First-Timers Guide to Haulover Beach
Nervous? Good. That means you're about to try something that scares you a little. Everyone who's ever done it says the same thing on the other side.
The Honest Truth About Your First Visit
Going to a clothing-optional beach for the first time feels like a big deal. Your brain makes it feel bigger than it is. You'll drive there thinking about it the whole time, walk to the beach a little stiff, find your spot — and then about five minutes after you take your clothes off (or don't), you'll forget you were ever nervous.
That's not a prediction. That's just what happens. Every single time. To every single person. Ask anyone who's been.
"Why didn't I try this sooner?" — everyone, eventually.
Before You Go: What to Know
Clothing is optional. Not mandatory.
The north end of Haulover Beach Park is designated clothing-optional. That means you can go nude, stay in a swimsuit, or anything in between. Nobody is going to make you undress. There is no pressure — only freedom.
It's a public beach. All types of people come here.
All ages. All races. All nationalities. All body types. Retired couples, solo travelers, groups of friends, families with kids. The diversity is part of what makes Haulover special. You will not feel out of place because there's no "type" here.
Nobody is staring at you.
This is the #1 fear of first-timers. It's also the thing everyone stops worrying about within the first five minutes. People are there to enjoy the beach — not to evaluate your body. The community at Haulover is remarkably non-judgmental. Bodies are bodies. Sun is sun. Ocean is ocean. That's it.
How to Find the Clothing-Optional Section
The clothing-optional area is the northern 0.4-mile stretch of Haulover Beach Park. When you park and walk to the beach, head north. The section is clearly marked with signs — you will not accidentally wander in (or accidentally miss it). There are beach access points specifically for the clothing-optional section. If you're unsure, ask a park employee or look for a South Florida Free Beaches Ambassador near the entrance.
What to Bring
- Reef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen — and bring more than you think you need. Serious.
- Water — lots of it. Florida sun is no joke, and dehydration sneaks up on you.
- A beach towel — you'll want something to sit on
- A waterproof dry bag — for your phone, keys, wallet while you swim
- Cash — for chair/umbrella rentals ($10/$15) and the snack cart
- Sunglasses and a hat (for when you're not in the water)
- A light cover-up for the walk to/from the car
- A great attitude — it's the most important thing you'll pack
Beach Rules to Know
- No alcohol or glass containers on the beach
- No photography of other people without their explicit consent
- No sexual behavior of any kind — it's a family beach
- No pets
- Pick up your trash before you leave
- Dispose of cigarette butts properly
- Obey all lifeguard instructions and posted warnings
- Stay in the designated clothing-optional zone if you're nude
The Ambassador Program
The South Florida Free Beaches organization has volunteer Ambassadors at Haulover Beach. They're easy to spot and incredibly helpful. Say hello when you see them — they'll answer questions, help newcomers feel at ease, and worked hard for years to get this beach officially designated as clothing-optional. They deserve a thank you.