While I've spent plenty of time petting horses and have done my fair share of trail rides, this was my first formal lesson. From the start, I was struck by how exceptionally clean and well cared for the horses were--this family-run business clearly treats them as part of the family. Because of that level of care, I'd especially recommend this barn to anyone with allergies or health sensitivities who might otherwise hesitate to be around horses. Before riding, I learned some fascinating insights about horse psychology and the equestrian world. Then came my first lesson on Rose. Johnny described riding as a kind of dance--and for the first time, I began to understand what it means to move with a horse as your partner. I had a wonderful time and highly recommend Johnny and Johnny 6 Stables at the OC Fairgrounds. Whether you're looking to develop your riding skills and ride like a pro or simply spend meaningful time in a low-key atmosphere connecting with a horse, it's well worth a visit. Such a great experience! read more

I had an amazing experience at Johnny 6 Stables. The horses were beautiful and well taken care of. My instructor was extremely caring and made sure I was never put out of my comfort zone. I will definitely be going back! The experience has rekindled a childhood love for horses read more

We've had such a wonderful experience with this barn! My son is taking horseback riding lessons with Johnny, and she is absolutely amazing. She's incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about what she does. She has such a special gift for teaching children--making them feel confident, safe, and excited to learn. My son looks forward to every lesson, and we've seen so much growth in his skills and confidence. Highly recommend to any families looking for a positive and supportive environment for their kids! read more

Johnny 6 Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We love riding horses, and this experience meant so much to us. My daughter has special needs, and Johnny and Amanda treated her with genuine respect, patience, and kindness from the very beginning. Johnny took the time to understand her riding ability and encouraged her in just the right way, pushing her enough to grow while making her feel safe and supported. Because of that, she not only excelled but continues to build confidence every time she rides. We're incredibly grateful for such a thoughtful and inclusive experience. We look forward to our next session. We Highly recommend Johnny 6 Stables! read more

Johnny 6 Stables - Gentle and great riding horses. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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If you've been struggling to find quality riding lessons , Johnny 6 Stables is exactly what you've been looking for. It's honestly a relief to finally find a place that not only accommodates but genuinely welcomes riders of all sizes without hesitation. I'm 6'6" 270 pounds. The teaching style here is what really sets it apart. Johnny and Amanda strike the perfect balance, stern when it matters, but always encouraging when you need it. They don't just go through the motions or give surface-level instruction. They're intentional, detailed, and invested in making sure you actually understand what you're doing. You'll get more than what you came for. If you want to learn basic riding, they'll deliver. But if you're serious about horsemanship, they will teach you everything they can and if you're curious enough to ask more, they'll go even deeper. It's real, hands-on, no-shortcuts learning. If you're looking for a place that respects you, challenges you, and actually develops you as a rider, this is it. read more

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I love Amanda and her adorable daughter Johnny, and I love riding at this barn. I've had the best time getting reintroduced to riding horses again. From the moment I got back on that horse, I felt secure and confident with Amanda's training and leadership. Every time I think I'm killing it, she challenges me to be better and to constantly improve. She's humorous and tells it like it is, which I appreciate. From the first lesson, I didn't feel like I was being sweet talked and instead was spoken to like I've been a client there for 10 years. Amanda definitely cares about her clients and her horses and it shows every time I'm there. I haven't had any trouble booking lessons and have been able to ride as often as I've wanted. As Amanda once said to me during my lesson, "this is the Ferrari of horses" and that's exactly how I feel every time I get on one of her horses. I've enjoyed every lesson and would recommend Johnny 6 Stables in a heartbeat. read more

Excellent experience! Absolutely a wonderful and friendly energy from everyone we interacted with. Owner, trainor, students and most of all horses are very friendly. You can feel the positive energy as soon as you step on the property. My daughter loves it here. She has had 2 lessons so far and this is just the beginning, am amazed how much she learns. Look no further Johnny has the best place. Gracias!! We can't wait to continue to come here for lessons. read more

