Colombia takes a historic step with the opening of its first accessible beach, designed for persons with disabilities, located in Cartagena de Indias, in the Bocagrande neighborhood. The inauguration took place yesterday in Cartagena, a pioneering project in the city, aimed at ensuring the right to enjoy public spaces for everyone, regardless of their physical or sensory conditions.
Colombia’s first accessible beach is in Cartagena de Indias
The completely renovated beach features eco-friendly wooden walkways that allow wheelchair users to move from the entrance all the way to the seashore. It also includes adapted bathrooms, accessible showers, shaded areas, and trained personnel to assist bathers with disabilities. In addition, amphibious chairs are available to enable safe entry into the water, as well as braille signage and resting areas with ergonomic designs.
During the inauguration, the Mayor of Cartagena, Dumek Turbay Paz, celebrated this development as an achievement that goes beyond symbolism. “This beach did not exist before, and today it is a reality designed for inclusion. This is not just a gesture, but a concrete action to ensure enjoyment without barriers,” stated the mayor, visibly moved as he interacted with several citizens with disabilities who were the first to try the new facilities.
A model of inclusion for the country
The new beach is located in front of the intersection of 10th Street and 1st Avenue, in Bocagrande, one of Cartagena’s most popular tourist areas. The design and adaptation were carried out according to international accessibility standards, and the initiative was supported by local organizations that advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
“This is not just a beach; it is a sign that Cartagena is committed to social inclusion and respect for diversity. We want everyone who lives in or visits this city to feel they have a place on our beaches, regardless of their physical abilities,” emphasized Mayor Turbay.
Maria Angelica Diaz, the mother of a young man with cerebral palsy who attended the event, expressed her gratitude for the initiative: “My son loves the sea, but until today we had never been able to come here with peace of mind. This beach allows us to enjoy it together and feel part of the city.”
More than a tourist destination: a city for all
With this project, Cartagena joins other cities around the world that have made accessibility a priority in managing coastal public spaces. This First Accessible Beach is expected to serve as a model for future similar interventions in other parts of the city and country.
“This is just the first step. Our goal is for all our beaches to be inclusive. There can be no tourist development without social justice and respect for human dignity,” added the mayor, who also announced plans to create an accessible circuit in the island area and to implement adapted recreational activities.