Hey there, beach lovers and horse enthusiasts! So you’re curious about our beach rides? Let me break it down for you in the simplest way possible.
## **What Actually Happens on a Beach Ride**
First things first – this isn’t your typical trail ride. When you book with us at 7 Mile Beach (yep, just 15 minutes from Hobart!), you’re signing up for something pretty special. Picture this: you, a horse, the ocean breeze, and sand stretching as far as you can see.
The whole experience usually runs about 1-2 hours, depending on which package you choose. But honestly? Time kinda flies when you’re out there.
## **Before You Even Get on the Horse**
Okay so here’s what happens when you rock up:
– We’ll have a quick chat about your riding experience (be honest – we’ve got horses for complete beginners AND pros)
– You’ll sign some paperwork – standard stuff, nothing scary
– We match you with the perfect horse based on your height, weight and experience
– Quick safety briefing – how to hold the reins, basic commands, that sort of thing
– Helmet fitting (mandatory, sorry if it messes up your hair!)
The whole prep takes maybe 20-30 minutes. We don’t rush this part because… well, safety first and all that.
## **The Ride Itself**
Now for the good stuff! Once everyone’s mounted up and comfortable, we head down to the beach. The first few minutes might feel a bit wobbly if you’re new to this – totally normal.
Here’s what typically happens:
– **Starting slow**: We walk the horses down to the water’s edge. This gives you time to get used to your horse’s rhythm
– **Finding your groove**: After about 10-15 minutes, most people start to relax. The horses know this route by heart
– **The magical bit**: When we hit that perfect stretch of hard sand near the water… if conditions are right and everyone’s comfortable, we might pick up the pace to a trot or even a canter
– **Photo ops**: We usually stop at least once for photos. Because let’s be real – if you don’t gram it, did it even happen?
## **What Makes Beach Riding Different**
Beach riding hits different than bush trails. The sand gives under the horses’ hooves, creating this amazing rhythmic sound. The sea spray might catch you if the wind’s up. And those views? Unbeatable.
But here’s something people don’t always expect – it can be more challenging than regular trail riding. The soft sand makes the horses work harder, and balancing can be trickier. Don’t worry though, our horses are beach pros.
## **Wildlife Spotting (Because Tasmania!)**
Keep your eyes peeled! We often spot:
– Sea eagles cruising overhead
– Dolphins if we’re lucky (not guaranteed but when it happens… wow)
– Various seabirds doing their thing
– Sometimes seals pop up to check us out
## **The Practical Stuff**
**What to wear:**
– Long pants (trust me on this one)
– Closed shoes with a small heel if possible
– Layers – beach weather can be unpredictable
– Sunglasses and sunscreen
**What we provide:**
– Helmet
– The horse (obviously!)
– Expert guide who knows these beaches like the back of their hand
## **After the Ride**
Once we’re back, you’ll probably have jelly legs – that’s normal! We’ll help you dismount safely. Most people like to give their horse a pat and maybe snap a selfie.
Then it’s time to head off with sand in your shoes and a massive grin on your face. Fair warning: you might be a bit sore the next day if you’re not used to riding. Those muscles you didn’t know you had? Yeah, you’ll feel them.
## **Quick Tips from Someone Who’s Done This A Lot**
1. **Book early morning or late afternoon** – the light is incredible and it’s cooler
2. **Don’t wear your best clothes** – you might get splashed or sandy
3. **Bring a change of shoes** – sand gets EVERYWHERE
4. **If you’re nervous, tell us** – seriously, we want you to enjoy this
5. **Put your phone in a waterproof case** – just in case
## **Is This for You?**
Look, I’ll be straight with you. If you’re expecting a perfectly controlled environment, maybe this isn’t your thing. Beach riding is a bit wild, a bit unpredictable, and absolutely unforgettable.
But if you want to experience something that’ll make you feel alive? If you want to tick something off your bucket list? If you just want to do something that’ll make a killer story?
Then yeah. This is definitely for you.
We run rides pretty much every day (weather permitting – we don’t do storms for obvious reasons). Groups are kept small so everyone gets attention. And our guides? They know these horses and these beaches inside out.
So that’s the deal with our beach rides. It’s not complicated, but it is special. Every single time.
Ready to saddle up? You know what to do.
*- Bryce*