"Swinging" Caliente leaves nudist association

LAND O'LAKES -- Caliente Resort pulled out of the American Association for Nude Recreation, following an investigation into sexually charged monthly parties at the club organized by a swingers group with Caliente's blessing, the association said Monday.

The association, the oldest and largest national nudist group that prides itself on family values, had suspended Caliente in May as the investigation opened into the club's marketing practices.

Caliente dropped its membership Friday after the association sent all members a letter reaffirming its charter values.

“We regret that it was necessary to issue the suspension that led to where we are today,” said John Kinman, the association's president, in a news release Monday.  “Caliente is a beautiful resort, and AANR was a strong force behind its initial development and growth. However, no club is more important than the principles we have advocated for over three quarters of a century.”

Carolyn Hawkins, an association spokeswoman, said Monday Caliente stands to lose advertising and advocacy benefits as an association member.

-- Chuin-Wei Yap, Times staff writer

A pair of shoppers sort through tops available at a poolside store at the Caliente Resort. [Time files]