Luxury travel should be an experience of ease, elegance, and indulgence for all travelers, including those who use wheelchairs. Thankfully, many of the finest resorts in the United States have embraced accessibility while maintaining their world-class offerings. These high-end destinations deliver exceptional service, breathtaking scenery, and unparalleled comfort, all while ensuring that wheelchair users can fully enjoy their stay. Whether you dream of an oceanfront oasis, a mountain retreat, or a glamorous city escape, these ten resorts prove that accessibility and luxury can coexist seamlessly. Below, we explore what makes each of these destinations special and provide details on their accessibility features and potential barriers.
1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea – Maui, Hawaii
This five-star Hawaiian paradise is the epitome of luxury, offering world-class dining, infinity pools, and breathtaking views of the Pacific. Guests are treated to warm island hospitality, indulgent spa treatments, and unforgettable cultural experiences like hula performances and outrigger canoeing.
The resort features spacious ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities. Wheelchair-accessible pathways connect the entire property, ensuring smooth travel between restaurants, pools, and the beachfront. Pool lifts are available at every swimming area, including the adults-only serenity pool, and beach wheelchairs can be requested for access to the sand. While beach wheelchairs are available, independent beach access remains limited. Some parts of the resort have slight inclines, which may require assistance for some wheelchair users.
2. The Broadmoor – Colorado Springs, Colorado
This legendary Rocky Mountain retreat blends Old World European elegance with five-star service. With a picturesque lake, championship golf courses, and an award-winning spa, The Broadmoor is a refined getaway perfect for those who love both nature and luxury.
The resort has fully ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, wide doorways, and lowered amenities. Guests will find step-free access to fine dining restaurants, lounges, and the spa. A smooth, paved pathway encircles the lake, offering an easy and scenic way to explore the property. Additionally, accessible shuttles transport guests to nearby attractions and outdoor adventures. Some areas of the historic buildings have narrow hallways. Certain outdoor activities, such as guided hikes, are not fully wheelchair-accessible.
3. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – Florida
This oceanfront sanctuary on Florida’s Atlantic coast is known for its serene beaches, world-class spa, and renowned Southern hospitality. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations with stunning sea views, exceptional seafood, and peaceful nature walks through the coastal dunes.
The resort features spacious, ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and visual alert systems for guests with hearing impairments. Pool lifts provide access to all swimming areas, and wheelchair-friendly dining ensures all guests can enjoy gourmet meals with ease. Beach wheelchairs are available upon request, making it possible to enjoy the sand and surf with assistance. While the resort offers beach wheelchairs, independent access to the shoreline is limited. Certain outdoor excursions, such as horseback riding on the beach, are not wheelchair-accessible.
4. The Cloister at Sea Island – Georgia
Tucked away on Georgia’s coast, The Cloister at Sea Island is a private resort offering unparalleled Southern charm and luxury. With its championship golf courses, high-end spa, and stunning marshland views, it’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
The resort provides ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, spacious layouts, and step-free access throughout the property. Pool lifts and zero-entry pools make swimming easy, and wheelchair-accessible golf carts allow guests to enjoy the world-famous courses. Paved walkways ensure smooth navigation across the resort, and staff are available to assist with any needs. While beach wheelchairs are available, independent beach access still requires assistance. Some of the historic elements of the resort, such as narrow doorways in older buildings, may pose challenges.
5. The Peninsula Chicago – Illinois
The Peninsula Chicago is a top-tier urban retreat, offering timeless elegance and Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the city. With skyline views, an award-winning spa, and impeccable service, it’s the ultimate high-end escape for those seeking city sophistication.
Every aspect of this hotel has been designed with accessibility in mind. ADA-accessible suites feature roll-in showers, lowered vanities, and visual alert systems. Elevators and step-free access are present throughout the hotel, making it easy to reach the rooftop terrace, fine dining establishments, and luxury spa. The hotel also offers accessible transportation for guests who want to explore the city. While the hotel itself is fully accessible, some areas of downtown Chicago have uneven sidewalks that may require caution when exploring beyond the property.
6. Terranea Resort – Rancho Palos Verdes, California
Perched on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean, Terranea Resort is a coastal sanctuary offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. Guests can enjoy sweeping ocean views, fine dining, and luxury spa treatments while being surrounded by nature.
The resort features ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and automatic door openers. Smooth, paved pathways wind throughout the property, offering easy access to restaurants, lounges, and scenic overlooks. Pool lifts are available at all swimming areas, ensuring everyone can enjoy a refreshing dip. While beach wheelchairs are available, independent access to the shore is not possible. Some of the cliffside trails are not wheelchair-friendly.
7. The Inn at Spanish Bay – Pebble Beach, California
This iconic resort, located on the legendary Pebble Beach golf course, is a dream destination for golf enthusiasts and those seeking serene coastal luxury. With its oceanfront setting, top-tier dining, and world-famous golf courses, it’s a premier retreat on California’s Monterey Peninsula.
The resort offers ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, spacious layouts, and step-free access to all dining and lounge areas. Wheelchair-friendly golf carts allow guests to experience the renowned Pebble Beach golf courses. Some golf course areas have uneven terrain, limiting accessibility despite adapted golf carts. Coastal pathways feature a few inclines that may require assistance.
8. The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection – Utah
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains near Park City, The Lodge at Blue Sky offers a mix of luxury and adventure in a breathtaking alpine setting. This resort is perfect for those who love the outdoors but still want top-tier accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and a world-class spa.
ADA-compliant rooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and spacious layouts for easy mobility. The resort offers accessible horseback riding and guided outdoor experiences, making it one of the few luxury destinations to integrate adaptive adventure options. Some hiking trails and rugged areas may not be accessible, though the resort staff is highly accommodating in assisting guests.
9. The St. Regis Aspen Resort – Colorado
Located in the heart of Aspen, this five-star ski resort combines mountain luxury with sophisticated charm. With ski-in/ski-out access, a top-tier spa, and award-winning dining, it’s a premier winter getaway.
The resort provides ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers and step-free access throughout. Adaptive ski programs are available nearby, making skiing possible for wheelchair users. While the resort itself is fully accessible, the mountainous terrain and snowy conditions may present mobility challenges in certain areas.
10. The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills – California
An icon of glamour, this five-star hotel offers impeccable service, celebrity-style luxury, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of Los Angeles.
The entire hotel is designed for accessibility, featuring ADA rooms with roll-in showers, step-free access, and wheelchair-friendly rooftop lounges. No barriers within the hotel, but Beverly Hills’ busy sidewalks and traffic may require extra caution when navigating the surrounding area.
