Written by Ethan Godard for Wheel The World, June 15, 2023
In this article, we will explore the top 5 wheelchair-friendly vacation destinations in the USA. From stunning beaches to iconic cities, there is a place that should fit each traveler’s desired vacation.
Planning a vacation should be an exciting and joyful experience for everyone, regardless of physical abilities. Unfortunately, accessibility can often pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those who use wheelchairs. However, with the growing awareness of inclusivity in travel, wheelchair-friendly vacations are becoming more accessible and attainable than ever before.
In this article, we will explore the top 5 wheelchair-friendly vacation destinations in the USA. From stunning beaches to iconic cities, there is a place that should fit each traveler’s desired vacation.
1. Maui, Hawaii
Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality, Maui offers an unforgettable experience for wheelchair users. The island has made significant strides in providing accessibility, making it an ideal destination for a wheelchair-friendly vacation.
Accessible Activities and Attractions in Maui
Maui offers many wheelchair-accessible attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From scenic drives along the Road to Hana, to whale watching tours on a boat, and adaptive surfing in Maui’s warm water, there is no shortage of wheelchair-friendly experiences on the island.
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- Haleakala National Park: Breathtaking landscapes, scenic sunsets and unique flora and fauna, the 30,000-acre Haleakala National Park is a must stop when visiting this beautiful island. Hosting the Haleakala mountain, Maui’s highest peak, experiencing and photographing natural surroundings can be inspiring and memorable.
- Maui Ocean Center: Focused around Hawaii’s diverse and one of a kind marine life, this place exhibits the unique Pacific coral extensively, well known green sea turtles and sharks.
- Adaptive Kayaking: Paddle out to enjoy the incredible and inspiring views of the Makena coastline and the rising green hills up Haleakala. You may even see a turtle or two! Each tour includes two guides for safety and comfort.
- Sunset Dinner Cruise: This tour consists of a boat trip combining food, music and the best sunset views Maui has to offer!
Accessible Beaches in Maui
One of the highlights for wheelchair users in Maui is the availability of wheelchair-accessible beaches. Some of the top beaches to consider going to are Ka’anapali Beach, Kamaole Beach, and Wailea. You can also rent beach wheelchairs in Maui that will help you move around on the sand, get into the water, and immerse yourself in that beach lifestyle.
Where to Stay in Maui
There is a plethora of accommodations in Maui that are equipped for wheelchair accessibility, many of which are located in prime areas such as Ka’anapali and Wailea. Below is a list of hotels with guaranteed accessibility.
Hotels in Maui with guaranteed accessibility
Customized Packages
For a hassle-free vacation experience, Wheel the World offers customized multi-day packages in Maui. These packages include accessible things to do, ground transportation, and accommodations tailored to your needs. Discover the best of Maui with peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of your trip is planned and designed for accessibility and enjoyment.
2. San Diego, California
Located on the picturesque southern coast of California, San Diego offers a delightful mix of sunny beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class attractions. The city has made significant efforts to ensure wheelchair accessibility, making it a fantastic destination for wheelchair-friendly vacations.
Accessible Activities and Attractions in San Diego
- USS Midway Museum: Named after the famous World War II naval and aerial battle, The Midway is a retired aircraft carrier and museum in San Diego. With restored aircrafts and 10 acres of exhibits, not only helicopters and airplanes can be found, but also real objects and testimonies about crew members are exhibited.
- La Jolla Shores Beach: A perfect beach for surfing, scuba-diving and paddle boarding, La Jolla Shores is a 1 mile long sandy beach in San Diego. A permanent lifeguard station is available and shops and restaurants are nearby. There is a park with seating areas and a playground for children to play in, with beach views and palm trees.
- San Diego Zoo: Considered one of the top zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo offers many unique experiences, tours, and attractions.
- Fleet Science Center: The goal for its visitors is to learn and appreciate the power of scientific inquiry. With more than 100 kid-friendly interactive exhibits, visiting this scientific powerhouse can be a fun and a learning family activity.
Where to Stay in San Diego
San Diego has several options for accessible accommodation depending on your preferences. You can check them out below.
Hotels in San Diego with guaranteed accessibility
3. San Francisco, California
If you’re looking for more of a city destination, this may be the one. Often regarded as one of the most wheelchair-accessible cities in the U.S, San Francisco offers a blend of captivating landscapes, cultural diversity, and renowned landmarks. Public transportation is also very accessible in this city, making it a great option to get around and see as much as you can. The city’s commitment to accessibility makes it an ideal destination for wheelchair-friendly vacations.
Accessible Activities and Attractions in San Francisco
- The Golden Gate Bridge: See San Francisco’s skyline from its most famous landmark. Running, walking, strolling, and wheeling can be possible and accessible. A cafe and a step-free visitor center can be found on-site, as well as accessible restrooms.
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: Focusing on 20th-century modern art, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is composed of over 26.000 pieces of art. Paintings, sculptures, photographs and even design and architecture exhibits, the museum has had a library since 1935 with extensive resources to explore and research.
- Guided Handbike Tour: Hit the trails, the streets, and idyllic San Francisco walkways as you make the most of the adaptive biking equipment available and cycle to see one of San Francisco’s most prominent monuments – the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Fisherman’s Wharf: Explore the waterfront of the San Francisco Bay. A lively area with beautiful views, fun street performers, the famous Ghirardelli square, and delicious seafood.
- Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour: This accessible tour will take you out of San Francisco to explore California’s scenic landscapes.
Where to Stay in San Francisco
San Francisco has a range of wheelchair-accessible hotels that cater to the specific needs of guests with mobility challenges. With over 25 guaranteed accessible hotels, you are sure to find something that fits your needs. Check out the full list of hotels here.
4. Orlando, Florida
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