Find a horse riding instructor in Santa Monica, CA

Find horse riding lessons in Santa Monica, CA

Find horse riding lessons in Santa Monica, CA

Confirm your location to see the best horseback riding instructors near you.
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Find horse riding lessons in Santa Monica, CA

Confirm your location to see the best horseback riding instructors near you.
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Top 10 horseback riding instructors in Santa Monica, CA

Students agree: these Santa Monica horse riding lessons are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Sage Creek Stables

Sage Creek Stables

New on Lessons.com
1 hire on Lessons.com
3+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Sage Creek Stables, based in Bell Canyon, California, provides a comprehensive range of equestrian services. The business offers showjumping and dressage lessons, full-service boarding and training, as well as the sale of jumpers, hunters, and dressage horses. We places a strong emphasis on the well-being of the horses, grooming them twice daily and ensuring clean, large pastures for them to relax and be their natural selves. With two large arenas and wonderful trails for riding, MCP European Stables started in December 2022 out of genuine passion and is run with sincere intent.
Jigsaw Farms

Jigsaw Farms

New on Lessons.com
7+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA & Online
I teach horseback riding, Equine therapy (EAGALA) ground based, Equine Yoga, and art. Certified Equine Specialist in the EAGALA Method. Pursuring 200 hour yoga teacher training. Bachelor Degree in Art from UC Santa Cruz. Archery - child's archery I am passionate about teaching beginners and intermediate riders on the importance of biomechanics of the rider. I do this is a fun and constructive way so that the rider find alignment and harmony when riding a horse. Equine therapy is very transformative and helpful for anyone who is looking to better themselves. It is wonderful seeing the progress people make in the present of horses. Equine ...
Audio Branding Degoas

Audio Branding Degoas

New on Lessons.com
13+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Hi! I’m from Argentina. There I used to ride horses. I do it for fun an pleasure I’m not an expert. :)
Riders United

Riders United

New on Lessons.com
6+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Welcome to Riders United, where we offer exceptional horseback riding lessons, located in Thousand Oaks, CA. Our team of skilled instructors is dedicated to nurturing the growth and confidence of riders of all levels and disciplines. With personalized attention and a passion for equestrian excellence, we ensure a safe and enriching experience for every student. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, join us to explore the joy of horseback riding in a supportive and dynamic environment. Our program is founded and run by Victoria Faerber. Victoria has been a trainer, coach and mentor for 30+ years working with an array
Eneya Jenkins Equestrian

Eneya Jenkins Equestrian

New on Lessons.com
Serves Santa Monica, CA
My name is Eneya Jenkins. I am currently in veterinary school but still hold a strong passion for riding and helping others with their horses. I have international competition experience up to the 3★ level in eventing and clear rounds in 1.30m jumpers throughout Spain and Europe, having trained with top riders such as Robyn Fisher, Chris Burton, and Tim Price. I enjoy working with amateur riders who may not be able to commit to full training but need that extra help with their horses or lessons. I work especially well with more difficult or sensitive horses and can provide guidance in jumping, dressage, eventing, and regular flatwork.
Total Equestrian Experience

Total Equestrian Experience

New on Lessons.com
20+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Total Equestrian Experience, founded in 2006 and based in Chatsworth, California, provides a comprehensive suite of equine education. They offer classical English and Western riding lessons, horse care lessons, and horse camps for individuals of all ages, from beginners to advanced learners. Their programs are designed to provide a safe, fun, and supportive environment, making it the ideal one-stop place for equine education. They also offer The Horse Camp, an accredited summer program by The American Camp Association, that teaches 21st-century life skills through horse-related activities and unique special events.
Ohanu Riding Stables

Ohanu Riding Stables

New on Lessons.com
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Ohanu Riding Stables, located in the beautiful Woodland Hills of California, is the go-to destination for horse enthusiasts and equestrians. The company serves both the local community of Woodland Hills and the surrounding areas. With its exceptional services and a keen focus on customer satisfaction, Ohanu Riding Stables proudly stands as a preferred choice for horse riding services.
Gable Equestrian

Gable Equestrian

New on Lessons.com
14+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Gable Equestrian, founded in 2012, is a premier equestrian training company located in Los Angeles, California. They specialize in Dressage training and lessons, a competitive sport that develops a horse's natural athletic ability and willingness to perform. With over 25 years of experience, Gable Equestrian is dedicated to helping equine enthusiasts achieve their goals, providing a relaxed and effort-free learning environment for both the rider and horse.
LA Horse Rentals