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I used this place to purchase a surprise b-day gift for my girlfriend and we loved it! I found the experience to be pretty awesome. Having the instructors explain to me the gesturing and attitude and behaviors of the horses was very eye-opening. They have such distinct personalities and character, these horses. Thanks for everything! 5 stars! read more

I bought a groupon for four lessons of beginning horse riding and I'm pretty impressed on how they taught me last Saturday. Greg and Amanda are the owners, their stable is pretty medium size and its more like a family ranch kind of style of feel. Both of them are wonderful and also very sincere people. And I'm looking forward to my numerous classes with them. What I dislike Though on my experience was at first Greg was teaching me the ropes and he was very good by the way, then after another client who is a little kid, came over for her lesson, Greg left me and passed me on to another "kid" who was suppose to teach me the ropes. I felt that there was no planning in the lesson with the kid if I haven't suggested or asked questions then I would not have maximized my time and lesson. Overall I'm still going to come back to them for future lessons, I just hope that when one person starts to teach a client, they should stick to the same original client and get another person for the second client. read more

This was a great place for a playdate. My second grader and 3 of her friends had a fun riding lesson. Each girl got their own horse, a riding helmet, and had a personal horse trainer with them at all times. I felt safe and the girls had a blast! Although they are tall and majestic animals, the horses at Johnny 6 Stables were gentle and well trained, and the staff was very friendly and answered all questions. It's a nice complex and a really refreshing activity for a playdate as a nice outdoor alternative to Pump-It-Up, CRC or Petroglyph. read more

Johnny 6 Stables - This is in the training area where they have horse riding lesson. The horses they rode were Happy, Lady, Comet and Bullet. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I started at Johnny 6 when they did their first Groupon deal in 2010. It has always been my own personal dream to learn how to ride well and own a horse. I started with 2 lessons a week and fell in love with the stable and trainers. Amanda and Greg are amazing teachers, very helpful and building my confidence. Everyone is laid back and the horses are so well taken care of. Now, two years later, I own and board my horse at Johnny 6, and still continue to take lessons. I know he is in the best care, and that is why I continue to make the 40-45 minute drive instead of the other stables 10 minutes away from my house. You will not be making a mistake by choosing Johnny 6! read more

This place is the best! My kids are more comfortable riding a horse now more than ever because of the instruction they got from here. I started with a groupon and I continued after the first lesson. The kids enjoyed their lessons and everyone was nice and helpful! read more

Johnny 6 Stables - This is the best place for your kids. Everyone is super nice and the horses are well kept! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I recently received horseback riding lessons at Johnny 6, as part of a team-building/corporate event. I was extremely impressed upon arrival. Amanda and Greg were very friendly when they greeted us and surprised us with refreshments (we were not expecting a thing and had brought our own cooler). After doing the necessary release forms, we were on our way. Helmets, mounting, and paired with another team member to act as each rider's "lead". The training was wonderful, as Amanda and Greg covered everything from how to sit, distribute weight, use the reins, and trotting. The property is absolutely gorgeous too (and huge). Once we had gotten our practice in the arena, we did a ride on the property. My colleagues and I were very happy with the training we received. We got much more than we thought we'd get, and it was done in a fun way. Amanda and Greg were also kind enough to snap tons of photos of us, which I thought was top-notch. This event was truly a memorable experience for us. I highly recommend Johnny 6 Stables if you want a best-in-class experience for horseback riding lessons. read more

Found Johnny 6 after my husband bought a Groupon for our daughter. After the first lesson she was hooked and being from a horse family, I was more than happy to oblige. The horse farm has a nice intimate family atmosphere and you can tell that the Owners, Amanda & Greg, take pride in the care of their horses. It has been only a month since Bela started riding, and we are just astounded by her progress. They definitely want to see a student grow, not drag the lessons on and on - as some stables would do. The pricing for private lessons can't be beat, and as long as Bela wants to ride, we will be going to Johnny 6. read more

Johnny 6 Stables - Bela (5) on Lady. Great progress after 2.5hrs of lessons w/ Greg. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Honestly had the greatest time ever. Friendly staff and wonderful horses ever!!! I fell in love with Chocolate Thunder!!! My daughter and I had the privilege of riding him today. We will definitely be back. A little disappointed I didn't get to meet Amanda. I will forgive her this time. Get better soon Amanda!!! read more

