Is prior horseback riding experience required?

No. Riders of all levels, including beginners aged 10 and above, are accommodated with suitable horses and guidance.

What should I wear for the ride?

Long pants and fully enclosed shoes are required for safety; riding boots are preferred but closed-toe shoes can be provided if needed.

How large can my group be?

The private tour can accommodate up to 8 riders in your group, ensuring a personalized experience.

What happens in bad weather?

Rides operate rain or shine besides extreme storms; in severe weather, your booking will be rescheduled for safety.

Are children allowed on this ride?

Yes, riders must be at least 10 years old and capable of following basic safety instructions in English.

Can I book this as a solo rider?

Yes, solo riders are welcome and the pricing adapts to the group size, with private tours available for individuals.

Explore St Andrews Beach on a Private Horseback Ride through Coastal Bushland and Sand Dunes

Located along the rugged southeastern coast of Victoria, Australia, St Andrews Beach offers a sweeping coastal panorama where untamed nature and ocean vastness meet. This private horseback riding experience invites visitors to explore the wild beauty of the region on horseback, navigating through native coastal bushland and climbing high sand dunes that frame panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. This adventure is designed for riders aged 10 and older, welcoming beginners and experienced equestrians alike with horses matched perfectly to each rider’s ability and size.

Setting off from the stables at 150 Sandy Rd, Fingal, your private group begins with a guided ride through dense coastal bushland. Sweeping across soft sand tracks flanked by resilient coastal flora, riders experience the peacefulness of the natural environment. As you crest the high sand dunes, the terrain opens to reveal expansive ocean vistas stretching as far as the eye can see, where the interplay of wind and waves creates a dramatic coastal soundtrack.

The highlight is a leisurely walk along the beach’s edge. Riding only at a walk along the firm, wet sand, the horses and riders feel the ocean breeze and hear the rhythmic crashing of waves. This section offers outstanding photographic moments and quiet connection with the maritime environment. The ride is private, guaranteeing your group of up to eight people will share this moment only with each other and your knowledgeable adult guides, who bring both expertise and passion for the area.

St Andrews Beach’s unique features include the mix of coastal bushland vegetation—such as tea trees and coastal banksias—and imposing sand dunes formed by shifting coastal winds. The area is part of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula region, known for its significant natural reserves and protected coastal environments. This ride is a standout experience because it combines dynamic horseback riding with intimate nature immersion away from crowded tourist beaches.

Beyond the ride itself, the activity promotes responsible interaction with the coastal environment. As a private tour that respects fragile dune ecosystems and native plants, it supports conservation while offering guests a chance to see this part of Victoria’s coastal landscape in a unique way.

Whether you’re a family wanting a memorable active outing or a group of friends seeking a peaceful escape in nature, the Private St Andrews Beach Ride delivers a distinctive outdoor adventure. The experience blends physical engagement, breathtaking scenery, and an authentic feel for the local landscape on horseback—in one of Australia’s most impressive coastal settings.

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.