The mission of the Therapeutic Recreation Unit within the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is to assist people with a disability in accessing parks activities and locations. DPR follows the LIFE concept (Leisure Is For Everyone), which supports the belief that a community with integrity is one where people with and without disabilities play, learn, and enjoy recreation together. The practical application of this philosophy in service assures access for all people to the same recreational opportunities.
If you have any suggestions for making this page more accessible or would like to discuss access issues relating to recreation, please contact (808) 768-3027 or email parks-tru@honolulu.gov
Table of Contents
Beach Wheelchair Access
Map of All-terrain Wheelchair & Beach Access Mats
Click the image to access an interactive Google Map of these park amenities, along with the location of Ocean Safety Lifeguard towers, beach access routes, rescue tubes, and shoreline parks. You can also access this map by visiting:
bit.ly/OahuBeachAccess
Ala Moana Regional Park
Call (808) 941-8882 for information on using the All-terrain wheelchairs. They are located at the Diamond Head (east) and ‘Ewa (west) L&L Food Concessionaires. Beach access mats are located fronting these eateries.
Wheelchairs are available from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (subject to change)
‘Ehukai Beach Park (Pipeline)
A beach access mat leading to a viewing point is available at this beach park.
Hale‘iwa Ali‘i Beach Park
A beach access mat leading to a viewing point is available at this beach park.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
All-terrain wheelchairs are available from the Beach Information Kiosk. They are available year round from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information call the 24 Hour Information Hotline at (808) 396-4229.
Hūnānaniho
A beach access mat leading to a viewing point is available at this beach park.
Kailua Beach Park
Call (808) 768-8980 at least one day in advance for all-terrain wheelchair reservations Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. – 12 noon.
Pick up must be made 15 minutes ahead of scheduled time.
There are beach access mats near the concessions stand and one leading to a viewing point from the Canoe Halau across from Buzz’s Steakhouse.
Kaimana Beach (Sans Souci)
A beach access mat by the Natatorium is available at this beach park.
Kūhiō Beach Park (Waikīkī)
A beach access mat by the statue of Duke Kahanamoku is available at this beach park.
Kualoa Regional Park
Call (808) 768-8980 at least one day in advance for all-terrain wheelchair reservations Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. – 12 noon.
Wheelchairs are located at the recreational staff offices near Campground A.
Pick up must be made 15 minutes ahead of scheduled time.
Waimānalo Beach Park
A beach access mat leading to a viewing point is available at this beach park.
Waimea Bay Beach Park
A beach access mat leading to a viewing point is available at this beach park.
We are happy to provide all-terrain beach wheelchairs for parkgoers to enjoy O‘ahu’s beautiful beaches and oceans! Wheelchairs are available for 2 hours on a first-come, first-served basis. The individual using the wheelchair needs to bring another person with them to assist, as the wheelchair cannot be operated by one person. These wheelchairs are rated for a maximum capacity of 300 pounds. Please report any concerns to the City staff or borrowing partner.
Job Opportunities
Summer Fun Therapeutic Assistant
Assist the keiki and teens within our annual Summer Fun Program! This specialized on-call position pays $20.10/hr. Formally called Recreation Assistant II (Therapeutic Recreation), we’re looking for individuals trained to work with persons with disabilities providing reasonable modifications and access. You’ll encourage and foster independence, allowing the participant to do as much as possible without assistance. **Requirements: possession of current American Red Cross First Aid Certificate or equivalent and American Red Cross or American Heart Association Adult, Child, and Infant CPR and AED Certificate (to include care for choking and obstructed airway or equivalent), High School graduate or equivalent, minimum 2 years’ experience working with persons with disabilities.
Available Services
Inclusion in Parks Programming
We network with various agencies and individuals to assist people with disabilities in accessing park programs, such as recreational opportunities. This includes identifying modifications/adaptations needed based on request.
Education and Public Awareness
Inform people about choices and opportunities within our parks and gardens, including beach access for individuals with disabilities and inclusionary programming within the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation.
Referrals
Provide guidance on services we provide, and if we cannot accommodate, refer those individuals to community agencies who may be able to further assist.
Resources
Make parks program materials available in alternate formats such as large print or digital copies. This further helps with accessing park programs by providing accommodations/modifications.