Accessible beaches
Boardwalks to the water's edge, amphibious chairs and assisted bathing: what to look for and how to find an adapted beach.
Key points
- An accessible beach has a step-free route from the street to the water's edge, with boardwalks over the sand.
- The best-equipped add adapted toilets and showers, shade, amphibious chairs and staff to help with bathing.
- Order TMA/851/2021 sets the basic accessibility conditions for urban public spaces in Spain.
- Assisted bathing usually runs only in season and at set times.
What an accessible beach offers
- Accessible routeStep-free ramps from the street and reserved parking nearby.
- BoardwalksTo the water's edge or to a shaded area near the water.
- Amphibious chairsWith floats and wide wheels to go into the water with a companion.
- Support staffTo help you in and out of the water during service hours.
What the rules say
Order TMA/851/2021 sets out the basic conditions of accessibility and non-discrimination for access to and use of urban public spaces, and it is the reference for city beaches. In practice, each beach's equipment depends on the town council, which usually concentrates services at one or more «accessible points» per municipality.
How to find an accessible beach
- Check the mapThe accessible beach map shows beaches marked as adapted.
- Ask the councilAssisted bathing hours and whether to book.
- Look for local guidesSome associations publish provincial guides, such as COCEMFE's for Huelva.
- Look at the Blue FlagIts programme values accessibility, though it does not guarantee assisted bathing.
Our data is not complete
We mark beaches as accessible when OpenStreetMap says so. Many others have adapted services that are not listed yet: if you know one, let us know.
Frequently asked questions
What is an amphibious chair?
A wheelchair with floats and wide wheels that lets you go into the water with a companion. At many accessible beaches the staff at the bathing point help you use it.
Do I need to book assisted bathing?
It depends on the town: in some you just turn up during service hours, in others it is best to call ahead. Check the town council's website.