Costa Rica: Playa Organos Horseback Ride & Secret Beach Tour

Summary

Horseback riding by Playa Organos to hidden sands and ocean views

You’ll ride horseback along Playa Organos with a small group and experienced guide, crossing quiet sands and forest trails before reaching a secret beach few ever see. Spot Isla Tortuga from shore and enjoy moments where time slows down — maybe you’ll find yourself grinning at nothing in particular.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed at Playa Organos was the smell — warm salt air and that kind of green you only get in Costa Rica’s blue zone. We met our guide, José, who’s been working with horses since before I was born (he joked about his knees but moved better than me). The saddles looked brand new — he said they’d just swapped them out last July. I’m not much of a rider, but José made it feel easy. He had this way of talking to the horses in Spanish, soft and low, like he was telling them secrets.

We set off in a small group — just four of us plus José — and even with the ocean right there, it was quiet except for hoofbeats and some birds arguing over something in the trees. My horse kept flicking her ears back at me, like she was checking if I was paying attention. We rode along the sand where the waves left those foamy lines, then veered off into a bit of forest that smelled faintly like wet earth and limes. There was a moment when José pointed out Isla Tortuga across the water — it looked almost close enough to swim to (don’t try it though). He told us how kids as young as six can ride here with their parents, which made me wish I’d brought my nephew.

The real surprise came when we reached this little hidden beach. No crowds — just driftwood and the sound of crabs scuttling away from our shadows. We stopped for water (included in the tour), and I just sat there letting my feet sink into cool sand while the horses nosed around for snacks in the grass. It wasn’t fancy or anything but felt kind of perfect anyway. On the way back, José laughed at my attempt to say “gracias” with a local accent — apparently, I still need practice.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding and beach visit

• Meet at Playa Organos
• Ride horses with new equipment
• Visit hidden beach
• See Isla Tortuga from Playa Organos

Top questions

How long is the Playa Organos horseback riding tour?

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours from start to finish.

Is this horseback riding tour suitable for kids?

Yes, kids up to 6 ride with parents; ages 7-11 ride their own horse guided by the tour leader; over 12 can ride alone with supervision.

Where does the horseback riding tour start?

The meeting point is Playa Organos in Costa Rica.

How many people are on each horseback riding tour?

Tours are limited to four participants plus the guide for an intimate experience.

Is water included during the horseback ride?

Yes, bottled water is provided as part of your tour.

Are there special horses or equipment for children?

Yes, there is a smaller horse available for kids and all equipment is new as of July 2023.

Can beginners join this horseback riding tour?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome and no prior experience is required.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at Playa Organos with bottled water provided, all rides led by an experienced local guide using new horse equipment from July 2023, special arrangements for kids including a smaller horse if needed, plus insurance coverage throughout your adventure before returning after about ninety minutes on the trail.