When it comes to beach days, most people think of sunscreen, towels, and cold drinks. But for cannabis consumers and wellness lovers, topicals infused with CBD or THC are becoming a must-have in any beach bag. From soothing sore muscles after a morning swim to protecting your skin from dryness and inflammation, cannabis topicals offer a natural way to stay cool, calm, and comfortable while soaking up the sun.
Cannabis and CBD topicals are non-intoxicating products designed for external use. They include balms, creams, roll-ons, and salves, and they’re infused with cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — though the latter in topical form won’t cause a high. According to the Journal of Pain Research, cannabinoids have shown potential in managing inflammation and pain, which is ideal after a long walk on the sand or paddleboard session.
Here are some standout topicals perfect for beachgoers:
Papa & Barkley Releaf Balm (CBD/THC)
This California favorite combines full-spectrum cannabis with eucalyptus, tea tree oil, and lavender. It’s a great go-to for easing tension in the neck, shoulders, or feet after a beach hike or volleyball match.
Vertly CBD Infused Lotion
Crafted with clean ingredients like arnica flower and magnesium, Vertly’s lotion is light, nourishing, and ideal for post-sun skin. It absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue, which makes it great before heading out for evening beachside drinks.
Apothecanna Everyday Body Crème
Perfect for all skin types, this hemp-derived topical contains CBD, mandarin, cedar, and geranium. It offers light hydration with calming aromatherapy — ideal for sandy, salty skin.
Mary’s Medicinals Muscle Freeze
With a cooling menthol effect, this THC/CBD topical is like an ice pack in a roll-on. Beach athletes and active sun seekers love it for post-activity muscle care. It’s discreet, fast-acting, and travel-friendly.
Kush Queen Soaked CBD Shower Gel
Okay, technically not a “beach item,” but after a full day in the sun, you’ll appreciate this product. It’s packed with transdermal nano-CBD to help soothe sun-stressed skin while refreshing the senses with citrus and floral notes.
Plant People Relief+ Cooling Body Cream
A broad-spectrum CBD cream enhanced with arnica, camphor, and turmeric, this formula offers fast relief after sun exposure or joint strain. It’s vegan, organic, and packed with antioxidants.
Cannuka CBD Healing Skin Balm
Infused with New Zealand manuka honey and CBD isolate, Cannuka’s balm is perfect for lips, hands, and sensitive areas needing extra TLC after salty air and UV exposure.
While cannabis topicals won’t replace sunscreen (make sure to still use SPF!), they can elevate your beach routine with added recovery and relaxation. Always check product labels for potency, THC content (especially in legal states), and usage instructions.
For those living or vacationing in legal cannabis states, dispensaries often carry these wellness-friendly options. For CBD-only picks, most can be ordered online and delivered straight to your door.
A beach day just got a little more blissful — naturally.