When you hear the words “Hilton Head Island,” you naturally see visions of sun-soaked beaches and world-class golf courses. After all, these two are the top reasons people flock to this Lowcountry paradise. But did you know those three words could also bring thoughts of horses and everything farm-y? Yep! At Lawton Stables, you get a different kind of island adventure, one filled with barnyard friends, horseback rides, and a taste of the countryside right in Sea Pines.
Lawton Stables at the Sea Pines Forest Preserve
A visit to Hilton Head means a day or two (or more!) in Sea Pines, one of the island’s most iconic communities. Here, you get to witness the legendary Harbour Town Lighthouse in all its glory, play your heart out at three of Golfweek’s Top 200 Resort Golf Courses in the U.S., and fall in love with the miles of magnificent beaches. If you walk even further inside Sea Pines, a whole new world is waiting for you called the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
The Preserve is 606 acres of pure Lowcountry magic, officially dedicated in 1971 by the Fraser family to protecting the wildlife habitat and holding space for outdoor recreation opportunities. This preserve is where nature thrives, with winding trails, serene lakes, and ancient secrets. Many deem it the highlight of their trip, and you’re about to do the same. Where else can you experience Hilton Head as it was before it transformed into a modern-day vacation destination?
Towering pine woods, age-old live oak forests, freshwater marshes, and endless stretches of golden grasslands make the Preserve a dream come true for wildlife lovers. Birdwatchers always have the time of their lives, as this “Important Bird Area” by the National Audubon Society has over 200 species of birds soaring through its skies. Hilton Head’s native whitetail deer also show up sometimes, and resident alligators lounge in Lakes Mary, Thomas, and Joe. Don’t worry, they prefer sunbathing to scaring off sightseers!
Where does Lawton Stables fit in all this wonder? Well, it’s right in the Preserve, allowing you to explore on horseback. Take it all in from the best seat in the house: the saddle. Trust gentle horses to lead you to the 4,000-year-old Shell Ring that Indian Moundbuilders made and introduce you to their other farm pals. You’ll never get tired of listening to the sounds of nature and feeling the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on the trail.
The Lawton Stables Family-Friendly Experiences
Believe Lawton Stables when they say you’re in for an unforgettable Hilton Head vacation. You can come solo or bring your whole squad; the Sea Pines Forest Preserve will give you countless quests!
Guided Western-Style Trail Rides
Looking for a relaxing, beginner-friendly activity? Put trail rides on the top of your list. This one-hour horseback ride takes you around the Preserve, with guides making sure your horses are always walking, not galloping off. For safety, riders must be 8 years or older (sorry, no exceptions!) and under 240 pounds.
Pony Rides
Lawton Stables’ Shetland ponies are ready to entertain the littlest cowboys and cowgirls aged seven and under! Kids can enjoy two laps around the animal farm, led by awesome team members. Note: All riders must be at least 18 months old and able to sit up on their own.
Animal Farm
An adorable barnyard bestie lineup is eager to say hello and sneak a snack! Feed goats, miniature donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, alpacas, ponies, and chickens, but only with food the stables provide for a small fee. Who doesn’t want to make some furry (and feathered) friends while on vacation?
Carriage Rides
Climb aboard for an hour-long horse-drawn carriage expedition through the Preserve! This activity is perfect for those who’d rather voyage like royalty. Each ride can accommodate up to four passengers, so call your old-fashioned friends or family. No need to think about age or weight limits — you are all welcome!
Behind the Scenes Tour
Lawton Stables’ newest program is a private tour that lets you learn about the stables. How do the people take care of the animals? What do they do to keep them happy, healthy, and safe? When it’s not enough to meet and feed the lovely creatures, you can join the behind-the-scenes tour and see the stables from a new perspective.
Birthday Parties
Imagine celebrating your child’s birthday surrounded by horses and their pals. It’s possible at Lawton Stables! Bring the food and decorations, and the stables will do the rest. No balloons, please! The four-legged animals might get scared. Pony parties are available on weekends during the low season, which starts in November and ends in February.
Boarding
Let’s say you flew to Hilton Head solely for horses. Well, you’ll be happy to find championship and warm-up arenas and more in the state-of-the-art boarding barn! All horses live the good life, and all horse lovers can find a community of riders and trainers. The island is a professional rider’s home, too.
Events
If you’re extra lucky and happen to be on the island during one of Lawton Stables’ events, you’ll get even more treats! Check out their page regularly to see if anything special is happening. Count on the stables to celebrate Christmas, Easter, and Halloween with horses as the stars.
Giddy-Up With Beachside Hilton Head!
Lawton Stables is a must-visit Hilton Head destination. It’s a place where everyone can have fun! Whether you’re a horse whisperer or simply seeking some equine escapades, the stables have something for you. Don’t forget to make reservations, as more people are discovering this side of Hilton Head than ever. Pin 190 Greenwood Drive on your map and save (843) 671-2586 on your speed dial.
If you want to be near Lawton Stables while also being free to explore the rest of the island, Beachside Hilton Head has many rental homes for you. Our Sea Pines properties are only a short distance from the Preserve and offer all the amenities you could want for your vacay! You can spend a whole day in the wild and return to the comforts of a fully equipped house. Contact us online or call (843) 342-9909 to book your stay. Yee haw!