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I have an 8 year old daughter who has been DYING to ride horses since forever. Aside from a mommy & me experience she had when she was 4 (3 lessons that I won't even tell you what they cost -- crazy $$$), she had only been on pony rides at pumpkin patches and so on. Well, her first day with Greg and she was trotting & posting like a pro -- ok, so maybe she was more of a passenger than a pilot, but after 8 lesson, things are starting to change...Greg has been an amazing teacher! He is really great with kids. He really enjoys teaching them and so the lessons are fun, but the children are really learning great technique and control! He absolutely knows his stuff and will be sure that you are learning correct technique and how to work with the horse so that they know they can trust their rider and will do what the rider asks of them. Amanda has been so helpful in the scheduling and just all-around being nice and accommodating! We've never had a lesson with her, but she really likes the children as well and is always warm and welcoming to my daughter. I bet she's a great instructor as well!! It may be a little far from San Jose, but it's straight down 101 and SO worth the drive. The lessons are one-on-one -- NOT a big group. All of the horses that my daughter has ridden have been SO well trained. Not skittish and very calm and smooth. When you ride around the outside of the fence, Diesel - the ginormous (but very very gentle) German Sheppard accompanies you so that none of the ground squirrels dare to show their face and spook one of the horses! It's really quite fun to watch Diesel take his "job" so seriously and then come to you and flop over for a belly rub!! Basically, this is a family who makes you part of their family. They treat their horses like family. They are nice people whose love of horses have lead them to teach others about riding, about taking care of horses and about how, if you give a horse love, you will get much, much more in return. read more

As a parent of two daughters, they couldn't be better. My two daughters, 8 and 9, had a great time with two great teachers. The lesson was fun and good at the same time. I was lucky to happen to find them - it's a bit far from my home but drive is totally worth while. read more

I had a wonderful experience with my special needs child for the first time horse back riding I must say. I recommend this place most definitely,owner,staff and horses are just amazing. Chocolate which was the horse he rode just automatically had connected to my son. As it got time for the session to end Chocolate wrapped his head around my sons leg as if he did not want to say goodbye "sweet moments". These horses are a true blessing beautiful and well maintained. Thank you so much for one of the best moments in my only child's life. read more

Johnny 6 Stables - Chocolate showing love - Horseback Riding Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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We paid for four 30 min sessions for our 8 year old. The first lesson we noticed that it was cut a little short, so we decided to start setting our timer. The second lesson- only 25 minutes on the horse. The 3rd lesson- only 16 minutes and 3 seconds before she was off the horse! I showed Johnny my timer and said it hasn't been 30 min yet. She tells me "you got here at 12:02 and then your daughter had to go to the bathroom so that's part of her riding time" are you kidding me?! You're going to punish an 8 year old girl by cutting her learning time short because SHE HAD TO USE THE BATHROOM?! When we got there, Some young boy was on the horse she usually practices on, so it's not like our daughter could have gotten on the horse "on time" anyway. Very disappointing and honestly it's a rip off and unfair how they treat the kids who want to learn about riding horses. That's the last 4 pack I buy from this place. If I'm going to drive 40 min from home- I'd rather find a place who actually gives me the right amount of time for my money! read more

I purchased a LivingSocial deal for 2 30-minute lessons for my 9-year-old niece, so I'll write from the perspective of the guardian. Firstly, I liked the size and feeling of the ranch. It isn't too large nor too small, and has a very laid back approach making you feel just as relaxed as if you lived there your entire life. The horses were very well taken care of and seemed to live pretty content lives in the stables. (One note of warning, it was a bit tricky to find the place because while it's address is "New Ave" you actually have to go down Moreno Lane to find the entrance. Just follow the horse decals and arrows!) Greg was a great instructor, swiftly going over the basics of horseback riding to keep the lesson fresh and full. But when my niece wasn't feeling so confident about trotting, he was just as accommodating to simply walk around the property. They were also very open to us feeding the other horses such baby carrots as we waited for the lesson to begin. All in all, if it weren't for the sheer distance to this location, you can get I'd be signing my niece up for more lessons. Cheers to those of you who attend--you will not be disappointed! read more

