Horseback Riding in Hawaii: Four Islands, Four Very Different Rides

Horseback riding in Hawaii is one of those activities where the setting can completely change the experience. You might be riding along a green valley one day and crossing open ranch land the next. I like that the horses let you see parts of the islands at a slower pace, especially in places where the scenery is the main reason to go.

The important thing is to look beyond the words “horseback riding.” A trail ride on a working ranch is very different from a beach ride, and a mountain ride can feel completely different from both. The island you choose makes a big difference in what you will actually see.

Oahu has ranches and North Shore scenery, the Big Island has enormous ranch country and volcanic landscapes, Maui combines mountain and coastal scenery, and Kauai is especially beautiful for riding through lush valleys and tropical countryside.

Here are our Top 4 horseback riding tours. Scroll down for our favorites on each island.

Oahu: ranch country and North Shore scenery

Oahu might be best known for Waikiki, but the island has a completely different personality once you head toward the North Shore and its ranch country. With five horseback riding tours available, you can explore oceanfront trails, open fields, and mountain scenery away from the busy parts of Honolulu.

Three of our other experiences offer different ways to explore Oahu beyond horseback riding. You can join the AllStar Oahu Circle Island Tour to see more of the island, take the Aloha ʻĀina E-Bike Adventure for a mix of Hawaiian culture and conservation, or hike the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail for coastal views and a chance to see the lighthouse and Halona Blowhole.

Whether you prefer riding through scenic landscapes, discovering the island with a guide, or exploring on two wheels, Oahu offers plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty.

Big Island: wide-open ranches and volcanic scenery

The Big Island is where horseback riding starts to feel like a real countryside adventure. With open landscapes, lush forests, and dramatic volcanic scenery, the island offers plenty of ways to explore beyond its beaches and resorts.

While there is only one horseback riding tour in our selection, there are seven other experiences to consider. Visit a coffee farm with the Ohana Ranch Epic Coffee Tour, explore volcanic terrain on the Hidden Craters Hike, or discover rare tropical plants on the Kona Cloud Forest Tour. For waterfall lovers, the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure offers beautiful cascades, valleys, and sea cliffs.

You can also explore the island’s highlights on the Ultimate Circle Island Explorer, visit waterfalls and local chocolate stops on the Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfalls tour, or enjoy sunset views and guided stargazing with the Maunakea Summit & Stars Adventure. These experiences offer different ways to discover the Big Island’s unique landscapes and natural beauty.

Maui: mountain trails with a taste of paniolo country

Maui offers a nice middle ground between the larger ranch landscapes of the Big Island and the greener valleys found elsewhere. While there is only one horseback riding tour in our selection, the island offers plenty of other ways to explore its countryside, waterfalls, and tropical landscapes.

For a ranch experience, the Open Range Semi-Private Cattle Tour offers scenic views and a glimpse into Hawaiian history. Beyond horseback riding, you can visit rescued animals at Leilani Farm Sanctuary, enjoy an Alpaca & Fruit Tasting Tour, or explore local agriculture through Maui Farm Tours and the Exclusive Guided Cacao Farm Tour.

If you’d prefer to explore Maui’s natural scenery, the Jungle Waterfall Adventure takes you through bamboo forests and waterfall pools, while the Iao Valley Hike and Road to Hana offer lush landscapes, scenic walks, and beautiful waterfalls. These alternatives let you experience Maui’s countryside and natural beauty in different ways.

Kauai: green valleys and quiet countryside

Kauai is the island I would choose for lush greenery, peaceful valleys, and outdoor adventures surrounded by nature. While there are no horseback riding tours in our current selection, the island offers plenty of other ways to explore its tropical landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to scenic countryside.

You can discover hidden waterfalls on the Kipu Falls and Treehouse Hike, enjoy a refreshing swim on the Waterfall Swim & Hike, or combine paddling and hiking on the Secret Falls Kayak & Hike. For a different kind of adventure, the Waterfall Trail Expedition and Ultimate Ranch Tour offer off-road experiences through Kauai’s rugged terrain.

If you prefer a slower pace, the Farm Tour combines plantation scenery with coffee tasting, while the Baby Farm Animal Tour offers encounters with goats, lambs, and mini cows. You can also explore beautiful garden landscapes on the Best of Both Worlds tour, featuring Allerton and McBryde Gardens.

What to know before booking a horseback ride in Hawaii

You do not need to be an experienced rider for many Hawaii horseback tours, but every operator has its own requirements. Some rides are designed for beginners, while others may have weight, age, or riding experience restrictions.

Wear long pants and closed shoes that are comfortable around a saddle. I would also bring sunscreen, water, and a light layer depending on the location. Weather can change quickly in Hawaii, particularly in the mountains and higher elevation areas.

Pay attention to the pace of the ride when choosing a tour. If you are a first-time rider, a relaxed trail ride is usually a better choice than a tour that expects you to be comfortable with more advanced riding.

Picking one

For convenient access and North Shore ranch scenery, I would choose Oahu. For huge ranches and a stronger sense of Hawaii’s open countryside, the Big Island stands out. Maui is a good choice for mountain scenery and paniolo culture, while Kauai is where I would go for lush valleys and a quieter trail experience.