Hawaii Paso Finos

As a lifetime horse enthusiast and 20+ years of riding experience, I was thrilled to find a riding experience that was more than just a tourist’s «nose to tail» trail ride. I’ve always been curious about gaited horses (and Paso Finos in general) so it was horse geek heaven learning about this amazing breed. It’s basically a mini-​clinic and worth every penny for the unique experience! The grounds are impeccable, the horses spectacularly cared for, and the owners friendly and genuinely in love with their animals. They’re eGALA members, too, which is also awesome. I wish my stay was longer so I could learn more!

What an amazing experience with the Paso Finos and their incredible owners, Joe and Kelly Vitorino. After searching for the «right» horseback riding experience on the Big Island, I found their ranch and info on TA and the web. We were staying in Kona, and it was about an hour’s drive along the lush and tropical north shore to Hawi and the Kapaau area.
Instead of the routine «nose-​to-​tail» trail ride, this was actually professional riding lessons on the most unique and smooth riding horses to be found. Joe and Kelly are very knowledgeable about the history of the Paso Fino, and they take great care to provide a exceptional environment for them as well as the visitor. The ranch property runs along the ocean, and the backdrop of the gorgeous blue Pacific ocean, combined with the sensitive and gently spirited horses made my two rides simply incredible and unforgettable.
My first ride was exhilarating and left me ready for more. Kelly graciously accommodated a second lesson later in the week, and it was equally wonderful. It had been many years since I had ridden, and Kelly was very thoughtful about gauging my experience and matching me with the right horse. If you love horses and are looking for a much more personal and educational experience, you will be absolutely rewarded by the fine ride and great hosts at Hawaii Paso Finos.

I am often asked by people visiting the island to recommend a horseback riding adventure. I can wholeheartedly recommend Hawaii Paso Finos for either someone who has no experience with horses, or who has a lifetime of experience with horses.
First of all, this is not a string of horses who do nothing but carry tourists day after day. Owners Kelly and Joe Vitorino have a passion for the Paso Fino breed, which they introduced to Hawaii. They share their horses via a variety of activities… lessons, ranch rides, equine assisted learning, and even yoga on horseback.
Although I live in the area and have my own horses, I’ve ridden with Hawaii Paso Finos just to have the fun of trying their gaits and enjoying the company of the Vitorinos in one of the most stunning settings to ride on the Island.
I recently decided to try their once-​a-​month yoga on horseback offering which they do in partnership with yoga instructor Daya. Our class of six included a couple who were visiting from the Mainland and four locals, with levels of horse and yoga experience from «first time» to «do it every day». After a warm-​up on yoga mats, we moved into the round pen. The work on horseback was done in partners, with one partner holding the horse’s lead rope while the other was mounted on a bareback pad. The horses stand patiently while the yoga instructor leads the riders in poses including breathing exercises, twists, gentle forward and back bends.
I can honestly say the experience will benefit both my riding and yoga practices. If you happen to be visiting the weekend of the class, don’t hesitate to join. I understand they are working on new partnerships to combine music and art into experiences with horses.
After you’ve done all the usual tourist activities on the Big Island, give Hawaii Paso Finos a call.