by Megan
When you think of the Pacific Northwest, images of rugged coastlines, alpine lakes, and hipster lumberjacks might come to mind. But beyond the flannel and forests, this region – stretching from Washington and Oregon in the U.S. to British Columbia in Canada – has long been a haven for counterculture. It’s the birthplace of grunge, a stronghold for free spirits, and home to some of the most breathtaking (and sometimes secretive) nude beaches in North America.
It’s no surprise that a place known for progressive values and earthy vibes would embrace clothing-optional spaces and some locals might prefer these gems stay off the tourist radar. But they’re simply too beautiful not to share.
On the social side, expect to meet laid-back outdoor lovers with a thing for craft beer, kombucha, and fresh air.
Whether tucked along freshwater lakes or wild saltwater shores, the region’s nude beaches are rugged, scenic, and well worth the effort to reach – even if the path there tests your glutes.
Most Popular
Denny Blaine (Seattle, WA)
Overlooking Lake Washington with a view of the mountains, Denny Blaine is a local favorite for good reason. It’s only about 20 minutes from downtown Seattle by car or bus (though parking can be tricky).
Fun fact: it’s not far from the former home of Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain – a nearby park bench serves as a memorial to the grunge legend.
The beach has both grassy and sandy areas. There are no food or drink vendors, so pack your own picnic.
Wreck Beach (Vancouver, BC)
Canada’s most famous nude beach is just minutes from downtown Vancouver — but you’ll need to descend (and later climb) 490 steps to reach it.
The beach is vast and wild, dotted with driftwood logs and soaring eagles. Vendors roam the beach selling everything from sandwiches to cold drinks — some even accept cards, though cash is king.
It’s a mix of families, students, and long-time regulars who’ve been coming here since the 1970s. Choose your log and settle in.
Collins Beach (Portland, OR)
Further south in Oregon, Collins Beach is a freshwater beach along the Columbia River. The sandy beach bordered by tall trees offers the kind of diverse natural wilderness the region is known for! Whether you want shade or a spot in the sun, this beach has it all.
Be sure to remember to pack your own snacks and beverages as there are no vendors here but it’s just part of the back-to-basics vibe this beach is so well known for. There are plenty of farms along the drive which sell local produce and snacks be sure to stop along the way for some picnic fare.
Off the Beaten Path
Dogfish Beach (near Bellingham, WA)
Sharing this spot near Bellingham, Washington State, U.S.A, may get us some hate from locals who want to keep it a secret but this beach is just too unique not to share! Where else can you experience a saltwater nude beach just meters away from an active train line? Of course, while novel, there needs to be precautions taken as the walk to the beach requires crossing said rail line. Because of that, we don’t recommend this beach for those with small children or mobility challenges.
Once you’ve reached this beach it is a perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. The locals have really upped the ante by building a firepit area, making the evenings just as enjoyable as a daytime visit. The water here is warm and the views are beautiful. Beware, the beach is rocky so a thicker blanket is ideal for laying on.
Rooster Rock (Portland, OR)
This is another beach along the Columbia River in Oregon. Technically it’s actually a series of beaches which means the beach goer can choose a beach based on preference. Want to be among a lot of people? Prefer a more isolated experience? There’s a beach for each type of beach bum. Sand Island is a popular destination here that is accessed by wading through the River.
Blackburn Lake (Salt Spring Island, BC)
This is a hidden gem within a unique destination in British Columbia. Blackburn Lake is located on Salt Spring Island and is only accessible by ferry. Blackburn Lake (and Salt Spring Island!) is the kind of place that once you know about it it’s tough to not plan a return trip. Salt Spring Island is a hippie paradise and so it shouldn’t come as a surprise there’s a clothing-optional lake.
The space on the dock at Blackburn Lake is limited so you’ll want to plan to visit early in the day to secure a spot amongst the regulars. The water itself is lovely and refreshing on a hot summer’s day. The proximity to local breweries is a definite plus for this spot.
Worth the Journey
Crescent Rock Beach (White Rock, BC)
Crescent Rock Beach is located south of Vancouver, British Columbia, near White Rock. The tactile part of the beach is very popular so parking can be hard to come by on a hot day. Once you’ve secured a spot, though, you’re in paradise.
The beach itself is rocky and the views are outstanding. There’s a solid group of locals that attend this beach and are very friendly. You’ll want to plan to bring your own food and beverages here though as there are no vendors.
Norrish Creek (Fraser Valley, BC)
This freshwater spot doubles as a great camping getaway for those who might be interested. Norrish Creek is located in the Fraser Valley in British Columbia. It’s about a 45 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
This spot does require a little bit of a hike to get to, but once the destination has been arrived at, it’s worth the effort. The only downside of this wild clothing-optional spot is not all swimmers realize or desire the nude escape it offers so don’t be surprised if you run into people in swim attire here.
Witty’s Lagoon (Vancouver Island, BC)
This beach is located on Vancouver Island, in British Columbia. To access it from Vancouver, you’ll need to plan to book a trip on a ferry then drive or take public transit. Once there, you’ll experience the most popular nude beach on Vancouver Island. The views here are stunning and the water is refreshing. The shoreline is rocky, though, so be sure to bring along some water shoes. There are also no vendors here so come prepared with your food and beverages.
The Naked Truth:
If you weren’t already convinced, you now have ten solid reasons to add the Pacific Northwest to your nude beach travel list. From wild, untamed landscapes to relaxed, welcoming communities, this region offers a one-of-a-kind naturist experience that blends nature, freedom, and a touch of rebellion.
Ready to dive deeper? Explore more beaches in the Pacific Northwest at nudebeachmap.com.