By Delia Ruelas
Rosarito has become the first municipality in Baja California to offer a beach experience, providing free access for people with disabilities through a special pathway that allows wheelchair users to enjoy the beach.
This initiative was realized after years of advocacy by Carlos Luna, a tourism promoter and president of the Olas para Todos (Waves for All) association.
Mr. Luna has tirelessly worked to ensure that individuals with disabilities, including children and young adults, can access the beach without barriers.
The ramp was acquired by the State Government through the Tourism Secretariat, while the Rosarito Beach Hotel committed to providing access for families with wheelchair users as part of its role as a socially responsible business and promoter of inclusive tourism.
This groundbreaking project aims to boost tourism while setting a standard for accessibility by breaking down barriers and allowing everyone to enjoy the ocean and its associated activities.
Tourism Secretary Miguel Aguiñiga Rodríguez noted that the pathway would position Rosarito as an inclusive and progressive tourist destination, promoting values of equality, respect, and appreciation of nature for all.
He also expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Rosarito Beach Hotel and acknowledged the leadership of the hotel’s Chairman of the Board, Hugo Antonio Torres.
Mr. Torres highlighted the coordinated effort behind the project and its goal of inclusion.
“At the Rosarito Beach Hotel, we’re celebrating our 100th anniversary, and what better way to mark this milestone than by embracing inclusivity for individuals with mobility disabilities.
“We celebrate this collaboration with the state government, particularly the Tourism Secretariat, led by our friend Miguel Aguiñiga, and the Olas para Todos club, headed by our longtime friend Carlos Luna.”
He added that the ramp represents respect and is the result of a joint effort by state and local governments, as well as civil organizations.
“This is a significant step toward a more accessible future. This initiative addresses an essential need: ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical abilities, can enjoy the wonders of our beaches and the soothing sound of the waves.”
Mayor Rocio Adame commended the tourism promoters’ efforts to foster inclusion, enhancing the city’s attractions.
Carlos Luna reaffirmed his commitment to the community, emphasizing that this initiative was always intended to benefit all of Rosarito. He expressed gratitude to the authorities and urged continued promotion of similar valuable projects. He also acknowledged the special recognition he received for a decade of offering surf therapy sessions through Olas para Todos.
“Today, the Baja California Tourism Secretariat recognized us for 10 years of Olas para Todos and inaugurated the beach access pathway for people with disabilities in collaboration with municipal authorities.
“These mats are flexible and removable. I’m also grateful to Rosarito Beach Hotel for enthusiastically supporting this project. Thanks to everyone involved, including the volunteers and supporters over the past decade. Special thanks to my family for being my motivation to keep going.”
The Rosarito Beach Hotel will be responsible for storing, installing, removing, and maintaining the specialized equipment. Protocols will ensure the equipment remains in optimal condition and available for use.
The accessible beach pathway will be open Thursday through Sunday from 8am to 6pm during summer and 8am to 5pm. in winter. Staff will be available to assist visitors as needed.
The possibility of extending operational days will be evaluated based on demand and special events. Installation will also depend on weather conditions.
- Rules of Use
- Walk through the facilities in an orderly manner, avoiding crowds.
- Do not use the facilities for activities that may cause damage.
- Always follow the signs indicating accessible areas and any restrictions on the use of the facilities.
- Respect and prioritize the use of the facilities for individuals with physical or motor disabilities, pregnant women, and senior citizens.
- Do not block the ramp with personal belongings.
- Notify Rosarito Beach Hotel staff if you observe any defect or issue with the facilities.
- Notify Rosarito Beach Hotel staff if you see anyone misusing, damaging, or attempting to tamper with the facilities without prior authorization or instructions.
- The schedule and installation design of the facilities may vary as required for specific activities or events deemed necessary by the relevant parties.
- The facilities must not be used to transport coolers, carts, or similar items that could damage the mats.
- In general, if any unforeseen circumstances arise that are not covered in these Rules of Use, please inform Rosarito Beach Hotel.
