Punta Cana: Macao Beach Horseback Morning & Sunset Ride review
What the morning is like
You’re picked up from your resort and driven to the stables (~15 minutes). After a quick mount safety briefing, you’re on a horse in the tropical jungle, walking at an easy pace through trails. After about 30 minutes of trails, you emerge at Macao Beach — a real, rougher beach (not resort-calm) with sand dunes. You ride along the beach for 40 minutes in the surf. If you choose the morning slot, the light is golden-soft. If sunset, the sky turns orange. After the beach, back to the stables for coffee and chocolate tasting (or mamajuana, the local rum-wine-herbs drink). Drop-off is back at your resort by late morning (if morning) or dusk (if sunset).
What works
- Cheapest tour at $36 (buggy is $35 but more crowded)
- Slow-paced; no riding experience needed
- Small groups of friends or couples
- Beach ride is scenic and peaceful
- Tastings and local culture experience
- Good morning or sunset photo light
Worth knowing
- Macao Beach is rough surf; not for non-swimmers
- If you’re not a horse person, it’s not your tour
- Limited time on the beach (40 mins)
- Saddle time adds up; soreness is possible if you don’t ride often
Wear long pants to protect from branches and sun (or strong sunscreen on legs). Wear shoes you don’t mind getting sandy. Bring cash for optional tips. The guides appreciate small bills ($5 is generous).
Who it’s for
Couples (very romantic, especially sunset), non-aggressive horse people, anyone who wants a cheap, slow morning or evening. Catherine and Sarah both loved it: Catherine said “Fun trip, beach was great, bring a towel for the beach as you get 40mins there. Bring some cash for tips, excellent value for money”; Sarah added “Everything from beginning to end was well organized. The guides were very helpful, patient and kind.” If you want adrenaline, try the buggy.
Other half-day picks
Budget pickPunta Cana Buggy Tour: ATV, Cave Swim & Macao Beach + Pickup
Top ratedPunta Cana: Party Boat with Snorkeling, Open Bar And Hip Hop
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be an experienced rider?
No. This is a walk the whole way, no trotting or cantering. Even nervous riders do fine. The guides are patient and the horses are calm.
Is Macao Beach safe to swim?
Macao is a real surf beach with swells. Swim only where the guides say. If you want calm, the natural-pool swim on Saona is gentler.
Morning or sunset?
Sunset is more romantic and the light is better for photos. Morning is fresher and less crowded. Both are good. Bring cash for tips either way.