Starting on June 30, Swampscott’s beaches will become more accessible thanks to two donated beach wheelchairs available for free public use.

Swampscott received two donated beach wheelchairs, marking the first time such equipment has been available locally. The chairs will be free to use and are designed to help people with mobility challenges enjoy the ocean safely. Nikki Puzzo, one of the donors, said Swampscott previously had no beach-accessible wheelchairs. 

“It was important to me to have our beaches in Swampscott to be accessible to children, adults, anyone that needs it so they can be part of the community and on the beaches like anyone else,” Puzzo said. 

The second chair was donated by Deb Newman and her siblings – David, Jessica and Bernard. Both chairs will be stationed at Fisherman’s Beach, accessible for public use.

Puzzo noted that the wheelchairs are “one size fits all.” Her nonprofit, Stepping Stones for Stella, has donated more than 750 beach-friendly buggies to families in need.

Beach wheelchairs are designed specifically with larger, balloon-like wheels that glide over the sand, allowing for people with mobility challenges to reach the shoreline easily. 

The Massachusetts Parks and Recreation Department recommends wearing a lifejacket while using the chair in the water.

Chairs can be reserved by calling the Swampscott Police Department at 781-595-1111. They are free to use, available on a first-come, first-served basis, and open to everyone, regardless of residency. A valid ID is required to obtain the chair, and users are encouraged to bring a companion, especially for assistance in the water.

Story updated June 12, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. to update with the postponed event date.