Updated: October 2026
Horseback riding near Anna Maria Island means riding along the sand and then into the shallow water of Palma Sola Bay. Palma Sola Bay is on the Bradenton side, a short drive from the island, and three outfitters run guided rides there. The horses wade out until they are swimming, and you stay on their backs.
The rides suit first-timers and experienced riders alike. Some outfitters take children as young as 3 and some hold riders to an older minimum age, so check the age rules before you book.
Horseback riding is one of many ways to spend time on the water around the island. For every water option, see my Water Activities on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide. Traveling with children? Start with my Best Family Activities on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide.
Horseback Riding Companies Near Anna Maria Island
All three companies below are at or near 8400 Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton and all three ride along the shore and into Palma Sola Bay.
Carousel Sea Horses
- 8400 Manatee Avenue West · Bradenton
- 863-444-3608
- Book online
Carousel Sea Horses keeps eight breeds of horses. Several are rescues and some belong to an active vaulting club. Riders must be at least 8 years old.
The Sand and Swim ride follows the shoreline and ends with a swim alongside your horse. The Sunset at Sea ride uses the same route, timed for sunset.
C Ponies
- 8400 Manatee Avenue West · Bradenton
- 941-773-5196
- Book online
Carmen, a fourth generation horse trainer, rescued and rehabilitated every Gypsy and Drum horse at C Ponies. Each rider gets a horse of their own with a lightweight waterproof saddle, and a three-step mounting block makes getting on and off easier. Double riding and bareback riding are not allowed. Riders must be at least 10 years old. Photo packages are available for purchase.
The Bradenton Platinum Excursion starts with a ride into the bay and ends with several swims with your horse. The Sunset Platinum Excursion follows the same format at sunset.
Florida Beach Horses
- 8400 Manatee Avenue West · Bradenton
- 941-527-9621
- Book online
Florida Beach Horses keeps rescued horses from around the country in a mix of sizes and breeds. Broader horses carry more weight and smaller horses suit younger riders. Experienced riders can ask to canter down the shoreline and guides will take photos and video on your phone during the ride. You may bring carrots or apples for your horse. A one-on-one guide is available for riders who want extra support.
The Sand and Surf Ride starts on the shore and finishes in the water. It is open to riders as young as 3, seniors, and riders with disabilities. The Cruise Ride follows a similar path for riders 10 and older. The Sand and Surf Sunset Ride is the same as the Sand and Surf, timed to end in the water as the sun goes down.
What to Know Before You Ride
Book ahead, because rides run on set schedules and sunset slots fill first. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and dry clothes for afterward. The causeway is a busy road and you are riding an animal, so pay close attention during the safety briefing.
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There is no shade on the water, so pack a hat, a long-sleeved sun shirt, and sunscreen. I keep my favorite sunscreens in my Amazon storefront.
Want more real-time tips and honest answers about Anna Maria Island? Join Anna Maria Island Insider, my Facebook group built on one simple rule: real, helpful answers only. Join the group.
Coastal Close
Riding a horse into the water minutes from a Florida beach town still surprises me and it surprises most people I tell. Pick a morning ride for cooler weather or a sunset ride for the light. Either one makes a good break from the beach.
— izzy