Oahu North Shore: Horseback Ride & Hidden Cave Tour

Summary

Horseback riding pastures to ocean views and TV-famous caves

You’ll ride horseback through Oahu’s North Shore pastures with a local guide, taste wild guava along the way, and stop at a lookout with sweeping ocean views. Peek inside the Hawaii 5-0 Hidden Cave before heading back—expect laughter, fresh air, and maybe a little soreness you’ll remember fondly.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever ridden a horse before?” our guide asked, grinning as she handed me the helmet. I just shook my head and tried not to look nervous — the horses at Gunstock Ranch seemed way calmer than I felt. The air smelled faintly of grass and something sweet, maybe plumeria? Anyway, we started slow, just the four of us and our guide, heading out across these wide open pastures on Oahu’s North Shore. I could hear distant waves even though we weren’t that close yet — funny how sound travels here.

The trail twisted up toward the hills, and it got quieter except for the horses’ hooves in the dirt. Our guide — Leilani — pointed out some wild guava trees (I tried one; tart but good) and told us about paniolo history. I didn’t expect to learn about Hawaiian cowboys today, honestly. We stopped at this lookout where you can see all the way down to the blue water and those little islands off shore. The breeze up there is different — cooler somehow, almost salty. I still think about that view when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

And then there was this cave tucked into the hillside — apparently it was on Hawaii 5-0? Leilani laughed when I asked if she’d ever met any of the actors (“Nope, but my cousin saw them once”). It’s not a huge cave or anything, but stepping inside felt weirdly quiet after all that sun outside. My horse snorted at something in the shadows (probably smarter than me). On the way back down, my legs were already sore but I didn’t care much — just glad we went for it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic horseback ride on Oahu

• Meet friendly guide at Gunstock Ranch
• Ride through open pastures
• View ocean and offshore islands
• Visit Hidden Cave from Hawaii 5-0
• Ride to lookout point summit
• Enjoy panoramic North Shore views

Top questions

How long is the horseback ride on Oahu’s North Shore?

The tour lasts about one hour from start to finish.

Is this horseback tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome and guides provide a safety demo before starting.

What is included in the Oahu horseback ride?

The tour includes a wrangler/guide, use of helmets, and free parking at Gunstock Ranch.

Can children join this horseback tour?

The minimum age is 7 years old; infants or small children can wait in a stroller but not ride.

Do I need special clothing for this tour?

Long pants and covered shoes are recommended; bring a light jacket if it’s cold.

Is pickup included for this Oahu horseback experience?

No hotel pickup is included; free parking is available onsite.

What happens if it rains during my booking?

The ride goes rain or shine unless weather is unsafe—in that case you can reschedule or get a refund.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from an experienced wrangler who leads you through open pastures to ocean views and into the Hawaii 5-0 Hidden Cave; use of helmets for safety; plus free parking right at Gunstock Ranch before your ride begins.