HHI dolphins & horses

[dlr25]

I have noticed references to horseback riding and dolphin cruises in recent Hilton Head threads. We are going in April and I'd love to know more about these two activities as well as any other suggestions you have of not to be missed activities. Our boys are 7 and 10 years old. Thanks in advance.

 

[RobDoc]

Both are offered thru the recreation program at the resort- although they may also be found elsewhere at HH from other vendors. It's pretty easy to arrange either way- but we've always found it simple to use the resort staff to make all of the arrangements.

The Dolphin cruise leaves from a dock in the marina next to the resort. It's a great way to see the dolphin in a natural habitat and will get right up near the animals (especially compared to some of the larger commercial dolphin cruises). Often the captain will let the kids (of all ages) drive the boat for awhile.

Horseback riding is also available thru the resort. I have not experienced this personally, but am certain you will need to drive to a stable- as there are no horses nearby the resort itself. There are several stables on HH- most notably within Sea Pines Plantation- Lawton Stables area.

It's usually not necessary to reserve these activities prior to arrival. The recreation staff will be happy to provide all information about the programs. There are lots of things your children are likely to enjoy at the resort!

 

[dis-happy]

We've spent many years hanging around the stables in Sea Pines, especially my horse minded dd. Lawton Stables takes you on a nature ride through the Forest Preserve at Sea Pines which includes 5 lakes (you don't pass by all of them on the trail ride though), an ancient Indian shell ring; the guides are informative about the area and its history. The horses are matched to the rider's ability; most (if not all) of the ride is done at a walk; western saddles are used. Minimum age to ride is 8, unless the child rides at home (but if your child is 7 almost 8, I would call and ask--they might make an exception). The phone number 843-671-2586; Betsy and Tom the owners are really nice. Can't remember the exact cost to ride, either $40. or $45. for a 1 hour ride, but add on another 30-45 minutes beforehand to get the riders fitted to the horses. A reservation is needed, and during the busy weeks they can completely book up. Finally, bring some carrots---it's fun to feed the horses as well!

For younger children, there are also pony rides available for $5.

HTH!

 

[dlr25]

Thank you so much for the info. My 7 year old will be 8 when we're there (March birthday) but thank you for the heads up. Both the dolphin tours and riding sound terrific.

 

[drakester]

We did the dolphins and loved it. So cool to beable to see the dolphins up close.

 

[babylisa4]

We did the dolphin cruise fromt he resort and loved it as well. So convenient- we booked it after we got there. We also did horses, don't remember where from but our horses walked along the beach area. We did have to drive to the horse stables. I'm guessing we found out where to go from the activities resources at the resort though.