Texan Magazine
By Bill Dante
With the kids back in school and your summer beach vacay fading into a beautiful memory, you might not be thinking about returning to the beach this fall. But, perhaps you’re dreaming of a quick weekend getaway. It might be just what you need. After all, the scorching summer heat is slowly fading and fall and the busy holidays will be coming in before you know it. With the temperatures cooling down, and the seasonal crowds a lot smaller, have you ever gone horseback riding on the beaches in Texas?
According to experts, horseback riding can be a very calming activity. The rhythmic movement of the horse can be soothing, and the focus required for riding can help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also foster a connection with nature and the horse, promoting a sense of peace and well- being.
Whether solo, or with family or friends, it’s an opportunity to connect with mother nature and tune out your every day nine to five routine.
If you don’t own a horse or prefer a guided experience, several businesses offer horseback riding tours on the beach.
Check out: Galveston Island, Bolivar Peninsula, Freeport, Matagorda, Corpus Christi, Sea Rim State Park and Padre Island.
Note:
Keep in mind that not all public beaches in Texas allow horses.
Each beach mentioned has a specific horseback riding area.
As far as including children, they have to be six years old to ride on their own.
Galveston has horseback riding on the tip of the south jetty. It’s close to the ferry that takes you over to Port Bolivar. You’ll experience truly stunning, unforgettable coastal scenery.
Corpus Christi allows horse back riding on Padre Island, yep, right on the island, about two miles south of the causeway and closer to the famous King Ranch.
Another area or beach is South Padre, close to Port Isabel. This also is away from the crowds and is located all the way north on the main road to Island Adventure Park.
The rides are unique, memorable, and they do blend with the beauty of the sand and water and cool sea breeze. You may need reservations, not as much in the fall, but better safe to call or go on their websites.
I love the idea of having the opportunity to choose to ride from between sunrise to sunset. There are scheduled times because horses, of course, do need to take a break and rest.
At South Padre they also offer zip lining at the same location.
Perhaps you or someone you know, has taken a trail ride in the Texas Hill Country. But, believe me, that does not compare to a ride on the beach.
Clothing? Wear something light, and tennis shoes or boots. I see some people wearing flip-flops, but for safety reasons, I would definitely not do that.
Now if you happen to be going south of the border down Mexico way, it seems like all of the resorts offer horseback riding. This includes from the tip of Baja to the Caribbean beaches, meaning the Cancun and Cozumel areas.
I personally prefer to horseback ride during the special sunset rides on the Pacific side near Puerto Vallarta or further south into the region of Oaxaca and the beaches of Huatulco. The horses, the beaches and the ambiance, including the sunsets will offer you a blend of natural beauty and an immersive sensory experience that you will never forget.
Remember it’s all about the memories.
