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Your Guide to Planning a Riding Trip in Oahu, Hawaii

The thrill of exploring new destinations via horseback is an adventure like no other. In our previous trip, we joined a horseback tour with GlobeTrotting, crossing over to rustic country town Mansfield in rural Victoria before venturing across the Howqua River and the summits of Mount Stirling and Mount Buller. The journey proved a breathtaking opportunity to connect with nature and soak in stunning landscapes across the Australian terrain.

While there are countless horseback riding destinations around the world, the island of Hawaii emerges as a captivating option for other riders seeking adventure and luxury. If touring the Aloha State via horseback sounds appealing, keep reading. This guide will walk you through planning a remarkable riding trip in Oahu, Hawaii, with a particular focus on the iconic Kualoa Ranch.

Horse riding in Hawaii

Hawaii’s diverse islands boast unique riding experiences. From the family-friendly Onekahakaha Beach Park, where you can ride across the sand-bottom cove before slinging iron by horseshoe courts, to the sprawling landscapes of Maui and Kauai, Hawaii’s riding trails offer something for every rider.

While each Hawaiian island has its charm, Oahu stands out as an equestrian paradise. Riders can choose from various trails, all boasting the “malama aina” philosophy, which means “to care for the land” in Hawaiian. Furthermore, Oahu is easily accessible for travelers, with regular flights to Honolulu International Airport. Even the journey to Oahu’s riding destinations is an adventure in itself, allowing riders to appreciate the natural beauty of the island before and after their equestrian excursions.

The ultimate riding experience in Kualoa Ranch

One of Oahu’s most renowned horseback riding destinations is Kualoa Ranch, a 4,000-acre ranch famous for being a backdrop for over 200 Hollywood movies. However, its gorgeous undeveloped valley offers unique experiences beyond Jurassic Park, from planting trees and taking care of a loi kalo (taro paddy) in the Malama Experience tour to trotting the pastures through the eyes of the paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy).

Getting to Kualoa Ranch will take approximately an hour from Honolulu Airport. You can start your journey by renting a reliable vehicle, like an SUV or a 4×4, at the airport, as driving in Oahu means you’ll pass through a diverse topography of mountains. To arrive at the ranch, you will be passing near other tourist spots, like Kailua Bay or Kualoa Regional Park, so don’t hesitate to take a detour and make the most out of your road trip.

Otherwise, if you’re coming from the circle tour, you’ll likely drive along Kamehameha Highway. Call Kualoa Ranch beforehand to check if the road is open, especially in case the power lines go down or an accident occurs. Once off the highway, you’re only a few minutes away from the ranch, where you can park and proceed to the guided horseback walking tour.

As of 2023, Kualoa Ranch’s two-hour guided tour costs $144.95 for adults and $89.95 for children aged 10-12. You must bring closed-toe shoes, but helmets will be provided. After a training and safety briefing, you can trek through the spectacular scenery of Kualoa and the iconic Ka’a’awa “Jurassic” valley.

Maximizing your riding trip

For a successful riding trip in Oahu, it’s best to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. This helps protect you from excessive UV rays and ensures you can enjoy the greenery without squinting from the sun’s glare. Otherwise, remember to bring your water and snacks for the ride.

After your ride, it’s worth indulging in some of the luxuries that Oahu has to offer. You may be tired from the road trip and horseback tour, so consider booking accommodations at one of Oahu’s exquisite resorts, where you can unwind in style and comfort. Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore and Paradise Bay Resort Hawaii are less than 10 miles away, so you can indulge in the thrill of horseback riding before enjoying the warm hospitality that defines the spirit of Hawaii.

With a riding trip in Hawaii, you are promised the beauty of Oahu, the thrill of horseback riding, and the luxury of a tropical paradise—all in one remarkable package. For more on the equestrian lifestyle, check out our publications on our issues page.