10 Most Accessible Resorts in the Caribbean

Best Accessible Resorts in the Caribbean: Inclusive Luxury Awaits

The Caribbean’s picturesque beaches and vibrant cultures attract travelers from around the world. For those with disabilities, finding accessible accommodations is crucial to enjoying this tropical paradise. Below is an expanded guide to the best accessible resorts that cater to travelers with disabilities, featuring detailed information on wheelchair availability, accessible facilities, and special activities.

1. Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, Turks and Caicos

Beaches Turks & Caicos is a standout when it comes to accessibility. The resort offers a range of options for guests with disabilities, including manual and motorized wheelchairs, as well as beach wheelchairs for seamless access to the stunning Grace Bay Beach. All facilities, from pools to dining venues, are designed with accessibility in mind. Ramps and elevators ensure easy navigation throughout the property, and the resort’s wheelchair-accessible rooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered beds for added convenience.

Special activities at Beaches include adaptive scuba diving lessons, where trained instructors guide guests with disabilities through the basics of underwater exploration in a safe and supportive environment. The resort also offers wheelchair-friendly tours and excursions, so you can explore the beauty of Turks and Caicos both on and off the property.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual and motorized wheelchairs, beach wheelchairs available
• All facilities, including pools and restaurants, are accessible
• Accessible paths to Grace Bay Beach
• Adaptive scuba diving and accessible excursions

2. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

The Ritz-Carlton in Grand Cayman offers a luxurious and accessible experience. The resort provides both manual and motorized wheelchairs for guests to borrow, as well as beach wheelchairs for enjoying the pristine Seven Mile Beach. All guest rooms, including the accessible suites, feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities. Every area of the resort, from the elegant restaurants to the tranquil pools, is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that guests can move around comfortably.

The resort’s exceptional staff is trained to assist guests with disabilities, providing support in arranging accessible excursions, such as snorkeling trips and visits to the Cayman Turtle Centre. They also offer adaptive equipment for water sports, so everyone can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual and motorized wheelchairs, beach wheelchairs available
• Full accessibility across all facilities, including beach access
• Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars
• Adaptive water sports and accessible excursions available

3. Sandals Royal Bahamian, Nassau, Bahamas

At Sandals Royal Bahamian, accessibility meets luxury. The resort offers manual wheelchairs and beach wheelchairs, and all areas, including pools and dining venues, are fully accessible. The property features wide pathways, ramps, and elevators for easy navigation. Accessible rooms include roll-in showers, grab bars, and spacious layouts. For a unique experience, the resort’s private offshore island is also accessible, with ramps and wheelchair-friendly pathways.

Special activities include accessible snorkeling excursions and a glass-bottom boat tour, allowing guests with disabilities to explore the underwater beauty of the Bahamas without limitations. The resort’s romantic ambiance and attention to detail make it a top choice for couples seeking an accessible getaway.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual and beach wheelchairs available
• Fully accessible facilities, including private offshore island
• Accessible snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours
• Roll-in showers and accessible room layouts

4. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall provides a luxurious and accessible adult-only experience. The resort offers manual and motorized wheelchairs, as well as beach wheelchairs for navigating the beautiful shoreline. All facilities, including pools, spas, and restaurants, are accessible, with ramps and wide pathways. Accessible rooms are equipped with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay.

For activities, the resort offers accessible yoga sessions, and the concierge can arrange for accessible excursions, such as trips to nearby historic sites or a scenic drive through the Blue Mountains. The attentive staff is trained to provide personalized assistance, making sure every guest has a memorable stay.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Full accessibility throughout the property
• Accessible yoga sessions and excursions
• Roll-in showers and accessible amenities in rooms

5. Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Club Med Punta Cana is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. The resort provides manual wheelchairs, motorized scooters, and beach wheelchairs, ensuring guests can explore the entire property, including its beautiful beach. Accessible rooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and ample space for mobility. All facilities, from the beachside pool to the restaurants and entertainment areas, are designed for easy access.

Special activities at Club Med include adaptive water sports like snorkeling and sailing, and there’s a trapeze school with trained instructors who can accommodate guests with disabilities. The resort also offers accessible excursions to explore the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Accessible facilities, including beach access and pools
• Adaptive water sports and accessible excursions
• Roll-in showers and spacious room layouts

6. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa, Cayman Islands

The Westin Grand Cayman is a haven for travelers seeking both luxury and accessibility. The resort offers manual and motorized wheelchairs and beach wheelchairs, ensuring guests can easily enjoy the famed Seven Mile Beach. Accessible rooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities. The property’s layout, with ramps and elevators throughout, allows for smooth navigation between pools, restaurants, and the spa.

The Westin offers unique accessible experiences such as guided snorkeling tours and sunset cruises, where staff are on hand to provide assistance. The resort’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that every guest can enjoy the beauty and relaxation of the Cayman Islands.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Full accessibility across the resort, including beach access
• Accessible snorkeling and sunset cruises
• Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars

7. Moon Palace Jamaica, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Moon Palace Jamaica is a family-friendly resort that prioritizes accessibility. The resort offers manual and motorized wheelchairs, as well as beach wheelchairs. All areas, including pools, dining venues, and the beach, are accessible. The resort’s accessible rooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities for ease of use.

