Virginia Beach Horseback
Virginia Beach Horseback
4.5
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About
Virginia Beach & Outer Banks Horseback is a rental service specializing in guided beach horseback rides. We genuinely have a passion and love to horseback ride. Our ability to do it on the beach is something everyone in this world should experience. We strive to give our customers an adventure and memory that they will never forget.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Virginia Beach Horseback
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
833 reviews
Excellent
711
Very good
61
Average
23
Poor
15
Terrible
23
Kristen B
Braselton, GA39 contributions
Nov 2022
I had a great time but my spouse didn't. The employees were also hit or miss.
Firstly, we were supposed to start at 11:15 but the company was late, and it takes time to get the horses and riders situated, so we started quite late. They choose your horse according to your skill level and describe the horse's temperament and personality, which was helpful.
I have some experience riding, so I was fine. My horse, Faith, was mostly well mannered and sweet, although she didn't like the lead guide's horse. She liked to be at the end of the line and she walked slower, so she would trot to catch up. I was told this beforehand, so I was prepared.
My husband, a beginner, rode Smokey. He didn't have much fun. Smokey hadn't been fitted properly and seemed grumpy. He tried to nip other horses and my husband's legs. He would trot and canter without warning. Smokey wanted to be at the front of the group and there was no stopping him, no matter how much my husband pulled on his reins. The lead guide just barked at my husband to stop or slow his horse. I guess she expected a beginner to know, even though they asked three times his experience level.
The tour did not last a full hour, but with all the trotting, we were okay with that. The ride was cut short due to another event on the beach (no fault of the company) but there was no photographer. We didn't want to pull phones out while on horseback, and we were unable to ride side-by-side on the beach anyway. So the photographer not showing up was a bummer.
Getting back to the corral, one of the horses really wanted to roll on the sand. She did not wait for the rider to get off, but luckily her rider was able to jump off beforehand. Another rider who may not be as agile might have had a different outcome.
At the end, we were asked how our horses did, but just wanting to get going, my husband just said it was fine. This ride is probably better for mid-level beginners or intermediate riders. Some of the guides are not particularly helpful if you don't know what your'e doing. Like I said, I had a great time and enjoyed talking to the guide at the back of the line.
Firstly, we were supposed to start at 11:15 but the company was late, and it takes time to get the horses and riders situated, so we started quite late. They choose your horse according to your skill level and describe the horse's temperament and personality, which was helpful.
I have some experience riding, so I was fine. My horse, Faith, was mostly well mannered and sweet, although she didn't like the lead guide's horse. She liked to be at the end of the line and she walked slower, so she would trot to catch up. I was told this beforehand, so I was prepared.
My husband, a beginner, rode Smokey. He didn't have much fun. Smokey hadn't been fitted properly and seemed grumpy. He tried to nip other horses and my husband's legs. He would trot and canter without warning. Smokey wanted to be at the front of the group and there was no stopping him, no matter how much my husband pulled on his reins. The lead guide just barked at my husband to stop or slow his horse. I guess she expected a beginner to know, even though they asked three times his experience level.
The tour did not last a full hour, but with all the trotting, we were okay with that. The ride was cut short due to another event on the beach (no fault of the company) but there was no photographer. We didn't want to pull phones out while on horseback, and we were unable to ride side-by-side on the beach anyway. So the photographer not showing up was a bummer.
Getting back to the corral, one of the horses really wanted to roll on the sand. She did not wait for the rider to get off, but luckily her rider was able to jump off beforehand. Another rider who may not be as agile might have had a different outcome.
At the end, we were asked how our horses did, but just wanting to get going, my husband just said it was fine. This ride is probably better for mid-level beginners or intermediate riders. Some of the guides are not particularly helpful if you don't know what your'e doing. Like I said, I had a great time and enjoyed talking to the guide at the back of the line.
Written November 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bob B
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Family
My wife & I are very experienced riders but needed a "horse fix" due to a 6 week road trip. We were concerned that it would be a 'nose to tail ride' at a walking pace. However, we were pleasantly surprised that Chase & Zach (terrific guides) allowed us to trot and canter. Of course, one needs to be respective of the young and older inexperienced riders. The two horses were rode had plenty of spirit and were evidently barrel racers in their former lives.
