My bf is really cuddly and loving when we are by ourselves, gives kisses, holds hands, etc. He even said I was beautiful today which I thought was cute

But if we're holding hands and walking and he sees a friend of his, he would let go of my hand. Is this just because he's shy? This his first relationship so maybe that's why?

And well, like I mentioned he's loving and sweet when we're by ourselves but isn't really cuddly/etc when we're with our friends either...is he just shy and not a fan of PDA?