horseback riding with young kids

Question

Are there any tours/places that allow horseback riding with a 5 yr old? I've reviewed a lot of places including Waipo Ridge Stables and naalapa stables - both have minimum of 8 yrs old.

thank you

Answer

Finding horseback riding tours for young children on the Big Island can be challenging, as most stables set minimum ages around 8 years old for safety reasons. However, there are a few options that may accommodate a 5-year-old, typically in the form of pony rides or very short guided rides on gentle trails.

Options to consider:

Hamakua Horseback Adventures: Located near Honoka’a, they occasionally offer short, slow rides suitable for younger children. It’s best to call ahead and ask specifically about age requirements and availability for a 5-year-old.
Kohala Ranch Pony Rides: Some ranches in the North Kohala area provide pony rides for small children. These are usually very short rides on a round pen or a small trail under close supervision.
Local Fairs or Family Ranches: Sometimes small family-run stables or events offer supervised pony rides for ages 3–7. These are not always widely advertised, so contacting visitor centers or local community boards can help locate them.

Tips:

Always confirm age and weight restrictions directly with the stable. Policies may change based on horse size and safety considerations.
Consider private rides or lessons designed for very young children; some stables will create custom experiences if requested in advance.
Safety equipment, such as helmets, is usually required and should be provided by the stable.

Summary:

Most Big Island horseback tours have a minimum age of 8, but Hamakua Horseback Adventures or Kohala Ranch may accommodate younger children.
Pony rides or short guided trails are the safest way for a 5-year-old to experience horseback riding.
Always confirm availability, age limits, and safety requirements before booking.

Planning ahead and calling stables directly will give you the best chance of finding a safe and enjoyable horseback experience for your young child.