Do you long to visit sandy stretches of beaches and bask in the Florida sun? Are you unable to do so because of physical problems that have impaired your mobility? You can once again enjoy a beautiful sun-drenched vacation by using beach wheelchairs that allow you to roll your chair right up to the water's edge!

These chairs are designed to offer custom features including headrests or lateral supports for people who require additional support. In addition, they are manufactured to permit people to recline at varying angles, from upright to completely reclining positions.

Designed especially for the beach, many beach wheelchairs also feature umbrella supports or drink holders. These supports are attached to stainless steel frames designed to prevent corrosion by salt or water. Sometimes, builders use materials that are even more resistant to rust than the stainless steel used in boats!

The wheels of these chairs are manufactured from nylon materials to prevent corrosion. In addition, a unique, patented system allows wheel mechanisms to work so that all four wheels remain in contact with the ground even when going over uneven areas. These wheels can even travel along the water's edge.

Unless one makes frequent trips to a beach, these chairs may be expensive and cumbersome to bring along on vacation. For this reason, many states have adopted programs that offer free beach wheelchairs to visitors. Many Massachusetts, Hawaii, and South Carolina beaches assist disabled persons to enjoy the sun and sand through similar programs.

One state in particular has become a strong advocate of beach wheelchairs. California supplies free beach wheelchairs to disabled guests on request at nearly every beach. The California Coastal Commission believes that every individual has a right to experience the beach, and has committed itself to making this possible.

Many wheelchairs offered through this state program are manually operated, so someone able to help users operate the chairs must accompany them. Some, however, are motorized. Reservation requirements vary with each beach, so potential beach-goers should inquire into the requirements before scheduling a visit.

If you or someone you love is disabled, don't banish your dreams of a sunny vacation on a warm, sandy beach. You may have to do a little bit of research to locate a beach that offers beach wheelchairs, or perhaps invest in your own, but you don't have to be stuck on the boardwalk at these relaxing destinations!