Amanda and her family were amazing!!! They make you feel so comfortable and make the experience wonderful! It was amazing how much I learned it just a short time! Definitely would come back again :) read more

The experience felt like I was visiting with friends, rather than taking horse riding lessons. Amanda and Greg were energetic and very accommodating. They are extremely knowledgeable about the horses, super friendly and very patient for beginners like myself. It was definitely a fun experience! read more

Loved this place! It was my first time horseback riding and they were there every step of the way! Definitely thinking of going back. I fell in love with their horses! Such great staff!!! I recommend them!! read more

I got here because I had a living social deal for 30 min introductory class. I was a little intimidated when I first sat on the horse. But the trainers were so friendly and patient with explaining the intricacies of riding, that the fear was soon gone. Introductory lesson is just building confidence and sitting on horse while the trainer guides the horse. I loved it so much, that I am definitely going back again, this time for the 4 classes deal. read more

We Took Our 5 Year Old Niece To Johnny6, For The First Time,And She Loved It, It Was A Dream Come True For Her,The Horse Name Was Lady, Owner Amanda And Her Daughter Johnny Were So Nice And Friendly Which Made For A Great First Time Experience. We Highly Recommend It. read more

I had purchased 3 tickets to your Friday Fun Night on Thursday, May 5th. They were for my two daughters and my niece, for the Fun Night on May 6th. All three girls were really excited at the chance to have a great experience with the horses. I left work early, from San Ramon, to pick up the kids in San Jose and get them down to Gilroy by 6 PM (65 miles). I had also made arrangements to have my wife meet me in Gilroy, so we could go to dinner, just the two of us. To my amazement, when I arrived at the Johnny 6 Stables, I was informed that the event had been canceled 2 days ago (May 4th) and that emails were sent out. I was shocked, because I was never informed. In fact, I was sold the tickets on their website on May 5th, a day after the event was canceled. There was no indication on the site that the event was canceled. In fact, I just looked at the site and it is STILL advertising the May 6th event, with no mention that it has been canceled. I am not sure who it was that I spoke with, but the person didn't really seem to care that I had driven from San Jose with three small kids (ages 8, 6 and 4) who were now extremely disappointed that they wouldn't get to see the horses. He just told me the event was canceled and didn't have much more to say. Even when I explained that I had purchased the tickets the day before, AFTER the stable canceled the event, and was not notified, all I got was a "sorry about that". All I was left with was a 30 mile drive back home with three disappointed and hungry kids. Which as you can imagine didn't sit too well with me. read more

My 4 year old daughter started lessons this summer and she loves it! Greg is so great with her. He's made her feel so comfortable riding that she keeps asking to go back. Greg and Amanda are wonderful! read more

I have been riding at Johnny 6 for about a year and a half. I have had ridden on and off my entire life so have enough experience with ranches to recognize how special Johnny 6 is. The atmosphere is friendly and family oriented but this is not a kids only place they train from beginners - competition level riders. I always believe you can tell a lot about a stable by the way the horses react to people. At Johnny 6 every horse loves people. They are all hanging their heads out begging for a scratch or snack. They take excellent care of their riders and like the work they do. The lesson horses are the same horses that are ridden in shows not broken down bitter animals and even though they are show horses they are gentle enough for children. Both Greg and Amanda are excellent teachers encouraging you to do your best but patient when you struggle or have an off day. I always leave the ranch feeling energetic, refreshed and cheerful no matter how tired or stressed out I was when I came. read more

