Is horseback riding along the Great Ocean Road suitable for beginners?

Yes, many operators offer horseback riding experiences tailored for all levels, including beginners. Rides are conducted with gentle horses and guided by experienced instructors to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.

Are there age restrictions for horseback riding tours?

Yes, most tours have age and weight restrictions for safety. Family rides and pony rides are often available for children aged 2-9 years. It's best to check with the specific operator for details.

Can I go horseback riding in all weather conditions?

Horseback riding is available year-round, but tours may be rescheduled or cancelled in adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or extreme heat. Always check with the tour operator beforehand.

How long are horseback riding tours along the Great Ocean Road?

Tours typically last between 1 to 2 hours, with longer rides available for those wanting to explore more of the beaches and scenic trails along the Great Ocean Road.

Go Horseback Riding Along the Beach Great Ocean Road

Riding the Great Ocean Road is a big deal, but riding it on horseback is on a whole different level. Riding along the beaches with the Southern Ocean in front of you is like nothing else. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, there’s a horse riding experience for you. From Apollo Bay to Aireys Inlet, horse riding here is an adventure you won’t want to miss. There are plenty of trails to choose from and many Horse Riding Tours to pick from. You can see the region in a whole new way.

Must-Do

Horseback riding along the Great Ocean Road is not just an activity it’s a must-do. Beach ride along the coast with the sound of the waves and wind in your hair or ride through the rainforest landscapes and rainforests of the Otways. Each trail and location offers a different view of the traditional lands and a backdrop for riders that’s as educational as it is stunning.

Family Horseback Riding Adventures

Riding on the beach is a great way to spend quality time with the family in a beautiful setting. Many tour operators offer family friendly packages to suit all experience levels including younger children from 2-9 years who can do pony patrols or family pony rides. These tours have high safety standards with experienced guides, gentle horses and appropriate equipment such as safety helmets and horse riding shoes. Animal welfare is paramount so both the horses and riders are well looked after. Whether you’re riding in the green hills of Spring Creek Valley or along Johanna Beaches there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Discover the beauty of the Great Ocean Road one day tour! Experience breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments while horseback riding along stunning coastal trails.

Horseback Riding for All Abilities

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, horse riding along Great Ocean Road is for you. From beginner friendly trails with gentle horses to more challenging beach horse riding trails for advanced riders there’s a ride for you. Spring Creek Horse Rides and Spring Creek Horse Riding offer tours for all abilities, instruction and support so you can have a safe and fun experience. The friendly horses and guides will make first-timers feel at ease, and experienced riders can do more adventurous rides like a beach horse ride along Apollo Bay’s Land Adventures.

Beach Horseback Riding Hotspots

Along the Great Ocean Road. Is it a peaceful beach ride or a tough trail? These are the best.

Apollo Bay Beach

Apollo Bay is the beach horse riding destination. Beautiful beaches and views. Long beach and views perfect for beginners and advanced. Calm Southern Ocean and green hills make for a lovely ride. Apollo Bay’s horse trails are some of the best in the area, beach and bush rides galore.

Lorne Pier to Teddy’s Lookout

For beach and bush trails the Lorne Pier to Teddy’s Lookout trail is the way to go. Ocean views and bushland, finishing at the lookout with stunning views of the coast. Suitable for all levels of riders, many stops along the way to take in the views.

Twelve Apostles Coastal Trail

Riding the Twelve Apostles Coastal Trail is a bucket list for many. This trail takes you past some of the most iconic sights on the Great Ocean Road, with the Twelve Apostles as a stunning backdrop for riders. Beach and inland riding so a great option for those looking for a more challenging horse ride with ocean views and natural wonders.

Horse Riding Tours

Several professional tour operators along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re after a peaceful beach ride or an adventure ride, these operators have a horse riding tour for you.

Blazing Saddles Trail Rides

Blazing Saddles Trail Rides (which don’t operate anymore /are permanently closed) has many trails, bushland, and beach rides near Aireys Inlet. Tours for all levels of riders, friendly horses and experienced guides for a safe and fun ride. Special rates for families and group bookings, so it is a great day out.

Spring Creek Horse Rides

In Torquay, Spring Creek Horse Rides has horse riding experiences, beach and vineyard horse riding tours. Friendly staff and well trained horses, great for beginners and experienced riders. Check out reviews and high safety standards.

Otway Fly Horseback Adventures

Otway Fly Horseback Adventures ride the ancient rainforests of the Otways. This is for those who want to experience the rainforest and waterfalls of the region—a peaceful escape into nature through rainforest landscapes and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities.

Best Time for Beach Horseback Riding

Timing your horseback ride along the Great Ocean Road makes all the difference. Morning rides are peaceful. Sunset rides are breathtaking.Horseback riding is available all year, but each season has its own conditions. Summer has long days and warm weather, perfect for beach rides. Autumn has cool temperatures and beautiful foliage, which is great for bush trails. Winter is cold but has fewer crowds and a different view. Spring is beautiful, with wildflowers blooming and wildlife active, and it is perfect for horseback adventures.

Morning Rides

Morning rides are best for riding the beach before the day gets hot. The air is cool and the beaches are quiet, a peaceful start to the day. Also a great time to spot local wildlife, kangaroos and native birds, as you ride along the beach or through bush trails.

Sunset Rides

Riding the beach at sunset is pure magic. The sky is painted pink and orange as the sun goes down. Soft light and cool temperatures make for a lovely ride. Sunset rides are perfect for romantic getaways or to get some amazing photos.

What to Expect

When you book a horseback ride along the Great Ocean Road, you will be provided with a structured experience tailored to your skill level and interests. Tours start with a safety briefing and a short lesson on how to handle your horse. Once you are ready the ride starts at the designated time with a guide leading the group through the trails or beach. The pace is relaxed, so you can take in the views, whether it’s the blue ocean or the green hills of the hinterland. Tours are 1-2 hours or more, depending on the route you choose. Make sure to wear the right clothes and bring water and sunscreen as some trails are exposed to the elements.