Destinations for Horseback Riding on the Beach
Horseback riding on the beach near me? Yes, please. Near and far, we’ve got destinations all over the globe. Let’s dive into some stunning beach riding experiences.
Europe
1. Portugal
Any yogis out there looking for horses on the beach? Portugal is the perfect place for you to go. On Faial Island, you can enjoy daily yoga sessions and trot alongside the Atlantic Ocean. You can even spot dolphins and whales, and visit the harbor town of Horta.
The trails here have difficulty levels from moderate (doesn’t require physical training but involves moderate physical activity) to challenging (doesn’t require specific skills, but one must be in good health). The best time to visit Portugal is in the summer, though spring and fall are also beautiful when the weather is still warm.
2. Italy
In Italy, you can ride through the Maremma scrub to the Gulf of Punta Ala. On the beach there, gallop along the shore and, if you want, take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. You can even see landmarks like the Castle of Scarlino and eat at traditional Tuscan restaurants.
The riding routes in Italy range from moderate to challenging. Spring, summer, and fall are all great times to visit this country, though it can be crowded in the summer.
3. Iceland
The land of fire and ice is home to stunning volcanoes and glaciers, but the coasts are just as beautiful. Visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to venture along the azure coastline and trace the sandy shores. Here you’ll also find ebony lava fields, emerald valleys, and untamed wildernesses.
Iceland offers tours for almost everyone, ranging from moderate to extreme. The latter requires specific skills and equipment, suitable only for experienced and physically fit hikers. The weather can be rough in Iceland, so it is best to go in the summer or early fall.
4. Denmark
On the island of Rømø, trot along the beach or take the causeway to Mandø, another nearby island. You can even visit a third island called Koresand. Enjoy the pool and sauna or a picnic among the sand dunes and forests.
For easy to challenging routes, check out all the tours Denmark has to offer. This country shines in the summer with long days and comfortable temperatures.
5. Spain
Many tours in Spain allow you to ride along the coast. You can head to the picturesque region of Andalucia, where you’ll pair riding with yoga as you explore pristine beaches. Or venture to the wild beaches of Costa Brava, visiting charming villages and traversing beautiful mountain landscapes.
Each of the beach riding tours in Spain requires that you be in good health. Visit Spain in the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to October) for good weather and lighter crowds.
6. Albania
More than 2,300 years ago, King Skerdilajd's army took a route through what is now Albania in his conquest of Kaonia. That route still exists, and you can ride it, passing through mountains, hillsides, rivers, forests, and, of course, the seaside. Take a step into history as you explore ancient ruins, castles, churches, and bunkers.
This trail is of moderate difficulty. The best time of year to ride this trail is spring and autumn when the weather is warm but not too hot.
7. Norway
In Norway, you’ll embark on a journey along beaches and Viking pathways in the Lofoten Archipelago. You’ll take in the spectacular views of mountains meeting the sea. Eat a delightful dinner at Låven Restaurant, explore the islands of Vestvågøy and Gimsøy, and weave through the Vikingvei, an old Viking path.
Tours in Norway are of a challenging difficulty. Summer in Norway is beautiful; you may even get to see the midnight sun.
8. Netherlands
Adventure awaits on Terschelling Island in the Netherlands. From woods to dunes to cranberry fields to the widest beach in Europe, Holland has so much for you to explore. You don’t want to miss the picturesque trails, cozy bonfire, or majestic Friesian horse.
The Netherlands offers tours that involve moderate physical activity. In the summer, you’ll find long days, sunny weather, and festivals, but this country’s weather is also mild in September and October.
9. Ireland
The Emerald Isle is known for its lush greenery, but did you know that it also has beautiful shores, where the waves crash against the smooth sand. In addition, when you travel to Ireland, you can see offshore islands, rural lanes, mountain paths, small villages, and local heritage sites.
Ireland’s trails stretch from easy to challenging. Any month from April to September will offer good weather, even March and October are not too bad. It’s most crowded during the summer months.
10. Greece
Coupling rocky mountains with sandy beaches, Greece will take your breath away. See all that the island of Lesvos has to offer, including lovely villages with stone houses, medieval castles, and tons of animals. Or check out the island of Rhodes, where you’ll find old churches, ancient olive trees, and historic sites.
