Horseback Riding On The Beach by CR Beach Barn

A Scenic Horseback Ride on Costa Rica’s Coast: What to Expect with CR Beach Barn

Imagine trotting along one of Central America’s longest unspoiled beaches, with the jungle on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. For $75 per person, you can enjoy a 1.5-hour horseback riding experience in Esterillos Este, Costa Rica, led by friendly guides who know their horses and their environment well. Small groups—no more than seven—ensure a more personal touch, making this a great choice whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: first, the expert guidance and care that goes into training and maintaining the horses, which makes riding smooth and safe, and second, the breathtaking sunset views that transform a simple ride into a memorable moment. A possible consideration is that the start can sometimes be a little slow—like the 45-minute delay some reviewers mentioned—so patience is key.

This tour suits families, couples, or solo travelers craving a relaxed, authentic Costa Rican experience. If you’re eager to combine scenic beauty with gentle adventure, this ride checks all the boxes. It’s especially perfect if you want a mix of jungle flora, local wildlife, and the vast Pacific horizon—all in a single outing.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastline: Ride along one of Central America’s largest stretches of pristine beach.
• Wildlife sightings: Spot toucans, parrots, and even sloths in their natural habitat.
• Expert guides: Guides like Sylvia and Micha are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Well-trained horses: The horses are carefully cared for and trained, ensuring a comfortable ride.
• Flexible scheduling: The tour can be rescheduled if weather threatens, making the experience more reliable.
• Great value: For $75, you’ll gain a memorable experience with personalized attention.

The Journey Through Esterillos Este: What Makes This Tour Special

When we think about a beach horseback ride in Costa Rica, we picture more than just a quick trot. This tour begins at the CR Beach Barn, a cozy spot just steps from the expansive Esterillos Este beach. The guides, Sylvia and Micha, take pride in their horses’ well-being, emphasizing responsible, ethical riding practices. Their dedication is evident in how well-behaved and healthy the horses appear, which translates into a smooth, enjoyable ride for guests.

The first part of the experience involves a quick tutorial, where you’re matched with a horse suited to your comfort level. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner, the guides tailor their instruction to ensure confidence. One reviewer described the guide as “extremely helpful,” offering “great instructions and answering all questions,” which can, indeed, be reassuring when riding in unfamiliar surroundings.

Once on horseback, you venture onto a private trail that leads through lush jungle sections, crossing tiny rivers, and finally reaching the massive, unspoiled beach. The ride’s highlight is riding along the water’s edge, where you can splash in the surf, and the horses typically walk in a relaxed line, more natural than the typical tourist trail. The beach itself appears vast and untouched, with only a few other visitors, as one reviewer pointed out: “nearly as far as you could see, unspoiled and clean.”

What truly elevates this tour are the spectacular sunset views. Riding along the coast as the sky turns orange and pink creates an almost magical scene. As one guest put it, “the sunset ride was beyond gorgeous,” making it clear why many return or recommend this experience as a highlight of their trip.

The tour also places a strong emphasis on animal welfare. The owners ensure the horses are well cared for year-round, not just during the busy season, which is reassuring for travelers concerned about ethical tourism. Horses are individuals, and their training adapts to their personalities, which helps prevent strain or injury—something that adds to the overall quality of the experience.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Meeting at CR Beach Barn

The adventure begins here, a casual yet organized spot close to the beach. The staff will greet you, provide equipment, and brief you on riding fundamentals—perfect whether you’re a novice or have riding experience.

Mounting Your Horse

After a brief introduction, you’ll get to meet your trusted steed. The guides take time to match riders with horses based on comfort and experience, ensuring everyone feels safe and confident. Several reviews emphasize how well-trained and gentle the horses are, which is especially important if you’re worried about safety or riding with children.

Trail Through Jungle and River Crossings

The ride starts with a private trail that meanders through the local flora—almond trees, tropical plants, and wildlife. Crossing small rivers feels like a real adventure, with some riders mentioning how these moments add a sense of fun and authenticity.

Reaching the Beach

The highlight is arriving at the stunning Esterillos Este Beach—a wide, clean, and expansive shoreline. Here, you can enjoy riding along the water, splashing in the surf, or simply soaking in the views. This part of the tour is often described as peaceful and almost surreal, especially during sunset.

Sunset and Return

As the sky darkens, you’ll likely want to pause and take photos or simply revel in the moment. The guides are praised for taking time to capture these memories, including videos and photos for you. The ride concludes with your return to the starting point, often feeling like a serene, soul-refreshing experience.

Authenticity and Value in the Experience

Compared to typical guided tours, this horseback ride offers a genuine connection with nature and the animals. The small group size fosters a more relaxed, personal environment, allowing guides to provide individualized attention. The cost of $75 might seem modest considering the length, scenery, and personalized care—a good deal for a memorable, picture-perfect outing.

Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Sylvia and Micha—who not only show you the ropes but share interesting facts about local flora and fauna. For example, one guest loved learning about the local wildlife, which added an educational layer to the ride.

The tour’s flexibility is another value point; if weather threatens to spoil your plans, rescheduling or full refunds are available. This flexibility offers peace of mind, especially for travelers wary of unpredictable weather.

While some guests experienced minor delays at the start, the overall consensus is that the experience is well worth the wait. The sight of horses galloping along the coastline, the sound of waves, and the sunset glow combine to create lasting memories—an experience that goes beyond simple sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Your Ride

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 21 days ahead.
• Arrive prepared for the weather: Costa Rica’s tropical climate means quick showers are common—bring a light rain jacket if needed.
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes suitable for riding.
• Bring your camera or phone—guides are happy to snap photos during the ride.
• Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; the horses and environment are suitable for families wanting a gentle adventure.
• Plan for a 1.5-hour window including briefing, riding, and return.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This horseback ride along Esterillos Este beach is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, nature-focused adventure. If you’re looking for a quality, well-organized tour that combines scenic beauty with ethical animal care, you’ll find it here. It’s a superb option for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to step away from the crowds and into a peaceful coastal landscape.

The guides’ expertise and friendliness, along with the breathtaking sunset views, make this ride stand out. It offers excellent value for the price, especially since you’ll share a personal, authentic experience that many reviews describe as “the experience of a lifetime.”

However, if you prefer a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping ride, this might not be your best fit. It’s more about the journey, the scenery, and the connection with nature. For those willing to embrace a leisurely pace, this tour promises unforgettable moments and beautiful memories.

FAQ

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides provide a basic tutorial to help you ride confidently, regardless of experience level. The horses are well-trained and gentle.

How long does the tour last?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including briefing and return. It’s a relaxed pace designed to enjoy the scenery.

Can I reschedule if the weather looks bad?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility. If poor weather cancels the ride, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the experience is suitable for most ages, especially those comfortable around horses.

What is the group size?
Maximum of 7 travelers, making for a more intimate, personalized experience.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $75 per person, which includes the guided horseback ride, equipment, and safety instructions.

Whether you’re a horseback riding enthusiast or simply want a peaceful, scenic experience along the Pacific coast, CR Beach Barn’s tour offers a genuine connection with Costa Rica’s natural beauty. With caring guides, healthy horses, and breathtaking views, it’s an experience well worth considering for your trip.