Welcome, fellow beach and cannabis enthusiasts! Southern California is famous for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and its relaxed approach toward cannabis. This mix creates an almost paradise-like ambiance for locals and tourists. But with great liberty comes great responsibility. As we blend beachgoing in California with our love for cannabis, we need to understand the rules, demonstrate good etiquette, and engage in responsible consumption. Here’s what you need to know about cannabis beachgoing etiquette.
Understanding California cannabis laws is essential before planning a cannabis-inclusive beach day. The Golden State’s approach towards cannabis is pretty progressive, but there are specific laws and restrictions we must follow.
The Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA), passed in 2016, permits adults aged 21 and over to possess up to 28.5 grams of cannabis and up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis. However, while California has decriminalized cannabis, public consumption is another story.
As per California Health and Safety Code 11362.3(a)(1), it’s illegal to consume cannabis “in public places.” And guess what? Our beloved beaches, despite their vast and open nature, count as public spaces. So, if you’re planning to light up while lounging on the sand, think again.
It gets even more specific with beach laws. The California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 4312 prohibits smoking or vaping cannabis within state parks, which, you guessed it, includes state beaches. Also, keep in mind that local ordinances can further restrict cannabis use, so it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the beach you’re visiting.
We know, we know – all this talk of rules and regulations might feel like a buzzkill. But don’t worry! Understanding these laws doesn’t mean you have to ditch your plans for a chill, cannabis-infused beach day. It just means we have to be a bit more creative and discreet about it.
So, why do we love getting high on the beach? Well, it’s simple, isn’t it? There’s something undeniably magical about feeling the warm sand beneath your feet, the sun kissing your skin, and the ocean’s soothing melody in your ears. And when you add cannabis to the mix, it’s like turning up the volume on an already incredible sensory concert.
Ever walked along the beach, joint in hand, and suddenly you’re David Attenborough in your nature documentary? The sand takes on new textures, each grain telling a story. The crash of the waves syncs up with your heartbeat, and you’re sure you’ve unlocked the secrets of the universe.
Cannabis has a unique way of heightening our senses, of making us more in tune with the world around us. And where better to experience this sensory delight than on the beach, where every element of nature is on full display?
Imagine this: you’re out on the water, floating on your board. You’ve just taken an edible, and as it kicks in, so does a swell. As you ride that wave, you’re not just gliding across the ocean – you’re part of it. It’s not just surfing anymore, it’s an out-of-this-world experience.
Now, here’s a fun fact: There’s a report out there of dolphins getting high on pufferfish. They gently chew on the pufferfish, pass it around, and then…just float there, visibly affected by the toxin. Some have even described the dolphins as being in a trance-like state. Now, we’re not suggesting you start puffing on puffer fish – far from it! – but it’s clear that even our ocean-dwelling friends appreciate an altered state of consciousness every once in a while.
A day at the beach with cannabis should be as breezy as the Pacific air, but without the right preparation, you could find yourself in a sandy situation. Let me share an anecdote to paint the picture.
Picture this: You’re chilling on the sands of Huntington Beach, the waves lapping at the shore and the sun warming your skin. You reach into your bag for your pre-rolled joint, only to realize it’s soaked through. Or worse, you drop your vape pen, and it lands straight into the sand, rendering it unusable. Quite the bummer, right?
With a bit of foresight, such instances can be easily avoided. How, you ask? Let’s break it down.
Firstly, we can’t stress enough the importance of a good, airtight, waterproof container for your cannabis. These protect against the three S’s of beachgoing – Sun, Sand, and Sea. They’ll ensure your joints don’t get soggy and your vape pens don’t turn into sandy messes. Products like the Cannador storage boxes or Stashlogix bags are tailor-made for this purpose. They’re portable, discreet, and designed to withstand the elements.
When it comes to devices, consider their beach compatibility. Glassware is not your friend here – it’s fragile and doesn’t deal well with sand or water. Similarly, rolling a joint on a breezy beach is like trying to win a game of Jenga during an earthquake – challenging and not recommended.
A personal favorite solution for these beachside predicaments is pre-rolls. Convenient, portable, and sand-proof as long as they stay in their packaging. Investing in a pre-roll container could also save the day (and your joint) if an accidental dip in the ocean happens.
If you’re a fan of vaping, disposable vapes are a good choice for beach outings. They’re compact, user-friendly, and won’t cause a crisis if they accidentally meet with the sand. However, always have a backup plan, like a pack of edibles. They are discreet, don’t require any additional devices, and as long as they’re stored in a cool place, they’re pretty much beach-proof.
