Guide to ADA Accessible Beaches in St. Pete-Clearwater

The award-winning beaches of St. Pete-Clearwater are must-visit destinations for everyone. Explore our guide to beach accessibility for individuals who use wheelchairs or experience mobility challenges.

In September and October 2024, Hurricanes Helene and Milton impacted our beaches. While the majority of beaches have reopened (you can check the latest updates on their Current Beach Updates & Conditions page), some areas are still repairing damage to boardwalks and crossovers. Currently, we’re unable to confirm the status of Mobi-Mats previously available on the beaches. As the coastal communities continue to restore the beaches, including fixing boardwalks and reinstalling Mobi-Mats, they will keep that page updated. Until then, we recommend that visitors with mobility challenges stay at beachfront hotels that can confirm accessible beach access and amenities.

Accessing the beach can be challenging for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, but there are ways to enhance the experience with some expert tips and strategies. Here's how to make beach trips more accessible and enjoyable:

• Pre-Trip Research: Many beaches now offer accessible paths, boardwalks, or specially designed mats to aid wheelchair and scooter access. Before your visit, check the beach's website or local tourism boards for information about accessible routes.

• Beach Wheelchair Rentals: Some beaches provide beach wheelchairs or all-terrain mobility scooters that are equipped with larger wheels to navigate sand. They can often be reserved in advance.

• Hard Surface Routes: Some beaches have paved paths or boardwalks leading to the sand, which allow easier access for manual or powered wheelchairs.

• Mobi-Mats are portable mats that provide a smooth surface for wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers. They’re often placed directly on the sand to create a firm path for mobility devices.

• Pre-Installation: If the beach does not have these mats installed, contact the local beach authority to ask about availability or request installation before your visit.

• Placement: Many beaches offer these mats during peak seasons, and they are often installed from parking areas to the water’s edge.

• All-Terrain Models: These models are designed for uneven ground and are perfect for sandy surfaces. Beaches in coastal cities or popular tourist destinations may offer these for free or for a nominal rental fee.

• Check Availability: Some locations provide these chairs with wider, knobby wheels for easier mobility. Be sure to check with the local beach service or community center about the availability of these beach-specific mobility devices.

• Beach Wheelchair with Floatation: Some beaches have special wheelchairs that can float in the water, allowing individuals to get closer to the shoreline and enjoy the water. These are often available for rent at major beach destinations.

• Personal Beach Chair: Consider a lightweight, portable beach chair that can be placed on the sand next to the water, allowing you to enjoy the sea breeze without going into the surf.

• Assisted Transfers: Some beaches may offer services where trained staff assist people in transferring from a wheelchair to a beach wheelchair or even help with water access. Research in advance if this service is available.

• Best Route to the Water: If you're in a standard wheelchair or scooter, it's crucial to avoid soft, wet, or deep sand, as it can cause wheels to get stuck. The best route is usually along the dry sand, which is firmer and easier to navigate.

• Mobility Scooter Settings: Ensure your scooter is set to the proper settings for sandy conditions. Some scooters offer “sand mode” that can make it easier to traverse the beach.

• Low Tide: Consider going to the beach during low tide when the sand is more compact and easier to navigate. At high tide, the sand is softer, and it can be more challenging to maneuver.

• Weekday Visits: Weekends or peak hours tend to have crowded beaches, which can make navigating the beach difficult. Visiting early in the morning or during the week may offer less crowded conditions and easier access.

• Sun Protection: Beaches can be extremely sunny, so ensure you have protection such as a large hat, sunscreen, and protective clothing. Some beaches may offer shaded seating or umbrellas.

• Hydration: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as the beach can be hot, and mobility can be physically demanding.

• Footwear for Support: Wear supportive shoes if you plan to walk or transfer from one chair to another. Waterproof shoes may also help for those who plan to wade into the shallow surf.

Manual beach wheelchairs require assistance from a companion. While they can be used in shallow water, they are not designed for deep water as they can tip or roll easily. Many local beaches offer free manual beach wheelchairs, but if you’d prefer to rent one during your vacation, contact All Season Beach Stuff Rentals at 727-557-6902.

