The Norhtern California coast is loaded with "clothing optional" beaches of which I am a frequent user when ever I can. Personally I hate wearing bathing suits on beaches. When I travel to Europe I also seek out nude or clothing optional beaches. For me it more confortable, more about being natural out in nature than it is about being erotic. I even prefer more secluded beaches where there is lots of room between people. The crowded ones seem to more about gawking (or have too many gawkers) who bother women or try to make a pass at you.
Being African American, some also think it's strange for me to be naked on a beach. I'm there to enjoy to sun and the wind like eveyone, not to get a tan.
When I'm on a crowded beach, yes people do check me out "to see if it's true". Some can even be obnoixious or even insulting (the drunken gawkers), hence why I prefer the more secluded and mature locations.
And yes, when it's really secluded, and no one is around, I do take advantage of the peacefullness and wank a few. Jerking off on a rock over looking the water or against the rocks with the sun on your chest and cock can be a mind-blowing religious experience. Just you and your hard cock out in the open.
If I'm lucky, I may even find a couple having sex on the beach taking advantage of the seclusion!
Nude beaches are great. Nudity (or the naked body), seems to be mostly an American hang-up.
Try it, you'll like it!