Horseback Riding on the Beach

Horseback Riding on the Beach: A Scenic Adventure in Zihuatanejo

Imagine trotting along a pristine beach with the waves washing over your horses’ feet, passing through coconut groves, and gliding past a tranquil lagoon filled with birds. That’s exactly what this horseback riding tour in Zihuatanejo offers — a chance to see the area’s natural beauty from a comfortable, gentle horse. For just $72.49 per person, you get about an hour and 10 minutes of riding, with the added convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, whether you’re staying in Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, or arriving via cruise ship.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized attention from guides like Ramon, who makes safety and fun their priority. Plus, the scenic stops—a coconut plantation, a lagoon, and the beach—provide a wonderfully varied backdrop for a ride that’s both relaxing and visually engaging. Another highlight is that the horses are well-cared for and gentle, making this accessible even if you’re new to riding.

A possible consideration is that galloping isn’t always possible for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a thunderous canter along the shoreline. The ride also involves some natural terrain, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes and sun protection are recommended. This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, authentic scenery, and easygoing horseback riding. It’s especially ideal if you want a memorable, photo-worthy experience that’s suitable for most ages and skill levels.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal ride featuring the beach, lagoon, and coconut plantations
• Gentle, well-trained horses suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple
• Instructive guides who share insights about the area’s natural and cultural highlights
• Flexible departure times to fit your schedule
• Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes of riding, with time for photos and relaxation

Exploring the Zihuatanejo Horseback Riding Tour in Detail

The Itinerary: What Does a Typical Day Look Like?

From the moment we were picked up in an air-conditioned van, the journey set the tone for a relaxed, well-organized experience. The ride begins with a short drive to the stable located in the southern part of Zihuatanejo County, where the guides greet you with friendly professionalism. You’ll want to wear pants and closed-toe shoes — comfortable clothing and sunblock are essential, especially since much of the ride is outdoors.

Once at the stable, the guides give a safety briefing and riding instructions, making sure even first-time riders feel confident. The horses are kind and intelligent, and their gentle nature is clear from the start. If you happen to have an apple or carrot, the guides tell us that the horses would love a treat — an easy way to connect with your animal before setting off.

The Journey: From the Stable to the Scenic Highlights

Following your guide at a leisurely pace, the tour first takes you through a small community at Playa Larga beach. Here, you’ll get a chance to see locals in their daily routines, adding an authentic touch. Then, the horses head onto the beach itself, where you can wade into the surf as waves wash over your horses’ hooves — a moment many find both fun and calming.

Next, the trail leads to a lagoon teeming with birdlife, surrounded by mangrove trees, which adds a splash of wilderness to the ride. The guide shares insights about the flora and fauna, making the experience educational as well as scenic. The ride then continues into a coconut plantation, where the scent of ripe fruit and the lush greenery create a tropical paradise atmosphere.

Authentic Moments and Photo Opportunities

Many reviews highlight how photogenic this ride is. The combination of ocean, lagoon, and plantation makes for memorable photos. As one traveler shared, “The beach and lagoon were incredible, perfect places to take photos!” The guide often stops to give you time to capture the scenery and to learn about the local environment.

The Return and Refreshment

After about 75 minutes, it’s time to head back to the stable. The guides ensure everyone dismounts safely and then invite you to relax with a cold bottle of water or beer—a well-appreciated touch after riding. The transportation then takes you back to your hotel or cruise pier, making the entire process hassle-free.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized, Knowledgeable Guides

Many reviewers praise the guides — Ramon, Pablo, and Guillermo — for their friendly attitude and informative commentary. They seem genuinely invested in creating a welcoming environment, whether it’s sharing insights into local plant life or making sure everyone feels safe on horseback.

Scenic Diversity and Comfortable Horses

The variety of landscapes—beach, lagoon, plantation—keeps the ride interesting. The horses are described as gentle, well-trained, and intelligent, a big plus for those who are new to riding or hesitant. Multiple reviews mention how the horses knew exactly where to go, which speaks to their calm temperament.

Value for Money

At a little over $70, this tour provides a solid experience: scenic views, cultural insights, and a smooth ride. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you don’t have to worry about arranging transport, adding to the overall value.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

We loved the relaxed pace of the ride and the informative guides who made us feel safe and engaged. The scenic stops were well-chosen, giving us plenty of photo opportunities and a true sense of the area’s natural beauty. Many reviewers seem to agree, with comments like “great experience,” “beautiful scenery,” and “perfect for a summer morning.”

The ride duration is just right—enough to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed. The mild adventure of riding through surf and lush plantations makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an authentic connection to the region.

Possible Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers note that galloping isn’t always available, especially if your horse prefers a gentle walk. For adrenaline seekers, this might be a disappointment. Also, natural terrain means sturdy shoes and sun protection are recommended—nothing unusual, but worth noting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback riding adventure is perfect for beginners and families wanting a safe, scenic experience. If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor activity that combines nature, culture, and a bit of adventure without strenuous effort, this is it. It’s also well-suited for photo enthusiasts and anyone eager to explore Zihuatanejo’s stunning landscapes in a relaxed, guided setting.

The Sum Up

For travelers craving a gentle, scenic ride through Mexico’s beautiful coast and lush plantations, this tour offers real value. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the well-behaved horses and breathtaking scenery, make it a memorable outing. Whether you’re a first-time rider or someone looking to enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature, this experience delivers.

The inclusive transportation simplifies logistics, and the authentic landscape keeps the experience genuine. We think this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight in one easy-to-book package. Just bring your camera, some sunblock, and a sense of adventure — you’re in for a treat.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise terminal are included, making it very convenient.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

Do I need riding experience?
Not at all. The horses are gentle and suitable for all levels, and guides give clear instructions and safety briefing.

Can I bring a treat for the horse?
Yes, if you have an apple or carrot, horses love them. Just inform your guide before the ride.

What should I wear?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort, along with sunblock and mosquito repellent.

Are the horses well cared for?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight that the horses are well-trained, gentle, and happy.

What’s the best time of day to book?
Flexible departure times are available, and many prefer mornings to avoid the heat.

Is the ride challenging?
No. The ride is gentle and slow-paced, suitable for beginners and casual riders.

What’s the overall value?
For a little over $70, you get scenic beauty, cultural insights, the convenience of transport, and a memorable outdoor experience, making it a worthwhile investment.