Tripping on Shrooms at the Beach: Dos and Don’ts

We are big advocates of tripping in nature. It is a long known, and recently proved, fact that magic mushrooms can enhance our connection with the natural world, and remind us of our love for Mother Earth. The feeling of stretching out beneath a tree, as though you are growing from the same roots, sheltered by comforting branches, nestled in the cool grass, can be one of the most transcendent experiences on shrooms.

When people think of tripping in nature, it often seems to be of this ilk. The foresty, leafy, or even local park variety. These are often more accessible hang-out spots, not to mention teaming with the vibrations of plants, bugs, and trees. But in the summer, sometimes a shroom trip at the beach can truly be the cure for what ails you.

The blue-sky reflected in the lapping waves, the seagulls flying overhead, the infinity of sand (or pebbles), the seemingly endless horizon. Going to the beach is transcendent when stone-cold sober. If you know what you are doing, and act responsibly, tripping at the beach can be amazing. 

Tripping on Shrooms at the Beach: Dos and Don’ts

So, we’re going to explore some Dos and Don’ts for tripping at the beach, if you happen to find yourself beside the seaside this summer… 

Do: Know Your Dosage

It sounds obvious, but it can’t be overstated, if you are going to go and trip somewhere a little unpredictable, it is important to know what you are doing. Prior trip experience, whether in the comfort of your own home, your garden, a friend’s house, or the local park, means that you are definitely at an advantage when it comes to tripping at the beach. It suggests you likely know your limits, and most importantly, your preferred dosage. Even if you are quite an experienced psychedelics user, if it’s your first time tripping at the beach, being slightly conservative with the amount of shrooms you take is sensible. A low to moderate dose is ideal for tripping at the beach. This way you can enjoy the psychedelic experience while being able to be aware of your surroundings. 

Don’t: Underestimate the power of shrooms

It is best not to take shrooms for the first time at the beach. The first time you take a tripping-dose of psilocybin can be amazing, but also quite overwhelming. The beach can also be overwhelming, with many sounds, smells, and sensations to take in. With your senses enhanced, it could be quite an anxiety-inducing place to take your first psychedelic trip. If you really want to however, a microdose is a good shout, or even a low dose if you feel super comfortable and at ease in your surroundings. 

Check out our Magic Mushroom and Truffle Dosage Chart here.

Do: Avoid large crowds

Many people who enjoy taking shrooms at the beach don’t go to the most touristy part of la playa. Y’know the bits where the ice-cream sellers, screaming kids, and over-excited dogs hang out? Rather, a little away from the crowds, quieter, and with more privacy is preferred. Being around too many people can sometimes trigger a touch of paranoia when you’re on shrooms, which is not what you want — you’re there for a good time!

Don’t: Go somewhere too remote

Although you want to avoid the throngs of sun-worshipers, we don’t recommend you venture too far off the beaten track. You don’t want to get lost, or find yourself approached by rising tide, not knowing your way back. A happy medium between private and safe is where you want to be. Unless you know the area like the back of your hand, it’s good to know if there will be a lifeguard on hand if you were to need one. 

Do: Bring experienced friends or trip sitters

Just like tripping in any kind of nature, it’s good to have a sober or at least ‘less-dosed’ buddy in your gang to keep an eye on proceedings. Preferably someone who has experience with psychedelics, so knows the ins-and-outs of the journey. This means that you will feel more secure during your trip, and thus have a better time. You can thank this ‘designated driver’ by trip-sitting for them next time! 

Don’t: Go alone*

Tripping alone is great, but again, if you are inexperienced or unfamiliar with the location it is best to err on the side of caution. 

*If you are an experienced tripper or have tripped on the beach before, you may be totally fine to trip alone at the beach. Just make sure you tell a trusted friend your plans, and read our How to Trip Alone in Nature Guide. 

Do: Pick a place with facilities

Sure, you can pee in the sea. But that means actually going into the sea (more on that later!) To feel as comfortable as possible, many people prefer to set up camp in an area that has accessible toilets, a water tap, or a cafe etc. 

Don’t: Go somewhere with dangerous terrain

Scaling cliff-faces and climbing rocks is to be avoided. 

Do: Respect the weather

It’s a cruel irony that people often get the worst sunburn when it is cloudy. The false sense of security means that people often forget that all-important SPF! The nature of shrooms is that you could find yourself deep in your own world — introspecting — and before you know it an hour has gone by. Don’t end up like a lobster! Remember to slather on that suncream, wear a hat, and bring plenty of water. If you and your buddies are aiming for top-level beach points, setting up a parasol or tent is 10/10. 

Don’t: Underprepare

To fail to prepare is to prepare to fail… or so they say. Sure some things are best off the cuff, but when it comes to tripping at the beach it’s best to make sure you have everything you need. Make a list, check it twice! Some people find ‘normal’ interactions difficult when they are on shrooms. This could prevent you from popping to the beach kiosk to get some sustenance. So bring snacks! Bring extra water! Bring a jacket! The beach can get chilly sometimes, even on a sunny day. 

Do: Interact with the sea

Seeing the sea reminds you that you’re alive. Waves crashing, that endless horizon. It’s what makes tripping at the beach so extra-magical. You can’t help but interact with the sea during your trip, whether it’s simply the sound of the water, the smell, or dipping your little toe in. Paddling in the shallows is fun, and deeply meditative when tripping. Actual swimming is probably left to the very experienced psychedelics user, who is also a strong swimmer. Even then it’s best not to go too deep, and make sure someone is watching. Like you would when sober, clock what colour flag is flying (red means NO SWIMMING), and use your common sense. If you do, interacting with the sea can be one of the most magical shroom experiences of your life. 

Don’t: Go too deep

Don’t go too deep (in the sea, not spiritually!), ignore flags, or take risks. 

Do: Connect with your inner child

Many people who trip on the beach find they just want to play like a little kid. Run the sand through your fingers, watch the little crabs scuttle about, splash in the shallows, collect shells. Let your inner child take over, and let them run free. 

Don’t: Forget your sunglasses

Most people, when you ask about their tripping-at-the-beach essential — it’s always the shades. People tend to find that having that little bit of privacy helps them feel much more comfortable in a public place. Additionally, our senses can often feel heightened during a psilocybin trip, so sunglasses help to protect our occasionally overwhelmed eyeballs. So, make like the most playful kid at the beach — but in your chic-est sunnies!

Tripping on magic mushrooms at the beach is truly great fun. You will see the world in a grain of sand. Your thoughts and revelations will flow with the tide. You’ll end up with an awesome pebble collection. Just be sure to follow our advice, stay safe, and let the good times roll!