Spirit of the West
Spirit of the West
5
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
About
One of the most unique ways to experience Grand Cayman! Trek along the edge of the Caribbean Sea atop one of our magnificent beauties! Enjoy a lazy walk as the surf rolls in and out at the feet of your horse. For the more adventurous, feel the wind in your hair as you canter along the white sand beach. Try something completely out of the ordinary with the swim ride - hold on tight as your horse is steered into the cool and refreshing waters of the Caribbean for a wonderful swim.The true romantics can see the softer side of Cayman with the moonlit ride during the full moon. Guided only by the natural instincts of your horse, enjoy the peaceful nirvana of paradise where the modern world is far and away!Whatever your choice, Spirit of the West delivers premium service with true Caymanian hospitality. Each ride is an experience of a lifetime and every rider feels like they have done something they will never forget!
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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29 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
729 reviews
Excellent
651
Very good
49
Average
11
Poor
10
Terrible
8
Paula R
17 contributions
Feb 2023
I’m a local here I. Grand Cayman. I try and ride at least once a month. The beach ride has been the same for the 25 years I’ve lived her. There’s only 1 riding beach. So why go? The splashing as the horses know a canter is imminent, the sight of a stingray or baby shark, the elation of the cantering past waving trees, the sunsets…... the deliciousness of an ice cold beer when you dismount. Thisissi ply my favorite way to see life on horseback.
Written March 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Margie N
5 contributions
Apr 2022
This is a must-do Cayman experience. Our girls loved every minute of the private beach tour and beach swim, and all agree it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Our guide Jordan was phenomenal. He made one of our reluctant riders feel comfortable and safe. He was patient, empathetic, knowledgeable and an absolute pleasure. The horses were gorgeous and super calm which was perfect for our inexperienced riders. We would highly recommend this during your Cayman stay, and make sure you request Jordan!!!
Written April 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Laura R
Palm Beach Gardens, FL3 contributions
Oct 2022
My boyfriend and I did a private ride on 10/17/22 with Jordan as our guide. He allowed us to ride at our own pace which was fabulous as my boyfriend wanted to go faster than just a walk on the beach. He was very knowledgeable about the horses and was able to teach us how to control the horses and get them to do what we wanted them to do. He took lots of pictures for us to capture this memorable experience. He also gave us a lot of information about the island. We will definitely return when we visit Grand Cayman in the future. Thanks so much for a wonderful experience!
Written October 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Godiva0318
Vernon, NJ1,230 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
My hubby and I took our two kids (10 and 13) on the swim ride just yesterday. They said it was one of the coolest things they’ve ever experienced.
I suggest getting to the meeting location early. We got lost finding it and arrived 5 minutes late. Jordan was already putting the horses on the trailer to leave.
We started with a casual horseback ride in the beach. Unfortunately, there is a lot of sargassum along the beach, but it wasn’t too smelly and certainly didn’t ruin the experience. We then stopped so Jordan could take the saddles off the horses for us to ride in the ocean bareback. I was surprised at how far out we went. I also thought the horses would simply walk in the ocean, but they were actually swimming with us on them. It was a bit uncomfortable riding bareback and a bit of a workout to hold into the horses (mainly an inner thigh workout) as they swam in the waves. Jordan did ask us if we wanted to go out further, and explained it would be difficult, but we still agreed.
Afterwards we got back on the beach and Jordan sattled the horses back up for us to ride back along the beach to the original meeting spot.
Jordan was informative and answered our daughters many questions. It’s a family-run business and he clearly enjoys what he does and is proud of the island and it’s heritage.
If you are considering this tour for your kids, for reference, our daughter is 10 and only about 70 pounds. She was able to do the ride and swim with no problem; although Jordan did help lead her horse out to the swim so she could hold on better.
I highly recommend it his tour.
I suggest getting to the meeting location early. We got lost finding it and arrived 5 minutes late. Jordan was already putting the horses on the trailer to leave.
