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Hilton Head Island Enhances Beach Accessibility for Visitors

Families enjoying a day at the accessible beach on Hilton Head Island.

News Summary

Hilton Head Island is taking significant measures to improve beach accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The Town has launched a Beach Wheelchair Program that provides specialized wheelchairs for easier navigation on sandy terrain. Additionally, rental services for all-terrain beach wheelchairs are available, along with enhancements such as non-slip matting at public beach parks. A new pavilion designed for accessibility at Islanders Beach Park further supports these initiatives, encouraging inclusivity for all visitors to the beautiful beaches of Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island Enhances Beach Accessibility for Visitors with Mobility Challenges

Hilton Head Island is making strides to improve beach accessibility for locals and visitors with mobility challenges through innovative programs and facilities.

Beach Wheelchair Program

The Town of Hilton Head offers a Beach Wheelchair Program for residents and visitors with disabilities.
Wheelchairs feature wide tires for easier navigation on sandy terrain.
Beach wheelchairs are available at the following locations:

Coligny Beach Park – Three units.
Islanders Beach Park – Three units.

Reservations are required online with a refundable deposit of $25.
Reservations are capped at two days and should ideally be made three days in advance.

Alternative Wheelchair Rentals

For those looking for additional options, consider the following rental services:

Hilton Head Outfitters & Bike Rentals: All-terrain beach wheelchairs available for up to seven days.
Vacation Mobility Solutions: Beach wheelchair rentals starting at $75 per day, bookable online.
Cloud of Goods: Beach wheelchairs and mobility devices available for online reservation and delivery.

Accessible Beach Parks

All public beach parks on Hilton Head Island have non-slip beach matting to ensure accessibility. The following parks feature these improvements:

Alder Lane
Burkes Beach
Coligny Beach
Driessen Beach
Fish Haul
Folly Field
Islanders Beach

The beach matting extends to the high tide line, assisting mobility along the shore.

New Pavilion at Islanders Beach Park

A newly constructed pavilion designed for individuals with disabilities adds to the accessible features at Islanders Beach Park, including:

A wide entryway for easy wheelchair access.
Built-in benches for added comfort.
Conveniently located next to the boardwalk for an inclusive beach experience.

Tips for Enjoying Accessible Features

To fully enjoy the accessible beach offerings on Hilton Head Island, visitors are encouraged to:

Reserve wheelchairs in advance to meet demand.
Check accessibility features at different beach access points; Islanders Beach Park and Coligny Beach Park are the most equipped.
Pack or rent additional beach gear like chairs and umbrellas.
Consult your accommodations or rental providers for specific information on accessibility.