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Making Amanzimtoti Beach Accessible – One Wave at a Time

From surfboards to Sandcruisers, we’re building a beachfront where no one is left behind—only lifted by the tide.
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Trained to Include, Ready to Support

We’re equipping lifeguards and beach staff with the tools and training they need, like sign language and wheelchair handling, to welcome all visitors with confidence.
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Floatable Freedom for Every Shore

Our goal is to place adaptive Sandcruiser wheelchairs at every bathing beach in South Africa, because the ocean belongs to everyone.
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Accessible Beaches, Limitless Possibilities

We’re reimagining Amanzimtoti Main Beach as a destination where everyone—regardless of ability—can enjoy the sun, sea, and surf.

With your support, we can be the leaders to supply Sandcruiser wheelchairs to all bathing beaches in South Africa and teaching the lifeguards how to use/maintain them.

Wheels on Waves, founded by Reece and Wesley Smith, is on a mission to transform Amanzimtoti Main Beach into a premier destination for people with disabilities. We provide free, safe, and fun experiences, from beach and ocean access using floatable wheelchairs, to surfing, fishing, and sign language training. Life shouldn’t be limited by ability, let’s get everyone into the waves!

What We Offer

Recent Highlights

Launched South Africa’s first Sandcruiser at Amanzimtoti Main Beach, KZN.

Hosted “Water Sweets Games” a summer beach event for the disabled community.

Training lifeguards and restaurant personnel in inclusive practices like SASL.

Who We Are

Founded by Reece & Wesley Smith, Wheels on Waves is a non-profit driven by lived experience and bold dreams. After a life-changing accident, Reece refused to accept limits—and today, he’s leading a coastal revolution with his dad, one wheelchair and one wave at a time.

Our Mission

Transforming Amanzimtoti Main Beach into a destination for people with disabilities. From beach access to adaptive surfing, fishing, and inclusive sports, Wheels on Waves exists to empower, include, and bring joy to people with disabilities.
💙 Accessibility: Floatable wheelchairs and trained lifeguards help you safely enjoy the beach and ocean.
🧠 Inclusivity: Sign language training, live commentary for the blind, and more.
🌊 Fun & Freedom: No more watching from the sidelines—you’re part of the action now.

"When the ocean becomes accessible, life becomes limitless."
Reece Smith
Owner & Director

Active Donates

Today is the Day,
Donate to a Project

Wheels on Waves Contact Us

donors

53

funded

R 35000.00

goal

R 50000.00

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donors

29

funded

R 2500.00

goal

R 5000.00

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donors

13

funded

R 1240.00

goal

R 5000.00

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donors

48

funded

R 18200.02

goal

R 19352.53

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donors

27

funded

R 7523.00

goal

R 15634.00

Help us reach our vision!

What We Do

How Can You be Partand help

Volunteers
Needed

Help facilitate equipment use and maintenance, lead sign language training, or assist at events, projects or over weekends.

Corporate
Partnerships

Sponsor equipment rollouts, SASL training days, beach upgrades, or donate towards Sandcruiser wheelchair units.

Book a
Session

Arrange adaptive surfing, fishing or beach days, free of charge for participants, but contributors can offset costs through donations.

Sponsor a “Braai for the Beach Teams”

Join a community braai at Amanzimtoti Main Beach with lifeguards, municipal staff, vendors, and volunteers—fostering unity and celebrating teamwork.

Get our latest Project News

Reece talks dreams, quadriplegia and how he stays positive

While he is well known to the Amanzimtoti community, Reece Smith's condition is rare and he explained how he has adapted his life around it.
Read More

Water Sweets Games 2024

The event totally exceeded expectations! It was so heartwarming to see the disabled integrate and compete with the able-bodied participants. The support from the Toti community and holidaymakers was truly awesome and we are fully committed to making this year’s Water Sweets ’25 event bigger and better.
Read More
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