Once you’ve decided on your cannabis product of choice, let’s talk about the other essential smoking paraphernalia that you should pack for a hassle-free, eco-friendly beach day.
Emergency Cones: Pre-rolled cones are a fantastic backup option. Easy to fill and use, these can come in handy if your pre-roll takes an unexpected dip or if you’ve dropped your vape pen in the sand. Just remember to pack your ground cannabis in a separate, airtight container.
Hemp Wick: Lighters and wind are not the best of friends. That’s where hemp wick comes into play. It’s wind-resistant, provides a more even burn, and imparts no additional tastes to your cannabis. Plus, it’s all-natural and eco-friendly!
Eco-Friendly Ashtray: As responsible beachgoers, we need to ensure that our enjoyment doesn’t harm the environment. An eco-friendly, portable ashtray will help you keep your ashes and roaches in check, preventing litter on the beach. Some options even come with odor control features for extra discretion.
Lighter or Matches: This one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at how often it’s overlooked! Always pack a lighter or a box of matches. Consider a windproof lighter or stormproof match for those breezy beach days.
Cleaning Tools: Sand can get everywhere, and we mean everywhere! It’s a good idea to pack a small brush or other cleaning tools to keep your devices sand-free.
Extra Bags or Containers: Apart from your main cannabis container, bring along a few extra small bags or containers. They’re great for keeping used cannabis products until you can dispose of them properly, or for keeping your devices and tools sand-free when not in use.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy your beach day with cannabis while keeping everything low-key and respecting our beautiful California beaches.
Now that we’ve covered the rules and preparation, let’s talk about the unwritten codes of cannabis etiquette on the beach.
Keeping a low profile is key when consuming cannabis in public places, especially on a family-friendly beach. You may love the distinctive aroma of cannabis, but not everyone around you may share your sentiments. When smoking or vaping, try to find a secluded spot downwind from other beachgoers. If you’re using edibles, consume them subtly without drawing unnecessary attention.
Respect for others is paramount when it comes to cannabis beachgoing in California. This is especially true when there are families and children around. Remember, beaches are shared public spaces and everyone has a right to enjoy them comfortably. If there are families with children in your vicinity, it might be best to relocate to a more secluded area or wait until the crowd thins out. You can also consider alternative consumption methods like edibles or tinctures that are less noticeable than smoking or vaping.
Part of being a responsible cannabis consumer is ensuring that your activities don’t negatively impact the environment or others’ experiences. Always clean up after yourself. Dispose of any waste like roaches, packaging, or ash responsibly. This also includes any general beach litter like food wrappers or drink cans. Leave nothing behind but your footprints.
Lifeguards are there to ensure everyone’s safety. If approached by a lifeguard about your cannabis use, engage respectfully and comply with their instructions. Remember, they’re doing their job and they have the right to enforce beach rules.
Just like with alcohol, it’s essential to consume cannabis responsibly and know your limits. Overconsumption can lead to impairment, which can be particularly dangerous on a beach where hazards like water currents and heat exposure exist.
Alright, my friends, it’s time we talk about the less fun part of our beach-cannabis combo: the what-ifs. What if you’re caught catching a buzz on the beach? How do you handle the situation, and what’s at stake?
California isn’t quite the wild west when it comes to public cannabis consumption. If you’re caught breaking the rules, you could be hit with a fine. We’re talking up to $100 if you’re caught smoking up in public, per California Health and Safety Code Section 11362.4.
The stakes get higher if you’re caught where tobacco smoking isn’t allowed, or you’re within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare, or youth center when the kiddos are present. In that case, the fine can go up to $250. And if we’re talking about our beloved state beaches specifically, the same fine could apply under California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 4312.
While it’s not the end of the world, it can certainly put a damper on your day. So, let’s talk strategy.
First thing first: keep your cool. Remember, the lifeguards and park rangers are just doing their jobs. But just because they wear the uniform doesn’t mean they’re automatically in the wrong. This isn’t legal advice, but here are a few tips on how to navigate these waters:
Loose Lips Sink Ships: Be honest, but don’t spill your guts. You’re not obligated to give them a play-by-play of your activities.
Know Your Rights: You’ve got rights, dude! The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches. Unless they have a solid reason to believe you’re up to no good or you give them the green light, they can’t go through your stuff.
Keep Your Cool: It can be scary, but try to stay chill. Causing a scene will only make things worse.
