Sea Horse Ranch
Sea Horse Ranch
4.2
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Beautiful guided coastal trail and beach horseback rides on dramatic Coastal Equestrian Trail and Half Moon Bay's Poplar Beach. Minimum riding age is 7 years old. All rides appropriate for first time, moderately experienced and very experienced riders. Online reservations required, height/weight restrictions available online, check before booking. Barbecues available for groups of 10 people or more. Closing time ends with seasonal changes. Always open for early bird ride at 8:00 a.m., by reservation.
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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See what travelers are saying
- Jennifer W2 contributionsMy son and I had such an amazing time at Sea Horse Ranch! The staff was super friendly and professional, and the views along the trail were absolutely gorgeous. Here are a few things you should know before you go: 1.) No Cameras or Go-Pros: Honestly, though, when we went (in December), the trail was muddy; we traveled through water and sand and mud. You WILL drop your phone, which is why they aren't allowed. 2.) Photos Are Taken for You: They have someone taking photos that you can buy at the end. You can simply ignore the cameraman if you want. You also don't need to buy the photos. Our experiences do exist without having to document everything!:) 3.) In my group of 8 riders, we had everyone from experienced riders to first-time riders. The staff wants everyone to be SAFE, so of course, there is someone riding up and down the line to ensure everyone is doing what they need to do so they stay safe. This experience is truly for those who don't have much experience riding (if at all) so if you are an experienced rider, you just need to understand that those around you need that extra support. 4.) DON'T be late! If your ride starts at 8:00 AM, you HAVE TO be there at 7:30 AM for the short lesson they will give the group. Prepare for lots of traffic. If you are worried you will be late, find the place early, and then go grab a cup of coffee down the road until you need to be there. Overall, my son and I had a thoroughly enjoyable experience. This was his first time riding, and he said it was fantastic. I'm a semi-experienced rider (I rode as a kid but haven't ridden in decades), and I thought it was a lot of fun. I highly recommend Sea Horse Ranch!Visited December 2024Traveled with familyWritten January 1, 2025
- Peggy B1 contributionMy teenaged nieces loved it! We took the 1.5 hour trail and beach ride. Gorgeous views, friendly staff and horses. No riding experience is required. Professional photos of each group are available on thumb drives with affordable price options.Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 27, 2024
- Sandy ASan Jose, California27 contributionsI cannot recommend Sea Horse Ranch enough. The owners are warm, friendly, and extremely helpful, their horses are the loveliest, and the route is nothing short of spectacular. I was an extremely anxious first time rider, the kind lady at Sea Horse gave me the sweetest, gentlest horse, spent a ton of time talking me through what to expect and helped soothe my nerves getting on, and really set me off on what was truly an absolutely delightful, memorable experience. The route itself is lovely - through mostly flat land, a tiny, narrow creek, and down the bluffs by the ocean in gorgeous Half Moon Bay. The guides accompanying us through our ride seemed as knowledgeable about the horses as they were kind/gentle to the humans riding them. and the horses are the absolute best. We were a family of 4, and we each got a horse that was just perfect for our skills and personality, the excellent folks at Sea Horse clearly know and love their horses for them to be able to offer such a thoroughly flawless experience.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 1, 2024
- Louise L1 contributionThis was an absolutely amazing experience. Our 9 year old rider has always wanted to ride on the beach, so we agreed to book it whilst visiting the States. And we loved every minute of it. The staff are wonderful, the horses are wonderful and we would do it again in a heartbeat.Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 21, 2024
- BackPacker7882202 contributionsWhat a magical wonderful day it was riding with Sea Horse Ranch, it was a great experience from beginning to end. We chose the 90 minute package to the beach. We met our host who provided a demo and training (be sure to read the email they send you after booking the ride as it instructs riders to be there 30 minutes for a demo and training prior to the booked time). There were 2 guides for our group, one in front leading the way and one in back making sure we/horses didn't go astray. Our group had little to no experience riding. They led us from the property, through the ranch/fields, down to the beach and back. The horses were gentle, the guides were very helpful and friendly, and the scenery really just couldn't be beat. The horses looked taken care of and everyone there was friendly. Our group loved this experience. Thank you Sea Horse Ranch!Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 19, 2024
- Miriam2 contributionsThis was an amazing experience that we will never forget! The owner was wonderful to work with, even making sure we got to ride by rescheduling us after canceled and delayed flights made us miss our original reservation. The guides were knowledgeable and made us feel safe the entire ride and the photos at the end were amazing! Definitely recommend!Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 23, 2024
