"It's Not a Nude Beach"... This Place Suffers from an Influx of Naked Tourists

Foreign tourists enjoying nude bathing at a beach in Phuket, Thailand. Photo by Phuket Tourism Center on Facebook

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Authorities in Phuket, one of Thailand's top tourist destinations, have stepped up enforcement after repeated incidents of public nudity by foreign tourists.

Recently, the Facebook page "Phuket Information Center" posted photos showing foreign tourists swimming and sunbathing nude at Rawai Beach, located in southern Phuket.

According to local sources, multiple tourists have been frequently spotted nude on the beach. In response, authorities plan to strengthen measures to maintain the island's image as a world-class tourist destination. Tourist police will lead increased inspections in the area, and beach patrols will be expanded.

Local police stated, "We have explained local laws, restrictions, and proper conduct in public places to tourists in the area." They added, "Authorities also plan to collaborate with embassies, consulates, hotels, travel agencies, and tourism businesses to provide foreign visitors with information on local regulations and appropriate behavior."

Foreign tourists enjoying nude bathing at a beach in Phuket, Thailand. Photo by Facebook Phuket Tourism Center

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The Phuket Information Center emphasized that there are no "nude beaches" on Phuket Island and warned that violators could face legal action. Nirut Phongsittaworn, the Governor of Phuket, stated, "I have instructed relevant agencies to thoroughly monitor order on the beaches and in tourist areas," stressing that, "There is no policy permitting nude beaches in Phuket, and public nudity is illegal."

Investigations found that the beach in question is located just before the village of Laem Phromthep, marked by bamboo huts. It is a very secluded spot, accessible only by walking about 600 to 800 meters along a natural trail from Soi SHADOW. Among foreign tourists, it is known as "SHADOW BEACH."

Data shows that most users of this area are Russian and European tourists, as well as foreigners who live and work in Phuket and nearby regions. They have frequented this beach for nearly a year, with many tourists of both genders going nude, while some wear bikinis.

In contrast, Thai women are reported to usually wear swimsuits and visit the area almost daily from the afternoon into the evening. The beach is difficult to access and requires walking along a narrow coastal hill, but it remains a public space, with no individual or company claiming ownership or charging an entrance fee.

In response, residents of Rawai village have clearly expressed opposition to the use of public beaches in this manner, arguing that it is inappropriate and violates Thai morals, culture, and law. They also stated that such actions affect the feelings of the local community. While some may consider this common among foreign tourists, village residents emphasize that it should never be tolerated.

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