had a great experience at Ocean View Stables. There were many beautiful horses, and everything felt…read morewell-organized. We went there for horseback riding, and it was really enjoyable. The price was very reasonable--about $20 per person for three rounds, which I think is quite fair. Overall, it was a fun and pleasant experience, and I would definitely recommend it to others!

Went horseback riding here recently and overall had a great experience…read more The location is beautiful and not overly built up, which makes it feel really peaceful. It was the get away I was looking for. There are a lot of trails, and while we didn't spend a ton of time right along the ocean, the hillside views were still really nice. We had a great guide. The setup is cute, and I loved that they let you interact with the horses beforehand -- they seem to take good care of them while still making it enjoyable for guests. On our ride, we were paired with a couple who has been taking lessons there and they had nothing but great things to say, which was really reassuring. Only downsides: the website is pretty confusing and pricing for certain things wasn't very clear. It is a bit pricey, though. That said, I'd definitely go back -- and if I lived closer, I'd even consider lessons. But it is just too far for me to make the commitment.

To my travel crew's either excitement or dismay, I always insist on a horseback ride while on…read morevacation. I understand it can be challenging for trail groups when there's a mixed group like ours - one advanced, some intermediate, and the rest beginners - but Five Brooks made it so every single one of us had an enjoyable time! We chose the Salmon Creek 1.5 hour ride and had a blast with our guide, Jay. I was a little disappointed that we didn't get that close to the creek as I thought we would from other reviews and the description on the website, but maybe it was due to our group size (7 + guide) or our mixed levels of experience. We did get a few opportunities to trot, and the sights were gorgeous. I may have fallen in love with my horse, Cody, a beautiful palomino (which is saying something because I have a palomino of my own at home) but he was so responsive that I really enjoyed riding him. I have family in the area, so I'm already trying to plan my next trip so I can go ride with this group again!

Located just off coastal highway 1, Chanslor Ranch is 378 acres of open space with miles of hiking…read moreand horseback riding trails as a Sonoma County Regional Park maintained for erosion and wildlife protection. Five Brooks is the riding stables that provides a variety of group or private guided horseback rides, with a view of the ocean and includes rides along Salmon Creek or on the beach ! We choose the Picnic private ride along Salmon Creek which included a up hill majestic overlook ride where hawks and Ospreys were, and a duck pond where Herons and Egrets were seen, all beautiful and natural landscapes. We lucked out as it was a cloudless day with 7 mph winds as this area can be more windy and foggy. Andrea our guide was super helpful, friendly, accommodating and so easy to ride with, explaining the personalities of our horses. They help you mount and dismount, fit you to the saddle and encourage you to pet and talk to your horse. We rode up hill and down and the horses were very fit and in good health and eager to trot up the hill! I weigh 207 lbs and my horse Cody was not lazy underneath me a they have horses that will accommodate larger people. The views were spectacular and the trotting was fun. After our ride we came back to the ranch stables for a picnic on a park like table in a meadow that was tasty deli sandwiches, chips, Gatorade and some Snickerdoodle cookies, we brought our own wine which is allowed. It was a great ride, nice pace and the horses were fantastic, easy to ride, steer, and very easy going but energetic and not tired as they can be in public riding stables. Next time I go back I want to do the beach ride! Everything went well overall, the only minor hick up was my triple E width boots were too wide for the stir ups but they just moved them to a sideways position and adjusted the length and was fine. Leave earlier than GPS says as it takes longer on rural roads to give yourself time and there are speed bumps on the entrance road to the Ranch, so it's a slow approach. Cowboy Up!

Although I've known of Moss Beach Ranch because I live nearby and my son attended a horse camp many…read moreyears ago, I had never booked a trail ride before. I am SO glad I did. I had two young students staying with our family from Japan, and I thought they might enjoy the experience of riding horses in an authentic California environment. Kim and Ashley provided that and more. I appreciated the time in the ring before the ride for each rider to learn how to work with his/her assigned horse. Then we headed out on the trails behind and above the ranch, some parts of which included ocean views and lovely trees. Kim and Ashley clearly understood and cared about the horses. We felt supported and respected as beginning riders, never rushed. I have already started to think about taking future guests to enjoy this experience. A must-do on the Coast.

