Staff Report
Wheelchair-bound individuals can enjoy a day at the beach and navigate the sand to reach the water’s edge more easily with an all-terrain wheelchair. The County Parks Division recently added four versatile, sand-friendly beach wheelchairs available free-of-charge on a first-come, first-serve basis at Arroyo Burro, Goleta and Jalama beaches, and Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Preserve.
The beach wheelchairs were acquired with funding through California Coastal Commission’s Whale Tail Grants Program, which distributes monies from the sale of California’s WHALE TAIL© Coastal Protection License Plates and donations to “Protect Our Coast and Oceans Fund” listed on the California state tax form.
The beach “De-Bug” stainless steel all-terrain wheelchair incorporates large Wheeleez front tires. The smaller castering rear wheels and articulating suspension system are designed to allow all four wheels to remain in contact with the ground when moving across uneven terrain, giving users a stable ride. Swing-away arm rests are easily removable for lateral transfers.
Those planning to reserve a beach wheelchair are encouraged to bring one or two people who can assist them. There is no cost to use the beach wheelchair but advanced reservations are recommended. For reservations, please call the appropriate number below.
Beach Wheelchair Reservations:
Arroyo Burro Beach: (805) 687-3714 or (805) 729-7508
Goleta Beach: (805) 967-1300 or (805) 729-7508
Guadalupe Dunes: (805) 729-8461 or (805) 729-7508
Jalama Beach: (805) 736-3504 or speak to a park ranger or lifeguard
For information about County facilities, parks and beaches, go to http://www.countyofsb.org/parks.