- Heide B1 contributionTrail was beautiful and the ride was good. We were frustrated that no time was given to interact or even introduce ourselves to the horses. Our guide didn’t give any descriptions of the fauna, which would have added to the experience. Still riding on the beach was terrific!Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten March 23, 2024
- Diane E4 contributionsBeautiful two hour ride on the trail and beach. The horses are obviously well loved, cared for, and trained. The guides make sure everyone is safe and well matched to their horse. My horse was Colorado, who was the best boy! Very relaxing ride.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 12, 2024
- Shana H1 contributionAmazing time! My friend and I did the early bird special (which is an amazing deal) and it was so fun!! I use to have my own horse and find most trail rides to be really boring but this was so fun! And I can't think of anywhere else you can go on the beach.Visited September 2024Traveled with friendsWritten October 11, 2024
- Gage GLafayette, California1 contributionGreat time all around. Relaxed but well organized staff was very helpful polite and fun! The creek was flowing slowly and very exciting, I’m tall so my feet were almost dragging in the water so my shoes were a little damp after but not bad at allVisited February 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten February 25, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.2
413 reviews
Excellent
269
Very good
58
Average
21
Poor
23
Terrible
42
Erika A
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • Couples
Never coming back here. The star is only for the horse because she was awesome and very passionate. I booked an hour ride with my boyfriend since he'd never been horseback riding. I've gone elsewhere several times and DO NOT recommend going here (especially if you're a beginner). I understood the rule of not bringing purses/bags etc on the ride, but the fact that we weren't allowed to bring our phones was strange since other places allowed that.
The wrangler "supposedly" helping me get ready to ride was super rude and yelled at me for not holding the ropes right. Again, I have a bit of experience; but this guy was an effin jerk who should be fired. When I tried asking how I should hold it, he scoffed at me and ignored me. The horse I had was ready to go on the trail (more like run away from him) and wanted to go right away. The jerk was snapping at me even though the horse was impatient and I didn't have control over it.
The wrangler guiding the tour was rude, disrespectful, and physically abusive. There were two riders who didn't speak fluent English and he kept yelling at one of them AND grabbed the rope on her horse out of her hands since she wasn't understanding his instructions. I can understand the frustration, but YOU DO NOT treat paying customers like that!!! This guy is not guide/leader material and needs to do something else (like a new job).
There was supposed to be a photographer but they didn't show up (which was whatever). The other guide was taking pictures on her phone and said she would send them to the numbers we provided (big surprise! Never got them).
While we were riding to and back from the trail, I noticed a lot of old/worn out trailers around the stable/ranch/house and not to sound judgmental, but that seemed odd. And it made me think "is that why you didn't want us to bring our phones? Not to just get "more money" since you scam people with the 'professional pictures' but to not take pics on our own of the random trailers, uncared for horses, and anything else that could shut down your business?" That's super suspicious.
This place is going to keep going downhill if they don't hire better wranglers/trainers, stop scamming customers, take better care of the horses, take better care of the property, learn customer service, and get rid of the current wranglers who hate their jobs.
The wrangler "supposedly" helping me get ready to ride was super rude and yelled at me for not holding the ropes right. Again, I have a bit of experience; but this guy was an effin jerk who should be fired. When I tried asking how I should hold it, he scoffed at me and ignored me. The horse I had was ready to go on the trail (more like run away from him) and wanted to go right away. The jerk was snapping at me even though the horse was impatient and I didn't have control over it.
The wrangler guiding the tour was rude, disrespectful, and physically abusive. There were two riders who didn't speak fluent English and he kept yelling at one of them AND grabbed the rope on her horse out of her hands since she wasn't understanding his instructions. I can understand the frustration, but YOU DO NOT treat paying customers like that!!! This guy is not guide/leader material and needs to do something else (like a new job).
There was supposed to be a photographer but they didn't show up (which was whatever). The other guide was taking pictures on her phone and said she would send them to the numbers we provided (big surprise! Never got them).
While we were riding to and back from the trail, I noticed a lot of old/worn out trailers around the stable/ranch/house and not to sound judgmental, but that seemed odd. And it made me think "is that why you didn't want us to bring our phones? Not to just get "more money" since you scam people with the 'professional pictures' but to not take pics on our own of the random trailers, uncared for horses, and anything else that could shut down your business?" That's super suspicious.
This place is going to keep going downhill if they don't hire better wranglers/trainers, stop scamming customers, take better care of the horses, take better care of the property, learn customer service, and get rid of the current wranglers who hate their jobs.
