easy
1 hour
Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior riding experience needed
Kick off a one-hour horseback ride across Jekyll Island’s Maritime Forest and Driftwood Beach with Golden Isles Carriage and Trail. Discover sweeping coastal views and fascinating history from the back of a gentle horse—perfect for all ages and experience levels.
Jekyll Island, Georgia, offers a captivating coastal landscape that feels like stepping into a classic Southern postcard. Known for its sprawling marshes, historic sites, and expansive beaches, this barrier island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a mix of nature and history. Among the many ways to experience this unique environment, Golden Isles Carriage and Trail stands out with its one-hour horseback ride through the island’s most picturesque spots.
Their signature ride takes visitors through the lush Maritime Forest, where towering live oaks, palmettos, and pines create a canopy that filters the sunlight. After riding through the dense foliage, guests are led along Driftwood Beach, famous for its bleached, driftwood-strewn shoreline that offers an eerie yet mesmerizing scene reminiscent of a coastal sculpture park. The horses, gentle and well-trained, accommodate riders of all skill levels, making this experience accessible to young children (ages 5 and up) and adults alike.
This adventure isn’t just about the scenery; it offers a genuine connection with the island’s natural rhythms. Expert guides share insights into the area’s history—including the island’s role as a key site during the Gilded Age—and its ecology, highlighting local wildlife such as ospreys and fiddler crabs. Whether in a small group or a larger party, visitors leave with vivid memories of their time on the saddle, making it a standout activity on Jekyll Island.
Golden Isles Carriage and Trail provides a rare opportunity to ride through one of Georgia’s most scenic coastal ecosystems. This experience marries adventure with education, all within the beautifully preserved landscape of Jekyll Island—a perfect option for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of authentic seaside adventure.
Get ready to trot through maritime forests and along dramatic, driftwood-laden beaches—and see this island from a truly unique perspective.
Light layers and sun protection are recommended, especially during warmer months.
Protect yourself from the sun and insects along the wooded trails and beachside areas.
Carry water, particularly during hot weather, to keep comfortable during the ride.
Allow plenty of time to meet your guide and get comfortable before your ride.
Jekyll Island was once a private hunting ground for America's wealthy elite during the Gilded Age and now serves as a protected natural and historic site.
The island emphasizes habitat preservation, maintaining its coastal ecosystems and minimizing environmental impact from visitor activities.
Protect your skin during sunny outdoor rides.
summer specific
Provides shade and helps shield your face from the sun.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Good footwear is recommended in case of walking around after the ride.
Keep bugs at bay during wooded or beachside sections.
summer|fall specific