You can take a guided horseback ride into the forests or out onto the beaches of Andrew Molera State Park with Molera Horseback Tours (831/625-5486, http://molerahorsebacktours.com, $25–60). Tours of 1–2.5 hours depart each day starting at 9 a.m.—call ahead to guarantee your spot, or take a chance and just show up at the stables 15 minutes ahead of the ride you want to take. If you prefer, call to book a private guided ride for yourself and your party.

Each ride takes you from the modest corral area along multi-use trails through forests or meadows, or along the Big Sur River, and down to Molera Beach. You’ll guide your horse along the solid sands as you admire the beauty of the wild Pacific Ocean.

Molera Horseback Tours are suitable for children over six and riders of all ability levels; you’ll be matched to the right horse for you. All rides go down to the beach. Tours can be seasonal, so call ahead if you want to ride in the fall or winter.

Guides share their knowledge of the Big Sur region and wildlife, and welcome questions about the plants you’re seeing as you walk your horse down the trail. Early-morning and sunset rides tend to be the prettiest and most popular.