Nude Beaches in French Polynesia (2026): What's Allowed
Table of Contents
The Short Answer
French Polynesia has no designated nude beaches. Although it is a French overseas collectivity, none of its beaches is designated for naturism, and it does not appear in established listings of naturist beaches in the Pacific (naturist beach listings). Resorts set their own rules for their beaches and pools. The nearest designated nude beaches are in Australia.
Resorts and Overwater Bungalows
Public beaches and resort beaches are shared spaces, so swimwear is expected. What you wear on a private overwater-bungalow deck that cannot be seen from a beach, a boat or a neighbouring bungalow is your own business, but lagoon boats and paddleboarders do pass. If a clothing-optional area matters to you, ask the resort directly before booking; we found none that publishes such a policy.
The Beaches to Enjoy in Swimwear
On Bora Bora, Matira Beach is the island's main public beach, with shallow, calm water. Moorea, a short ferry ride from Tahiti, has public beaches on its west coast and lagoon snorkelling. Many visitors spend a day on a motu (a small islet on the reef) by boat tour, which is often the most beautiful beach time of the trip.
Where to Go Instead
The nearest beaches where nude bathing is lawful by designation are in Australia, including several in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia; see our Australia guide. For the Pacific islands more broadly, see where nude bathing is legal.
This series: The World's Best Nude Beaches
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there nude beaches in French Polynesia?
No. None of French Polynesia's beaches is designated for naturism, and it does not appear in established listings of naturist beaches in the Pacific.
Can I sunbathe nude on my overwater bungalow deck?
A private deck that cannot be seen from a beach, a boat or a neighbouring bungalow is your own business, but lagoon boats and paddleboarders do pass. Resorts set their own rules, so ask before you book.
Is topless sunbathing allowed in Bora Bora?
No official source designates any beach for it, and we found no resort that publishes a topless policy. Ask the resort directly before assuming anything.
Where is the closest legal nude beach to French Polynesia?
Australia, which has beaches where nude bathing is lawful by designation in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia.
What is the best public beach in Bora Bora?
Matira Beach, on the island's southern tip, is the main public beach, with shallow, calm water.
