Oahu's picturesque countryside begs to be explored. Saddle up and find out for yourself. A guided horseback tour is a great way to not only explore out-of-the-way terrain, but also to become familiar with the lay of the land and the island's culture. Tours are as diverse as the terrain.
Close your eyes and picture yourself saddled to the back of a horse. Your mount is steady on the path as it moves through the tropical foliage. To your left the stunning drapes of a mountain range rise above you, shrouds of mist clinging to the ridgeline, rays of sun shafting through to light the dense undergrowth. To your right, the grand panorama of the ocean stretches for miles in either direction. Fortunately, your horse is watching the trail while you catch the view.
When you're itching to saddle up, there's a stables nearby.
Happy Trails Hawaii is located on a mountain overlooking scenic Waimea Bay. Go with Happy Trails through rainforest terrain on a trail that opens to panoramic ocean and mountain views. Then stop at a tropical fruit orchard and get a juicy "taste of Hawaii." Bring the kids. Happy Trails welcomes children as young as six.
Kualoa Ranch, near Kaneohe, offers trail rides on its historic, 4,000-acre working cattle ranch.
Hawaii Polo conducts oceanfront rides for small groups on a trail along Mokuleia Beach on Oahu's North Shore. Riders will mount thoroughbred polo horses and ride through a 100-acre ranch and polo field. Full moon, sunset and other personalized rides are available.
Some stables provide transportation from Waikiki. Ask about age and weight limits.
