Although naturism had its boom in the Spain of the 70s, it was only after the abolition of the Public Scandal Law, in 1989, that the Spanish legislature no longer regarded beach nudism as a crime. However, the Naturist International Federation still advises that it should be practiced only at designated locations and certainly not on busy public beaches. Along the Costa Tropical coastline there is more than 9 kilometres of beaches that are designated solely for naturist use, La Joya (Torrenueva, east of Motril), El Muerto (Almunecar) and Cantarriján (La Herradura). All nominated by the Naturist International Federation.
 
It is estimated that in Spain there are more than 400,000 naturists, and these numbers are more than doubled during the summer months with the influx of international tourists. The Tropical Coast is a great option for those looking to practice naturism along these shores and these quiet, though often quite difficult to access; beaches offer an ideal haven for the naturist sun worshipper. Most beaches were only available since the late 1980s, and the latest, Cantarijan, was only opened to naturist’s in1996.

At the foot hills of the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park is the small cove of Cantarriján. Just off the present N-340 and along the original coast road, before the tunnel, a single track leads steeply down through the ravine of the same name to the beaches. It is the only one of the three naturist playas (beaches) offering the most facilities: daily cleaning, two bar-restaurants, public parking, showers, sun umbrellas, sun beds, even a massage service is offered during the high season. Cantarijan beach has an estimated length of 350 metres and a surface area of 13,500 m2; and consequently the beach can easily accommodate more than 2,800 people. Divided by a cliff hanging rock the first beach is composed of dark thick sand; and the other more shingle and rock. Visitors can also swim to the quieter coves; east of the beach.

In Almuñecar, a few minutes west from the Paseo de San Cristóbal and Cotobro we find the calm and peaceful beach of El Muerto. Easily accessed at the far end of the Cotobro promenade, simply follow the trail "Naturist Beach of El Muerto." Composed of thick sand, it has a length of 280 metres and a surface of 5,500 m2 and offers capacity for about 1,100 users. Popular with locals, hippies and tourists – its cove also offers a peaceful haven for leisure craft on their way to the nearby Marina del Este.

The most spectacular one is a succession of small isolated coves, reached only by walking along the cliff side coast or by parking in an un-marked lane just off the main N-340 as you leave Torrenueva seaside village. The area is known as La Joya, is nestled between pine scented hills and green house farm land. With more than 200 steep steps down to this hidden beach and the surrounding coves – some reached only by swimming between them – it is a popular area with many Granada naturists. Although there are no facilities; this small beach of approximately 5,000 m2 is made up of thick sand and stones and offers superb turquoise and transparent sea. Quite shallow in parts; it is perfect for families with young children.

Finally the natural park of Peña Escrita, near Almuñécar-La Herradura introduced in during the summer months of 2007 naturist days every Monday. At an altitude of 1,300 metres over the Mediterranean Sea, and with spectacular views to the coast, then this is probably one of the most stunning and unusual places for practicing naturists today!