Celebrate the Year of the Horse with these Equine Adventures Across Hawaiʻi

The Year of the Horse is officially here according to the Chinese zodiac calendar—and many of us might be feeling its intense, passionate spirit. One way to channel a bit of that unbridled energy is to spend time with horses.

Paniolo (cowboy) culture in Hawaiʻi dates back to the early 1800s, and each island has its own traditions and history. Going for a horseback ride offers not only a chance to explore new terrain but also learn about the Islands’ rich ranching heritage.

If you’re interested in saddling up, here are a few horseback riding tours across Hawaiʻi to get started.

Before booking, be sure to review the qualifications for each ride. Age and weight limits are strictly enforced, and most require folks to be in good physical health. Some rides do not allow for pregnant riders and may have additional restrictions. Close-toed shoes are typically required.

O‘ahu

Gunstock Ranch

Gunstock Ranch offers horseback riding options for all types of adventurers, from pony rides for keiki to leisurely scenic rides at sunset. Private tours are available, including a special ride for couples that comes with a fireside dinner. gunstockranch.com

*After the recent storms in March, check website for updates and availability.

Kualoa Ranch

There are plenty of ways to explore Kualoa Ranch and the famous “Jurassic Valley” where iconic films were shot, and horseback riding is one of the best. Riders spend two hours on a relaxed trail through lush valleys and mountains, with stops that include World War II-era bunkers. kualoa.com

*After the recent storms in March, check website for updates and availability.

Hawaiʻi Polo Oceanfront Trail Rides

Guests can ride polo ponies along the oceanfront of O‘ahu’s North Shore on excursions for small groups or private parties. Choose from daytime ride or the romantic sunset outings along the beach. The stables also offer polo lessons for those looking to try out the sport. oahuhorsebackrides.com/oceanfront

*After the recent storms in March, check website for updates and availability.

The Stables at Turtle Bay

Some of the Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay’s most memorable experiences happen at its stables, from scenic trail and sunset rides to keiki-friendly programs. The Pony Experience and Horsemanship 101 to help younger riders build confidence. And you do not have to be a guest of the resort to book an experience at the stables. turtlebayexperiences.com

*After the recent storms in March, check website for updates and availability.

Maui

Circle M Ranch

Circle M offers morning and afternoon trail rides led by experienced paniolo who share Maui’s culture and history while guiding guests through valleys, meadows, and along cliffs with stunning ocean views. Private experiences are available. circlemranchmaui.com

Triple L Ranch

The Open-Range Ranch Tour at Triple L takes guests across a working ranch on the southwest slopes of Haleakalā. Enjoy views of Molokini, Kaho‘olawe, and on clear days, Hawaiʻi Island. Proceeds from tours support the ranch’s non-profit, which provides equine-assisted therapy. triplelranchmaui.com

Ironwood Ranch

Take in views of Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe while riding the tropical valleys and dense Ironwood forests of West Maui. This is a great way to experience the Nāpili area. ironwoodranch.com

Kaua‘i

Whoa Dea Ranch

Take in incredible coastal views on the west side of Kaua‘i with a morning, midday or sunset ride along oceanside trails. These tours are great for riders of all experience levels. Private tour options allow for guests to trot, canter and lope based on their abilities. whoadearanch.com

CJM Stables

Riders can explore the Māhāʻulepū area near Poʻipū on the island’s south side, riding through mountains, valleys and coastal areas. You can also add a beach picnic to your ride. For visitors who want something a bit more challenging, custom and private experiences are available. cjmstables.com

Hawaiʻi Island

Paniolo Adventures at Ponoholo Ranch

The 11,000-acre working cattle ranch at Ponoholo Ranch in Kohala stretches from rainforest to the ocean. It allows guests to “range ride” (not have to follow nose to tail) to take in views of four volcanoes. Multiple ride options suit different experience levels. panioloadventures.com

Waipi‘o on Horseback

The gorgeous views that define the Hāmākua Coast surround riders on this excursion that winds its way through a 500-acre working ranch and tropical fruit farm. The ride follows the Hāmākua Ditch, a historic irrigation system that once supplied water to sugarcane fields. waipioonhorseback.com

4D Quarter Horses

Ride along the slopes of the dormant volcano Hualālai as a family or saddle up as a couple and enjoy the sunset. Rides accommodate different experience levels so that everyone can enjoy the stunning views and possibly spot peacocks, pheasants, wild goats and pigs that live on the ranch. 4dquarterhorses.com

Naʻalapa Stables

At Naʻalapa Stables, guests can enjoy an open-range tour of a 12,000-acre working sheep and cattle ranch in Kohala. This is a great way to learn more about the Kohala area, while enjoying its sweeping views of the Pacific. More advanced riders can canter and ride at a pace suited to their abilities. naalapastables.com

Lānaʻi

Four Seasons Lānaʻi

Guests of Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi and Sensei Lānaʻi, A Four Seasons Resort have access to the beautiful stables near the latter. Here, you can join guided horseback tours for relaxing rides across hills, valleys, and wooded trails that are home to mouflon sheep, axis deer and wild turkeys. fourseasons.com/lanai

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Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku is a contributor to HAWAIʻI Magazine.