Sun, Sand, and Wheels: Your Guide to Accessible Beaches in the Outer Banks

Hey there, beach lovers! Looking for a slice of paradise where everyone's welcome? The Outer Banks (OBX) has got you covered! We've rounded up the best spots where you can roll right onto the sand and soak up those vacation vibes. Let's dive in!

Where to Hit the Sand

Kill Devil Hills: The OG of Accessible Beaches

Ocean Bay Boulevard Beach Access (Milepost 8.5) is your go-to spot. It's got:

• A smooth parking lot with handicap spots

• A wooden ramp that'll take you straight to the beach

• Special mats on the sand for easy wheeling

• Four beach wheelchairs that can handle sand and splashes

Nags Head: Double the Fun

Two awesome spots to check out:

• Eighth Street Beach Access

• Jennette's Pier Beach Access Both have Mobi-Mats to help you glide across the sand.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Nature for All

These spots have ramps and accessible bathrooms:

• Coquina Beach

• Salvo Day Use Area

• Haulover Day Use Area

• Frisco

• Ocracoke

Beach Wheelchairs: Your Ticket to Ride

Want to borrow a beach wheelchair? Here's where to snag one:

• Southern Shores: Call the Fire Department at 252-261-2272

• Duck: Ring up Duck Surf Rescue at 252-982-6747

• Kitty Hawk: Fire Department's got your back at 252-261-2666

• Kill Devil Hills: Ocean Rescue Headquarters is the place to call: 252-480-0080

• Nags Head: Try the Fire Department (252-441-5909) or Ocean Rescue (252-480-2555)

• Coquina Beach: Dial up Cape Hatteras National Seashore at 252-473-2111

• Hatteras: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Info can help: 252-995-4474

• Ocracoke: National Seashore/Ocracoke Visitor Center's the spot: 252-928-4531

Pro tip: These wheels are hot commodities, so call ahead to reserve one!

Extra Goodies for Your Beach Day

Many beach spots come with bonus features:

• Wooden walkways (no sand in your wheels!)

• Parking areas close to the beach

• Ramps to get you where you need to go

• Trash cans and recycling bins (keep our beaches clean, folks!)

• Showers to rinse off the salt and sand

• Accessible bathrooms at visitor centers and some fancy outhouses

Planning Your OBX Adventure

Before you pack your sunscreen and shades:Give the local visitor centers or fire departments a ring for the latest scoop on accessibility.

Remember, beach wheelchairs can be as rare as buried treasure, so book early!

The Outer Banks is always working on making its sandy shores a playground for everyone. With a little planning, you'll be feeling those ocean breezes and catching some rays in no time.

So come on down to the OBX – where the beaches are accessible, the views are spectacular, and the memories are waiting to be made