Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes - parking available at the top of the cliffs
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity expected (official clothing-optional beach)
The Good
- Legal clothing-optional beach: Southside is one of three official clothing-optional beaches in Victoria. A well-signposted area allows naturists to enjoy nude swimming and sunbathing freely without issue.
- Beautiful, secluded coastal setting: Surrounded by steep cliffs and offering wide sandy stretches, the beach feels peacefully isolated. Visitors describe it as clean, spacious, and ideal for peaceful nude relaxation.
- Great for swimming and walking: The water is generally clean with a gradual walk-in. When the tide is out, the broad sandy shoreline is perfect for nude walks.
- Friendly naturist environment: Most nudists are respectful, relaxed, and welcoming. Couples report feeling comfortable and safe, with no issues beyond occasional textile walkers.
- Excellent for those seeking quiet and natural beauty: Peaceful ocean views and the freedom to be nude in nature make it a highly recommended spot for nudists seeking escape. It's truly one of the best clothing-optional beach in Australia.
The Bad
- Very steep access path: The concrete stairway and pathway down from the car park are extremely steep, making the return climb difficult. Not suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
- Risk of falling rock: Recent reports mentioned rockfall and a dust storm near the rock face. It’s strongly advised not to set up too close to the cliffs.
- Presence of clothed passers-by: Some non-nudists walk along the shoreline, occasionally staring. While generally non-confrontational, it can feel uncomfortable.
- Occasional voyeurs: Some references to people watching from cliffs or dunes. They typically do not approach, but remain a known nuisance.
- No facilities on the beach: No toilets, no café, no shade structures. Visitors must bring all necessities and carry them down.
- Strong waves and cold winds: Good swimmers only - some pull in the water. Wind can be very cold despite sunny conditions.
The Naked Truth
Southside Beach is freedom with a price; and the price is the climb. This is a legally gazetted clothing-optional beach, so once you’re down on the sand, the anxiety disappears. You can swim, walk, and sunbathe nude without apology, surrounded by big skies, long sand, and a feeling of genuine isolation that many naturists crave.
But you absolutely earn it. The access is brutally steep, the wind can cut through you even on sunny days, and there’s nothing - no toilets, no shade, no second chances if you forget water in the car. Rockfall risk near the cliffs is real, and the occasional voyeur or clothed walker can break the illusion, though most keep their distance. Southside isn’t social, easy, or forgiving; it’s raw, physical, and uncompromising. If you’re fit, prepared, and want legal naturism with minimal interference, it’s one of Victoria’s most rewarding beaches. If not, the stairs alone will convince you to turn back.
Insider Tip
Bring everything you need from the car before descending - the climb back up is long and steep. Avoid sitting near the rock face for safety. Go right at the bottom of the stairs to reach the main naturist section.
Who's Here
Naturists, couples, occasional solo visitors, and hikers passing through. Expect a mix of nude beachgoers and occasional clothed walkers.
Beach Surface
Wide, sandy beach with clear water and no notable seaweed. Ideal for walking when the tide is low. Cliffs form a dramatic backdrop, but pose risks at close range.
Access Difficulty
Challenging: Access from the northern end is via a very steep concrete path and staircase leading down through the cliffs. The walk back up is strenuous and not suited to those with limited mobility. Proper footwear recommended.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Southside Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Southside Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Located near Torquay, Victoria, south of Point Impossible.
By Car: Drive from Torquay toward the coastal reserve area and follow signs for Southside Beach. Park in the designated car park at the top of the cliffs. From there, take the steep concrete path downward through the dunes. At the bottom of the stairs, turn right to enter the official clothing-optional section.
By Public Transport: No direct public transport access. Visitors typically arrive by private vehicle or taxi from Torquay or Geelong.
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