Puerto Rico: Horseback Riding Beaches & Forests Tour

Summary

Horseback riding on puerto rico’s wild beaches with forest trails and ocean dips

You’ll ride gentle Paso Fino horses along Puerto Rico’s wild beaches and through shady almond forests with a local guide who knows every twist of the trail. There’s time to swim or just breathe in the ocean air at Survival Beach before heading back — and maybe you’ll find yourself thinking about that view long after.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how the sand felt under the horse’s hooves — kind of soft but packed down in spots, almost springy. The first thing I noticed was the color of the water at Shacks Beach, this sort of electric blue that looked fake until you got close enough to see little fish darting around. Our guide, José, handed me the reins and said something about “just let her find her rhythm,” which I guess meant trust the horse more than myself. I tried not to overthink it.

The air smelled salty and sharp, but there was also this sweet scent from the almond trees when we ducked into the forest trail. It got quieter there, except for birds making a racket overhead — one of them sounded like it was laughing at us. José pointed out some tracks in the sand (iguana? I didn’t catch all his Spanish) and told us about whale watching season. Apparently December through April is best if you want to spot them from horseback. That idea stuck with me — just sitting on a horse while whales pass by offshore.

After maybe an hour we reached Survival Beach, which lives up to its name because it feels like you’ve stumbled onto a secret. We stopped so the horses could rest. Some folks went for a swim; I just sat in the sand and tried to memorize how everything looked — cliffs behind us, salt spray in my hair, sun getting lower but still hot on my neck. José offered to take photos (I’m usually awkward about that stuff but he made it easy). Honestly, I’m not sure what I expected from a day trip horseback riding Puerto Rico’s coast, but it wasn’t this mix of calm and weird excitement. My legs were wobbly after we got back but in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback ride along beaches and forests

• Start morning or afternoon ride
• Ride along Shacks Beach
• Explore almond tree forest trail
• Pause at Survival Beach for break
• Swim or rest on white sandy beach
• Guide takes photos at beach

Top questions

What time does the horseback riding tour start?

The morning ride starts at 9 am; there’s also a 3:30 pm tour depending on season.

How long is the horseback riding tour in Puerto Rico?

The tour lasts approximately two hours from start to finish.

Are beginners allowed on this Puerto Rico horseback riding tour?

Yes, beginner and intermediate riders are welcome; advanced riders will also be challenged by varied terrain.

Is swimming included during the beach stop?

You can swim or relax at Survival Beach during a 15-minute break.

What kind of horses are used for this tour?

Paso Fino horses are used; they’re known for being gentle yet spirited.

Are safety helmets provided for riders?

Yes, safety helmets are available upon request.

Is there a weight limit for riders?

Yes, there is a strict weight limit of 250 lbs including riding clothes.

Can pregnant travelers join this horseback riding tour?

A written doctor’s note is required 48 hours prior if pregnant; otherwise not recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes riding one of 30 well-cared-for Paso Fino horses through beach and forest trails with a knowledgeable local guide by your side. Safety helmets are available if you want them, plus there’s time built in for swimming or simply resting on white sand beaches before heading back home again.