Date Published: 08/08/2025

A dip in the Med for everyone: Cartagena expands free assisted bathing this summer

San Ginés, Playa Honda and La Manga beaches now offer daily support for swimmers with reduced mobility

Cartagena has stepped up its commitment to inclusive beaches this summer by expanding its free assisted bathing service across three popular coastal spots: San Ginés beach in La Azohía, Playa Honda, and Puerto Bello beach in La Manga.

The service runs every day from 11am to 7pm and is designed for people of all ages with reduced mobility, making it easier and safer for them to enjoy the sea. Bathers are supported by trained instructors who help them into the water using special amphibious chairs and other adapted equipment.

The setup also includes flexible walkways and additional support gear to provide a smooth and secure experience.

So far this summer, 179 people have already used the service: 81 in La Azohía, 70 in Puerto Bello, and 28 in Playa Honda. The initiative is part of a wider push by Cartagena City Council to make its beaches more accessible and welcoming.

Councillor for Social Policy, Cristina Mora, visited Playa Honda this week alongside regional officials and representatives from FAMDIF, the disability support organisation. “This project doesn’t just remove physical barriers, it also helps people overcome emotional ones,” said Mora. “It creates a space of equality and enjoyment on our beaches.”

Cartagena is one of the first places in the region to offer this kind of service, and this year the programme has been extended to cover more days. It began on Saturday June 15 in La Azohía and from Monday July 1 in Playa Honda and Puerto Bello. It will continue until Saturday August 31, in line with the peak tourist season.

The scheme also includes a light-hearted emotional wellbeing activity inspired by the Smurfs, aimed at adding a bit of fun and personality to the experience.

The programme is run in partnership with the City Council’s Civil Protection team and FAMDIF, with instructors specially trained for the role. Additional funding has come from the "la Caixa" Foundation, which donated €8,000 towards new amphibious chairs and walkways. This brings the total investment this year close to €30,000.

Beyond the assisted bathing service, around 20 other beaches in the municipality now feature improved access points at lifeguard stations, showing just how far Cartagena has come in making its coastlines open to everyone.

Images: Ayuntamiento de Cartagena

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