Home to first-class polo, horse racing, historic stables and the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, South Carolina is an authentic and timeless equestrian community rich in charm and tradition. Saddle up for riding and spectating all throughout the state.
Horsin’ Around
Ride on the Beach
At Inlet Point Plantation in North Myrtle Beach, rent a horse for one-hour oceanfront riding on quiet Waites Island for peaceful waterway trails. Or bring your own horse to some of South Carolina’s state parks, such as Myrtle Beach State Park and Hunting Island State Park, for seasonal riding on the beach.
Ride Through History
At Middleton Place Equestrian Center in Charleston, take a one-hour guided, narrated horseback riding tour in the historic Plantation District. You’ll ride around the plantation’s scenic rice pond bordering the Ashley River. On Old South Carriage Co.’s Historic Charleston Carriage Tour, take in the sights along more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of historic downtown while learning about the grand mansions, blooming gardens, notable landmarks and breathtaking architectural styles spanning centuries.
Ride Through Forests
Bring your own horse for a unique opportunity to ride the natural terrain of Hitchcock Woods in Aiken. With 70 miles of sandy trails, this has been a haven for pedestrian and equestrian users since the early 1800s. At Lawton Stables, go on a guided horseback ride on Hilton Head Island. You’ll meander beneath canopies of palmettos and moss-covered oaks, and along scenic trails in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
Ride Like a Pro
Book a horsemanship lesson at Black Horse Run in Fountain Inn to learn practical skills and Western-style riding. If you’re looking to take your technique and riding ability to the next level, take hunter or jumper lessons at Emerald Leaf Stables in Greenville.
Off to the Races
March
Elloree Trials, Elloree
Wear your most extravagant hat and experience a full day of the finest thoroughbred and quarter horse racing.
Aiken Triple Crown, Aiken
This world-famous event is made of three equine-related events happening on consecutive weekends: the Aiken Trials, the Aiken Spring Steeplechase and Pacers & Polo.
April
The Carolina Cup, Camden
Celebrating 87 years, this annual race holds the National Steeplechase Association attendance record of 71,000 people. Learn about the history of the sport at The National Steeplechase Museum, also in Camden.
October
Polo 4 Heroes, Bluffton
This fundraising staple includes numerous events, such as a Champagne brunch, a Lowcountry boil, bluegrass concert and the Patton Sports Legacy Polo Match featuring U.S. military veteran polo players.
November
Steeplechase of Charleston, Hollywood
Pack your coolers for tailgate fun and grab your big hats and bow ties for five high-stakes races with coveted titles on the line.
King’s Tree Trials, Kingstree
This event draws jockeys and their thoroughbreds or quarter horses from across the Southeast to the track.
