Ride The Beach and Swim with Horses near Playa Conchal
Starting at $135
Ride along the white-sand shores of Playa Conchal before entering the Pacific Ocean on horseback for a rare and unforgettable swimming experience. This private, ethical horseback riding adventure blends beach exploration, wildlife encounters, and ocean immersion — designed for families, beginners, and animal lovers seeking something truly unique in Guanacaste.
From Beach Ride to Ocean Swim: An Unforgettable Horseback Adventure in Conchal & Matapalo
Imagine riding along the shoreline of one of Guanacaste’s most stunning beaches before guiding your horse gently into the warm Pacific Ocean. This private horseback riding experience near Playa Conchal offers something few travelers ever get to do — swim with your horse in the sea.
Designed for families, beginners, and seasoned riders alike, this curated adventure combines a scenic beach ride, refreshing ocean immersion, and ethical horsemanship. Along the way, you may occasionally spot monkeys in the trees, iguanas basking in the sun, or shorebirds moving along the coastline.
The horses are exceptionally well cared for, well-fed, and accustomed to ocean swimming. This is more than a ride — it’s a memorable and responsible animal experience grounded in sustainable tourism values.
Specifics:
- ⏱️Pick Up Time: Scheduled according to low tide. We aim to begin approximately 1 hour before the lowest tide for optimal ocean conditions. Exact time confirmed upon booking.
- 📌Meeting Point: Near Matapalo, Guanacaste. We will send you the exact location pin after confirmation. Round-trip transportation is available for an additional fee based on your location — please inquire for a quote.
- ⏳ Activity Duration: Small groups at a regular pace typically enjoy a 1.5-hour experience. Larger groups may take up to 3 hours depending on group size and riding pace.
- 🚗Driving Time: Varies depending on your accommodation.
- 👫Minimum Amount of People: 2 people
- 👶Minimum Age: 4 years old. Children under 6 must ride with a parent and pay half price.
- 👍Price Includes: Private bilingual guide, well-trained and ethically cared-for horse, riding equipment, beach ride, ocean swimming experience, all taxes and fees, and a $5 allocation from Link Expeditions to The Linking Forests Fund, helping protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity with every tour you join.
- 💲Price Note: The listed per person price applies to groups of up to 5 guests. For groups larger than 5, we may offer a discount. For groups of more than 9 participants, please contact us in advance to confirm availability. Transportation is not included in the starting price. Round-trip transportation from the Westin starts at $65 USD per group and may vary depending on your location. Please reach out for a customized transportation quote.
- ❌Not included in the price: Transportation (unless requested for an additional fee), gratuities, or any items not mentioned in the Included section.
Why You Should Consider This Activity:
✅ Swim with Your Horse in the Pacific Ocean
Few horseback riding experiences in Costa Rica offer the chance to guide your horse into the sea. This controlled and supervised ocean immersion is refreshing, unique, and unforgettable.
✅ Ethical & Responsible Horsemanship
This experience was created with the well-being and happiness of the horses as the top priority. The horses are well-fed, carefully maintained, and accustomed to ocean swimming — ensuring both safety and ethical treatment.
✅ Completely Private Experience
Every tour is fully private, meaning you and your group ride exclusively with your own dedicated guide. No mixing with strangers, no rush — just your group and the open coastline.
✅ Ideal for Families & Beginners
Suitable for beginners and children aged 4 and older, this experience is carefully controlled by the guide at all times. While one rider swims, others can relax on the beach or cool off nearby.
✅ Wildlife & Scenic Beauty
As you ride through coastal trails and along the beach, it is occasionally possible to spot monkeys, iguanas, shore birds, and other local wildlife that call this region home.
What To Expect:
Arrival & Orientation
Upon arrival near Matapalo, you’ll be welcomed by your dedicated private guide and introduced to your horse, carefully selected based on your comfort level and riding experience. Before mounting, you’ll read and sign a liability waiver and have access to restroom facilities if needed.
Your guide will then provide a clear safety briefing and basic riding instructions to ensure everyone feels confident and comfortable before beginning the adventure.
Scenic Beach Ride
The experience begins with approximately one hour riding along dirt roads and scenic coastal trails near Puerto Viejo and Playa Conchal. As you approach the shoreline, you’ll take in the striking contrast of white sand, turquoise water, and tropical vegetation.
The pace is relaxed and well-controlled, allowing time to enjoy the landscape, take photos, and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Guanacaste’s coastline.
Ocean Swimming Experience
Carefully timed around low tide, your guide will lead you to a designated section of the beach chosen for optimal and safe ocean conditions. Once there, the guide will assist riders in dismounting. The horses are securely positioned while guests take a short break, stretch, and prepare for the highlight of the experience.
One rider at a time will be guided into the tropical Pacific waters for the swimming portion. The guide remains attentive and in control throughout, ensuring a safe and smooth experience. While waiting, other participants may relax on the beach or cool off in the inviting waters of Matapalo Beach. The horses are well accustomed to the ocean, making this portion of the experience both refreshing and unforgettable.
Relaxed Return Ride
After the ocean immersion, you’ll remount and enjoy a relaxed ride back along the surrounding trails. With the sea breeze and scenic views accompanying you, the return journey offers a perfect moment to reflect on a rare, fun, and truly refreshing adventure.
What to Bring:
Essentials:
Recommended for enhanced experience:
Additional Info:
- Age Requirement: 4 years and older. Children under 5 must ride with a parent and pay half price.
- Weight Limit: 250 lbs (113 kg) maximum per rider.
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
- Languages: Available in Spanish and English
- Physical Rating: Active
- Expertise Level: Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
- Group Size: Private experience. No maximum group size, but groups larger than 9 must notify us in advance to confirm availability.
- Surroundings: Land and Sea Adventures.
Essential Considerations
Ride the Beach. Swim the Sea.
Experience the rare thrill of swimming with your horse along Guanacaste’s breathtaking coastline.
Book Now!Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. Cancellations made at least 72 hours before the scheduled excursion will receive a full refund, minus any applicable bank or financial service fees. Cancellations made between 72 and 48 hours before the excursion will receive an 80% refund, minus any applicable bank or financial service fees. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the excursion are non-refundable, and no-shows will incur a 100% penalty charge.
All changes and cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to hello@linkexpeditions.com and must be confirmed by us to take effect. Please note that tours, excursions, activities, and field trips must be prepaid in full to secure your booking. All prices are quoted in USD.
Some experiences we offer are facilitated by trusted vendors we have carefully selected to align with our values. For these specific activities, the cancellation policy will be subject to the vendor’s terms and conditions. For example, fishing and private catamaran tours typically have a 50% penalty charge if canceled within 21 days.
While we strive to accommodate everyone, our cancellation policies are in place to help us continue providing you with the best possible service. Late cancellations not only affect our operations but also limit opportunities for other travelers who may have wished to book. By adhering to these policies, we can ensure your excursions and transportation are secure, offering you a smooth and hassle-free experience. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
