Seaside Nature Park — Horseback Riding and Nature Discovery on 30 Acres
Trail rides ending in the sea, a discovery farm, and sunset campfire experiences on St. Maarten's rugged south coast.
Why Go
Thirty acres of undeveloped coastline in Cay Bay, with horses that walk trails through dry forest, scramble down to the beach, and wade into the Caribbean Sea with you still in the saddle. Seaside Nature Park is one of very few places in the Caribbean where you ride a horse into the ocean, and the setting — raw, quiet, and removed from the tourist strip — feels like a different island entirely.
The Experience
The standard 1-hour trail ride follows paths through the park's dry coastal landscape past roaming peacocks, iguanas, and free-ranging goats before descending to a secluded beach. The ride ends with the horse walking into the sea — you stay mounted while the horse wades chest-deep, which is the moment most visitors remember. The 2-hour sunset option adds a campfire on the beach with marshmallows and champagne as the sun drops below the western horizon. The Discovery Farm section has miniature farm animals and pony rides for children too young or small for the trail (minimum age 6, weight limit 200 pounds for trail rides). The beach area offers swimming and snorkeling when you are not riding. Horseback riding lessons and equine therapy sessions are also available for those wanting more than a trail ride.
What to Try
The 2-hour sunset ride with campfire is the premium experience and the reason to time your visit for late afternoon. If you only have an hour, the standard trail ride still includes the sea swim, which is the defining moment. For families with younger children, the Discovery Farm pony rides and animal encounters work as a standalone visit without committing to a full trail ride.
Insider Tip
The sunset ride books out during high season — reserve several days in advance, especially around holidays. Wear clothes you do not mind getting wet; the sea portion is not optional on most rides and the horses go deeper than you might expect. Cay Bay is on the south coast away from the main tourist areas, so factor in 15-20 minutes of driving from Simpson Bay.
The Practical Stuff
Open daily 8 AM to 5 PM. Located at 64 Cay Bay Road, Koolbaai. Mid-range pricing for trail rides; sunset package at premium. Minimum age 6, weight limit 200 lbs for trail rides. No riding experience needed. Discovery Farm and beach access available without booking a ride. Advance reservation required for rides, especially sunset option.
Pair It With
- Indigo Beach Bar and Restaurant Guide — Cay Bay area beach dining after your ride
- Villa Amaya Guide — Nearby accommodation for staying close to the park