kayaking/horseback riding recommendations?
Nov 4th, 2005 | 05:55 PM
#2
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,597
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We are avid horse people and really enjoyed the horses, owners, and views from Makena Stables in (naturally) Makena, Maui on the south end. No horseback riding is cheap there or anywhere in Hawaii. Our two hour sunset ride was $130, I think.
Jan 16th, 2006 | 06:06 PM
#5
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
I worked as a concierge at the Hyatt on Maui for a couple of years and was able to try out every single horseback ride on Maui. In my opinion, the best horseback ride on Maui is Piiholo Ranch. Here's why... They are the only ride on Maui where the horses (and Wranglers) are trained in Natural Horsemanship. The approach is based on mutual respect rather than dominance and their care for their horses is the best I've seen. Unfortunately, so many of the other tours I've experienced don't treat their horses very well. One company actually handed out sticks to the riders to hit their horses with! Another company allowed their guide to smoke a cigar in front of us. You won't find that with Piiholo. There is no smoking (or cell phones) allowed. The terrain and views are awesome!!! The ride takes place on an 800 acre private ranch over 2000 ft. above see level. (Which also makes for a much cooler more comfortable ride then those found by the shore line). Groups are limited to 6 riders and Piiholo is the only horseback riding company on Maui with a Natural Resource Manager on staff. The ranch even has an endangered species protection program with a Nene (Hawaii's state bird) sanctuary and protected Koa trees on site. The ranch also has an extensive family history to it dating back over 100 years. It's great fun for the whole family, as they allow children as young as 8 years old to participate in the ride. The tour is worth every single penny!!! Their website is www.piiholo.com if you want any more info. on the ride or the company.
May 24th, 2006 | 06:07 PM
#7
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
I can't tell you about Maui it's been too long since I was there.
Oahu: ATV: Kualoa Ranch
As to riding horses, I've been to 3 of the 3 that I know are licenced (problem with people doing it independently and uninsured)
Since yoy may be doing the ATV at Kualoa, I'd say mix it up and try Happy Trails. There on the North Shore and their guides have always been real nice.
Oahu: ATV: Kualoa Ranch
As to riding horses, I've been to 3 of the 3 that I know are licenced (problem with people doing it independently and uninsured)
Since yoy may be doing the ATV at Kualoa, I'd say mix it up and try Happy Trails. There on the North Shore and their guides have always been real nice.