Written November 28, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
guarddog4
1 contribution
Oct 2022
My wife and I had a good time we always get a chance to experience horseback riding within our area. The only thing that got me a little agitated was a gentleman telling me to stay with the group when clearly I was staying with the group. This same gentleman who had a little short disrespectful attitude had enough time to hold another rider back and do some riding training for 10 minutes and then bring her back to the group once we were in the corral, but nothing was said to her about staying with the group.Thank you for your time we will join again soon.
Written November 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sheila G
1 contribution
Jun 2023 • Couples
Please consider not supporting this business. Between the Bride & myself (as purchaser of a $150 wedding gift certificate) , we’ve made 2 calls & 4 emails over the past 2 months & have had zero response to her or myself. It was such a great gift idea ….. and it turned out to be incredibly sad, embarrassing & I’m questioning why?
When I purchased it, I didn’t know the bride & groom were flying out to Japan 5 days after their wedding to begin the husband’s new 3 yr Naval Tour of Duty assignment.
We were never disrespectful in our outreaches and have saved all emails.
My hopes are to raise awareness that this business’s practices does not include integrity, goodwill to those who believe their services are customer friendly.
Sheila Graves
When I purchased it, I didn’t know the bride & groom were flying out to Japan 5 days after their wedding to begin the husband’s new 3 yr Naval Tour of Duty assignment.
We were never disrespectful in our outreaches and have saved all emails.
My hopes are to raise awareness that this business’s practices does not include integrity, goodwill to those who believe their services are customer friendly.
Sheila Graves
Written August 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
smt803
1 contribution
Apr 2023 • Family
The view of the beach on horseback was nice. But, it was hard to fully enjoy the experience because the horses had bits that were too large and causing them obvious discomfort. Just gently pulling on the reins to steer them slightly to the right or left, made the horse turn its neck and chomp on the bit. The horses seemed noticeably agitated and some tried to bite and kick other horses during our 30 minute ride. The customer service was very poor. We tried twice to email a simple question weeks before our reservation, and never received a reply. The ranch hands were unusually disinterested, unenthusiastic, made some negative comments about the guest riders, and provided almost no instructions or communication. The website said that photos are taken and available for purchase at the end. No photos were taken. It sounds like the company started strong years ago, but unfortunately, the current experience was not a good one.
Written April 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vd247
Little Rock, AR2 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
As a VAB native, I had wanted to do this activity for a long time. I was unfortunately very disappointed in my experience.
First, although the directions stated to arrive 15 minutes early, our facilitators did not arrive with the horses until our start time and as such, we didn’t start the ride until 15 minutes after our start time (30 minutes after our arrival). Thankfully we were not shorted on our total ride time but could tell the next group was annoyed that we showed up already into theirs.
We noticed that the horses looked very tired even before our ride.
Our guide did not introduce himself nor give us any direction on what the ride would entail or how to ask for help. Brief riding basics were provided.
Even with the provided instruction, the horses did not follow our commands well at all. They started the ride as soon as the last rider lined up with no warning, cantering (running), and difficult to slow down. It was scary even for me who has ridden before. I couldn’t even tell if we had a guide with us as the ride started so suddenly.
Throughout the ride the horses would suddenly attempt to turn around and head back to where we started, concerning both that they didn’t want to be taking us to our destination (still undetermined at that time) and also that we had little control over them. The guide suggested we needed to help train them not to know where the turning back points are, which personally I feel should be completed by professionals and not on our paid time.
The horses would also all take off in a jaunt, going uncomfortably fast and difficult to slow especially on the ride back as if they were rushing to get back, again concerning and somewhat heartbreaking.
Finally, there is no professional photographer as advertised - I was worried the whole time about when we would be doing the professional photos and it wasn’t until the end of the ride when they were getting us off the horses and I asked if we could get a picture that they told us.