Written February 9, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ashwini D
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Friends
we were blessed with the best weather - the views on this day were absolutely gorgeous. We had the best time. I was a first time rider and the staff really makes sure you feel comfortable for your ride. You control the reigns and the horses behave very well, following each other in a line. The guide will keep you with your party so you will be riding behind each other. I recommend doing the beach ride for sure!!! It surely is a gorgeous experience. I highly recommend. And my horse's name was midnight :)
Written January 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ColoradoMts
Lafayette, CO164 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Seahorse Ranch is a organized facility with healthy horses that seem well cared for and fed well. The owner was thorough with her safety talk and giving us guidance on how to ride properly to eliminate any accidents. (I’m an experienced rider so it was important for others to hear the info)
The guides were very experienced and kept the riders safe with no stragglers.
The path we took ran along the ocean in parts and we crossed a fun stream and then headed down a steep hill to ride in the sand at the beaches edge. Some of the rides do not go onto the beach so choose wisely. I’ve always wanted to ride on the beach so it was a big plus for me and my Granddaughter.
They had a professional photographer who followed us on a Segway so he could go ahead and take 100’s of photos of the group. We were not allowed to take anything on the ride-no phones, no hats (must wear a safety helmet) etc.
The photos were expensive imo. 1-5 photos was $45.00 or you could buy a thumb drive with all of them for $75.00 which included approx 150 pics of each rider.
Overall, it was worth the money for the 1 1/2 hour ride. -Warning. I’m 68 and my knees were very achy after the ride! If you have back or knees challenges this is not for you. It’s bouncy and can be challenging to stay on if you are inexperienced.
The guides were very experienced and kept the riders safe with no stragglers.
The path we took ran along the ocean in parts and we crossed a fun stream and then headed down a steep hill to ride in the sand at the beaches edge. Some of the rides do not go onto the beach so choose wisely. I’ve always wanted to ride on the beach so it was a big plus for me and my Granddaughter.
They had a professional photographer who followed us on a Segway so he could go ahead and take 100’s of photos of the group. We were not allowed to take anything on the ride-no phones, no hats (must wear a safety helmet) etc.
The photos were expensive imo. 1-5 photos was $45.00 or you could buy a thumb drive with all of them for $75.00 which included approx 150 pics of each rider.
Overall, it was worth the money for the 1 1/2 hour ride. -Warning. I’m 68 and my knees were very achy after the ride! If you have back or knees challenges this is not for you. It’s bouncy and can be challenging to stay on if you are inexperienced.
Written August 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
K K
1 contribution
Jul 2022
My daughter and I were looking forward to our ride in beautiful HMB. The trails that Sea Horse Ranch utilizes are gorgeous. The weather was also perfect. However, those were the only positives about our experience.
The horses rode, single file, about 6-12 inches apart, the entire ride. It felt very automaton. We were spoken to harshly by the lady giving instructions and by the two employee riders who accompanied us as we had our trail ride. The horses did not seem to be well taken care of, dirty/muddy and no eye guards to help with all the flies. The grounds are also very run down and in need of maintenance.
Our ride was supposed to be an hour but the lecture given previous to the ride gave us a late start and then we returned 10-15 minutes early, so about 40-45 minutes of riding for $100. This will be our last visit.
Hopefully our experience is not the norm and it was an off day.
The horses rode, single file, about 6-12 inches apart, the entire ride. It felt very automaton. We were spoken to harshly by the lady giving instructions and by the two employee riders who accompanied us as we had our trail ride. The horses did not seem to be well taken care of, dirty/muddy and no eye guards to help with all the flies. The grounds are also very run down and in need of maintenance.
Our ride was supposed to be an hour but the lecture given previous to the ride gave us a late start and then we returned 10-15 minutes early, so about 40-45 minutes of riding for $100. This will be our last visit.
Hopefully our experience is not the norm and it was an off day.
Written July 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Expandy0urH0riz0ns
San Francisco, CA2 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
I had the most fantastic experience with Sea Horse Ranch in Half Moon Bay, California. The guided horseback riding on the Coastal Equestrian Trail was simply exceptional. Willa's outstanding professionalism, her unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, and her genuine care for every client truly made the adventure even more memorable. Our frequent customers are continuously delighted with the meticulously planned itinerary, the exhilarating horseback ride, and the impeccable service provided by Sea Horse Ranch. We can't recommend them highly enough!
Written November 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Giovanni S
Miami, FL16 contributions
Nov 2023 • Business
Our company's team-building event at this ranch was a tremendous success. With a mix of novices and experienced riders in our group, the guides managed to make it an experience to suit all skill levels. This ranch is a rare location for those looking to merge horseback riding with the majesty of the ocean.Eemphasis on safety by the ranch assured a secure environment, which translated in confidence in all of us. The enchanting experience has already inspired some colleagues to plan return visits with their families and friends.