Listen Up: Even if you think you’re being singled out, don’t resist or argue. Listen, follow their instructions, and remember what happened. It could help later.
If you end up with a citation, it’s not a bad idea to get some legal advice. There are some cool legal precedents, like the “equal protection” argument, where people have argued that it’s not fair to punish cannabis users more harshly than those who enjoy a beach beer. But remember, the success of these defenses can depend on the specifics of your situation.
As we dive into our favorite part of cannabis beachgoing, let’s take a look at some of the best treats our crew enjoys. These picks are not only delicious and refreshing, but they’re also discreet, making them perfect companions for your next beach adventure.
When we’re talking beachside classics, we can’t leave out Old Pal‘s Palitos Indica Pre-Rolls. These half-gram pre-rolls are filled with high-quality cannabis and perfectly wrapped for optimal smoking consistency. With a 14-pack, you’ll have plenty to share around the bonfire.
These aren’t your everyday gummies. Papa & Barkley’s Cucumber Melon Crystal-Coated Hash Gummies take your tastebuds on a tantalizing journey. The perfect balance of refreshing cucumber and sweet melon is complemented by a crunchy sugar crystal coating. Best part? They’re vegan and artfully crafted with all-natural ingredients and solventless hash. Bring these for that relaxation vibe under the SoCal sun.
Stay refreshed with PBR High Seltzer in Daytime Guava. Bright citrus and fruit flavors spruce up this sparkling seltzer, delivering a dose of deliciousness with your THC. The quick onset time (just about 15 minutes) means you won’t be left waiting to catch a beach buzz. Low in calories and sugar, this drink is the guilt-free beach treat you’ve been looking for.
Bring the Mediterranean to the Pacific with LOOPER’s Melted Series 2g Disposable: Limoncello. This juicy combination of Original Lemonade and Cherry Pie has a flavor profile boasting of lemon, cherry, and crisp lime undertones. It’s like sipping a cocktail on an Italian beach. The mellow, relaxed high, combined with mood-boosting benefits, makes it a great choice for a balanced and enjoyable beach experience.
As true lovers of both cannabis and the beach, the team here at Neonjoint has its favorite spots to enjoy the best of both worlds. Here are our top picks:
Matt is all about that classic surf culture, and Swamis Beach delivers in spades. Named after the Self-Realization Fellowship ashram perched atop the nearby cliffs, Swamis is known for its world-class surf breaks and chill vibes.
“Nothing beats catching a few waves at Swamis, then kicking back on the sand with a Limoncello vape. Just remember to respect the local laws and the tranquility of this beloved spot. Namaste, dudes!”
Kyle’s pick, Moonstone Beach, is a hidden gem located in the charming town of Cambria. With its beautiful shoreline strewn with colorful pebbles, it’s the perfect place to find your inner calm.
“Cambria is all about those quiet, introspective moments. I love to take a stroll down the boardwalk with one of Old Pal’s indica pre-rolls. It’s an unbeatable way to savor the sunset and the rhythmic sounds of the waves.”
For Katie, it’s all about the vibrant energy of Santa Cruz Main Beach. With the iconic boardwalk and its lively atmosphere, there’s always something happening here.
“Enjoying a cucumber melon hash gummy while people-watching or riding the Giant Dipper? Count me in! Just be mindful of the crowd, and the lifeguards, and keep it on the down-low.”
Holly’s pick, Shelter Cove, is all about the raw beauty of the NorCal coast. Nestled in the Lost Coast region, this beach offers unparalleled seclusion and dramatic scenery.
“Shelter Cove is where I go to reconnect with nature. The place practically begs for a contemplative walk with a PBR High Seltzer in hand. Just remember to leave no trace behind, so we can all continue to enjoy this unspoiled paradise.”
Remember, wherever you go, follow local laws and regulations, respect other beachgoers, and always aim to leave the beach cleaner than you found it. Happy beachgoing, buds!
As we’ve explored, integrating cannabis into your beachgoing routine in Southern California is more than just a fun time; it’s a way to deepen your connection to the sublime natural beauty around us. However, responsible and considerate cannabis consumption is key. From understanding the California cannabis laws to mastering the etiquette of enjoying cannabis on the beach, we’ve provided a guide for navigating these waters.
Remember, our goal isn’t just to get high – it’s to elevate the entire beach experience. So the next time you’re packing for a day of surf, sand, and sun, consider adding a touch of green to your bag. Here’s to a high-tide experience on the stunning Southern California coast, all while being considerate, responsible beachgoers! Surf’s up, SoCal!
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