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.

Public nude beaches tend to be less strict on this issue than private nudist resorts and clubs. Also, there is generally more tolerance of pre-teen boys and young male teens having spontaneous erections than for older males. In no circumstances though, should the fear of having a spontaneous erection keep someone away from any nudist site or activity. Those still having concerns should discuss them with a person in charge, as policies vary from place to place. All this being said, an obvious erection at a naturist venue is rare indeed.

Desmond Morris, social anthropologist and author of the Naked Ape, suggests that "If you perform nudity in public you destroy its value as an erotic action." However, some fringe groups and gatherings (such as Swingstock) are more like sex clubs and not considered by most to be examples of true nudism.

Involvement in naturism has not been shown to be harmful and may even be beneficial to childhod psychological development (see for example Federation of Canadian Naturists FAQ ). Of course parents always need to be vigillant to guard their children from sexual preditors. This applies equally to naturists as it does for non-naturists.