Written November 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tanya
Whitchurch-Stouffville, Canada2 contributions
Mar 2023
I booked and paid in advance to have a bucket list experience in California. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate and seahorse ranch understandably cancelled our ride as there was heavy rain and flooding. They communicated this the night before and offered to rebook which we could not accommodate due to our flight home. They agreed to refund based on this information. No refund by 3 weeks later so I emailed to remind. No response. I emailed again a week later and then called and was promised a refund stating “ it takes some time”. I have now been waiting over 2 months and they have not responded to any of my emails or communication. Website promises refund if they cancel but do not honor this. Don’t book and pay in advance like I did
Written May 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Angie K
1 contribution
Dec 2022 • Couples
Theres about 15-20 other people on your ride, and you can’t take your phone to take pictures. (They used to let) There’s a photographer that will charge $40 for 5 pictures. Half of the time you’re not on the beach but on a dirt road. It’s ok. I prob wouldn’t go again
Written January 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sensei
1 contribution
May 2021 • Couples
We did the early bird 2 hour ride which had really pretty scenery between the woods and going onto the beach which made the experience worth it and why they earned the 4 stars. I wanted to give 3.5 because I did not like some of their rules/regulations such as not being able to bring a backpack, personal items or even having your own cell phone in your pocket (and they are VERY adamant about sticking to those rules). Otherwise I really enjoyed my time but did not like relying on having to ask one of the two guides for photos (which they really dont stop to take photos, more like moving candids).
Written May 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah Trad
1 contribution
Nov 2020 • Friends
I was not happy with the customer service. It costs $100 for our ride and the staff was very unprofessional. Even though we were supposed to “social distance” the staff were very touchy and inappropriate. One of the male workers would not leave us alone and after being instructed not to touch us (by female coworkers) while getting off the horses due to COVID he insisted on carrying us off. This place has no sanitizing procedures that I am aware of and overall it was a very bad experience. Would not recommend and would not go back.
Written November 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I fell down from the horse, because they made the horse surprised by shouting.
I was a beginner, but they made my horse hopping by whistle.
I had bone break and bruise on my left finger and rt. Knee.
They did not care about my condition after a ride.
They mix every levels of people together, and hurry the group.
They are amatures in horse ride.
Never recommend this company!
Written August 22, 2018
I see no cameras or cell phones are allowed on the ride - does anyone take pictures for riders to access afterwards, or are the opportunities for a photo along the way?
Written May 6, 2018
Yes, there will be someone taking pictures of you and your group throughout the ride, which you are able to see after the ride. Thanks for your question.
Written May 7, 2018
If we book ahead and rains on the day, will the tour be cancel? And can we get a full refund?
Written November 15, 2017
If it is a rain out, or other weather-related cancellation, full refunds are available, as well as the option to reschedule--your choice. Thanks for your question. Hope to see you at the ranch soon.
Written November 15, 2017
We have a 4 year old son, which would like to go with the rest of the family. Is it possible that he rides with me or my husbond?
Written November 7, 2016
Hi, Anna. Our minimum riding age is 7 years old, and for safety reasons, there is no double riding. Unfortunately, then, your four year old won't be able to ride. I am so sorry. Up the road from us is a place called Lemos Farms which has pony rides and other activities for children. Thanks and good luck!!
Willa
Written November 7, 2016
Hello, I wanted to go this Mother's Day with my family. I was looking at the chart, I'm a "Mom" 5'1" tall and 167 lbs. according to the chart, I'm in the pink (x) area. Am I not able to go? Please let me know as I wanted to book ASAP for this Sunday.
Written May 4, 2016
You should be fine. I was over the weight limit and there was no problem.
Written September 3, 2016
Can u have the opportunity to gallop along the coastline where the water meets the sand?
Written November 25, 2015
We went on the sand along the water for a while, and we mostly "walked." We were not an experienced group. It was gorgeous!
Written November 27, 2015
Hi! We are hoping to book a ride out with you over Christmas while we are on holiday from the UK. My daughter is a very experienced rider - is she ok to wear her own helmet? Thank you
Written October 10, 2015
Absolutely! We have riding helmets here, but if you prefer to use your own, that is perfectly fine. Make sure to book your reservation as soon as you know what day, since the holiday, if the weather holds, fills up quickly. Just go online, and book it yourself!! Let me know if you have more questions. Thanks!
Willa
Written October 10, 2015
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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