I found Johnny 6 Stables through Groupon and could not be happier. I am 28 years old and have never ridden but wanted to try something new. My first lesson left me feeling safe, accomplished, and strong (my legs hurt for 2 days!). While Amanda and Greg were just fine with me having a fun lesson and calling it a day, I was hooked. I am now riding 2x a week (improving faster than I expected) and have invested in some lessons for myself. Prices are extremely reasonable so I can make it work with my budget (I have done research in the past and financially it has always been out of my reach). Johnny 6 Stables is a family establishment that makes you feel completely comfortable and part of a community (my fiance came to watch me ride one day and loved it there!). There is no pressure to keep going so if you are even considering taking up riding it is a great place to see if it is right for you. They also have spring/summer break camps for kids (they have 2 kids of their own) which I think is a great contribution to the community. read more

I am VERY impressed with the quality of instruction and the willingness of Amanda and Gregg to accommodate my needs. After taking lessons elsewhere, I feel that this is one awesome training/lesson facility. Amanda knows how to break things down so you can learn the task easily. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND Johnny 6 Stables. They are so flexible and just wonderful, delightful people. I am really enjoying my lessons and feel that I have improved really fast! read more

My daughter took regular lessons here while we lived in San Jose. Miss Heather was excellent in teaching her. The stables never smelled and were well taken care of and my daughter loved it. Hands down the best stables in the bay area. read more

Greg is a FANTASTIC teacher. Just the right mix of fun and push to get my 5 year old to keep progressing and enjoying herself. Brownie and Lady are LOVELY horses who take such good care of my little girl - I could not ask for better. The drive is a bit long - but there is a lovely winery just up the road with a playground and nice reds - so you can make a day of it! :) All in all - a great experience. read more

My husband and I went there today and it made our whole day! The people there are nice, friendly, encouraging, patient, and fun to be around. We loved our experience and highly recommend it! read more

I agree with the reviews-- Johnney6stables is a cut above as are the horses. The lesson we took was fun but we really felt like we learned a lot too ! Definitely yes for yelp! read more

My boys really enjoyed their introductory lesson. They made it fun and educational. Very easy to schedule online. Friendly owners and beautiful horses. read more

I found Johnny 6 Stables through Groupon but I immediately started my lessons as soon as I got there. As others already said, Greg and Amanda are great teachers really patient and make sure I, a beginner, feel comfortable. Also the environment is beautiful and pleasant. Love everything. read more

I purchased a groupon to take lessons at this stable and shortly after, got engaged. Of course with all the planning not only did I completely space on my purchase but I also didn't have ANY time to take the lessons. When I contacted them and asked if they would still honor my expired Groupon they told me that Groupon was great at giving refunds, so I contacted Groupon. They told me "Per the agreement they signed when joining Groupon, the merchant is required to accept expired Groupons for no less than the price paid for it. Because of this reason, we do not offer refunds for Groupons that have been allowed to expire. Simply inform the merchant that you intend to redeem your expired Groupon. Sorry for any confusion this may have caused." When I contacted Johnny 6 to have them honor or at least pay me back, they never responded. TERRIBLE way to do business. I have a lot of horse friends and will definitely not be recommending them to anyone. It's not like I just decided I didn't want to do it, I got engaged and married for pete's sake! read more

Bought 2 riding lessons in Dec 2011 on Groupon for my wife for when we came to CA to visit our son. The expiry date is 18 April 2012 and we were not arriving in CA from UK until 15 April, so booked one for 16 April and other for 18 April. Some weeks months before, the 16th was accepted but 18th was not confirmed as I was told they had a horse show to go to. As there was no other time to use the voucher before it expired I emailed to ask if we could have a session after 18th, but I never had the courtesy of a reply. I left it assuming it was an admin breakdown and was going to raise it when we came on 16th. Had an email at 8.10pm on 15th reminding us and confirming the lesson the following day. Drove out to Gilroy for the 1.00pm lesson to be told by a horseowner who stables there that the owners had gone to a show and were not around. She tried to ring them and so did we, but there was only automated answering. We arrived back to find an email sent at 2.30pm saying that the 1.00pm lesson was cancelled and giving no reason or apology or alternative arrangements. My wife was extremely disappointed and I am very annoyed at the waste of time and money. From the other reviews the place looks good it it works for you, but is a complete disaster if they let you down in such an incompetent and rude manner as they have with us. Steer well clear of this place if you want to avoid the risk of total disappointment and your money being taken under false pretences. read more