Puerto Rico offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a fantastic travel destination. This travel guide provides information on accessible attractions, transportation options, accommodations, and more to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for wheelchair users.
Attractions
Puerto Rico boasts a range of accessible attractions, from historic sites in Old San Juan to the lush landscapes of El Yunque National Forest. Here are some must-visit spots that cater to wheelchair users, complete with detailed accessibility information.
- Old San Juan: The cobblestone streets can be challenging; however, many sidewalks have curb cuts. Most historic sites have ramps or elevators. Restrooms at major attractions like El Morro and San Cristobal.
- El Yunque National Forest: Accessible trails like the Big Tree Trail and the Palo Colorado Information Center. Accessible restrooms and visitor center.
- Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay, Vieques): Accessible kayak tours are available, but getting in and out of kayaks may require assistance. Accessible restrooms at tour operator facilities.
- Castillo San Felipe del Morro: Ramps and elevators provide access to most areas, but some historic areas have narrow doorways and steps. Accessible restrooms available.
- Luquillo Beach: Located northeast coast of Puerto Rico, approximately 30 miles from San Juan. Beach wheelchairs available for rent, accessible pathways. Beach mats are installed near the main entrance, providing a stable pathway from the parking lot to the shoreline. Accessible restrooms and showers.
- Balneario de Boquerón: Located on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, near the town of Cabo Rojo. Beach wheelchairs, accessible pathways, restrooms, and showers. Soft sand areas can be challenging without a beach wheelchair. Beach mats are situated near the central entrance and main parking area. They offer a smooth path from the accessible parking spots to the beach, ensuring easier navigation across the sand.
Outdoor Activities
Puerto Rico’s natural beauty offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure. Many activities, such as zip-lining and snorkeling, are adapted to be inclusive of wheelchair users, ensuring everyone can enjoy the island’s stunning landscapes.
- Zip-lining and Adventure Tours: Some activities are adapted for wheelchair users, with assistance, by companies like Toro Verde Adventure Park.
- Snorkeling and Diving: East Island Excursions has accessible boats and assistance with equipment.
Transportation
Navigating Puerto Rico is made easier with a variety of accessible transportation options. Whether you prefer public transit, taxis, or rental cars, there are services available to meet your needs.
Transportation
- Metropolitan Bus Authority (Autoridad Metropolitana de Autobuses): All buses are equipped with lifts or ramps and designated seating for wheelchair users.
- Rental Cars: Enterprise Rent-A-Carffers offers vehicles with hand controls. Avis Car Rental provides wheelchair-accessible vans. Hertz offers hand control vehicles upon request.
- Taxi Puerto Rico: Offers vehicles with wheelchair ramps and securement systems. Drivers are trained to assist passengers with mobility needs. +1 (787) 777-7777 support@taxipuertorico.com
Accommodations
Finding the right place to stay is crucial for a comfortable trip. Puerto Rico offers several accessible hotels and resorts that cater to the needs of wheelchair users, providing amenities like roll-in showers, pool lifts, and accessible beach access.
- San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino: Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, elevators, and ramps. Pool lift, accessible beach access, and accessible restrooms.
- El Conquistador Resort: Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, elevators, and ramps. Pool lift, accessible transportation within the resort, and accessible restrooms.
- La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort: Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, elevators, and ramps. Pool lift, accessible beach access, and accessible restrooms.
At fourteen I became paralyzed but the love for adventure did not vanish. I want to see and experience this world. As the founder of wheelchairtraveling.com I believe in creating an accessible world and together we can make that happen. Be seen to be heard.