Take an adventure of a lifetime on a horseback ride on our pristine beaches! On the back of a horse is a great way to take in our beautiful shoreline and search for the wild horses and cattle that roam our islands. Sunset and sunrise rides are even more unique, but any journey proves to make for an unforgettable memory.
The Stables at Cedar Island Ranch offer an absolute must-do activity on your vacation. With a unique beach and wilderness experience for horse enthusiasts from all over the world, our stables provide an exclusive experience for horse rides on the Pamlico Sound beaches. This undeveloped and pristine beach has spectacular views along the coast and miles of virtually untouched land to explore. Search for the majestic Outer Banks Wild Spanish Horses; they have roamed these areas freely for centuries. The horses are a protected herd that travels throughout the islands and are frequently at our beach.
Our horseback rides showcase the natural beauty of the coast of Pamlico Sound. You will ride along the water’s edge in the sand. You may have the opportunity to witness wild horses, marine wildlife such as dolphins, sea otters, seabirds, free-range cattle, and different species of saltwater stingrays, or fish. Our 90 minute rides will feature amazing 1,000 foot water crossings between Cedar Island and Ship Shoal Island with beach trail riding. We offer one hour, one and a half hour, as well as private rides Tuesday through Sunday all year round at The Stables of Cedar Island Ranch.
Ride lengths are approximate only.
By appointment only. We do rest our animals on Mondays.
All of the guides are experienced horse wranglers who pride themselves on horse and rider safety. The safety of our guests is our number one priority! Our horses are well seasoned and will be matched to your riding ability. We typically take three rides in the mornings and two in the evenings because those are the coolest parts of the day, and because the horses need to rest during other parts of the day. Other Stable Programs and Events:
- Private or group rides are offered for an additional fee year round by appointment. Call 252-650-8050 for further details.
- You can bring your own horse to ride the beaches. We now offer the ability to ride on your own throughout the beaches, crossing large channels of water separating the islands and searching for the wild Spanish horses. Short term outdoor boarding at the barn where your horses can stay overnight is also available. Paddocks are outdoors, uncovered 12×12 and are separate from our horses. If you stay in the campground we can have you in a space that is near or even in sight of your horses whenever possible. Rates vary for different times of year. For a detailed explanation of the program or to make a reservation please call 252-650-8050, option 2.
- Do you have a special event? Let us turn your ride into something special. Call for details and we will do everything we can to make a special and unique experience for you.
- Tandem rides are not being offered at this time.
- All riders must wear closed-toe/closed-heel shoes.
- Riders must arrive at the barn 30 minutes prior to the time of the ride.
- Helmets are required for all riders age 12 and under.
Book a once in a lifetime ride today! Advanced reservations are required. Call for more details or to make reservations and purchase gift vouchers at 252-650-8050, option 2.
Stable Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Sunday: Please contact the Riding Stables for hours and reservations at 252-650-8050
IMPORTANT RULES & CANCELLATION POLICY:
- No Shows:The rides will leave promptly at the time scheduled, RIDERS MUST ARRIVE AT THE BARN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED RIDE TIME. This is considered a no show, you forfeit 100% of the cost of the ride.
- Late Shows:In the event you are late and the ride has already left the Stables, please come to the office and we will work to reschedule your ride for an additional fee of $50 per rider. If there are no openings available that day to accommodate you, no refunds will be given.
- Helmets are required for all riders age 12 and under. Failure to comply with this rule will result in a forfeited ride. Helmets must remain on for the duration of the ride. Helmets are provided.
- All riders must wear closed-toe/closed-heel shoes. Failure to comply with this rule will result in a forfeited ride.
- For cancellations made more than 14 days in advance, a $35 per rider cancellation fee is charged.
- For cancellations made 14 days or less before the ride, no refunds are provided.
- Rides can be rescheduled no less than 2 days before the ride for a $35 rescheduling fee.
- WEATHER – If we have to cancel your ride due to weather and we have not completed more than 75% of your ride, we will work with you to reschedule your ride. If you are not from the area, we will refund you up to 50% of the cost of the ride.
- ONLY THE GUIDES CAN MAKE THE CALL OF CANCELING THE RIDE. If you as the guest cancel the ride, you forfeit 100% of the cost of the ride. No refunds.
Please call before your ride if you need a weather update at 252-650-8050. It often does not rain on Cedar Island when it is raining elsewhere due to the large bodies of water on both sides. If it is a mild rain or sprinkling, we will ride. WE DO NOT RIDE IF IT IS THUNDERING OR LIGHTNING.
CANCELLATION POLICY FOR BOARDING:
- Reservations canceled up to 72 hours in advance of arrival will be refunded less a cancellation fee equal to one night’s stay.
- Reservations canceled within 72 hours of arrival will result in total forfeiture of deposit. NO refunds will be given.