Horseback Riding in Big Island

With its paniolo (cowboy) heritage and the ranches it spawned, the Big Island is a great place for equestrians. Riders can gallop through green pastures, ride to Kealakekua Bay to see the Captain Cook Monument, or saunter into Waipio Valley for a taste of old Hawaii.

King's Trail Rides. Riders take a two-hour excursion to the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay for snorkeling. All your gear is provided, except for fins and reef walkers. It costs $135-$150 per person, with lunch. 81-6420 Mamalahoa Hwy., (Hwy. 11), Kealakekua. 808/323-2388 or 808/345-0616. www.konacowboy.com.

Naalapa Stables. This company is a good bet, especially for novice riders. The horses are well trained, and the stable is well run. Rides through the Waipio Valley cross freshwater streams and pass a black-sand beach. Naalapa also offers open-range and horse-drawn wagon rides on the historic Kahua Ranch in North Kohala. Rides to Waipio depart twice a day, Monday through Saturday, 9:30 AM and 1 PM, from Waipio Valley Artworks; Kahua Ranch rides depart twice daily from the ranch at 8:30 AM and 1 PM. Rates for a 2½-hour ride begin at $89 per person for both locations. Off Hwy. 240, Kukuihaele. 808/775-0419. www.naalapastables.com.

Waipio Ridge Stables. Two different rides around the rim of Waipio Valley are offered—a 2½-hour trek for $85 and a 5-hour hidden-waterfall adventure (with swimming) for $165. Riders meet at Waipio Valley Artworks. Off Hwy. 240, Kukuihaele. 808/775-1007 or 877/757-1414. www.waipioridgestables.com.

Waipio on Horseback. Not many outfits venture into the green jungle of the floor of the Waipio Valley. Waipio on Horseback takes you to an authentic taro farm. Rides, which depart twice daily, Monday through Saturday, from the Last Chance Store, cost $78. Last Chance Store, off Hwy. 240, Kukuihaele. 877/775-7291 or 808/775-7291. www.waipio.homestead.com.