Bikini, budgie-smuggler crackdown on island

Bikini- and Speedo-clad tourists beware.

The Caribbean island of Grenada says it recently began enforcing an indecent exposure law banning bathing suits away from the beach, as well as saggy pants that reveal the underwear.

Police commissioner James Clarkson says violators are usually just ordered to cover up. But the law allows for a US$270 (A$405) fine or six months in jail.

At least a few locals are contesting fines.

Clarkson said Friday that cruise ships usually inform passengers of proper non-beach attire, but "from time to time, there is the one or two who take their chances."

He said a few months ago police ordered several tourists wearing swimwear at a fort to return to their cruise ship and put on some clothes.

Bathing suits have caused controversy around the world in recent months. Bali's tourist industry was up in arms last September when the Indonesian government's new anti-pornography bill looked set to ban bikinis. After months of consultation, the government eventually decided bikinis were acceptable beach attire.

In Italy last summer, Capri banned bikinis outside beach areas in part of a crackdown that newspapers dubbed "the summer of bans".

More recently, and closer to home, topless bathing at Bondi Beach has been under fire from New South Wales MP Fred Nile.

AP