Sunset Horse Riding at Lipa Noi Beach

Lipa Noi, on Samui's quiet west coast, is the island's sunset beach. Unlike busy Chaweng on the east, it faces the setting sun across a calm bay, with a long, shallow shoreline and few crowds. A horse riding session here takes you along the water's edge in the soft light of late afternoon, with guides leading or accompanying each rider. The pace is mostly a walk, with a little trotting for confident riders where the terrain and the operator allow, and the focus is on the setting, the sky and the sound of hooves in the shallows. Helmets are provided, no experience is needed and sessions run for about an hour, which is long enough to feel unhurried without tiring beginners.

Before booking, be clear about your ability and expectations. This is a leisurely beach ride rather than a lesson or a trek, so it works well for first-time riders, couples and families with older children. The staff match riders to horses, give a short safety briefing on how to sit, steer and stop, and keep the group together.

Experienced riders may find the walking pace slow, but the setting makes up for it. Weight limits and minimum ages apply for the animals' welfare, so check the operator's rules and be honest about your size and age on the booking form. Anyone who is pregnant or has back problems should speak to the operator first.

Dress for riding. Wear long, light trousers or shorts that will not chafe, closed shoes or sandals with a back strap rather than flip-flops, a hat or cap under the helmet if the sun is strong, and bring sunglasses and a light layer for the evening breeze. Keep your phone in a zipped pocket or ask the guide whether they will take a photo for you, since dropping a phone from a horse is a common mishap. Water is useful, and mosquito repellent is worth packing for the dusk hours, especially in the wetter months.

Think about the horses. Reputable stables keep their animals well fed, rested and shaded, and limit the number of rides per horse per day. Look for signs of good care when you arrive: clean tack, calm animals and guides who check girths and bridles. If anything looks wrong, speak up or choose another activity. Treat the horses gently, follow the guide's instructions at all times and do not feed them unless invited to.

Time the ride for the best light. In the dry season the sky is often clear and the colours can be spectacular, while in the wetter months cloud or rain may reduce the show and a session can be rescheduled. The west coast is a half hour or more from the main beaches, so the pickup is often in the afternoon and includes a transfer.

Pair the ride with an early dinner at one of the sunset-facing restaurants nearby, then head back under the stars. It is a good counterpoint to the island's busier boat days and a simple, memorable activity for a quiet evening.