LA Horse Rentals

New on Lessons.com
9+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
LA Horse Rentals, founded in 2017, is a standout service based in Glendale, California and the surrounding areas. They offer guided horseback rides through the scenic Griffith Park, boasting a unique opportunity to discover Los Angeles from a unique perspective. You can explore over 50 miles of trails with panoramic views of everything from the Pacific Ocean to the San Gabriel Mountains. Whether it's overlooking downtown LA or the famous Hollywood sign, LA Horse Rentals provides an unforgettable experience.
The Clearing Farm LLC.

The Clearing Farm LLC.

New on Lessons.com
Serves Santa Monica, CA
The Clearing Farm LLC, located in both Sylmar and Lake View Terrace, California, serves the surrounding areas with exceptional service. With a strong reputation for quality and commitment, the company takes pride in providing excellent solutions tailored to meet customer needs. The Clearing Farm LLC is a trusted partner, always ready to go the extra mile for their clients.

Your Horseback Riding Lessons questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.

How much are horseback riding lessons?

Horse riding lessons cost $45 to $80 per hour, depending on where you live and the type of riding you want to learn. Most riding lessons begin in the ring, where the trainer can safely monitor the beginning rider as they get comfortable in the saddle.

Many trainers offer introductory packages at a discounted price and start beginning riders out in group lessons. As you master the riding basics, then a teacher may recommend private lessons to focus on specific skills or more advanced riding training.

What age to start horseback riding lessons?

There is no particular age that is best for starting horseback riding lessons, instead, it depends on the child's maturity, physical coordination, and interest in horses. Most experts agree that children should be at least 6 years old before taking formal riding lessons.

For young children, the parents should visit a stable to introduce the child to horses and horse care before signing up for lessons. Choose a stable with well trained, gentle horses and experience with young riders.

Do you tip for horseback riding lessons?

Tipping for horseback riding lessons is not customary, but always appreciated. A thank you note is a great way to acknowledge a good teacher and show your appreciation. If you want to tip, 10% to 20% tip is more than generous.

What equipment do I need to begin horse lessons?

Most horse stables have horses and tack for use during riding lessons, so purchasing that is not necessary at the start. Your instructor will let you know their specific recommendations, but the basic equipment you will need to begin horseback riding lessons includes:

  • Helmet
  • Riding pants
  • Boots with heels
  • Gloves

Do I have to own a horse to be able to take lessons?

No, you do not have to own a horse to take riding lessons. Many riding schools and barns have well-trained horses for beginners through experienced riders. Taking riding lessons before owning a horse is a great way to make sure you enjoy riding before committing to horse ownership.

Learning basic equine care before buying a horse is also advised. Riding trainers often include an element of horse care as part of their lessons. Tasks like mucking stalls, cleaning tack, and basic horse grooming are incorporated into lessons and are beneficial to learn before becoming a horse owner.

How often should I have lessons? How many lessons do I need?

The frequency and number of riding lessons depend on your level of experience, riding goals, and budget. Generally, it is recommended that beginners take lessons at least once a week to build foundational riding skills.

Basic riding skills take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months to learn but the more you ride, the faster you will improve. Riders who take one lesson a week will likely spend their first year focusing on riding basics. Riders who practice more often or schedule additional private lessons will advance faster.

How do I choose a horseback riding instructor?

When looking for horseback riding lessons, be sure to:

  • Start by researching different riding styles and disciplines to help you narrow down instructors that teach the type of riding you want to learn.
  • Visit the stables to ensure you are comfortable with how the horses are treated and the arena is maintained.
  • Ask about group or private lessons and decide which is better for your budget and riding goals.
  • Ask about taking an introductory lesson to try out their teaching style and gauge your interest in the sport.

What questions should I ask a riding instructor?

Once you've narrowed down a list of potential riding instructors, ask them the following questions:

  • What is your teaching style?
  • What are your qualifications?
  • What are your rates?
  • What type of horses do you have?
  • What is your availability?
  • What is your cancellation policy?

Reviews for Santa Monica horseback riding instructors

Recent success stories from people in the Santa Monica area.
Sherry H.
Kari is an amazing riding instructor with tons of skills and useful information to share to get you in control of the horse so you develope a partnership.
Jewel Natural Horsemanship
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