Kim replied quickly to my text, and we were able to set up the ride that same afternoon. The ranch…read moreis tucked into a small valley with quick access to the highway and Moss Beach, so it was easy to find but felt quiet and peaceful once we arrived. We were paired with two beautiful horses, including an enormous draft horse named Buck. Kim, the trainer, was warm, welcoming, and clearly loves her horses. She guided us through the foothills and into cool forest trails, where we even stopped to visit other horses along the way. Ashley the 2nd trainer joined us on the ride, and she was kind, supportive, and helped make the experience even more enjoyable. The entire afternoon far exceeded my expectations. From the breathtaking scenery to the comfort and confidence we felt with the horses, it was unforgettable. I highly recommend Moss Beach Ranch if you're looking for a truly unique and memorable riding adventure.

What more can be said about Garrod Farms that hasn't already been felt by so many? For countless…read moreriders, this is the place where we first sat on a horse, felt the excitement of riding, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Garrod Farms is more than a barn--it is a place filled with joy, friendship, and an unmistakable sense of community. From the moment you arrive, you can feel the positive energy that surrounds the property. It truly feels like a place from a dream. One of my greatest fears is the thought of this special place ever disappearing, because it has become home to so many families, riders, and horse lovers. The Garrod family deserves tremendous recognition for everything they do. This is a true family-owned and operated business, built through hard work, dedication, and genuine passion. There is always someone on the property working on improvements, maintaining the grounds, or finding ways to make the experience even better for everyone. The amount of effort required to care for such a large facility is extraordinary, and their commitment never goes unnoticed. The farm offers some of the best arena footing in the area, beautiful indoor and outdoor arenas, and direct access to miles of scenic trails where riders can relax and enjoy time with their horses. It is a safe and welcoming environment that has been serving children, families, and equestrians for generations. Their horseback riding lessons, whether private or group, are exceptional and suitable for riders of all experience levels. They also offer some of the best vaulting lessons in the area, giving students a unique opportunity to develop balance, confidence, athleticism, and horsemanship in a fun and supportive environment. The horse camps are among the best around, and the only complaint anyone seems to have is that they fill up too quickly. The local horse shows provide riders with valuable opportunities and motivation, while the boarding program offers quality care at a reasonable price. Special events for boarders create an even stronger sense of community and make being part of Garrod Farms feel truly special. Beyond the horses, the winery adds another layer of charm. Great music, beautiful scenery, and wonderful people make it a place where memories are created and shared. There is always a sense of warmth and happiness in the air. Garrod Farms is more than a facility--it is home. It is a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and dreams begin. God bless Jan, Vicky, Cory, and the entire Garrod family for everything they do. Their dedication has touched the lives of so many people, and their contributions to the community deserve recognition and support every single day.

My friend from Germany wanted to ride a horse while visiting the states, so I very last minute…read morecalled Garrod to see if they had any availability. I was easily able to book a private guided ride with just the two of us and an expert rider. Our guide was so nice and equipped us with everything we needed to have a safe, but fun trip. You can tell the horses are very well taken care of and loved by the staff at the stables. The tour itself had beautiful views overseeing Los Gatos. It was a reasonably priced experience and absolutely worth it!

Towards the end of my lady's and I eight day coastal trip on our way back down we had a blast doing…read morethe two hour private horseback ride, Our guide Romero was a really cool guy Good laughs, conversation, and an overall great experience. Saw a lot of cool wildlife on the ride including a bobcat or a mountain lion cub everything was A OK but the horses could definitely tell there was a predator in the area so they were a little spooked. Had such a fun time I will definitely be coming back for the six hour ride!!!

I booked a private beach ride (6hrs) for my friend's birthday. I can say that the experience alone…read morewas worth the price. Our guide Ramiro was great, he tested out our skills in the beginning before seeing we had experience riding and letting us take the leads during the trail. We also got to see dolphins! He told us in the 6years he's done this, this was the 2nd time he's gotten to see them. We ended up skipping the waterfall (couldnt get to it due to the tide anyways) and instead got to follow the dolphins! Highly recommend doing the wildcat trail with Ramiro! It is a 14mi ride, so be prepared to be in the saddle for a while. Experience is a plus, but Ramiro made sure everyone stayed safe and would always give pointers.

Done a few hikes through wunderlich park but haven't ridden a horse. Took the trail ride with…read morechaparral. It was fun and relaxing and serene to ride the horses through the woods. They have lessons for those who want to master horseback riding. Been a few times already and their horses are great. They're docile and understand command. Great ride.

