Nudism in Bali

Indonesia has a strong cultural and religious background and no public nudity is officially allowed. However, the island of Bali draws tourists from around the world, many of whom prefer topless or nude sunbathing. Although there are no official nude beaches on Bali, there are clothing-optional accommodations available and two 'unofficial' nude beaches on the island.

In 2008 Indonesia’s Parliament in Jakarta passed an anti-pornography law that can land you up to four years in jail if caught processing or downloading pornography and a sentence of up to 12 years in jail for any sexually suggestive display or performance. Exposing body parts in an exotic way would be punishable by as much as 10 years in jail. Depending on how your nudity was perceived by the authorities under these laws, there could be severe legal consequences for public nudity in Bali.

No officially nude public beaches exist in Bali, though many tourists go topless on public beaches. Two unofficial nudist beaches in Bali draw sunbathers, though. Kuta Beach is the more popular due to its lack of coral reefs and proximity to the airport. Uluwatu Beach is on the side of a cliff, keeping it out of public view. If you risk public nudity on these or other beaches, do so on the less-populated western and eastern ends of the island.

Many European tourists are used to sunbathing topless and would not consider doing so to be lewd or true nudity. Since so many Europeans visit Bali, they bring some level of acceptance of topless sunbathing on beaches, as long as it is done without sexual overtones. However, if you were to cause some kind of scene or problem while sunbathing topless, you could officially be considered in violation of the country's laws against public nudity.

Bali Au Naturel and the connecting Glass House offer gay and straight visitors the opportunity to enjoy a 100 percent clothing-optional environment. Located on the northern Bali beach the resort environment features exotic plants and large swimming pools, and offers outings to the jungle, area waterfalls, colorful markets and historic temples. Rooms at the resorts provide scenic views of pools, the ocean, and the surrounding gardens.

Bali has two popular clothing optional villas. In South Bali the Villa Bali Gattes is minutes away from Canggu and Echo beaches, which are renowned for world-class surf breaks and beautiful sunsets. In a quiet secluded area with high walls and 24-hour security for privacy, Laki Uma Villa has optional nudity on the premises. However, most of the guests choose to go nude. Facilities include a steam room, Jacuzzi tubs and a library.