The disability rights movement has spent decades calling for more accessible spaces. In fact, since late 2021, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has launched a project to remove accessibility barriers and achieve more inclusive tourism in Puerto Rico for this population.
If you are looking for a more accessible beach day for yourself or a loved one, read on to discover some of the beaches accessible to people with disabilities.
A good option for a day at the beach with the family, with clear water and white sand. Since March 2023, the beach has had a mobi-mat, through an initiative by the organization Pa'l Agua, that allows direct water access for wheelchairs. To enter the water, the kiosk Jobos Beach Rental has amphibious chairs available during the day at no charge.
Facilities: Accessible parking, nearby wide sidewalk, mobi-mat, amphibious chairs.
Known for its colorful pier and festive atmosphere, this beach also offers direct sea access on certain days of the week. To use the available aquatic chairs, you must call the Municipio de Aguadilla in advance at 787-891-1005.
Because the chairs are only available Wednesday through Saturday, planning this visit ahead of time is recommended.
Just behind the Luis Muñoz Marín airport is the Balneario de Isla Verde, with some facilities to make your visit more accessible.
Amphibious chairs must be reserved in advance, either at the beach office or by phone (787-791-2410), any day Tuesday through Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Facilities: Accessible parking with a fee, wide sidewalk, gazebos available for rent, accessible restrooms, amphibious chairs, and tablados over the sand for sea access.
This spot facing the Atlantic Ocean, located in Old San Juan, has gradually become more accessible. The public beach offers wheelchairs, amphibious chairs, and assistance entering the water every day from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To use the amphibious chairs, you must be accompanied and check in with the beach lifeguard.
Facilities: Accessible parking with a fee, wide sidewalk, outdoor showers, accessible restrooms, amphibious chairs, and a tablado providing access to the shore.
Dating to 1994, the Mar Sin Barreras initiative grew out of the efforts of Rosimar Hernández, a young woman with a disability who at the time began advocating for more accessible beaches.
In 2021, the space was renovated and currently offers various services for people with limited mobility. It is open Wednesday through Sunday and on holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Facilities: Accessible parking with a fee, nearby wide sidewalk, gazebos with tables and seating, outdoor showers, accessible restrooms, amphibious chairs, and, occasionally, a mat for wheelchair access to the water.
Surrounded by restaurants, music, and a well-known tablado, Playa de La Guancha is another waterfront location with inclusive facilities.
In July 2022, a mobi-mat sea access path was inaugurated, named after a young entrepreneur from Ponce with a disability: "Paseo Carylis Velázquez." Amphibious chairs will be available by reservation, Wednesday through Sunday, by calling between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at 787-259-2210, extension 5428.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