Greece has both easy and challenging tours—whatever you’d like. The weather in Greece is usually good from late May to October.
Africa
11. Morocco
The wild beaches and cliffs of Morocco will take your breath away. Here you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful, deserted coasts, even going to sleep and waking up to the sound of the Atlantic’s waves. You can also visit refreshing waterfalls, cross desert dunes, and wander through forests of argan trees.
The tours here range from easy to challenging. Morocco is a year-round destination, though many people love to visit in spring or fall when it isn’t too hot or cold.
12. Tunisia
If you’re looking for luxury and relaxation, take a trip to the hotel and equestrian center in Tunisia located by the sea with its own beach. This center has it all: beach rides, inland trails, jumping, dressage, and flat work.
This tour is for riders with any level of experience. Tunisia has blissfully mild weather in the spring and fall, and summer is the perfect time of year to kick back on the Mediterranean coast.
13. Egypt
Not only can you ride on the white sand beaches of the Red Sea Riviera in Egypt, but you can also explore historic sites like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. Fly over Luxor in a hot air balloon and take a safari over the sand dunes.
The difficulty levels of tours in Egypt are moderate or challenging. It’s best to visit Egypt between October and April when the temperature is pleasantly warm.
14. South Africa
On a two-week tour in South Africa, you can stay a little longer and ride a lot more. You’ll journey along expansive beaches, experience rural seaside village life, and participate in the day-to-day care of your horse. Reconnect with yourself and nature and live like a local on the wild South African coast.
This tour’s difficulty level is moderate, perfect for those who don’t have physical training but want moderate physical activity. December through February is the perfect time of year to enjoy your time on the beach in South Africa.
North, Central, and South America
On the white sandy beach with horses ready to glide through the water or gallop on the shore, you’ll bask in the sun and take joy in the gorgeous views around you. But the Dominican Republic offers more than just its beaches—a rich historical heritage, a lively culture, and majestic mountains, jungles, and meadows.
From moderate to challenging, you’ll find thrilling tours in this country. It’s best to visit this island between December and April.
16. Costa Rica
A beach, a horse, and the exquisite landscapes of Costa Rica—what more could you want? Visit the pristine shores of this Central American country, where you can explore a lush jungle, encounter birds and animals, and practice yoga.
Costa Rica’s tours have easy to moderate difficulty levels. Between December and April, the country is at its driest and brightest, but you can also travel during the green season (May to June or November).
17. Brazil
Renowned for its tropical climate and natural beauty, Brazil is home to some breathtaking beaches. When you visit, you’ll find yourself horseback riding on a long beach that’s unspoiled by humans. You can also explore sea cliffs, rivers, mangrove swamps, sand dunes, and rainforests.
Brazil can get quite hot and busy during the summer, but during the shoulder season the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. The trails here don’t require physical training, but they involve moderate physical activity.
18. Uruguay
In Uruguay, you can canter alongside the ocean and ride over hills and sand dunes, through forests and wetlands, and into charming fishing villages. In this country, you’ll have the opportunity to spot more than 400 species of birds, along with sea lions, dolphins, and other animals.
Moderate or challenging horse riding tours await you. Uruguay is ideal in the summer (December through February), but you can visit anytime from October to March for good weather.
Asia
19. Turkey
If you’ve heard of the Lycian Way, you know it extends from Hisarönü along the coast all the way to Antalya, offering more than 300 miles (500 km) of trails to explore near the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea. Take your horse over Turkey’s famous beaches and appreciate the wonderful sea views.
These tours are either challenging or extreme, so ensure you’re in good health. Visit Turkey in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
20. Sri Lanka
See the best of Sri Lanka from the back of a horse, including beachside riding, jungle paths, reservoirs, and tea plantations. Discover the local flora and fauna, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and learn about the culture of this South Asian country.
This tour involves moderate physical activity but doesn’t require physical training. Sri Lanka has the best beach weather between December and March.
Conclusion
There are horse-riding tours all over the world with wonderful beaches. Check out our catalog of beach riding tours to see all the destinations we have to offer.
Book your tour today with Horse Tours Club. Our global presence and expertise in equine tours will ensure you can go where you want with ease.
