Nudism has been around since the early 20th century, though it's roots go back a little further. If I had to pick a "heyday" I'd say the 1950's and 60's were the best time to be a nudist. This was before the sexual revolution and the over-sexualization of everything.
Call me "old-fashioned" but I love images like this which show innocent and true comfort between the sexes. These two are obviously in love, and they share no shame between them. And they aren't exploiting their nudity for selfish gain or sexual gratification, they are simply living vulnerable and open lives with each other.