“Who I Admire the Most and Why

There are so many people who I admire and look up to, but I am going to single out one. She is my horse back riding teacher, Auntie Samantha. She teaches really well. When we are riding, she gives us corrections that are very descriptive and understandable. She also takes time to give us back stories about the horses, so we understand them. The stories tell us what it will be like when we ride them based on their age and traits. She is a really good horse back rider herself. Every time I have a lesson with her, she teaches me cool stuff. For example, she taught me how to trot and do the around-the-world turn while the horse is walking. Until I took my first lesson with her, I didn’t know I would like horses that much. I have Auntie Samantha to thank for my love of horses!”

— Kaia, age 10

We came all the way from New York City looking for a real escape, and Beyond the Gaits completely delivered. We stayed at Samantha's Airbnb, which was incredible on its own, but the riding lessons took the whole experience to another level.

My husband had never been on a horse before, and by the end of the lesson he felt genuinely comfortable and informed.

We were not just plopped on a horse and pointed in a direction. You can tell Samantha truly cares about her horses and about making sure her guests have a meaningful experience, not just a checkbox activity.

We loved everything about it. Highly recommend to anyone looking to disconnect from the city and actually learn something while you're at it.

-Lillian Nweke

“Highly recommend! Clearly a woman of strength and love that is rebuilding her entire life (after the lava took over her place). Kumu Samantha is Naturally amazing with Keiki and Horses of course! With the team of three combined, this place is a powerhouse of knowledge, love and FUN! Makana can’t wait for the next lesson! Mahalo Nui Loa!”

— Amanda Cox

“This is the best place for kids to learn to ride on the island or anywhere else! My kids adore Sam and Dan and the rest. Sam is gentle but firm as a teacher and always takes her time to explain things and let kids get comfortable. If we still lived on the island, we would be here every week, if only for the lovely view. The lessons are a mega bonus!”

— Michelle Kennedy

“Amazing teacher who guides youth in being present with their horses and community. If you want to learn how to live with Aloha then go to Beyond the Gaits.”

— Devon Colleen

“It’s been a wonderful experience watching my daughter learn how to ride over the few years with Samantha. Right from the beginning her confidence has grown as she listens and learns from both her human and horse teachers. Each showing her patience as she tackles a new skill. A wonderful place for both the young and not so young who would love to ride.”

— Karen Silva

“There are not many people I’d trust to teach my little ones about horses. Samantha is AMAZING with kids and makes our two hours there every Friday one of the best moments of my kids’ week. I can’t recommend enough!”

— Kat Mulvaney