As winter sets in, many of us begin dreaming of the perfect beach holiday; alas, finding a seaside destination that’s both beautiful and accessible can pose a challenge. Unlike public buildings and parks, historically beaches were not designed with accessibility in mind. Fortunately, today there are a handful of locations which offer stunning exceptions to the rule that have the best access ramps in the world:
1. California, USA (Multiple Locations)
Sunny California features a number of accessible beaches, including the famous beaches at Santa Monica and Malibu, which are fitted with both boardwalks, disabled steps, and access ramps. Be advised, however, that many of the more ‘touristy’ beaches in California tend to be extremely crowded throughout much of the year—a situation which may pose obstacles to access.
For a more private retreat, try Rehab Point in Oxnard; this hidden gem features a lengthy paved path that winds through its many sand dunes and provides a wonderful view of the ocean below.
Best Access Ramps No. 2 : Pattaya Beach Resort, Thailand
Pattaya beach is famous for more than just its stunning scenery and luxurious resort—it’s also one of the most accessible beaches in the world. Multiple access ramps and boardwalks connect the different sections of the property, including stretches which span open water, offering spectacular views. Additionally, all of the resort’s rooms are fully accessible.
3. Sirens Resort, Loutraki, Greece
The Sirens resort was designed from the outset to offer wheelchair travellers an outstanding experience. As such, it features wheelchair accessible rooms throughout (including fully accessible roll-in showers), wide pathways, and access ramps that lead directly into the ocean. Visitors to the Sirens Resort can therefore enjoy a safe and easy immersion experience, a relative rarity even where accessible beaches are concerned.
4. Freedom Shores, Isla Aguada, Mexico
Founded by a quadriplegic war veteran, Freedom Shores is one of the only tropical beach resorts in Central America that was designed for wheelchair users first and foremost. The four-star resort includes a wide promenade that makes navigation a breeze, accessible rooms, and roll-in showers. Even the local taxi drivers pitch in, transporting wheelchair users around the large property for added convenience.
5. Hanauma Bay, Honolulu, Hawaii
If you dream of an idyllic Hawaiian getaway, make Hanauma bay your destination. Not only are there many accessible cabin rentals on the Oahu Island resort, you can rent a specially-equipped beach wheelchair that will allow you to easily navigate wet or dry sand.
6. Key Largo, Florida, USA
Key Largo offers much more than just ramps and wide walkways—this beach is relatively unique in the fact that disabled travellers can also engage in snorkeling and diving activities thanks to the effort of a few local outfitters. There are even special boats available on site which feature wheelchair lifts, allowing travellers to easily embark and disembark in order to explore underwater locations.
As the issue of accessibility gains greater media coverage, more and more resorts are making the move toward building accessible rooms and beachfront areas with the best access ramps. While the six beaches above are among the best accessible resorts in the world, they’re by no means the only ones, so don’t limit yourself to just these areas of the globe—always explore your options, both locally and abroad.