I enjoyed being with the animals and walking with them by the ocean. However, I feel guilty having supported this group as I’m worried that the horses are not well cared for, tired, and unhappy and so I hope that this review may serve as a warning to others. I also feel in general as a business they need to update their advertisement and provide more guidance and support for their riders.
First, although the directions stated to arrive 15 minutes early, our facilitators did not arrive with the horses until our start time and as such, we didn’t start the ride until 15 minutes after our start time (30 minutes after our arrival). Thankfully we were not shorted on our total ride time but could tell the next group was annoyed that we showed up already into theirs.
We noticed that the horses looked very tired even before our ride.
Our guide did not introduce himself nor give us any direction on what the ride would entail or how to ask for help. Brief riding basics were provided.
Even with the provided instruction, the horses did not follow our commands well at all. They started the ride as soon as the last rider lined up with no warning, cantering (running), and difficult to slow down. It was scary even for me who has ridden before. I couldn’t even tell if we had a guide with us as the ride started so suddenly.
Throughout the ride the horses would suddenly attempt to turn around and head back to where we started, concerning both that they didn’t want to be taking us to our destination (still undetermined at that time) and also that we had little control over them. The guide suggested we needed to help train them not to know where the turning back points are, which personally I feel should be completed by professionals and not on our paid time.
The horses would also all take off in a jaunt, going uncomfortably fast and difficult to slow especially on the ride back as if they were rushing to get back, again concerning and somewhat heartbreaking.
Finally, there is no professional photographer as advertised - I was worried the whole time about when we would be doing the professional photos and it wasn’t until the end of the ride when they were getting us off the horses and I asked if we could get a picture that they told us.
I enjoyed being with the animals and walking with them by the ocean. However, I feel guilty having supported this group as I’m worried that the horses are not well cared for, tired, and unhappy and so I hope that this review may serve as a warning to others. I also feel in general as a business they need to update their advertisement and provide more guidance and support for their riders.
Written May 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michelle1626
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Family
When we first got there, we waited over a half hour for the guide and horses to arrive. The guide brought the horses over and didn't even look at us. We got on the horses and I expressed how my daughter is a beginner to horseback riding. The ride was not organized at all. Horses were aloud to crowd around my horse and my horse tried to bite them. All at once, the horses started to run real fast without warning, we were unable to stop them. The guide rode far ahead of us, not offering help at all. My daughter's horse seemed nervous with all the horses so close that the horse ran ahead with my daughter. My daughter asked for help and was not given any help. Her horse took off running and my daughter fell off, getting her foot caught in one of the stirrups. She then fell off onto the ground. The guide came over and handed her shoe. She said she hit her head and was crying. He wanted her to get on a horse again after she was injured. He then walked away from her and my other daughter had to help her. Nobody told me she was hurt and I couldn't get to her because my horse kept running off as well. No help was given to any of us. The other guy drove her back to the beginning and nobody came up to me to tell me how my minor child was doing. I couldn't get off my horse because the other horses were so close I could have got stepped on. After we got off the horses I tried to ask the guide what happened because at this point my daughter was standing there soaked from falling into the ocean and she was holding her head. The guide just walked by me, saying nothing. I had to take my daughter to the ER for a concussion. I called the horseback riding place and they said the owner would call me back, and he never did. The owner couldn't even call me back to ask how my daughter was feeling. Her ankle is swollen and bruided as well as the concussion. I don't blame the horses, I blame the guides who didn't properly train the horses and didn't respond to my child getting injured.
Written January 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
faithfulmom7
Harrisburg, PA1 contribution
Oct 2022 • Family
My family and I were looking forward to riding on the beach since we’ve rode horses in the woods and farmland in the past. The sentiments were good, but I would never go there again.
The staff seemed apathetic and uninterested in offering an amazing experience. The instructions were very short considering we all (group of 10) identified ourselves as beginners.
My horse reached the pier and suddenly turned around and just ran no matter how hard I’d pull back the reigns. I was scared and unfortunately the guides didn’t chase after my horse or tried to calm him down.
After what seemed like a 20 minute ride, I was ready to get off as soon as I managed to stop my horse. I didn’t appreciate the guides not assisting more.