Moon Palace offers a variety of accessible activities, such as dolphin encounters and guided tours of Dunn’s River Falls. These excursions are designed to accommodate guests with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can experience the best of Jamaica’s natural beauty and adventure.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Fully accessible facilities, including beach access
• Dolphin encounters and accessible tours of Dunn’s River Falls
• Roll-in showers and accessible amenities in rooms

8. Melia Nassau Beach – All Inclusive, Nassau, Bahamas

Melia Nassau Beach offers an all-inclusive, accessible experience in a stunning setting. The resort provides manual and motorized wheelchairs, as well as beach wheelchairs for guests to borrow. All facilities, from the pools to the restaurants and the beach, are accessible, with ramps and wide pathways throughout. Accessible rooms are equipped with roll-in showers, grab bars, and spacious layouts.

The resort offers accessible snorkeling and kayaking tours, allowing guests to explore the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. Additionally, the property’s central location makes it easy to explore Nassau’s accessible attractions, such as the Pirates Museum and the historic downtown area.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Accessible facilities, including beach and pools
• Accessible snorkeling and kayaking tours
• Roll-in showers and spacious room designs

9. Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Secrets Cap Cana is an adults-only resort that offers a luxurious and accessible experience. The resort provides manual and motorized wheelchairs and beach wheelchairs for guests to borrow. The entire property, including pools, restaurants, and the beach, is designed with accessibility in mind. Accessible rooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities.

Special activities include accessible yoga sessions, beachside massages, and personalized concierge services to arrange accessible excursions, such as horseback riding on the beach or a catamaran cruise along the coast.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Fully accessible facilities, including pools and beach
• Accessible yoga and beachside massages
• Roll-in showers and accessible amenities in rooms

10. Iberostar Grand Bavaro, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Iberostar Grand Bavaro offers an elegant, accessible experience in Punta Cana. The resort provides manual and motorized wheelchairs and beach wheelchairs for easy access around the property and the beach. All facilities, including the pools, restaurants, and the luxurious spa, are fully accessible. Accessible rooms are spacious and include roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered amenities.

The resort offers a range of accessible activities, such as guided snorkeling and parasailing. The concierge team can also arrange accessible excursions to nearby attractions, ensuring a seamless experience for all guests.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Manual, motorized, and beach wheelchairs available
• Fully accessible facilities, including beach access and spa
• Accessible snorkeling and parasailing
• Roll-in showers and spacious, accessible room layouts

Tips for Making an Accessible Resort Booking

Booking an accessible resort can require a bit more planning to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are some essential tips to consider when making a reservation:

1. Research the Resort’s Accessibility Features

• Before booking, thoroughly research the resort's accessibility features. Look for information on accessible rooms, ramps, elevators, and whether common areas such as restaurants, pools, and the beach are easily accessible.

2. Contact the Resort Directly

• Call or email the resort directly to discuss your specific needs. Ask detailed questions about room features, such as the width of doorways, the height of beds, and the availability of roll-in showers or grab bars. This will help ensure that the resort can meet your specific requirements.

3. Check Availability of Accessible Rooms

• Accessible rooms are often limited, so it's best to book early. Confirm that the room you are reserving is indeed accessible and not just a standard room. Be specific about your needs to avoid any misunderstandings.

4. Inquire About Wheelchair and Scooter Rentals

• Ask if the resort provides wheelchairs, motorized scooters, or beach wheelchairs for guests to use during their stay. Some resorts offer these amenities free of charge, while others may charge a rental fee.

5. Verify Beach and Pool Accessibility

• If enjoying the beach or pool is part of your plans, confirm that these areas are accessible. Look for information on beach wheelchairs, ramps, and pool lifts. Some resorts have specially designed beach pathways or mats to make it easier to navigate sandy areas.

6. Ask About Transportation Options

• Inquire if the resort provides accessible transportation services to and from the airport or for local excursions. Knowing this in advance can help you plan your trip more smoothly, especially if you use a wheelchair or mobility device.

7. Request a Detailed Room Description or Photos

• Ask the resort to provide a detailed description of the accessible room or even photos. This can help you visualize the space and determine if it meets your needs, especially if specific equipment or layouts are required.

8. Consider Location and Nearby Facilities

• Check the resort's location in relation to accessible attractions, restaurants, and medical facilities. Knowing what's nearby can help you plan your itinerary and ensure that you have easy access to everything you need during your stay.

9. Review Guest Experiences

• Look for reviews from other travelers with disabilities. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of service at the resort, helping you make an informed decision.

10. Confirm Your Reservation Details in Writing

• Once you've booked, ask the resort to confirm your accessible room and any special requests in writing. This documentation can be useful if there are any discrepancies upon arrival.

11. Ask About Staff Training

• Inquire if the resort staff is trained in assisting guests with disabilities. Trained staff can greatly enhance your experience by providing thoughtful and proactive assistance throughout your stay.

12. Plan for Equipment Needs

• If you use specific equipment such as a shower chair or bed rails, ask the resort if they can provide these items or if you need to bring your own. Some resorts may partner with local companies to rent such equipment.

These accessible resorts provide a range of options for travelers with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty and excitement of the Caribbean without barriers. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, these inclusive destinations offer the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation.