Is prior horseback riding experience required?

No, riders of all skill levels are welcome. Guides match horses to your comfort and ability.

What is the minimum age for riders?

Riders must be at least 10 years old to participate in this experience.

Are there group size limits for the private ride?

The ride is exclusively for your private group, no matter the size booked.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Rides continue in light rain, but extreme storms will prompt rescheduling.

What should I wear for the ride?

Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes; a jacket is recommended for variable weather.

Where do we meet for the ride?

The meeting point is at 150 Sandy Rd, Fingal, VIC 3939, at the Gunnamatta stables.

Discover St Andrews Beach on a Private Early Bird Horseback Ride

Located on Victoria’s stunning Mornington Peninsula, St Andrews Beach offers one of Australia’s most authentic coastal riding experiences. The Private Early Bird Beach Ride invites riders aged 10 and up to explore this wild beach landscape from horseback, guided exclusively for your group. Starting at the Gunnamatta stables in Fingal, this two-hour adventure moves through native coastal bushland, wide sand dunes, and finishes with a tranquil walk directly along the water’s edge.

This ride stands out for its intimate, private format—only you and your chosen companions share the trail, led by experienced guides who understand the rhythms of these horses and the changing coast. The vast panoramic views from the high dunes capture the raw Pacific Ocean stretching into the horizon. Sandhill grasses swaying under crisp ocean breezes, the sharp contrast of rust-colored sandstone cliffs, and the rhythmic breaking of waves below create a powerful sensory backdrop.

St Andrews Beach has long been a relatively unspoiled corner of the Mornington Peninsula, treasured for its wild beauty and privacy away from crowded tourist routes. The area’s coastal bushland includes native banksias and eucalypts, sometimes sheltering local birdlife like the noisy miner or kookaburra. The horses here are carefully matched to riders of all skill levels and sizes, ensuring safety and enjoyment whether you are a beginner or confident rider.

The route gently traverses the uneven terrain of coastal scrub and wide sandy paths, encouraging varied paces from leisurely walks to comfortable trots. As you reach the shoreline, the ride culminates in a peaceful beach walk. Feel the cool sea spray on your face and the rhythmic push of waves close under your horse’s hooves. It’s a moment of calm connection between rider, steed, and the wild environment, unique to this seaside landscape.

What makes this ride special is the combination of solitude, expert guidance, and access to one of Victoria’s most picture-perfect beaches by horseback. It offers a fresh perspective on the Mornington Peninsula's natural environment, harnessing the timeless bond between horse and nature.

Whether you’re after a memorable family outing, a quiet escape with friends, or a unique way to discover the Australian coastline, the Private Early Bird Beach Ride from Gunnamatta Trail Rides is a standout choice. The company’s commitment to tailored experiences, safety, and environmental respect makes it a vital part of Fingal’s outdoor recreation offerings.

This exclusive ride provides an unmatched way to connect with the landscape, making it an adventure that lingers long after the hooves have stopped pounding the sand.

About Gunnamatta Trail Rides

Gunnamatta Trail Rides is a horseback riding operator based in Fingal, Victoria that provides guided trail rides, lessons and horsemanship programs along coastal and nearby inland terrain. The business offers beach rides to St Andrews Beach, private and group sessions, a Family Play introduction for children aged 6–12 with parents or carers, one-on-one private lessons structured across three skill levels, and multi-day horsemanship clinics including one-day and immersive three-day options plus an extended four-week package. Riders are asked to arrive early for safety briefings and gear fitting; many activities continue rain or shine.

Experienced instructors lead shore and dune rides, clinic sessions and private lessons that focus on riding technique, horse care and confidence-building. Signature packages combine a beach ride with local experiences such as the Peninsula Hot Springs or a meal at St Andrews Beach Brewery. Private bookings include tailored early-bird and group options to suit different riding levels and schedules. Gunnamatta Trail Rides emphasizes horse welfare and participant safety through supervised grooming, arena work for beginners, and clear instructor guidance during trail and beach rides. Programs are suitable for families, adults seeking private coaching, and riders wanting structured progression or concentrated horsemanship training. Flexible scheduling and a range of single-day and extended packages support both casual visitors and those exploring horse ownership and long-term skill development. Notable offerings include Mane Insights, Family Play, 1:1 Private Lesson, Horsemanship Clinic (one-day and three-day options), Horsemanship Clinic 4-week Package, St Andrews Beach Ride, Private St Andrews Beach Ride, Beach & Bathe Package. Available.