Huntington Beach, California, is leading the way when it comes to introducing initiatives that make it accessible to visitors of all abilities.
Known worldwide as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach’s efforts have earned national recognition, with WalletHub ranking Huntington Beach as the sixth-best city in the U.S. for people with disabilities and Condé Nast Traveler naming it among the top 10 wheelchair-accessible beaches in the U.S.
Accessible tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of the global travel market. In the U.S. alone it is valued at more than $58 billion.
Among the key initiatives are the two Mobi-Mats that have been installed north and south of Huntington Beach Pier that provide safe, stable shoreline access for visitors using wheelchairs, strollers, or those with limited mobility.
Made from non-slip, 100% recyclable materials, the mats allow direct access to the water’s edge at high tide.
Just north of the city’s pier, Huntington Beach’s first All-Inclusive Beach Playground invites children of all abilities to play together. ADA-compliant rubber surfacing and thoughtfully designed play structures encourage interactive, shared play. Accessible pathways link the playground directly to nearby parking and the beach path. This May, the playground completed a major refresh with nearly 1,000 parts replaced, rebuilding the popular AeroGlider, a swaying platform that promotes cooperation and teamwork among kids of all ages and abilities.
At McKinnon Surf and SUP, former professional surfer Rocky McKinnon offers adaptive surf and stand-up paddle board lessons for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Participants use custom-built boards including a 15-foot chair board and multi-rider designs. Each chair is crafted specifically so individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities can experience the thrill of catching waves in a safe and adaptive way.
At the Huntington Beach Equestrian Center, the Free Rein Foundation offers equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning programs with rescued horses.
Guests are guided through the pasture to meet the herd of horses and learn about the services they provide. In addition, “Hug & Groom” events are held on the first Sunday of every month.
In the town itself, INC Coffee Roasters – founded by two special education professionals – provides meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
The Huntington Beach café combines excellent coffee with a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere, and The Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach has partnered with Access Trax to make its beachfront bonfire experiences accessible for guests using mobility devices. These gatherings are available to hotel guests during the summer and are open to non-guests after Labor Day (September 1).
“Huntington Beach is ensuring that its ocean setting, sun, surf, and signature laid-back culture can be enjoyed by everyone, said Kelly Miller, President and CEO of Visit Huntington Beach.
“Huntington Beach has always been about connecting with the ocean, with each other and with the spirit of our community. Making our beaches and experiences accessible means everyone can share in what makes the city so special. It is not just about meeting a standard; it is about living our values as Surf City USA.
“Visitor feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising how easy it is to move between attractions and enjoy the shoreline with ease. The destination values every visitor and continues to invest in key ways that make everyone feel welcome and part of Surf City USA,” added Miller.