For more independence on the beach, you can rent a power beach wheelchair from Sand Helper (727-213-5700). This service is available from Clearwater to Tierra Verde, though the power chairs cannot be used in the water. Sand Helper offers delivery directly to your hotel, home, or condo.

Clearwater Beach is famous for its soft white sands and sparkling emerald waters, making it one of our favorite spots. Pier 60 is conveniently located and offers a fantastic spot to take in Gulf views, watch sunsets, browse vendor booths, and frequently spot dolphins and shorebirds.

However, parking can be challenging due to the beach's popularity, so it’s best to arrive early. Here’s some additional accessibility information for Clearwater Beach:

• Location: Many access points and parking lots exist, but Beth parked near Pier 60 (Lot 31), southwest of the roundabout, beachside.

• Parking: Public parking fills up quickly, so arriving early is key. Public lots are paved, but other private lots, though further from the beach, may charge higher fees.

• Ramp and Access: There are ramps from the parking lot to the sidewalk, and the sidewalks lead to beach access points.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Four manual and three power beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at Beach Lifeguard Station #0. If you can't reach the station, you can call 727-462-6963 for assistance. The station operates from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., though you might find staff available as early as 9 a.m. Remember, power wheelchairs cannot enter the water.

• Bathrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms are available.

Gulfport Beach offers a laid-back, quirky atmosphere and a charming, small bayside beach. Visitors can enjoy sightings of dolphins and birds, along with convenient bathrooms and shaded picnic areas. It's also within easy reach of local shops, restaurants, Williams Pier, and Veteran’s Park.

Here are further details on Gulfport Beach accessibility:

• Location: 5500 to 5800 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707

• Parking: Four accessible parking spots are located near the bathrooms.

• Ramp and Access: There’s no ramp, but the access from the sidewalk to a Mobi-Mat is flat. The Mobi-Mat reaches close to the bay but not into the water. Five covered picnic shelters are accessible via cement paths.

• Beach Wheelchairs: There are no beach wheelchairs available at Gulfport Beach.

• Bathrooms: Two bathrooms, each with one ADA-compliant stall and ample turning space. Note that the bathroom doors are heavy.

Pass-a-Grille offers a tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking sunsets, and convenient proximity to shops and restaurants. With accessible sidewalks, beachside tables and umbrellas, live music, and exceptional shelling, it’s the perfect getaway.

Pass-a-Grille Beach is particularly great for late-day beach access, as Paradise Grille offers beach wheelchairs until later than the usual lifeguard hours. The city of St. Pete Beach has also added a Mobi-Mat at 22nd Avenue to enhance accessibility.

Here are more details on Pass-a-Grille Beach:

• Location: 900 Gulf Way, Pass-a-Grille Beach, FL 33706

• Parking: Six accessible parking spaces are available near Paradise Grille, with additional on-street parking along Gulf Way.

• Ramp and Access: Ramp access from the parking lot to the sidewalk. From the sidewalk, a ramp leads up to Paradise Grille, which has an accessible deck with tables.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Three beach wheelchairs are available at Paradise Grille on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge. There are two types of chairs: one upright and one more like a lounge chair. Both can go into the water. The chairs must be returned before the restaurant closes (usually 15 minutes after sunset).

• Bathrooms: One ADA-compliant stall with sufficient space for turning and grab bars. The sink is inside the stall.

This exclusive, small beach community offers limited public access, with no umbrellas or shade structures allowed.

• Location: 2650 Gulf Blvd., Belleair Beach, FL 33786

• Parking: Two accessible parking spots with access stripes.

• Ramp and Access: Ramp access to the sidewalk, but no Mobi-Mat on the sand. A picnic shelter is accessible before the beach.

• Beach Wheelchairs: No beach wheelchairs are available.

• Bathroom Accessibility: The bathroom has one ADA-compliant stall with grab bars.

Accessible only by boat, Caladesi Island is a remote paradise for those seeking a quiet getaway. Wheelchair users can board the Caladesi Connection ferry, but the island paths are sandy, so you will need to transfer to a beach wheelchair to move around.

