Kohala Naʻalapa Stables (Kahua Ranch)
Waimea, Waimea Area
Open-Range Rides on a 12,000-Acre Working Cattle and Sheep Ranch
Kohala Naʻalapa Stables runs guided horseback rides on Kahua Ranch, a 12,000-acre working cattle and sheep ranch, from 59-564 Kohala Mountain Road near Kamuela (the first building on the right). Its site says it has run rides since 1981, with open-range riding rather than a head-to-tail line, and that trotting and cantering are available. Rides are 1.5 hours ($125 plus tax; check-in 9:00 AM or 2:30 PM) or 2.5 hours ($165 plus tax; check-in 10:00 AM or 12:30 PM), seven days a week, with booking online.
There is a 2-rider minimum and 10-rider maximum, riders must be 8 to 70 years old and weigh no more than 230 pounds, and a waiver is required. The ranch says rides are not recommended for elderly, disabled, obese or pregnant riders, and suggests long pants, covered shoes and a sweatshirt, plus bottled water. The cancellation window is 24 hours. Kamaʻāina pricing is not listed, and the site does not say what the fee includes.
Why Roamwise recommends this
A scenic, real-ranch riding experience in cool Kohala hill country — a good rainy-coast alternative.
Best for: confident beginners and experienced riders, ranch landscapes, couples and small groups.
Insider tip: bring a warm layer, since Kohala Mountain Road is cooler than the coast, and confirm weight and age limits before booking.
- Hazards / conditions:
- Working-ranch terrain with trotting and cantering; riders must meet the ranch's age, weight and health guidance.
- Safety notes:
- Prices are before tax and what's included is not stated; weight limit is 230 lb and age 8–70 per the ranch.
- Price tier:
- $$$
- Cost:
- $125 plus tax for the 1.5-hour ride; the 2.5-hour ride is $165 plus tax. (checked October 2026)
Reviews: Google MapsYelp
Local tips
- •1.5-hour ride $125 plus tax
- •2.5-hour ride $165 plus tax.
- •Ages 8–70
- •maximum rider weight 230 lb
- •waiver required.
- •Open seven days a week
- •minimum 2 riders
- •24-hour cancellation.
- •Wear long pants and covered shoes
- •bring water.
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