in peace and quiet while others want to socialize a bit. If there are any games going on, join the spectators and you'll have an easy topic to start a conversation with the person standing next to you or better yet, ask to join in yourself. Maybe even take your own frisbee and try to start a game. How about taking some extra snacks or candies and offering to share with your neighbours? Some of the bigger beaches, like Haulover, have beach ambassadors that are always friendly, know all the regulars and very proud of their beach. Approach them with a question, let them know you're new and would like to meet people and maybe they can introduce you around. At the very least others will also be coming to them with questions and you can strike up conversations that way.
Nude beaches are no different than clothed beaches, if you stay secluded lying in the sun, chances are you wont meet many people.
If you walk the beach and say hello to everyone you meet and wear a smile, if nothing else ;)... you will seem approachable to those that also want to chat.
In the beginning of my nudie beach experience I was rather shy and only sun bathed and went in the water to cool off from the heat... but realized I was still feeling alone even though there were many people enjoying the summer fun.
Then as I became more acustomed to being nude in front of others, I began to open conversation.
I havent made any life long friends yet but people do recognize me now and have at least made some aquaintances.
Friends need time to make it happen...
The last time that I was at Haulover, a nudist group was there with a large canopy tent and a buffet. I went up and introduced myself and they were the friendliest people that I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. It really made my day more enjoyable.
Nude beaches are no different than clothed beaches, if you stay secluded lying in the sun, chances are you wont meet many people. If you walk the beach and say hello to everyone you meet and wear a smile, if nothing else ;)... you will seem approachable to those that also want to chat.In the beginning of my nudie beach experience I was rather shy and only sun bathed and went in the water to cool off from the heat... but realized I was still feeling alone even though there were many people enjoying the summer fun.Then as I became more acustomed to being nude in front of others, I began to open conversation.I havent made any life long friends yet but people do recognize me now and have at least made some aquaintances.Friends need time to make it happen...
I like that. :D