If Outer Banks horseback riding isn’t on your travel bucket list yet, it should be. I had the chance to ride horses along the beach in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and it was one of the most peaceful, scenic, and just plain fun things I’ve ever done. This post has all the details from my ride, plus tips you’ll want to know before saddling up.
I booked with Equine Adventures, based in Frisco at the southern tip of Hatteras Island. They offer two guided rides daily, year-round, and we chose the late afternoon slot. That meant soft lighting, cooler temps, and golden hour views. Yes please.
The ride starts in a lush maritime forest, which honestly felt like its own little hidden world. Birds chirping, sunlight filtering through the trees—it’s the kind of setting that makes you forget about your inbox and immediately feel more relaxed.
Then, almost without warning, the trail opens up to windswept dunes and finally—boom—the ocean. You can literally smell the salt before you see the waves.
Once we hit the beach, it got even better. That contrast of blue sky, soft sand, and rolling waves is just pure coastal magic. Some folks in the group chose to canter along the shoreline, but I kept it slow and easy—just walking, breathing in the sea air, and feeling like I was in a Nicholas Sparks movie (without the heartbreak, thankfully).
After about half an hour on the beach, the guides stopped to take pictures of everyone with their horses. Pro tip: say yes to the photo. It’s a great way to remember the ride, and you’ll want proof that you did something this cool.
As someone who’s done a few trail rides in other parts of the country, I can confidently say that horseback riding Outer Banks NC-style is next-level. There’s just something about riding beside the ocean that feels so freeing and peaceful—it’s like therapy on four legs.
This story was inspired by a media trip I took to the Outer Banks. All opinions and experiences are my own.
Related: For a different kind of horseback adventure, check out my visit to Lettléiki Icelandics in Shelby County, Kentucky, where I met some incredible Icelandic horses.
For more info on the Outer Banks, visit OuterBanks.org and print out the official Outer Banks Bucket List.
Know Before You Go: Tips for Your Beach Ride
- Duration: The ride itself is about 2 hours, but plan for 3 total. Show up early—they do not wait for late arrivals.
- Horse pairing: Equine Adventures matches riders with horses based on age, height, weight, and experience. Be honest when filling out your info—trust me, it matters for your safety and the horse’s.
- Keep calm and ride on: Nervous energy travels down the reins. Try to stay relaxed and confident—and don’t let your horse sneak in a snack break mid-ride. It’s cute, but it’s a no.
- Safety stuff: You’ll need to sign a waiver. Helmets are provided and required for anyone under 16. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes (goodbye, flip-flops).
- What to bring: Leave loose items in your car, but you can bring your phone to snap photos. Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.
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