S PADRE ISLE, TX 78597, USA 
261 miles from Houston, TX
UFO Beach on South Padre Island is the most famous nudist beach in the state. Actually, it isn’t legally recognized as a nude beach, but nudity has been a common thing here for years. It’s a popular clothing-optional sunbathing spot on Laguna Madre Bay, which receives many visitors, especially during spring break, when jolly college students come here to spend their free time sunbathing, swimming, partying, and engaging in water sports. UFO Beach is considered to be one of the best nude beaches in the USA and is included in the Traveler’s Digest 10 Best Nude Beaches.
Name
UFO Beach on South Padre Island got its name after an emergency evacuation pod that was washed onto the shore. It looks like a small alien spaceship. Later, the beachgoers decorated it with bright paintings and the phrases “Nude Beach” and “No Tan Lines”.
Location and Access
The UFO Beach is located 7 to 8 miles north of South Padre Sand Dunes on South Padre Island, Texas, which is about 20 miles from Brownsville. Reaching the UFO beach requires either a four-wheel drive or a hike along the scorching shore because the road terminates at South Padre Sand Dunes.
Be aware that the beach offers no facilities at all – no showers, restrooms, changing areas, or even porta-potties.
Nudity
Nudity is not officially allowed in the area, so it’s better to cover yourself when beach patrols arrive. They can show very different attitudes to the absence of your swimsuit, and tickets for disturbing the peace are possible. Nevertheless, women are permitted to sunbathe topless, so you need only to take care of the lower part of your body.
Lively Atmosphere
It’s difficult to call this remote place quiet and secluded since its fame as one of the best nudist beaches in the country makes it popular with college students. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to take off your clothes, meditate in the sun, and commune with nature, probably this place isn’t for you, especially during spring break. But if you’re okay with crowds and some revelry – join in. Sometimes they even hold parties at the beach!
Sand and Water
The sand at UFO Beach is white, super fine, and soft – enjoyable to the touch and for barefoot walks. The long and clean beach provides enough space for strolling and enjoying the views. The Gulf is spectacularly vast, blue, and shining under the sun. Swimming in these beautiful waters is the best way to beat the summer heat. Bring hats, umbrellas, and plenty of sunscreen, since there is no shade at all.
Driving Time
- 1 hour 10 minutes from Brownsville, TX
- 1 hour 50 minutes from McAllen, TX
- 3 hours 20 minutes from Corpus Christi, TX
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near UFO Beach which you can visit:
- Andy Bowie Park Beach (15 miles)
- Isla Blanca Park Beach (20 miles)
- Boca Chica Beach (25 miles)
South Padre Island, TX 78597, United States
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15 mi away