We started with a casual horseback ride in the beach. Unfortunately, there is a lot of sargassum along the beach, but it wasn’t too smelly and certainly didn’t ruin the experience. We then stopped so Jordan could take the saddles off the horses for us to ride in the ocean bareback. I was surprised at how far out we went. I also thought the horses would simply walk in the ocean, but they were actually swimming with us on them. It was a bit uncomfortable riding bareback and a bit of a workout to hold into the horses (mainly an inner thigh workout) as they swam in the waves. Jordan did ask us if we wanted to go out further, and explained it would be difficult, but we still agreed.
Afterwards we got back on the beach and Jordan sattled the horses back up for us to ride back along the beach to the original meeting spot.
Jordan was informative and answered our daughters many questions. It’s a family-run business and he clearly enjoys what he does and is proud of the island and it’s heritage.
If you are considering this tour for your kids, for reference, our daughter is 10 and only about 70 pounds. She was able to do the ride and swim with no problem; although Jordan did help lead her horse out to the swim so she could hold on better.
I highly recommend it his tour.
Written July 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
KevinR
1 contribution
Sep 2022 • Couples
Great experience, especially as a first time horse rider. Very fun and unique way to experience the island and the Caribbean Sea. Our guide was very knowledgeable and gave great information about the horses, the island, and the seas. Definitely would recommend for couples or families looking experience Cayman beaches and waters in a unique way!
Written September 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kelly B
8 contributions
Apr 2022
My daughter and I booked a private horseback tour on the beach in Grand Cayman while on a cruise stop in Grand Cayman. We had a lot of fun and it was very relaxing! Spirit of the West is a very professional tour group and we highly recommend them. Jordan picked us up right on time and drove us safely to the ride location. He and his dad are both very personable and friendly. They allowed us to ride at our level and gave us instruction when we asked to canter the horses at the end of the ride. We only wish we had specified a water ride too, which would have been refreshing and fun on a hot day! (Our mistake... not theirs!) Jordan even recommended Peppers for conch fritters and Peppers Punch (which were both excellent)! Great guys... thanks for a memorable day!
Written April 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Clare M
Grand Cayman10 contributions
Apr 2022
My family and I had such an amazing time on our private beach ride! Our guide, Jordan, was friendly and knowledgeable. The horses were beautiful, with fantastic, calm temperaments, and were really well cared for. The scenery is breathtaking - the best and most secluded spot on the island. My 7 year old son was able to ride his own horse without being led, which was particularly special for him! I have ridden with a few companies in Cayman and I would 100% recommend Spirit of the West over all of the others from my experience. Definitely a must-do, whether you are visiting the island or whether you are a local!
Written April 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Wayne
2 contributions
May 2021
The whole family had an incredible time on this gorgeous secluded beach ride. We all fell in love with our horses - they all have their own personalities, but great temperaments. Jordan was super friendly, knowledgeable and we all felt very safe with him leading us. We would recommend this to families looking for a unique, memorable experience. Thank you Lady, Cayman Time, Diamond, Mischief, Aurora and Jordan!
Written June 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Valerie G
1 contribution
Aug 2022 • Couples
This was hands down the best experience for my husband and I. We took a cruise to Cayman Island and chatted with locals on doing horseback riding. At first they were taken back that we knew about Barkers beach because usually the cruise offers the excursions. They made a phone call to Paul and he had an opening! We took a cab which is probably 25-30 min from port, and met with Jordan. He is such a great guy and easy to talk too! We learned so much about the island from him and he made the riding such a great experience! Swimming with the horses was the coolest thing I’ve ever done! The horses are well taken care of and they seemed to enjoy the dip in the ocean on a hot day. Afterwards Jordan took us back to port and suggested a great local spot with fresh seafood, Cabana, it was delicious!
For future cruisers I would suggest booking beforehand since usually they book up as we got lucky!
You won’t be disappointed!
For future cruisers I would suggest booking beforehand since usually they book up as we got lucky!
You won’t be disappointed!
