You may not have realized that in addition to the fabulous golf, tennis and water activities available in the Hilton Head area, there is also a great equestrian community. Indeed this area has a great horse culture, even its own species of horse, the Carolina Marsh Tacky, a descendent of the horses brought over by Spanish explorers in the 1500’s.  If you are thinking of relocating and are looking for a community that you can share with your equine friends, look no further.

On Hilton Head Island, Sea Pines Plantation is home to Lawton Stables where in addition to offering horseback rides through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve to visitors; residents can board their horses there as well.

In Bluffton, Rose Hill Plantation, Rose Dhu Creek Plantation, and Moss Creek Plantation all have equestrian facilities.  Rose Hill Plantation hosts several great community activities annually including polo matches and the Equestrian Expo.  Rose Dhu Creek Plantation has a covered riding arena which allows for riding in inclement weather.  Moss Creek Plantation, just over the bridges from Hilton Head offers riding programs for all ages, as well as boarding.

One of the newest equestrian centers in the Bluffton area is the 173 acre Longfield Stables in Palmetto Bluff. These facilities opened last year and include a covered arena, Olympic size dressage area, 5 acre turf event field, and 2 barns with almost 40 stalls for boarding.  Instruction in various equestrian disciplines is available at all riding levels.

In Okatie located conveniently between Beaufort and Hilton Head, Spring Island offers a fabulous waterfront community with great privacy, stables and miles of riding trails to explore by horseback. Some estate homesites allow for barns and pastures, although boarding and stable horses are also available. Other amenities include golf, fishing, and a multitude of activities for nature lovers, making this is one of the most unique communities in the Low Country.

Another excellent gated community in Okatie with equestrian facilities is Oldfield. Oldfield’s equestrian center offers residents boarding as well as riding instruction. This gated community also has river access as well as an exceptional golf course.

In Jasper County, just 20 minutes from Bluffton is a private equestrian community called Honey Hill. While there are not community stables, owners can build their own barns and keep their horses onsite.  Residents enjoy low annual fees and while there are some building restrictions the covenants and rules are generally less restrictive than larger communities.  Parcels in this community are mostly 5+ acres providing plenty of room to build a barn and house.  Carolina Realty Group is currently marketing a 5 acre equestrian property in this community which includes a 2 bedroom home with a 2 car garage, a 4 stall barn and a fenced paddock.  If you are looking for a peaceful home and horse farm in the country at an affordable price, this is a great opportunity.