Revealed: Best Horse Riding on Florida Beaches

Photo: Austin Neill

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, and what better way to enjoy them than on horseback? Horseback riding on the beach is a unique and unforgettable experience. If you love horses, why not soak up the sun, feel the ocean breeze, and get in touch with nature on a ride.

Horse Riding or Horse Surfing: What the Heck is it?

Horsesurfing is a unique activity that involves riding horses on the beach and into the water. It is called horsesurfing because the horses are essentially "surfing" through the waves as they walk. The activity uses a special breed of horse that is comfortable in the water. It is called a Drum Gypsy horse and its large, calm and friendly. It is a popular attraction for visitors to Florida who are looking for a unique and exciting experience. You will see these horses as you cross the causeway to Anna Maria Island on the Gulf coast of Florida.

Cponies Beach Horseback Rides Bradenton

If you don't want to get wet and ride a horse in the water, then you can choose a beachfront ride instead. The Tennesse Walking Horse is also used for beach riding. You will find them on the beaches of Amelia Island on the east coast of Florida. This special breed of horse posesses its own gait that is smooth. Comfort and speed is enjoyed by the riders on a horse that doesn't tire easily. Perfect for a ride by the ocean.

Best Places for Horse Riding on Florida Beaches:

1. Amelia Island and St. Augustine - Located in northeast Florida, Amelia Island is a beautiful destination known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding on the beach with several local companies. So relaxing to ride by the Atlantic Ocean.
2. South Hutchinson Island - Fredrick Douglass Memorial Park located near the Palm Beaches, is the only beachside park in the county that allows horseback riding along the ocean beach. The experience, provided by Tours on Horseback, typically last around an hour and provide an unforgettable experience along the coast.
3. Bradenton Beach - This is a beautiful destination located on Anna Maria Island on Florida's west coast. You can enjoy horseback riding on the beach and in the water, with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
4. Cape San Blas - this Panhandle vacation area is uncrowded and unspoiled with miles of sandy beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. It is 59 miles south of Panama City Beach. This is the only located we know of to ride horses on the beach in this part of Florida.

Riding on the Causeway Beach near Anna Maria Island

The causeway that connects Anna Maria Island to the mainland is a where we chose to check out the horseback riding with Cponies. It is so cool to see the horses deep in the water and they seem to enjoy it. If you are brave, why not give it a try? You can book most of these tours online. Always check ahead of time to see if they are operating and what their cancellation policy entails. The weather and tidal conditions may influence their hours.

Is it Expensive to go Horseback Riding on the Beach?

The cost of horseback riding on the beach varies depending on the tour operator and the package you select. Prices typically range from $125 and up per person. Some companies offer discounts for groups or for booking multiple tours. It's important to check with the tour operator ahead of time to confirm availability and pricing.

Photo: Georgio Trovato

Some Horseback Riding Companies with Good Reviews

Please note: this information was gathered from TripAdvisor and Google reviews. This is not an endorsement of these companies. 

• Ameila Island Horseback Riding​  - Located in Amelia Island, the have been in business for 30 years. They offer beach and trail rides that cater to riders of all experience levels. Their beach rides last approximately an hour at sunrise, sunset and in between!
• Happy Trails Walking Horses - Another Amelia Island beach riding company uses Tennessee Walking Horses for their adventures. These horses are calm, smooth and a delight to ride along the ocean shore.
• C Ponies Beach Horses - Located in Bradenton near Anna Maria Island, C Ponies Beach Horses offers guided beach rides on the beautiful causeway beaches. Their rides last approximately one hour, and there are photo packages available at sunset.
• Cape San Blas - Two Bit Stable Horseback Riding - Located in the Florida Panhandle, this horseback riding provider offers scenic beach rides on the Gulf of Mexico. Their rides last approximately one hour, and they also offer sunset rides. They provide a photo for you too.
• Fort Pierce Inlet Beach - Tours on Horseback is a family-owned operation that helps you relax on the beachfront of Fredrick Douglass Memorial Park in St. Lucie County. Enjoy riding through the thick sand near turquoise water.

Photo: Bailey Alexander

Is Beach Riding Safe for Beginners?

Horses can be unpredictable, and riding them in the sand and water adds an extra level of difficulty. However, these horses have likely spent many hours in the water and with a variety of riders.The most important thing is to choose a reputable horse riding provider that specializes in beach rides, has good reviews, and has well-trained horses. They will ensure you have safety gear and will give you instructions for a safe experience. Also check out their cancellation policy.

Bring Your Own Horse? Don't Say Nay

If you can have a horse and trailer, you can bring your horse to go horseback riding on the beach in these locations, too, with permission.
Canaveral National Seashore
Restrictions apply and a permit is required. Link for the National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/cana/planyourvisit/horse.htm

St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra
St. Johns County, St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra beaches provide 30 miles to make waves on horseback. To obtain a permit, visit the St. Johns County website. http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us/hcp/riding.aspx

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