Lately, the media has been saying that nudists are a bunch of old people getting older by the day. We recently reported to our readers that there’s actually a club in Edinburg, Texas, that advertises itself as a nudist club for those 55 and over. Today we bring you an interview with John Bowser, director of operations at Sandpipers Resort, the club in question. His answers may surprise…

Nudist Day: Recently the press has been going on about how nudists are generally old and having trouble attracting the younger set. That being the case, why the necessity to make your club for 55+?
John Bowser: Our resort has been designated to be “intended” for couples 55+ since its inception 20 years ago. The recent change in ownership has not yet had time to review a change in that status. We are finding a resurgence of younger people which may be due to the fact that the baby boomers are retiring earlier. Also, younger people are naturally curious about the nudist lifestyle. Suprisingly, they fit into the nudist atmosphere with a sigh of relief that all seduction games are left with their clothes at the door. We assure their privacy , safety and security while at the resort. Basically, it is like Disneyland for naked people… G rated and just a fun place to go.

Rental unit being constructed at Sandpipers. Photo courtesy of Sandpipers Resort ©
ND: Is the 55+ more of a marketing concept than an actual limitation? Do you turn away anybody younger than 55?
JB: The 55+ concept lends to assuring a like mindedness in activities and physical limitations. Many of our guests participate in running, tennis, volleyball, aerobics, etc… But probably at less strenuous levels than 25 year old athletes. We do permit both singles and younger guests in percentages to maintain the intention of the original charter.

” We are finding a resurgence of younger people which may be due to the fact that the baby boomers are retiring earlier. Also, younger people are naturally curious about the nudist lifestyle…”

ND: Do you find that more mature nudists actually want to be surrounded by their peers?
JB: We frequently have visiting children or grandchildren of guests as well as locals obtaining annual memberships to use the facilities. I have observed nothing but the ultimate display of friendliness that our resort is famous for.

ND: What seniors’ needs does sandpipers satisfy, specifically, over and above regular clubs?
JB: Our current management team has been in place for 5 months. We initially distributed an extensive survey to all guests for input as to levels of service desired, amenities, improvements, etc… The results were then tabulated and prioritized to not only meet but to exceed guest expectations. Staffing includes personnel with medical & law enforcement backgrounds and personal phone number posting grants 24/7 access to guests. Our goal is to raise the service to a concierge level. We have assisted in furniture moving, landscape assistance, and many other services when requested.

ND: Has there been a lot of interest?
JB: We are an international destination for our area maintaining 100% occupancy throughout last season. Phase 3 construction has opened 26 new sites and will include new suites for rentals. Our recent marketing focus has shifted to the local “textile” community with a positive response of amused curiosity. Participating in nude recreation has hit the list of 100 things to try before you die and one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry.

ND: Are there plans for future enhancements to the club?
JB: On the drawing board are a nature area to attract birds & butterflies, a billiards room, shuffleboard courts, new larger hot tub, volleyball pool, additional suites, exercise room, and much more.

Related Sites:

• Sandpipers Resort