Horseback Riding Adventures Near Panama City Beach: A Family-Friendly Guide

If you’re looking for an exciting and unique family outing near Panama City Beach, horseback riding is a fantastic option. Recently, my family had the opportunity to experience a memorable trail ride with Sunshine Riding Trails, located just under 45 minutes from Panama City Beach in Washington County, Florida. It’s an ideal day trip, offering a taste of nature and adventure just a short drive away.

No Beach Riding Here, But Still Incredible

While you won’t find horseback rides directly on the beach at Panama City Beach, there’s an excellent alternative in the nearby Cape San Blas area in Gulf County. However, for our trail ride, we headed inland to Sunshine Riding Stables, which is nestled near the Ecofina Creek. The location, surrounded by tall pine trees in the Ecofina Preserve, provides an idyllic, peaceful setting perfect for horseback riding.

Though we were familiar with Washington County from our travels to the beach, this was our first time exploring the area in depth. The region offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including beautiful freshwater springs and Florida’s tallest waterfall, making it a wonderful destination to enjoy nature with family and friends. The motto of Washington County, “Experience Life Naturally,” perfectly captures the essence of what this area has to offer.

Washington County: A Hidden Gem for Outdoor Fun

Just north of Panama City Beach and easily accessible from Interstate 10, Washington County is home to a wealth of natural wonders. Whether you’re passing through on your way to the Gulf or looking to enjoy an outdoor escape, this area has plenty to offer. For those in the region, it’s worth taking the time to explore beyond the beach.

In addition to horseback riding, Washington County features many opportunities for outdoor adventure. From swimming in freshwater springs to hiking through stunning landscapes, it’s a great spot for families seeking fun, educational experiences.

Our Horseback Ride at Sunshine Riding Trails

On a recent trip during the kids’ fall break, we decided to check horseback riding off our bucket list, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. For both Matt and me, it had been years since we last rode horses, and the kids had never been on one before. It was a first-time experience for the whole family, and we’re so glad we did it.

The horses at Sunshine Riding Trails are Tennessee Walking Horses, known for their smooth ride. Our guide, Tammy, was welcoming and informative, making the experience even better. The trail ride itself was around an hour, which was perfect for the kids. As we rode through the forest, we were able to enjoy beautiful views of the Ecofina Creek and the surrounding nature. The horses moved at a comfortable pace, and we even had the chance to pick up the speed a little in some open areas.

The Perfect Horse for Each Rider

Upon arrival, the friendly staff at Sunshine Riding Trails paired each of us with a horse that matched our size and experience level. Matt’s horse was Sugarfoot, a gentle mix of Quarter Horse and Tennessee Walker, and Abby rode Ebony, who quickly became her best friend on the trail. Jake was a bit nervous, but once he met Belle, a beautiful white horse, he quickly warmed up. The whole experience was smooth and enjoyable, and we appreciated the personalized attention each of us received.

My horse, Thunder, was just as sweet and well-behaved. It felt great to be on the trail, surrounded by nature, with the whole family riding together.

The Ride and Its Scenic Surroundings

Most of the trail wound through the longleaf pines, providing a scenic view of the natural landscape. The ride was peaceful, with well-maintained paths and sandhills, but there were also open stretches where we were able to let the horses pick up a bit of speed. Tammy, our guide, was excellent in communicating what to expect and sharing interesting facts about the area along the way.

Tips for a Successful Horseback Ride

If you’re planning a horseback ride at Sunshine Riding Trails, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

• Wear appropriate footwear: Closed-toed shoes are a must for horseback riding, and we recommend something waterproof, as it can be damp in some areas.
• Bring water: It gets hot under the Florida sun, especially during the warmer months, so it’s important to stay hydrated. We brought a backpack with extra water, but make sure to have enough for everyone.
• Bring a secure phone case: Matt’s phone kept slipping out of his pocket during the ride, so it’s a good idea to store your phone in a zippered pouch.
• Relax and enjoy: Horseback riding is a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Take in the beautiful scenery, enjoy the company of your family, and connect with nature.

After the Ride: Exploring Washington County

While the horseback ride was the highlight of our visit, there’s plenty to see and do in Washington County once the ride is over. For more outdoor adventure, check out the nearby Chipola River or visit one of the many freshwater springs in the area. Washington County is a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and the horseback riding experience is just the beginning of what this beautiful area has to offer.

For those looking to extend the adventure, you can even try canoeing on Ecofina Creek, which Matt recommends highly from his experience years ago.

A Memorable Family Experience

Our visit to Sunshine Riding Trails in Washington County was a fantastic family outing, and it’s something we’ll definitely do again. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced rider, this horseback riding adventure offers a unique way to explore the beautiful Florida Panhandle. If you’re ever near Panama City Beach, this is one experience that should be on your list.