Imagine planning a vacation in the beach in North Carolina with someone who uses a wheelchair, whether temporarily or permanently, and realize that the simplest thing, like walking to the shore, can turn into a headache.
Routes without ramps, bathrooms with limited space, stairs with no alternative, sand that's difficult to navigate... and yet, amidst all these challenges, there are also beaches with infrastructure designed for everyone.
In North Carolina, a growing number of municipalities are embracing inclusive tourism.
You may be interested: 5 beaches and a lake to enjoy summer in North Carolina
Beaches with wheelchair access
These 4 beaches have access and facilities for people with reduced mobility:
1. Carolina Beach
- Carolina Beach Parks & Recreation Department offers beach wheelchairs completely free for daily use (Cardinal & Pine, carolinabeach.org)
- It also has “mobi-mats” (rigid mats that extend to a certain point above the sand) at three entrances, making it easier to cross from the sidewalk to the sand.
Ocean Cure, a local NGO, is lending adaptive equipment—including floating wheelchairs—for inclusive surfing or general beach use, also free of charge. More information at: visitnc.com
2. Surf City (Topsail Island)
The municipality of Surf City maintains a program of “Beach Wheelchairs” sponsored by citizens, available to visitors
Locations and Access Points
The locations of beach wheelchair access points are indicated below.
For the safety of those using them, do not attempt to maneuver a beach wheelchair over steps or down steep slopes.
- #1 – 9th Street – 2100 North Shore Drive
- #5 – Broadway Street – 1700 North Shore Drive
- #6 – Pender Avenue – 1500 North Shore Drive
- #13 – 510 North Shore Drive
- #18 – Roland Avenue – 100 Roland Avenue
- #19 – Kinston Avenue – 200 South Shore Drive
>>If you're planning a beach vacation this summer, it's important to be prepared for any eventuality. Check out our article on What to do and how to ask for help in case of an emergency on the beachMake sure your visit to the sea is pleasant and safe.
>>If you plan to visit the coast with your service dog, we recommend checking out our Guide to beaches in North Carolina that allow service dogs, you'll find practical information, rules, and recommendations to help you enjoy your summer vacation.
3. Oak Island and Caswell Beach
- On Oak Island you can rent chairs with wide tires for sand at the Oak Island Recreation Center.
- Caswell Beach It has 12 public ramps distributed along its access points, facilitating the access of people with reduced mobility to the arena.
4. Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach
- Ocean Isle Beach It offers more than 30 public access points, several with ramps or special access from the parking lot to the beach.
- Sunset Beach also has multiple ramps, showers, and accessible parking. More information at ncbrunswick.com
You may be interested in: Guide to choosing beach accommodations in North Carolina for people with limited mobility
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