When planning an accessible pathway, selecting the right surface is one of the most important decisions you will make.
Different environments present different challenges. A pathway that performs well across soft beach sand may not be the best solution for a grassed park, while a natural fibre pathway may be preferred in environmentally sensitive locations where appearance is a priority.
At Inclusive Beaches Australia, we offer three pathway solutions designed for different applications:
- ACCESSMAT® Beach Accessibility Matting
- GRASSMAT® Ground Protection & Accessibility Matting
- COCOPATH™ Natural Coconut Fibre Pathways
Understanding the strengths of each product can help ensure your project delivers the best possible outcome for users while meeting your site objectives.
ACCESSMAT® – The Preferred Solution for Beach Accessibility
For organisations looking to improve beach accessibility, ACCESSMAT® is typically the recommended solution.
ACCESSMAT® has been specifically developed to create firm, stable and accessible pathways across soft sand, helping reduce one of the biggest barriers faced by wheelchair users, mobility aid users and families with prams.
Unlike general-purpose walkway materials, ACCESSMAT® is designed to perform in demanding coastal environments while remaining lightweight, portable and easy to deploy.
Key Benefits
- Purpose-built for beach accessibility
- Creates a firm and stable surface across soft sand
- Suitable for wheelchairs, mobility aids, beach wheelchairs and pedestrians
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Durable UV-stabilised construction
- Low maintenance
- 5-year manufacturer's warranty
Best Suited To
- Public beaches
- Surf lifesaving clubs
- Coastal parks
- Accessible tourism destinations
- Beach access projects funded by councils and community organisations
For most beach accessibility projects, ACCESSMAT® provides the highest level of accessibility and the best long-term performance.
GRASSMAT® – Accessible Routes Across Grass and Parkland
GRASSMAT® is designed for environments where the challenge is creating stable access across grass, turf and other outdoor surfaces.
Manufactured from durable HDPE mesh, GRASSMAT® provides a stable pathway while allowing grass to continue growing through the material. It can also support maintenance and service vehicles where required.
Key Benefits
- Suitable for grass, turf and parkland
- Open mesh design allows grass growth
- Durable and long-lasting construction
- Slip-resistant surface
- Suitable for pedestrians, wheelchairs and maintenance vehicles
- Low maintenance requirements
Best Suited To
- Parks and reserves
- Recreational facilities
- Event sites
- Outdoor venues
- Accessible routes through grassed areas
GRASSMAT® is an excellent solution where the goal is to improve access across natural grassed surfaces rather than beach environments.
COCOPATH™ – Natural Pathways for Coastal and Outdoor Environments
COCOPATH™ is a woven coconut fibre pathway designed for locations where natural appearance, sustainability and low environmental impact are important considerations.
Manufactured from natural coir fibres, COCOPATH™ blends naturally into beach, coastal and outdoor environments while providing a stable walking surface across a variety of ground conditions.
Its lightweight construction makes it easy to transport, install and relocate when required.
Key Benefits
- Made from natural coconut fibres
- Natural appearance that blends into the environment
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Suitable for sand, grass, gravel and other outdoor surfaces
- Slip-resistant surface
- Environmentally friendly and recyclable
- Simple installation and maintenance
Best Suited To
- Resorts and tourism destinations
- Beach clubs
- Outdoor weddings and events
- Public and private beaches
- Parks and landscaped environments
While ACCESSMAT® remains the preferred solution for dedicated beach accessibility projects and wheelchair access across soft sand, COCOPATH™ offers an attractive option where natural aesthetics, sustainability and low visual impact are key project priorities.
Which Pathway Is Right for Your Project?
As a general guide:
Choose ACCESSMAT® if:
- Beach accessibility is your primary objective
- You need reliable wheelchair access across soft sand
- You are developing an accessible beach access program
- Long-term performance and durability are important
Choose GRASSMAT® if:
- You need an accessible pathway across grass or parkland
- Vehicle access may be required
- You are creating routes through recreational or outdoor spaces
Choose COCOPATH™ if:
- A natural appearance is important
- Sustainability and low environmental impact are priorities
- You are creating pathways for resorts, tourism destinations, beach clubs or outdoor events
- The pathway needs to blend naturally into the surrounding environment
Need Help Choosing?
Every site is different.
Factors such as surface conditions, accessibility objectives, expected usage levels, environmental exposure and budget can all influence the most suitable solution.
If you're unsure which pathway is right for your project, Inclusive Beaches Australia can help assess your requirements and recommend the most appropriate option for your site.