• Location: 1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, FL 34698 (Honeymoon Island State Park)

• Parking: Disability parking is available.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Beach wheelchairs can be requested when purchasing ferry tickets.

• Bathrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms are available.

Fort De Soto is much more than just a beach – it's a historic site with hiking trails and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing. While the beach is beautiful, it doesn’t have Mobi-Mats.

• Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715

• Parking: Multiple accessible parking spaces in various lots.

• Ramp and Access: Accessible ramps from parking areas to the sidewalk.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Five available at Fort De Soto. Call 727-582-2100, ext. 2 to reserve during the week.

• Bathrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms with grab bars.

This scenic beach in Tarpon Springs is not accessible for wheelchair users.

• Location: 1700 Sunset Drive, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

• Parking: Six accessible parking spots available.

• Ramp and Access: Ramp access to the sidewalk, but no Mobi-Mat on the sand.

• Beach Wheelchairs: No beach wheelchairs available.

• Bathroom Accessibility: The bathroom has one ADA-compliant stall with ample turning space.

Honeymoon Island State Park, a scenic coastal haven, was named after honeymoon cottages constructed here in 1940. Today, it remains a favored beach and park destination, accessible by car via the Dunedin Causeway. To enjoy a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning on weekends.

The Osprey Trail stretches for more than 2 miles, with the first mile being manageable for those using manual wheelchairs, particularly those with strong arms. However, certain sections present challenges due to hard-packed dirt and softer sand. The nature center is accessible and includes a deck with a beautiful view of the nearby lake.

Accessibility Information at Honeymoon Island State Park

• Location: 1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, FL 34968

• Parking: Multiple paved parking lots, all offering disability parking spaces.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp leads from the parking lot to the sidewalk, and a boardwalk extends over the dunes to the beach. Two Mobi Mats are provided—one near Bath House 1 and the other closer to Bath House 2. These mats extend to the end of the dunes. To continue to the beach, a beach wheelchair is required due to the soft sand.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Four manual beach wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Request one at the park kiosk when paying the entrance fee.

• Bathrooms: Accessible bathrooms are located near the parking lots.

Indian Rocks Beach is known for its calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Here’s what you should know about accessibility at this beach:

• Location: 1700 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785

• Parking: Limited accessible parking spots (two spaces), with a paved lot. Arrive early.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp provides access from the parking lot to the sidewalk, and a Mobi Mat runs halfway to the water.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Beach wheelchairs are not available at this location.

• Bathrooms: ADA-compliant bathrooms feature grab bars and ample space for wheelchair maneuvering.

Located in Indian Shores, this beach offers limited accessibility.

• Location: 19601 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL 34635

• Parking: Five accessible parking spots are available at a paved lot.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp leads from the parking lot to the sidewalk, and a ramp across the dunes gives access to the beach. However, there is no Mobi Mat, and the ramp ends at the sand, making it difficult for those with mobility challenges.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Not available.

• Bathrooms: Large, ADA-compliant stalls with grab bars and enough space to turn around.

Madeira Beach, named the 9th best beach in the U.S. by Tripadvisor in 2021, is known for its lively atmosphere and the iconic John's Pass Village & Boardwalk.

• Location: Archibald Memorial Beach Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach, FL 33708

• Parking: Accessible parking is available in two lots—one with three spots and the other with seven.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp from the parking lot leads to the sidewalk, and then a boardwalk over the dunes, followed by a Mobi Mat that extends 42 feet toward the Gulf, with an additional 25-foot wing to the south. There are accessible picnic areas and a snack shop.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Beach wheelchairs are not available at this park.

• Bathrooms: Accessible bathroom stalls are available, but the larger stall is narrow, and it lacks a sink or soap inside.

Redington Shores is a quieter beach, but it lacks full accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

• Location: 18200 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores, FL 33708

• Parking: Eight disability parking spots available in a paved lot.

