Horseback Beach Rides with Golden Isles Carriage on Jekyll Island - Savannah

Horseback Beach Rides with Golden Isles Carriage on Jekyll Island

Savannaheasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners and families.

Overview

Experience the scenic shores of Jekyll Island on horseback with Golden Isles Carriage and Trail Rides. Enjoy a relaxing beach ride that blends natural beauty with local history.

Details

Jekyll Island, located off the coast of Georgia in the United States, offers an inviting coastal escape known for its quiet beaches and abundant natural beauty. At the heart of this island's outdoor experiences is Golden Isles Carriage and Trail Rides, a premier outfitter providing horseback and carriage rides along some of the island’s most scenic trails and shoreline paths. The experience combines gentle beach breezes, coastal views, and the unique thrill of horseback riding, making it a standout activity for visitors seeking a more immersive way to explore the island’s landscape.

Golden Isles Carriage and Trail Rides specializes in beach trail riding that caters to riders of all skill levels, including families and first-time equestrians. Their horses are well-cared-for and matched carefully to the rider’s experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. The beach rides, which traverse soft sand and reveal picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean, are particularly popular. Riders often note how calming it is to follow the shoreline, accompanied only by the sound of waves and the gentle clip-clop of hooves.

What sets this adventure apart is the personal and attentive service. Many guests have praised the engaged guides who share interesting information about the island’s environment and history, adding depth to the leisurely ride. Golden Isles Carriage and Trail Rides also offers private tours for those seeking a faster, more thrilling pace or a more exclusive atmosphere, responding to diverse guest preferences.

Jekyll Island itself is known for its peaceful, unspoiled shoreline, delicate marsh ecosystems, and historic significance as once a retreat for wealthy families in the early 20th century. Visitors will notice local wildlife such as shorebirds and crabs along the coast during their ride. The island enforces entry fees for oversized vehicles, an important consideration for planning your visit.

Overall, Golden Isles Carriage and Trail Rides presents a unique way to experience Jekyll Island’s outdoors, blending gentle exercise, natural beauty, and history into every ride.

Adventure Tips

Bring bug spray

Insect activity can be high along the beach trails, so protect yourself during rides.

Book a private tour for faster pace

Public tours can be more relaxed, but private rides allow you to go faster and avoid crowds.

Maintain distance between horses

Keep space from other horses to prevent kicking or spooking during the ride.

Prepare for Jekyll Island entry fees

Oversized vehicles may be charged $10-$15 to enter the island; plan accordingly.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • South Dunes Trail for quiet marsh views
  • Grove Beach for tide pool exploration

Wildlife

  • shorebirds like willets
  • Atlantic ghost crabs

History

Jekyll Island was once an exclusive retreat for America’s wealthiest families in the early 1900s, reflected in preserved historic landmarks across the island.

Conservation

The island maintains protected dunes and marshlands to preserve natural habitats, with guided tours emphasizing minimal environmental impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour shortly after sunrise
late afternoon before sunset
overcast days for even lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • Beach shoreline facing the Atlantic
  • Dunes near the trail rides
  • Historic island landmarks visible from trails

What to Photograph

horses and riders in natural settings
coastal landscapes with waves and sand
local wildlife like shorebirds and crabs

Recommended Gear

Bug spray

Essential

Keeps insects away during outdoor beach rides, especially important in warmer months.

spring specific

Sun block

Essential

Protects your skin from sun exposure during open beach rides.

summer specific

Closed-toe shoes

Essential

Necessary for safe, comfortable riding and to protect your feet while handling horses.

Light jacket or windbreaker

Useful for cooler breezes on the beach, especially during early morning or late afternoon rides.

fall specific

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