Most nudists and nudist organizations maintain and try to enforce a no sex in public policy, (nude, not lewd) and it is rare to see obvious signs of sexual behaviour (including staring or gawking) at most sites. These are the stereotypical family-oriented clubs and beaches.

While it has been the subject of much debate on nudist/naturist internet web forums, there is a general consensus on the issue of males openly displaying a non-sexual spontaneous erection. Most feel that it is inappropriate, but a distinct minority believe it should be included as part of "body acceptance"— a key philosophy of nudists. In general however, one is expected to cover up with a towel, turn over (if lying down), sit down, go for a swim or otherwise minimize its presence until the erection passes. For some nudist activities this may not be immediately practicable or even possible and etiquette suggests it then be ignored.

Genetic studies of the human body louse, which requires clothes to survive, suggests that humans started wearing garments 72,000 years ago +/- 42,000 years. This estimate matches that of the first appearance of physical evidence of clothing-making tools. The species Homo sapiens itself has existed for 200,000 or more years, so the natural condition of humans is nude.

Nudists sometimes refer to people who don't practice nudity as textiles. Clothing optional or C.O. usually refers to a facility that allows and encourages nudity but tolerates the wearing of clothes, whereas a nudist facility usually insists on complete nudity where practicable (to ensure that no one feels inappropriately dressed).

Topfree refers to an area that allows uncovered female breasts, also known as topless (topfree being used since topless has a negative connotation). Some, of course may feel that this is a little to PC.

A free beach is not so much one without an admission cost, but one in which people can be entirely free of their clothes.

A landed organization is one that owns the real estate it is situated on. Non-landed or travel clubs meet regularly at different locations such as nudist resorts, bowling alleys, or swimming pools rented for the purpose.