Nudism on Gavdos - where it's allowed and where it's not!
- David Neumeyer
- May 31
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 1
📖 Content
#1: Nudism on Gavdos - part of the DNA
Gavdos is one of the last remaining places of freedom in Europe. Isolated from the ever-advancing spirit of our time, life on Gavdos runs according to its own rules and laws. The pace on the island is slowed down. Consumption and commerce play no role. Everyone is welcome. The island attracts people looking for a break in close contact with nature. And also people who are looking for people with similar interests in order to find answers to the questions that life poses. The feeling of the island is difficult to describe. You have to experience it. Many newcomers feel the same way: it is addictive and those who leave the island will miss it. What is part of this feeling and spirit of the island: naked people living on the beach. Tents in the sand are part of the typical image of the island. And this is part of the DNA of this special island. Nudism is tolerated in many places on Gavdos, but as everywhere else in the world, mutual consideration and respect for the locals are part of the spirit of the island.
#2: The best nudist beaches on Gavdos
Gavdos has beautiful beaches to offer. The finest sand, crystal blue water and bizarrely wild juniper trees make every beach on the island a little paradise. There is no trace of organized infrastructure and beach loungers! Nudism is lived and practised on the beaches of Agios Ioannis and Lavrakas in particular. Bikinis and swimming trunks are clearly outnumbered there. But also Potamos is perfect for an extended day at the beach in physical freedom.
You can find a great overview of the most beautiful beaches in this article!
#3: The rules and prohibition of nudism on Gavdos
There are also limits to the dress code on Gavdos. While nudity is practiced on almost all beaches, the picture changes outside the beaches. This also includes mini markets, tavernas and buses or cabs. At the height of summer, you can see people sitting in the tavernas in Sarakiniko and Agios Ioannis without their shirts on. However, no one sits naked in the tavernas and this is not tolerated. In July 2023, the island administration made a decision that sparked great displeasure among many visitors to the island, which extended far beyond the island's coastal borders. Nudity was banned on Sarakiniko beach. A sign indicates this new circumstance. The reason given is the wishes of the locals living in Sarakiniko. This restriction only applies to Sarakiniko beach and does not affect any other beaches on the island. Extensive protest campaigns by various interest groups attempted to oppose this decision. The result was that significantly fewer visitors came to Gavdos and Sarakiniko in particular. This is a painful situation for the locals and the island. My recommendation: don't let this decision put you off traveling to Gavdos. The spirit of the island lives on and will not be permanently disturbed by this action!