What it is
CJM Country Stables is a family-owned and operated business offering guided horseback trail rides along the scenic and undeveloped Māhāʻulepū coastline on Kauaʻi's South Shore. The stables were founded by a fourth-generation paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) and provide access to private lands owned by Grove Farm. The rides traverse rugged coastal cliffs, offering expansive ocean views. The experience is tailored to beginners and those seeking a scenic, slow-paced tour rather than an advanced equestrian adventure.
Visitor experience
The primary visitor experience is a guided horseback ride at a walking pace along cliffside trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The route provides dramatic views of the Māhāʻulepū coastline, a largely undeveloped stretch of sea cliffs, coves, and sand dunes.
CJM offers several tour options:
- Scenic Tour: A 2-hour ride along the coastal bluffs and ranch lands.
- Secret Beach Picnic Tour: A 3-hour ride that includes the scenic route plus a stop for a picnic lunch.
- Private Tour: A 1.5-hour ride for a private group, following a similar scenic route.
Guides, often local paniolo, lead the small groups in a single-file formation. They typically share information about the area's history, flora, and fauna during the ride. Stops are made at scenic overlooks for photo opportunities. During the winter months (approximately December-March), there is a possibility of spotting humpback whales from the trail. The horses are generally described as gentle, well-cared-for, and suitable for novice riders.
Logistics
- Location: The stables are located in the Poʻipū area on the South Shore. Access is via a 1.5-mile unpaved, often bumpy cane haul road off of Poʻipū Road, past the Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi. Visitors should allow extra time to navigate this road, especially after rain.
- Hours: CJM Country Stables is open for tours from Tuesday to Friday. It is closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. This is a significant scheduling constraint for weekend visitors. Check-in is required 30 minutes before the scheduled tour time.
- Reservations: Advance reservations are required and can be made online. A 48-hour cancellation policy is in effect for a full refund. Booking several weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Parking: Free, on-site parking is available.
- Duration: The experience is a half-day activity. Rides last from 1.5 to 3 hours, but visitors should budget additional time for travel, check-in, and the mandatory orientation.
- Cost:
- Scenic Tour: $219 per person (plus tax).
- Secret Beach Picnic Tour: $259 per person (plus tax).
- Private Tour: $319 per person (plus tax), with a two-rider minimum.
- Facilities: A check-in area and portable toilets are available at the stables. Small saddlebags are provided for water bottles and small cameras.
Safety and cautions
- Rider Requirements: There is a strict weight limit of 230 pounds; the stables note that they may weigh guests to confirm. The minimum age is 8 years old for group tours and 6 years old for private tours. Riders must have the mobility to mount their horse from the ground with the use of a stirrup.
- Pace: All tours are conducted at a walking pace only. For safety reasons, no trotting or cantering is permitted, even on private tours.
- Required Attire: All riders must wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Helmets are provided and are mandatory for riders under 18.
- Items on Trail: Backpacks, purses, and fanny packs are not allowed on the ride. Selfie sticks are also prohibited.
- Environmental Cautions: Much of the trail is exposed with little shade, making sun protection (sunscreen, hats) and hydration essential. Tours may be canceled due to heavy rain or other severe weather conditions.
- Land Management: Riders must stay on the designated trail to protect the fragile coastal ecosystem, which includes sand dunes and native seabird nesting areas. Swimming is not part of the tour.
Editorial take
Who should prioritize it: CJM Country Stables is ideal for first-time or novice riders, families with children who meet the age requirements, and visitors of varying fitness levels who want to experience the dramatic Māhāʻulepū coastline without a strenuous hike. The slow pace and incredible scenery make it a great fit for photographers and anyone looking for a relaxed, memorable outdoor activity on the South Shore.
Who should skip it: Experienced equestrians seeking to trot, canter, or engage in more advanced riding will likely find the strict walk-only pace and single-file formation frustrating. It is also a premium-priced activity, so it may not be suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Those with tight weekend schedules should note the stable is closed Saturday through Monday.
Not to be confused with: Princeville Ranch on the North Shore offers a different style of horseback riding. Their tours go through pastures and valleys with mountain scenery and include options like a ride to a waterfall for a swim. Princeville Ranch may be a better alternative for more experienced riders or those based on the North Shore seeking a different landscape.
Source notes
- CJM Country Stables (Official FAQ): The official website's frequently asked questions page provides current policies on rider requirements, attire, cancellations, and tour pace.
- CJM Country Stables (Scenic Tour): The official tour page detailing the duration and price for the standard scenic ride.
- CJM Country Stables (Picnic Tour): The official tour page for the longer picnic ride, confirming its availability, duration, and price.
- CJM Country Stables (Private Tour): The official tour page for private rides, specifying cost and rider minimums.
- Hawaii Magazine: Provides context on the Māhāʻulepū area and lists CJM as a key way to experience it, highlighting the scenic beauty.
- TripAdvisor: Provides a large volume of recent visitor reviews, confirming common themes such as the spectacular views, gentle horses, bumpy access road, and slow pace.
