Our European neighbours have been tanning in the nude for years and it looks like we are planning to follow suit sooner rather than later.

With the summer months and warmer weather fast approaching, people around the country are gearing up for a season spent on the beach.

But the question on our minds is to be nude, or not to be?

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A new law passed in 2017, says an individual will only face prosecution if they are intended to cause distress, harm, or alarm with public nudity, reports IB4UD.

Although there are no officially signposted nude beaches or bathing areas in Ireland, the Irish Naturist Association says naturism is widely practised in the country and has outlined a number of popular beaches.

However the association urges that individuals use their discretion and common sense at all times when using any of the beaches and bathing places listed.

Here are some of the favourite spots according to the Irish Naturist Association:

Dublin - Forty Foot

According to the Irish Naturist Association, this beach was for many years a traditional male only naturist bathing place. It is no longer used by naturists except very early in the morning.

It can become very busy during the day and at weekends and is not naturist at these times.

Waterford - Caliso Bay

This beach is largely deserted, with the most frequent visitors being local anglers, the occasional surfers and the odd naturist. It's a stunning sandy beach known for good fishing and surfing, and dogs are also allowed.

Cork - Clonakilty Bay

There are a number of quiet and secluded coves on the eastern and western sides of Clonakilty Bay which are very suitable for naturism.

Kerry - Inch

This beach is on the southern side of the peninsula and is one of the best in Ireland, known for its great surfing and swimming conditions.

The beach is more than two miles long and is backed by sand dunes.

Clare - Byrne’s Cove, Kilkee

This beach is on the Atlantic coast of Clare and is best visited when the tide is in for swimming purposes.

It is a rocky cove with flat areas for sunbathing and a small pier for access to the water.

Donegal - Tullagh Bay

Tullagh Bay is on the Inishowen Peninsula and is home to a fantastic natural swimming pool enclosed by the rocks on the beach.

Mayo - Bertra

This beach is in Westport Bay and is approximately five miles from the popular tourist town of Westport.

Sligo - Trawalua

This long beach is on the western side of Mullaghmore Head, south of Roskeragh Point. Naturists use the more secluded northern and southern ends, particularly during the week.

Although particular discretion is required at weekends, this beach is said to be one of the most popular naturist beaches in Ireland.

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