Imagine experiencing the warm sun and sea breezes of Spain’s Costa Almeria without the hindrance of waistbands, buttons, zippers, and bathing suits. If this kind of freedom sounds appealing, Vera Playa is a dream come true. This southern Spanish beach town is an oasis for those who just want to be comfortable in their own skin. So step out of the buttoned-up ‘real’ world for a week or two and reacquaint yourself with the joys of going au naturel.
About Vera Playa
Vera Playa, located on the warm, dry southeast coast of Spain, is the only all-year-round naturist resort of the European mainland. The beach resort is part of the municipality of Vera, a town of about 10,000 people that lies about 10 kilometres inland. Most of Vera Playa is ‘textile’ (i.e., clothed), but about 2.5 kilometres of the beach is designated naturist.
Part of what makes Vera Playa so special is that it is not just a naturist beach but an entire zone. Within this zone there are naturist hotels, bars, restaurants, shops, and over 2,000 privately owned apartments. This means you’re perfectly within your rights to go nude in town as well as along the waterfront.
The boundaries of the naturist zone are not particularly well-marked, though it should be fairly obvious (at least in summer) where all the naturists are! The zone is directly adjacent to textile residential areas, but you needn’t worry about getting in trouble should you stray outside the clothing-optional zone by accident. The Spanish Constitution permits public nudity, so the police that patrol the area are quite relaxed when it comes to interacting with naturists.
It’s worth noting that nudity is permitted at Vera Playa, not required. Because of this, Vera Playa is a great place for first-time naturists. There’s no pressure to disrobe, but you’ll soon realise how good it is to to go naked!
Things to Do
No doubt the main attraction at Vera Playa is the 2.5 kilometres of sandy beach, where you can sunbathe without worrying about unsightly tan lines, uncomfortable spandex, or chafing straps! The best time for a swim is in the morning when the sea is relatively calm. In the afternoon the sea breezes can kick up and make the waters quite choppy, and only suitable for stronger swimmers.
Within the naturist zone, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll on the promenade, a beach run in the buff, enjoy a cocktail at any number of beach bars, or hire a pedalo to take out on the water.
If you intend to go further afield (i.e. outside the designated naturist zone and into textile territory), you’ll find many options for dining and entertainment. Wind-surfing, sailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving are all excellent ways to get out on those warm Mediterranean waves. If you prefer to stay on land, there’s horseback riding, golfing, go-karting, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with spending the whole day relaxing on a sun bed soaking up some rays.
Naturist Resort Etiquette
If this is your first time visiting a naturist resort, you might be a little nervous. Rest assured, however, that naturists are some of the most laid-back people you’ll ever meet, and no one is here to judge your body or make you feel uncomfortable in any way. There is, however, a system of etiquette common to most nudist facilities, so read up before you disrobe!
Keep a towel handy. For basic sanitary reasons, it’s advisable to keep a towel with you at all times so that you can sit comfortably (and hygienically) in all public places. No bare backsides on the bar stools, please.
Don’t gawk. For first-timers, it can take some time to get used to seeing nude people going casually about their business. Act natural and don’t stare. Eventually, you’ll get used to seeing bare skin and it won’t seem like such a big deal.
No photographs. Never photograph anyone without their permission, even if they’re only in the background of your photo. Many naturists can be quite camera-shy.
No explicit sexual behaviour. If you’re at Vera Playa with a romantic partner, remember to keep the intimacy private! Many accommodations at Vera Playa have communal hot tubs, so don’t make it awkward for everyone else.
Bring plenty of sun cream. This one’s just common sense! Chances are, some parts of your body that don’t see much daylight will be exposed to the hot Spanish sunshine, so slather the sun cream on liberally.
How to Get to Vera Playa
If you’re ready to rock your birthday suit in Vera Playa, the easiest way to get there is to fly into Almería airport. Nonstop flights are just under three hours in duration and are available from budget airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet.
Once you’ve landed, don’t waste any time in getting back to the way nature made you. Pre-book your airport transfer to Vera Playa with Shuttle Direct and you can have a car and driver waiting for your at arrivals. The drive from Almería to Vera Playa is just one hour, so freedom is close at hand!
Where to Stay:
Urbanización Naturista Parque Vera – Set in one of Vera Playa’s designated naturist urbanizacións, or developments, these one-bedroom apartments are perfectly situated for accessing the beach and meeting fellow naturists. The apartment complex features a nudists-only heated outdoor pool, and every apartment has its own terrace or garden for privacy.
Vera Playa Club Hotel – The only hotel within the naturist zone at Vera Playa, this four-star facility is relaxing oasis where you can just be yourself. With two pools, a mini golf course, and a gym, you can immerse yourself in the naturist way of life. Worth noting: all guests are expected to be dressed after 8pm and in the hotel restaurant.
Hotel Apartamentos Mexico – Just five minutes’ walk from the beach, this aparthotel is an excellent choice if you’re not quite ready to go nude 24/7 during your holiday. The property has a lovely outdoor pool surrounded by tropical gardens, as well as a grill restaurant with outdoor terrace. Don’t forget to ask reception about arranging discounted green fees at the nearby golf courses.
About Shuttle Direct:
As the largest provider of transfer services in Europe and North Africa, we’ve just about seen it all when it comes to travelling. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a business trip, Shuttle Direct makes your transport to and from airports, train stations, hotels and more as easy as pie. Book your next transfer with us to find out why we’re the service so many travellers trust.
