Explore the Unusual Glass Beach
Glass Beach, renowned in Fort Bragg, could very well be the most sought-after shoreline in all of California. Its name derives from the smooth, colorful glass fragments intermingled with the pebble-strewn shore. It stands as the epitome of crystal-clear coastal beauty.
This location was once a landfill, where discarded bottles from local residents transformed into coveted treasures to be discovered and captured through the lens. While it is prohibited to collect glass from Glass Beach, the accessibility path welcomes those with reduced mobility. When visiting, remember to respect the ban on collecting glass fragments.
Marvel at McWay Falls
In a previous post, we unveiled the natural wonder that is McWay Falls. Nestled within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, these falls seem to emerge from a fantastical realm, gracefully cascading into a pristine cove along the California coastline.
While the park may offer limited adapted activities, the Waterfall Overlook Trail provides awe-inspiring vistas accessible to individuals with reduced mobility.
Relax on Accessible Beaches
Along the California coast, numerous accessible beaches await, providing barrier-free experiences. In a previous publication, we shared insights into the accessibility of six of our favorite beaches: Santa Monica, Venice, Cala Navidad, Monterey State Beach, Zuma, and Huntington State Beach. We invite you to explore them further.
Venture into a Majestic Sequoia Forest
Immerse yourself in the vastness of California’s third-largest state park, spanning over 53,000 acres, and discover the immense coastal redwood forest, recognized as the world’s largest and most ancient. Embark on a journey through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, a natural sanctuary of grand proportions.
According to the park’s website, there are trails suitable for individuals with reduced mobility, such as Gould Grove Nature Trail, Rockefeller Loop Trail, Founders Grove Nature Trail, and Drury-Chaney Trail. Accessible picnic areas and restrooms can also be found.
Embark on a Journey through Hearst Castle
The story of Hearst Castle traces back to 1865 when George Hearst acquired 40,000 acres of majestic ranches. Following his mother’s passing in 1919, William Randolph Hearst inherited vast stretches around San Simeon and gradually expanded his dominion. This estate eventually encompassed approximately 250,000 acres. Collaborating with the talented architect Julia Morgan, Hearst brought his vision to life, naming it “La Cuesta Encantada,” Spanish for “Enchanted Hill.”
Nowadays, there are various accessible tours available for visitors using wheelchairs, including the Accessibly Designed Grand Rooms Tour, Accessibly Designed Evening Tour, and Accessibly Designed Holiday Twilight Tour.
Have Fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Make the most of your stay in Santa Cruz, often hailed as the “best seaside amusement park in the world.” As noted on the local coastal company’s website, the boardwalk offers accessible parking spaces, wheelchair rentals (located at the Guest Services Office near the Haunted Castle or the Season Pass Office at the Main Entrance), adapted restrooms, a first aid office, and reserved seating to enjoy live music, among other services.
Feel free to leave a comment if you’d like a follow-up to this post. We would love to hear which accessible plans you would personally enjoy!
Sources: California Beaches, California State Parks, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Hearst Castle, Santa Cruz Seaside Company
