The Best Accessible Beaches in the USA
From the salt spray to the gorgeous views, everyone should be able to experience the joys of a day spent near the ocean. Unfortunately, due to a lack of accessibility, these simple pleasures can be more challenging for people with disabilities.
Beaches are becoming more accessible through Mobi Mats, beach wheelchairs, and Mobi chairs, which enable easier navigation across sandy terrain. As a result, numerous beaches across the USA are making efforts to ensure everyone can enjoy a day by the shore.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Visitors to the beautiful white sand beaches of Gulf Shores would be forgiven for thinking they’ve landed in Florida or the Caribbean. To ensure accessibility, there are four access mats available, with three at the Gulf Place entrance and an additional one at the East Gulf Place entrance. Moreover, numerous companies offer beach wheelchairs for rent nearby.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
The scenic landscape of rolling sand dunes and cliffs that attract people to Cape Cod can also pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Fortunately, many beaches here feature 14 different beach entrances with accessibility options. Beachgoers can use Mobi-chairs, beach wheelchairs, or both, thanks to a first-come-first-served system from the lifeguard station. Notably, Menauhant Beach also boasts a Mobi mat directly on the beach.
Panama City Beach, Florida
Renowned for its stunning shores, Panama City Beach is dedicated to inclusivity. The area features Mobi-mats for those with mobility issues, allowing beach access and offering floating Mobi-Chair wheelchairs that enable users to enjoy the water.
Mission Beach, San Diego, California
Mission Beach is a vibrant spot that exemplifies accessible beachfront living in Southern California. The area is equipped with beach mats, manual and power beach chairs available for free check-out, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Key Largo, Florida
In Key Largo, several resorts offer wheelchair-accessible beach access. However, the highlight is Captain Mick’s Water Adventures, which provides a variety of accessible boating trips. These experiences include customized fishing, sightseeing, and snorkeling, complete with a special lift for accessing the water.
Hanauma Bay, Hawaii
Despite its steep cliff location, the beach at Hanauma Bay remains one of the more accessible locations in Hawaii. A transportation shuttle services the beach, and once at the bottom, beach wheelchairs are available free of charge for visitors.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is committed to accessibility, boasting over two dozen accessible beach entrances. Vehicles with valid tags can park at public meters for free. Beach wheelchairs are also available at no cost, though they are offered on a first-come-first-served basis, encouraging visitors to arrive early.
Tybee Island, Georgia
A short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island is not only popular among visitors but also among nesting sea turtles. Attractions such as the Tybee Island Marine Science Center are accessible, and beachgoers can utilize Mobi-mats and free wheelchair rentals available at the lifeguard station.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks offer various beaches with accessible features, including parking and Mobi-mats at specific locations, making it easier for individuals in wheelchairs to enjoy the sand and surf.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Recognized as one of the most accessible beaches in the US, Virginia Beach provides wheelchair access along its boardwalk. Beach wheelchairs are available for free, primarily during the tourist season, enhancing beach-going experiences for everyone.