Great place for a first riding lesson for kids. Summer camp options seem great too. The horses are…read morewell trained and the trails are easy

We had family friends visiting and wanted to give them a unique experience. It was hard to find a…read morehorseback riding company that would respond back or have a phone number to reach them. I texted EquiFabula and Beany responded right back. She was very nice and accommodating for our request of a private horseback riding lesson. The lesson was for our family friend that is a 10 year old girl who had never been on a horse before. Beany asked her height and weight and experience and let me know she had the perfect horse. We arranged a time and date. Before our appointment Beany confirmed and sent us some paperwork and waivers to sign. This was great so that we could spend more time with the animals when we arrived. When we arrived, we were greeted by a beautiful property nestled in the Castro valley hills. The property is big and well kept. Beany let us through the gate and we parked by the stables. Beany asked if we would like to see some of the animals on the property. We had a wonderful time meeting 2 week old bunnies, chickens, a baby possum, chinchilla, and guinea pigs. It was a wonderful surprise that we didn't expect. After we finished seeing the various animals for half an hour we met Mona the unicorn! Our family friend learned how to brush Mona and take care of her. She was then fitted with riding gear and started her lesson. Beany walked with them the entire way and was a wonderful teacher. She learned how to trot with the horse, steer, and all about the basics of riding a horse. This experience couldn't have been better and Beany was a 5 star teacher. You can tell she loves what she does, has an immense passion for animals, and is very good with kids. She is able to ignite a passion for horses within kids and it's a sight to behold. We would definitely go back!

I've been consistently impressed by Beany's knowledge of horsemanship and the thoughtful…read moreinstruction she gives to students. I highly recommend her for anyone wanting to grow as a horse-person.

Wonderful facilities and excellent instruction, very close to Oakland and freeways but backing up…read moreonto magnificent trails

Great horses. Great lesson program. I commute from SF & it's worth every minute on the bridge.read more

Sent a message, left a voicemail, and haven't heard from…read morethem after days. Disappointing to see discrimination against customers in California. UPDATE: As you can see below, the owner reached out 6 months after my review, claiming that they didn't receive my message. I still have their 2450 number recorded on my phone. What a disappointing series of decisions in customer relations.

My son has great time at the summer camp. They teach the kid how to prep and ride the horse…read moreproperly. It also give them some education about horse. Annika was great with kid. There are some art and craft. (paint the horseshoe and drawing of horse) The location was nice with cover arena. It is nice at the summer. It is good introductory for young kid to get into horseback riding.

My 2 daughters have been with Horizons East for over 3 years. They had gone from riding academy to…read morecompetitive training riders, and each of them has grown beautifully as a rider as well as a person. Here is why.. First, the coaches are skillful and caring. Not only their priority is always safety, but also encouraging riders to properly care for the horses. They pay attention to each individual rider's skill and help them progress. This sport is physically and mentally challenging. My girls have had their struggles, but the coaches have been patient, guiding them through, and gone above and beyond to help them succeed. My girls have grown their confidence and learned their ways to cope and push through their challenges. I truly appreciate and respect them. Thanks to Sam, Barbara, Dacota, Nikki, Shannon, Tiffany, Heather, Rena, and Terri! Second, HZE has different levels of horses that fit the riders' skill, from a beginner to advanced rider who want to lease or own a horse. The horses are in good care and Sam is very knowledgeable and attentive when it comes to horses' well being. They also have IEA team, and are very experience at horse shows. Last, but not least, HZE has a very friendly and relaxed environment. My girls enjoy spending time with their friends at the barn and help out with what they can. Advanced riders are always willing to help, so are their parents. They have flexible schedule, no weekly fixed schedule required, and very accommodating to reasonable changes.

I had some plans for my daughter's 11th birthday that got cancelled last minute so I was looking…read morefor the next best thing that my daughter would enjoy, riding a horse. It was Saturday and I needed the plans for Sunday. I was really praying for someone to make her birthday memorable. I called over 20 places with no luck. I received a callback from Horizons and she gave me hope. She really wanted to do something to make it happen and she did! We were able to visit the Ranch, learn so much from an Amazing team. Tiffany is very knowledgeable and friendly. She was able to help us feel comfortable around the horses as this was our first time. Her ability to involve us in caring for the horses so we feel more confident allowed my kids to enjoy their joy ride on them. This was very memorable for all of us, especially my daughter who loves horses. Thank you to the Horizon team! You guys do such great work !