Your guide to beach wheelchairs and accessibility in Hilton Head. File photo.
Jason Lee
jlee@thesunnews
Hilton Head Island’s pristine beaches are a paradise for locals and visitors alike. But for those with mobility challenges, accessing the sand and surf hasn’t always been easy.
Thankfully, the island has made significant strides in improving beach accessibility, from wheelchair rentals to specialized beach matting and a new pavilion designed for all visitors to enjoy the ocean breeze.
No matter what your needs are, Hilton Head has several resources available to make beach days enjoyable for everyone, regardless of mobility limitations.
Here is a rundown of the resources and rentals to help you plan your beach visit and enjoy Hilton Head.
These beach wheelchairs have wide tires that are specifically designed to move you through the sandy terrain and get you up close to the water.
The beach wheelchair program offers an easy way for people with disabilities to access the beach. This service is available to residents and visitors who are mobility-challenged.
Here’s how beach wheelchair rentals work
Wheelchairs are currently available at two beach locations:
More beach wheelchairs to these locations in about a month, according to town beach operations manager Mike DeMaria:
Fish Haul Beach: Two chairs
Folly Field Beach: Two chairs
Driessen Beach: Two chairs
Burkes Beach: Two chairs
To secure a chair, you must reserve a wheelchair through the Town’s website and pay a $25 refundable deposit, which will be returned to you within three business days once you return the chair.
Upon making a reservation, a code will be sent to the user so they can unlock the reserved wheelchair at the specific beach park location and lock the wheelchair once it is returned.
Wheelchairs can be reserved for a maximum of two days.
To ensure you can get a chair, it’s recommended to make your reservation at least three days ahead of your beach journey.
Other Rental Providers
If you can’t get a wheelchair through the Hilton Head rental program, then no need to fret; there are other locations available to make sure you can enjoy the sand and sea.
Hilton Head Outfitters & Bike Rentals: Offers all-terrain beach wheelchair rentals to allow for easy access to the beach. These wheelchairs can be rented for up to seven days, with different price points for the amount of time you rent for.
Cloud of Goods: Beach wheelchairs and other mobility devices are available for beachgoers to rent. They can be reserved online and delivered to your location.
A beach wheelchair sits on Hilton Head Island. The town’s new beach wheelchair program makes it easier for people with disabilities to access the beach, according to town officials. Town of Hilton Head Island
Beach Matting
To further enhance accessibility, all public beach parks and access points on Hilton Head Island feature sturdy, non-slip beach matting.
These mats make it easier for wheelchairs, strollers and beach wagons to traverse the sand.
The matting extends to the hard sand at the high tide line, allowing for smoother mobility along the shore.
Beach Pavilions
If you’re looking for a tranquil spot to enjoy stunning beach views, then the pavilion dedicated and designed for individuals with disabilities and special needs at Islanders Beach Park is the spot for you.
Located at 94 Folly Field Road, this pavilion features:
A wide entryway for easy wheelchair access
Built-in benches for comfortable seating
A prime location next to the boardwalk for an inclusive beach experience
While open to all visitors, the pavilion was specifically designed to offer a welcoming space for those who may have difficulty accessing the beach.
Planning Your Accessible Beach Visit
To make the most of Hilton Head’s accessible beach features, here are a few key tips:
Reserve a wheelchair in advance: No matter where you book, due to demand, some wheelchairs can only be reserved for a certain period, so plan accordingly.
Check beach access points: Not all beaches have the same accessibility features. Islanders Beach Park and Coligny Beach Park are the most equipped for visitors with mobility challenges.
Bring additional beach gear: Don’t forget to bring (or rent) beach chairs and umbrellas to enhance your experience.
Getting around: If you have any specific questions about accessibility points and paths, your accommodations site or rental provider can help.
This story was originally published April 3, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
