Manly Beach , Australia

For a sun-filled outing in The Land Down Under , travelers need to look no further than Manly Beach . The very same site where the world ’ s first surfing contest was held in 1964 , the historic oceanside suburb of Manly , and the beach that inhabits it , is a favorite among wheelchair users who cite accessible pathways , open-air markets and spacious , ADA-compliant bathrooms as some of the best in all of Australia . As for the beach itself , visitors can borrow complimentary beach wheelchairs from the Manly Surf Pavilion before taking advantage of ramp access to the sand via a gentle ramp on the park ’ s south side . And , as an added bonus , young travelers with accessibility needs will be happy to find North Steyne Major , an inclusive playground with lots of accessible features like a pod swing , sensory play boards , an accessible see-saw and more .

WINTER 2023 / THE COMPASS / 41