Trot and canter horseback riding

Question

Aloha. We have some canter and trotting horseback riding experience, just not expert level. Do you have any recommendations and who to book with? We are staying in Waialua, but will ride anywhere. Mahalo.

Answer

Aloha! Oahu offers a variety of horseback riding options that cater to riders with some experience in trotting and cantering. Since you are staying in Waialua, you have access to the North Shore as well as central and windward Oahu ranches that provide scenic rides over pastures, valleys, and even ocean vistas.

Here are some recommended horseback riding providers and what they offer:

Kualoa Ranch: Located on the Windward side, about 45 minutes from Waialua. They offer several horseback riding tours through lush valleys with ocean views. Some tours allow experienced riders to trot and canter in controlled areas. It’s very scenic and a well-known, reputable ranch.
Sunset Ranch Hawaii: Located near Kahuku on the North Shore, roughly 40 minutes from Waialua. This ranch offers rides along the coast and through pastures. Experienced riders can enjoy trotting and sometimes light cantering on designated trails. Tours last 1–2 hours and include instruction.
Paradise Ranch Hawaii: Located in Waialua itself, this is very convenient. They offer trail rides for intermediate riders and may allow trotting and cantering in open fields. It’s a smaller, more personalized experience compared to the bigger ranches.

Additional tips for booking and riding:

Book in advance, especially if traveling during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Specify your riding experience when booking so the guide can place you on trails suitable for trotting and cantering.
Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Some tours provide helmets, but check in advance.
Ask if group sizes are small to ensure more personalized guidance, especially for trotting and cantering sections.

With any of these options, you’ll have the chance to enjoy Oahu’s beautiful landscapes on horseback while comfortably working within your skill level. Kualoa Ranch and Sunset Ranch are excellent for the combination of scenery and controlled trotting/cantering, while Paradise Ranch is convenient for a more intimate experience close to Waialua.

Trot and canter horseback riding

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