Imperial Beach

Although a number of San Diego beaches have beach wheelchairs and beach mats, a few locations go one step further. Along with the standard beach wheelchairs — that require a strong helper to push — some San Diego beaches now have power beach wheelchairs to loan.

These San Diego power beach wheelchairs are somewhat of a cross between a standard beach wheelchair with large balloon tires, and a power wheelchair with a joystick. They are easy to operate, and after a brief orientation from the lifeguard you can easily cruise along the sandy beach. And the best part about the power beach wheelchairs is that they allow wheelchair-users independent access to the beach. You don’t need a helper to push you and you can go wherever you want and take things at your own pace. They are also a great option for slow walkers who may tire easily trudging over the sand.

These power beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come basis; however it’s best to call in advance as some locations have limited hours.

Imperial Beach
(619) 685-7972
imperialbeachca.gov/322/Power-Beach-Chairs

Coronado Beach
(619) 222-7346 ext. 3
ca-coronado.civicplus.com/246/Beach-Wheelchair-Program

Mission Beach
(619) 980-1876

Cardiff State Beach
(760) 753-5091

Floating Beach Wheelchairs

The San Diego power beach wheelchairs must stay at least five feet away from the water; however if you’d like to go for a swim, then check out the floating beach wheelchairs at Moonlight Beach in nearby Encinitas. You will need some assistance to wheel these chairs down to the water, but once you hit the surf they float. You can choose to enjoy the ocean by yourself, or have a companion there to assist you. Either way, it’s a great way to enjoy the water.

And if you’d prefer to stay dry, they also have power beach wheelchairs available at Moonlight Beach. For more information about the floating beach wheelchairs or the power beach wheelchairs at Moonlight Beach, call (760) 633-2740.