Location
Spain
Status
Officially Designated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
June to September
About Praia de Melide
Melide is a 300-metre beach of white sand at the northern end of Ons, the largest island of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, at the mouth of the Ría de Pontevedra. It faces east towards Sanxenxo and Portonovo, so it is sheltered from the prevailing Atlantic wind, and it holds a Blue Flag. The national park's own visitor guide calls Melide probably the most beautiful beach on Ons and notes that nudism is traditionally practised there; the Spanish Naturist Federation describes it as one of the first nudist beaches in Galicia. Occupancy is low because everyone arrives by boat and visitor numbers to the island are capped. There are no services on the sand. The island also has other beaches on its east side, and its campsite area is regarded by the federation as a free naturist camping zone.
Getting there
Ons is reached by passenger ferry in season from Bueu, Portonovo, Sanxenxo, Marín and other harbours. Visitor numbers are limited, and in high season (roughly mid-May to mid-September and Easter) you need an authorisation from the Xunta de Galicia before booking; check current rules. From the pier, Melide is a 20-30 minute walk north on the island's marked northern route. No cars on the island; not wheelchair accessible.
Amenities
Legal context
Public nudity is not an offence in Spain. The Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park's visitor guide (MITECO) states that nudism is traditionally practised at Melide; access to Ons requires an advance authorisation in high season (2026).
Naturism at Praia de Melide sits under Spain's rules for officially designated nude beaches — explicit protection inside the marked area.
Full country law: Spain public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 42.3899, -8.9256
Visitor tips
- 1 Official designation: nudity is protected inside the marked area.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Spain
Frequently asked questions
Is Melide a nudist beach?
Yes. The national park's visitor guide says nudism is traditionally practised there.
How do I get to Ons?
By ferry from Bueu, Portonovo, Sanxenxo, Marín or nearby harbours. In high season you need an authorisation from the Xunta de Galicia first.
How far is the beach from the ferry?
About 20-30 minutes on foot along the island's northern route.
Are there facilities?
None on the beach, so bring water and food.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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