The Sint Maarten Private Coastal Horseback Trail Ride
For something completely different from the bus loops, this is the one. The Sint Maarten private coastal horseback trail ride takes you along island trails to a scenic lookout and finishes with the trip's signature moment — a bareback swim with the horses in the warm Caribbean Sea. It's private, hands-on and unlike anything else on the island. Here's what to expect, plus how it fits among the other Sint Maarten island tours.
About the Coastal Horseback Trail Ride
Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund
Hold your spot and pay closer to the day
A focused private ride along the coast
Just your group and the guide — no big crowd
Pause at a hilltop viewpoint over the coast
Ride the horses into the warm Caribbean shallows
Check Live Availability & Prices
Real-time dates and prices for the private coastal horseback trail ride with a swim in the Caribbean Sea.
Why Book the Horseback Trail Ride
Most island tours put you in a van or on a boat. This one puts you on a horse. It's a private, hands-on ride along coastal trails with island views, a stop at a scenic lookout, and the part everyone remembers — wading the horses into the sea for a bareback swim in the warm shallows. It's calm, personal and a world away from the busy beach stops.
Because it's private and centred on the swim, it's a premium, small-group experience rather than a cheap group outing. If you want a memory that isn't on every other visitor's itinerary, this is it. See how it sits beside the rest of our island tours in St Maarten.
What You'll Do on the Ride
A short but memorable experience built around the coast and the sea swim. Expect to:
- Meet your horse and get a quick safety and riding briefing
- Ride coastal trails with open island and sea views
- Pause at a scenic hilltop lookout for photos
- Wade into the warm Caribbean shallows for a bareback swim
- Enjoy the private, unhurried pace with your guide
What's Included (and What Isn't)
What's Included
- A private one-hour coastal horseback ride
- A horse suited to your experience level
- A safety and riding briefing
- A guide for your group throughout
- The bareback sea-swim finale
Not Included
- Transport to and from the stables
- Photos (bring a waterproof camera or phone case)
- Gratuities for your guide (optional but appreciated)
How the Ride Flows
-
Start
Meet & briefing
Meet your horse and guide and get a short safety and riding briefing.
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First part
Coastal trail
Ride the coastal trails with open views over the island and sea.
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Midway
Scenic lookout
Pause at a hilltop viewpoint for photos before heading down to the water.
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Finale
Bareback sea swim
Ride the horses into the warm Caribbean shallows for the signature swim.
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End
Return to the stables
Head back at an easy pace to finish the ride.
Important Things to Know Before You Go
A swim on horseback is a real thrill, but plan for it — you and the horse will get wet.
- Wear a swimsuit under light clothing — you'll go into the sea for the swim
- There are often weight limits for the horses' welfare; check when you book
- Beginners are welcome, but tell the guide your experience level honestly
- Bring a waterproof phone case or camera for the swim photos
What to pack
- Swimsuit under light, quick-drying clothing
- Closed shoes that can get wet (not flip-flops)
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
- A waterproof camera or phone case
What to leave behind
- Loose valuables and jewellery — there's nowhere to stow them on the ride
- Flip-flops and anything you can't get soaked
Insider Tips for the Horseback Ride
What riders who've done it suggest:
- Book a morning slot — the horses and the sea are calmer and it's cooler
- Be honest about your riding level so they match you to the right horse
- Wear quick-drying clothes; you'll be wet for the ride back after the swim
- A floating waterproof phone strap saves a lot of worry during the sea swim
- It's a premium private experience, so confirm exactly who's included in your group
- Arrange your own transport to the stables and pad your timing if you're on a cruise
Where It Is — Sint Maarten Coast
Who This Tour Is For
A special-occasion pick for travelers who want something private and memorable.
- Couples and small groups wanting a private, romantic experience
- Animal lovers and anyone who's dreamed of swimming with a horse
- Travelers looking for an experience off the usual tour-bus route
- Riders of any level, from first-timers to confident riders
Not ideal for
- Travelers on a tight budget — it's a premium private experience
- Anyone over the horses' weight limit (check when booking)
- Visitors who'd rather not get wet or are nervous around horses
Sint Maarten Horseback Trail Ride — FAQ
Do you really swim with the horses?
Yes — the ride finishes by wading the horses into the warm Caribbean shallows for a bareback swim, which is the experience most riders remember best. Wear a swimsuit and bring a waterproof camera. See how it compares with the other island tours in St Maarten.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners are welcome and the ride is private and unhurried. Just tell your guide your experience level honestly so they can match you to a suitable horse and keep the pace comfortable.
How long is the ride and how much does it cost?
It's a one-hour private ride starting from $216, priced for a private experience rather than a big group outing. You can check live availability for your date above.
Is there a weight limit?
For the horses' welfare there is usually a weight limit, so check the details when you book. If you're unsure whether it suits your group, contact us and we can help you confirm.
What should I wear?
A swimsuit under light, quick-drying clothes and closed shoes that can get wet — you'll go into the sea for the swim. Leave loose valuables behind, as there's nowhere to stow them during the ride.
What Riders Say About the Trail Ride
The highlight of our whole trip. The trail views were beautiful and swimming bareback with the horses in the sea was magical — I'll never forget it. Felt completely private and personal.
I hadn't ridden in years and they put me on a calm, gentle horse. The guide was reassuring the whole way and the sea swim was incredible. Worth every penny for a special day.
Something totally different from the usual island tours. Just us and the guide, gorgeous scenery, and then into the water with the horses. Bring a waterproof case for your phone.