Does Georgia's Tybee Island Need a Nude Beach?

Georgia’s Tybee Island, 18 miles away from Savannah, bills itself as a beach oasis of historic attractions, great dining and plenty of water fun from swimming to dolphin watching

Could a nude beach be its next tourist draw?

A man has started an online petition drive to designate a quarter-mile of the northernmost portion of the island as clothing optional, reports WSB TV. To date, the petition has obtained nearly 900 signatures in support of a nude beach.

Mayor Jason Buelterman says he appreciates the interest in the community, but it won’t happen on his watch. Meanwhile, Shawn Williams of Savannah says it’s about freedom and personal rights. 

Tybee Island is a family friendly beach, Mayor Pro Tem Wanda Doyle told WJCL TV last month. A nude beach would detract from the wholesome vibe, she says.

In his petition on Change.org, Williams says he doesn’t want to convert everyone to his view, just create a space where people who have shed outdated morals can enjoy nature in the buff.

“With only one-quarter mile designated as clothing optional, more than 2.45 miles of the beach would still be left as "clothing-required. In this, we give way for everyone to go to the beach however they choose,” Williams writes on the petition site.