San Onofre, USA
The only beach in our round-up to be sung about in the Beach Boys's "Surfin' USA", San Onofre is an impressive stretch of sand at San Clemente, California. This is a place where local military forces and nude sunbathers get awkwardly close, for the US Marine Corps have a camp in the area. As the musical connection suggests, it's a prime surf spot too, but catching waves in the altogether is not recommended unless you like stinging sensations and getting berated by macho surfing types.
More info: USA country guide
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Baker Beach, USA
In the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker Beach is a mile-long strip of sand just a few moments from the bustle and tourist mayhem of San Francisco's waterfront area. This being America, you have to stay in the official nude area of the beach (stick north of the "Hazardous Surf" sign) or you may get a stern ticking off from officials. It's a lovely beach but not the best spot for prolonged swimming; the water in the Bay is famously cold and there are various shark species milling around, ready to nibble at body parts that intrigue them.
More info: USA country guide
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