Horseback Riding on Jekyll Island with Golden Isles Carriage and Trail -  Brunswick

Horseback Riding on Jekyll Island with Golden Isles Carriage and Trail

Brunswickeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior riding experience needed

Overview

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.

Details

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.

Adventure Tips

Wear weather-appropriate clothing

Light layers and sun protection are recommended, especially during warmer months.

Bring sunscreen and insect repellent

Protect yourself from the sun and insects along the wooded trails and beachside areas.

Stay hydrated

Carry water, particularly during hot weather, to keep comfortable during the ride.

Arrive early for check-in

Allow plenty of time to meet your guide and get comfortable before your ride.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Southern self-guided nature trails nearby
  • Historic district with Gilded Age architecture

Wildlife

  • Ospreys nesting in maritime forests
  • Fiddler crabs along the beach

History

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.

Conservation

The island emphasizes habitat preservation, maintaining its coastal ecosystems and minimizing environmental impact from visitor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

early morning
late afternoon (golden hour)

Best Viewpoints

  • Driftwood Beach for dramatic compositions
  • Maritime Forest trails for wildlife shots

What to Photograph

driftwood structures
native plant life
native wildlife

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin during sunny outdoor rides.

summer specific

Hat with brim

Provides shade and helps shield your face from the sun.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Good footwear is recommended in case of walking around after the ride.

Insect repellent

Essential

Keep bugs at bay during wooded or beachside sections.

summer|fall specific

Book Now