The sun is setting over the gold sand beach, making the deep blue water and frothy surf foam glow red and purple in the fading light. I am cantering along at the edge of the waves, the last in a line of horses; my steed’s hooves splashing water upwards towards my face occasionally, causing me to squeal with laughter. I am also smiling hard, because this feels marvelous. This is what Costa Rica’s pura vida lifestyle must be all about.
The teenager cantering ahead of me on the sturdy brown horse, her ponytail flying backwards in the wind, is also making her appreciation known vocally:
“OMG this is ah-mazing!” she screams into the wind.
Costa Rica is filled with family friendly adventures like this sunset horseback ride on the beach that was organized by the resort in Peninsula Papagayo we are all staying at. There are also surf lessons, and snorkeling expeditions, and zip-lining excursions through nearby cloud forests that can be easily arranged through most resort’s excursions desks. This is great news for families with young kids or moody teenagers who may need to book last minute.
Costa Rica is also home to a good selection of family friendly beach resorts, offering amenities designed with kids in mind. Here is our list of favorite places to stay with kids on the beach: