Business Details
14 Years
experience
Beach Horseback Riding in Bradenton, FL
C Ponies was founded in 2012 with a mission to rescue and rehabilitate neglected horses while offering unique beach and trail riding experiences. Our team specializes in working with rare Gypsy Vanner and Drum horse breeds, many of which were rescued from abusive or neglectful conditions. With decades of combined equine experience, including a family legacy in Lipizzan Stallion breeding, we focus on creating safe, memorable interactions between riders and our well-trained, water-loving horses.Every ride supports our rescue efforts, and our guides prioritize both guest safety and animal welfare. We've been recognized as TripAdvisor's #1 outdoor activity in Bradenton and winner of the 2022 Best of Bradenton Award for horseback riding services.
Services
Beach Rides
Swim Excursions
Trail Tours
Sunset Rides
Photo Packages
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We rescue and rehabilitate 90% of our horses from neglectful conditions
- Experienced guides with equine industry expertise since 2012
- Specialize in rare Gypsy Vanner and Drum horse breeds
- Safety-focused approach with well-trained water-acclimated horses
- TripAdvisor's #1 rated outdoor activity in Bradenton
What people say
Breathtaking beauty
Experienced guides
Flying feeling
Majestic horses
Bucket list experience
Services
Beach Horseback Riding
Explore Florida's coastal waters on horseback with our guided beach excursions. These rides combine gentle trail riding with unique water experiences where horses swim alongside riders. Available in Bradenton and Tampa Bay areas, these tours accommodate various skill levels while showcasing our rescued Gypsy Vanner and Drum horses. Each session includes safety instruction and equipment.
Sunset Excursions
Romantic sunset horseback riding experiences along Florida's beaches. Designed for couples and special occasions, these guided tours offer breathtaking views and memorable photo opportunities. Riders enjoy a combination of trail riding and shallow water segments while watching the sun dip below the Gulf of Mexico horizon.
Trail Tours
Scenic inland trail rides through Florida's natural landscapes at Alafia River State Park. These guided excursions feature shaded paths, wildlife viewing opportunities, and varied terrain. Our well-trained horses navigate forested areas and open fields while guests enjoy Florida's natural beauty in a unique perspective.
People
Carmen Herrmann Hanson
Founder
Fourth-generation horse trainer with Lipizzan Stallion breeding heritage. Closed her traditional riding academy in 2015 to focus on rescue operations. Combines equine therapy with ocean rehabilitation techniques for rescued horses. Holds 20+ years of experience in horse rescue and training.
Questions
What should I wear for a beach horseback ride?
Wear swimwear under clothing, bring water shoes or sandals, and apply waterproof sunscreen. We provide life jackets and riding helmets for safety.
Can beginners participate in water rides?
Yes, all experience levels are welcome. Our trained horses and professional guides ensure safety for first-time riders in water environments.
How deep does the water get during rides?
Water depth varies by location but never exceeds chest height for average adults. Horses are comfortable swimming with riders in deeper sections.
Are there weight limits for riders?
We accommodate riders up to 250 lbs. Contact us directly for specific questions about rider requirements or accommodations.
What happens if it rains on my scheduled ride?
We monitor weather conditions closely. Rides may be rescheduled for safety if thunderstorms or high winds are forecasted in the Bradenton area.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Ana C.
Jan 06, 2022
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The experience was great and so were the instructors. You feel like you are swimming with the ponies under water. There were few things that I did not like , but that cannot be controlled by the instructors or the business since the ponies are the ones that do that. I like how they are rescue animals for the most part and seem like a family. Hopefully I can come back one day and experience this again.
Cynthia Burton
Dec 20, 2021
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What a fun experience!! Highly recommend doing this while in St. Pete. Our guides Myah and Misty #2 were great. The stories behind all these rescued horses is amazing.
Kelsey Zalimeni
Dec 15, 2021
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Unmissable experience! Incredible staff (Lauri and Raina were our guides today) and beautiful experience with rescued horses. Easily the highlight of our trip to St Petersburg. A must!
Andrea B.
Nov 17, 2021
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What an awesome experience!! I've ridden horses before but NOT in the beach/water! It was really unique. Misty #2 was a fun and funny guide. She was very helpful and made us feel comfortable and safe. I love that the horses are all rescues and hearing about each horses recover story made the ride even more special. Thank you so much C Ponies!!