• Ramp and Beach Access: Ramp access is provided from the parking lot to the sidewalk, but two ramps over dunes end on the sand, without Mobi Mats.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Not available.

• Bathrooms: Accessible stalls with grab bars, though the stall is small and lacks a sink or soap.

St. Pete Beach, named Tripadvisor's #1 beach in the U.S. for 2021, offers a Mobi Mat for easier beach access.

• Location: 4700 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

• Parking: Nine accessible parking spots in a paved lot.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp from the parking lot to the sidewalk and three ramps across dunes lead to the sand. One of these ramps provides access to a newly installed Mobi Mat.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Two beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Paradise Grill. They can be used in the water but must be returned before the restaurant closes.

• Bathrooms: Accessible stalls with grab bars and good turn-around space. No sink or soap in the stall.

Upham Beach offers accessible seating and a new Mobi Mat, but it may be more difficult to access the sand.

• Location: 6850 Beach Plaza, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

• Parking: Limited—only two accessible parking spots in a paved lot, so arrive early.

• Ramp and Beach Access: Ramp access leads from the parking lot to the sidewalk, and a boardwalk with a Mobi Mat runs over dunes to the sand. Accessible seating is available at Paradise Grille, offering views of the beach.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Two beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at Paradise Grille.

• Bathrooms: ADA-compliant stall with grab bars, sink, soap, and paper towels.

Sand Key Park offers a spacious and peaceful beach, known for its abundant accessible parking and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a laid-back day without the crowds.

• Location: 1060 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33767

• Parking: Accessible parking is available in several lots, including near Boardwalks #1, #4, and #7.

• Ramp and Beach Access: Ramp access leads to boardwalks, though the boardwalks end far from the water, so a companion will be necessary to push a beach wheelchair across the sand.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Two manual beach wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis near Boardwalk #4. To access one, call the park ranger at 727-582-2100.

• Bathrooms: Accessible bathrooms and a changing room with a bench are available at Boardwalk #4.

Sunset Beach, located at the southern tip of Treasure Island, is a popular accessible beach spot for locals, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.

• Location: 8000 West Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706

• Parking: Accessible parking is available in the Sunset Beach Pavilion lot, with three spaces on the street and two in the paved lot.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp from the parking lot leads to a scenic boardwalk. While most beach access points have steps, one ramp leads directly into the sand for easier beach access.

• Beach Wheelchairs: Not available.

• Bathrooms: Accessible stalls with grab bars.

Treasure Island is known for its nostalgic charm and vast, white-sand beaches.

• Location: 10400 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706

• Parking: Limited accessible parking (only three spaces), so it's recommended to arrive early.

• Ramp and Beach Access: A ramp leads from the parking lot across dunes to a long Mobi Mat that extends about halfway down the beach.

• Beach Wheelchairs: One beach wheelchair is available for reservation by calling City Hall at 727-547-4575, ext. 237.

• Bathrooms: Accessible bathroom stall with grab bars, but the stall is narrow and lacks a sink or soap.

In conclusion, the Gulf Coast beaches in Florida offer a wide variety of accessible amenities for visitors with mobility challenges, though the level of accessibility can vary significantly from one location to another. Clearwater Beach’s Pier 60 stands out with its excellent facilities, including beach wheelchairs, ADA-compliant bathrooms, and ramp access, making it a popular choice. However, parking can be a challenge, so early arrival is recommended. Other beaches like Gulfport Beach and Pass-a-Grille Beach also provide essential accommodations such as accessible parking and ramps, though they lack beach wheelchairs.

Some of the more remote locations, such as Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island, present unique challenges due to their natural terrain, requiring visitors to use beach wheelchairs or other assistance. While some beaches, like Fred Howard Park and Redington Shores, have limited accessibility, others, such as St. Pete Beach and Madeira Beach, offer a more inclusive experience with well-maintained ramps, Mobi Mats, and beach wheelchairs.

Ultimately, planning ahead and understanding the accessibility options at each beach will ensure a more enjoyable and inclusive beach experience for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a peaceful, scenic retreat, the beaches along the Gulf Coast provide a range of experiences that can cater to all needs.