Written September 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Paola S
1 contribution
Aug 2022
My boyfriend and I booked the Caribbean Sea Swim, I was a first time rider and he had previous experience and we both enjoyed our time! Jordan was our guide, he made the experience very comfortable and was a great conversationalist, it felt like we were riding with our friends instead of strangers/tourists. He gave us great recommendations for food, drinks, and where to visit on the island. The water was perfect for the swimming portion and the horses were great and calm/ easy to ride. Would definitely book again with this company 15/10 experience. Very chill and exceeded my expectations.
Written August 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nic P
1 contribution
Are the horses actually swimming or are they walking through the water?
Storyteller515585
9 contributions
He took us down the beach, GORGEOUS, then removed saddles, and horses SWAM in the water with us on them. Ours actually swam in the water. It was amazing and memorable. Would HIGHLY recommend this outfit. Professional, family owned. So much fun.
Charles G
1 contribution
How much is the ride and do the go into the water?
Rochelle F
Dallas, TX4 contributions
Can't remember the price, but YES! You do go into the water and pretty far out! It's super fun (except when the horses in front of you poop and your horse goes through it in the water, lol!)
One of the most fun things we did on Cayman! You'll love it!!
521vickia
Nashville, TN3 contributions
Hello!!! Considering booking this company for a private ride with six of us. We will be staying at the London House on 7 mile Beach. Do they pick you up or is that a very far drive to their facility?
Bob C
Gaithersburg, MD12 contributions
I think they'll pick you up, but we met them at the ride site. It is not a far drive from 7 mile beach.
fitK
Chicago, IL26 contributions
I'd like to surprise my daughter for her upcoming 10th birthday with this guided tour. She has never been on a horse before but talks about how she wants to do something like this all the time. Do you allow children of this age to ride on these tours?
Capt_Rons_Diving
Norristown, PA111 contributions
Definitely the beach ride and the horses were well trained. The guide was amazing and it is beautiful. I agree with above suggestion, if you e-mail them they get right back to you. Have fun!
cassandra w
1 contribution
want to do all inclusive what resort do we stay at so I can do the spirit of the west and meet jordan
allyg@allyg.org
Hartford, CT16 contributions
I don't believe there is an all inclusive resort on Grand Cayman. However any hotel concierge can book this excursion for you or you can book them directly online.
Renae_morehead
Charlotte, NC12 contributions
What age requirements do you have? Wondering if appropriate for my family.
coopsquilts
Knoxville, TN1 contribution
I'm 61 and my husband is 80. Neither one of us have experience. Our guide was very patient with us!
mimimom05
Toledo, OH314 contributions
We will be in port from a cruise on Monday June 5. The ship comes into port at 9am and departs at 6pm. We are a honeymooning couple interested in a group ride on that day. Will we have enough time and is there pick up and drop off from the pier? Also, approximately how many people usually make up a group ? Do the horses go into the water and swim or is this ride just on the beach? Thank you ?
Elina S
Brooklyn, NY14 contributions
They picked us up at the hotel at no extra charge. Definitely enough time to do the ride. We did private group ride because it was 8 of us. They actually accommodated us on a day that were not even open. Make a reservation ahead of time so you can pick a convenient time. The entire adventure was about 3 hours with pick up and drop off. Horses went along beach and then they took the saddles off and we went bareback on them into the water. Amazing experience. The guides Perry and Paul were so good to us and especially the little kids I our group who were a bit nervous. You will love it!!! Happy honeymoon
Do you need to be an experienced rider to take this tour?
johnfamily
Stafford, VA20 contributions
No experience the horses are well trained.
Spirit of the West (West Bay) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Spirit of the West
- Spirit of the West is open:
- Mon - Fri 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Mon - Fri 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Mon - Fri 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
- Hotels near Spirit of the West:
- (1.34 mi) Shangri-La Inn & Suites
- (2.32 mi) Discovery Point Club
- (2.36 mi) The Anchorage Condominiums
- (2.28 mi) Aqua Bay Club Condos
- (2.34 mi) Christopher Columbus Condos
- Restaurants near Spirit of the West:
- (0.98 mi) Ristorante Pappagallo
- (1.14 mi) Calypso Grill
- (2.31 mi) Bacaro
- (2.36 mi) Morgans Seafood Restaurant
- (2.81 mi) Coccoloba Bar & Grill