Costa Rica Expands Its Network of Accessible Beaches for People withDisabilities

In its effort to become an inclusive tourist destination, Costa Rica has continued to expand its network of accessible beaches. Thanks to the DONATAPA initiative and the support of the Costa Rican Accessible Tourism Network, more beaches across the country are being equipped with modular walkways and amphibious chairs, allowing people with disabilities to enjoy the sea safely and comfortably.

Among the beaches that now have accessible infrastructure are Playa Espadilla in Manuel Antonio and Puntarenas, with two adapted access points inaugurated between 2021 and 2022. More recently, beaches like Manzanillo in Limón and Playa Ventanas in Osa have been added, with the installation of 33 meters of walkways and an amphibious chair, making it easier for those who previously couldn’t enjoy the ocean to access the water.

Woman pushing a boy in a wheelchair on a portable accessible wooden boardwalk leading across a sandy beach toward the ocean. — Making the beach accessible for everyone! These portable, roll-out boardwalks allow wheelchairs and strollers to cross the sand easily, bringing visitors closer to the water.

A man pulling a specialized yellow beach wheelchair on the sand, carrying two happy tourists, providing accessible access to the ocean. — Enjoying the sunny weather and soft sand! Our specialized beach wheelchairs are available to ensure everyone can experience the beach and the ocean with ease and safety.

Two people, one with prosthetic limbs and a man walking on a temporary accessible boardwalk in a park setting. One person is sitting in a manual wheelchair. — Ensuring accessibility in all environments! This temporary boardwalk creates an inclusive path for wheelchair users and people with mobility disabilities to enjoy outdoor spaces.

Each of these advances has been made possible by collecting tons of recycled plastic, which is transformed into beach infrastructure. In addition to benefiting people with disabilities, the initiative also positively impacts the environment by promoting the reuse of materials and sustainability.

Costa Rica aims to continue expanding this network along the Pacific coast, with a goal to add at least three more accessible beaches before the end of 2024. Additionally, the country is working on the implementation of accessible trails and the training of communities and tourism entrepreneurs to strengthen the inclusive offerings in the sector.

These initiatives not only improve the experience for tourists with disabilities but also reaffirm Costa Rica’s commitment to universal accessibility and the development of inclusive tourism for all.