Never again.
The staff seemed apathetic and uninterested in offering an amazing experience. The instructions were very short considering we all (group of 10) identified ourselves as beginners.
My horse reached the pier and suddenly turned around and just ran no matter how hard I’d pull back the reigns. I was scared and unfortunately the guides didn’t chase after my horse or tried to calm him down.
After what seemed like a 20 minute ride, I was ready to get off as soon as I managed to stop my horse. I didn’t appreciate the guides not assisting more.
Never again.
Written October 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DodgeWandering
Washington DC, DC90 contributions
Nov 2022
The location was absolutely gorgeous. The horses walked along the beach and through the surf. The horses were pretty well behaved. There were young children on the tour who were doing well. I would definitely book this tour again. My only hesitation for giving 5 stars is that the one hour tour was only 40 minutes of riding. We left the corral at 4pm and returned at 4:40. Considering there are 30-min tour and a 60-min tour options, I felt like the longer tour should be closer to 60 min of actual riding. We may have left late due to forms not being signed in advance, but if that's the case then the tour should be extended (or leave without the people who didn't fill out there paperwork in advance as instructed.) Overall, I would recommend this activity to others.
Written November 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
christianwilliams09
Rural Hall, NC1 contribution
Mar 2022
We had the best time! It was windy, cold, & sand was blowing everywhere but nothing a jacket & a pair of sunglasses can’t fix. Once they brought the horses out it was perfect. They put you on a horse based on your experience level so it was so pleasant to ride the horses on the beach. Passing by onlookers on the beach made you feel like a celebrity lol! Overall, I would definitely do this again with my fiancé. The horses are well trained & knows exactly what they are doing, you just ride & enjoy the moment. It was also a relief that the horse owner/trainers rode along side the group & prepared us before we rode out. Definitely an experience of a lifetime! Definitely riding with OBX again!!!
Written April 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're visiting in June for 10th yr Anniversary, will there be any available during this time?
Written May 18, 2020
As far as I know they only do this from September until April.
Written May 19, 2020
Do you offer horseback rides on the beach in July?
Written July 15, 2019
No they are not back until after Labor Day. They are in the outer banks area. I here the ride is great. I need to take my wife there too!
Written July 16, 2019
I wouldn’t put my 5 y.o. On The horse alone unless they were a proficient rider. If one takes off they are all going down the beach!
Written June 11, 2019
If I book online, what is the refund policy?
Written April 23, 2019
Refund policy is to cancel within 24hrs of your reservation date.
Written April 25, 2019
Are you open this week? If so, when?
Written December 24, 2018
Yes We are available every fri-Sunday 11am-5pm during certain times of the year we are open anywhere from 3-5 days a week. If you refer to our online booking schedule through our website, when you navigate the calendar, you will see list of times and dates.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Written December 24, 2018
2 things. What is the cost and where does the ride take place?
Written October 31, 2018
2600 Atlantic Ave.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
$60 half hr
$80 full hr
3-4 ppl is $5 off per ticket
5-more ppl is $10 off per ticket
Written April 25, 2019
Hi. We’re horse owners from Maryland. For my daughter’s bday (23), we’d like to go riding on the beach which we’ve never done. Is it possible to book a private ride/tour for 3? We’d be interested in cantering opportunities, things beyond the normal tourist. Thank you.
Written July 29, 2018
Yes, you can do these things. They offer rides in Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks depending on the time of year, and will do private rides, etc. PLease call them directly at (757) 289-5470 to discuss specifics.
Written July 30, 2018
For groups over four,$10 off per person, sorry about the typos
Written July 6, 2018
I see on the website there is a weight limit of 250 lbs, do they weigh you in front of everyone?
Written February 20, 2018
We do not provide a scale where we weigh you in front of everyone. We simply check our saddles to make sure they have proper clearance from the withers of the horse to ensure no wear and tear on the horse during the ride.
We mainly trust In the honesty of people but we also have our judgement if the equipment is not wearing properly on the horse.
Please let me know if you have anymore questions.
Sincerely,
Chase
Written February 21, 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.