Traveling the horse world: Seabrook Island Equestrian Center

Seabrook Island is just on the outer edge of the greater Charleston area mostly known for its natural beauty and as a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city whilst remaining on the coast. For us, the island is another chance to escape the city and enjoy some horse time in the outdoors.

The Seabrook Island Equestrian Center is the home of a top hunter jumper training program but also offers trail rides and beach rides for people coming from out of town. We opted for the 1:30 PM beginner trail ride so that Mom could avoid the "canter" which is required of all riders on the advanced and beach trail rides. While the scenery was very similar to Middleton Place - spanish moss and marshes - the atmosphere was more ocean than river. We saw more palm trees and the trails were mostly sand rather than dirt. The beginner trail ride was perfect for a leisurely southern afternoon snoop of the private homes on the island, just what someone from Canada would be curious about (How do those snow birds pass the winter out here?). The weather was a perfect 72 degrees. We could have stayed on that trail all afternoon.

For hunter/jumper folks - Charles Hairfield is the trainer at Seabrook and it is possible to book lessons in advance. Missy Roades was also in on the same day giving a clinic. I just wish we had known in advance so we could stay and watch.