Frequently Asked Questions
I don't see a beach ride scheduled on the day/time when I want to ride. Should I schedule a Private Ride? No. All of our beach rides are scheduled at low tide. That time changes every day. When low tide occurs at night, we can't do a ride because, Johnny Law would lock us up.
If the date you wish to ride is more than a few weeks away, we probably have not scheduled rides that far in advance. Just check back a few weeks before the day you want to ride. If the tide is out during daylight hours, rest assured we will schedule a ride.
Who can participate in the beach experience? Almost anyone can do this because we can adjust the ride depending on your experience level. We make it wicked fun for Barneys and expert riders alike. We accept children as young as 3. We welcome the disabled. Our only restriction is that you must weight under 220 lbs. Sorry, no exceptions.
I know how to ride, do I have to have a guide? If you can ride like a Comanche we'll let you ride on the beach without a guide, but everyone has a guide in the water. Sweet!
Will I ride bareback? Yes, but not like that! We use bareback pads which are more comfy than sitting directly on the horse (but no stirrups). English and western-style saddles are available, but cannot be taken into the salt water.
Can you accommodate more than 6 riders? Yes, but not at the same time. If you have 8-15 riders in your party, we can organize a weapons-grade beach party for you. Call 855-510-1170 for details.
Can Junior ride with an adult? Yes. But there are restrictions. The adult must be an accomplished rider with years of riding instructions. The combined weight of the adult and child must be under 200 lbs. The child must hold a ticket. No free lunch, baby!
Are Photographs and Videos permitted? Professional-quality still images and videos are available above. You are also welcome to take your own photographs and/or bring your own photographer; however, there's an extra fee if your photographs are for commercial purposes.
Are spectators allowed? Spectators are always welcome. There is a public sidewalk parallel to the beach. The beach is open to the public.
Are dogs allowed? Yes! Palma Sola Bay is a pooch-friendly beach.
Horse Surfing - If you weigh less than 150 lbs and wish to try standing up on your horse (totally optional), your guide will teach you how to hang ten like a local for no extra charge. Horse Surfing was invented right here at Palma Sola Bay in Bradenton, FL! (see video below)
Refunds - All tickets are non-refundable. Please don't hate us.
Ticket Availability - To control quality and safety, we only sell 4 tickets for each event. If you have 7-16+ people in your group, we can throw a bitchin' beach party. Just give us a call at 941-907-7272.
Directions - We ride at Palma Sola Bay. There isn't an official address but Map coordinates are 27º 29' 46.24" N 82º 38' 43.25" W. You'll be looking for a truck and trailer on the side of the road. We're right on Manatee Avenue, about 4 miles east of Homes Beach and 11 miles west of I-75.
Do I need to print my tickets? Nah, just make sure you know when/where to go. Be on time. Bring ID. Bring lots of Dead Presidents for tipping. Know in advance that you will get wet.
How much should I tip? - Excellent question. If you're a cheap-skate or you have a really lousy time, $0-5 per person. If you're a working stiff or student like us, then $10-20 per person is average. If you have a truly awesome experience, then $25-50 per person is normal. If you flew into SRQ on a Gulfstream G550, then $100 each is very cool. All tips, no matter how small, are greatly appreciated.
Rain/Cold - We reserve the right to delay/postpone/cancel your ride due to crappy weather or for any other reason. If we are forced to cancel your ride due to weather or for any other reason, we will give you a rain check that can be used up to one year later. After that they start to get moldy. You must be present and ready to ride at your scheduled time of departure to be eligible for a rain check.
What time should I be there? Plan to check-in at least 15 minutes before your ride to sign release forms, ask questions, and get acquainted with the horses and guides. Please don't be late for your ride. Your ticket is good only for the times stated on your ticket. Your ride will end at the scheduled time regardless of what time you arrive.
Rescheduling - If you need to reschedule your ride, there is a $10 per ticket rebooking fee. Other restrictions apply. Please read the Fine Print prior to booking.
Other Options - Not sure what you want or when you want to ride? Consider a Gift Certificate or a Private Ride.