Equestrian living

An equestrian paradise filled with horseback riding opportunities

Welcome to Santa Barbara’s Equestrian Activities

Santa Barbara, California, is a beautiful coastal city located about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The city is known for its Mediterranean climate, which makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and surfing. Santa Barbara is also home to a thriving equestrian community. The city has several large, well-maintained equestrian facilities— including stables, riding arenas, and trails for horseback riding. The equestrian community in Santa Barbara is tight-knit, with many local residents participating in equestrian activities and events.

What to Love

  • Proximity to Los Angeles
  • Abundant equestrian amenities
  • A rich history of horseback riding
  • Breathtaking natural landscape
  • Strong sense of community

Local Lifestyle

The postcard-worthy landscapes of Santa Barbara provide the perfect backdrop for horseback riders to participate in the region’s rich equestrian history. With ample horseback riding stables and trails catering to riders of all experience levels, locals are spoiled for choice regarding equestrian amenities. 

Santa Barbara is also home to several equestrian events and competitions throughout the year. There are many local organizations and clubs that cater to equestrian enthusiasts, providing opportunities for riders to connect with others who share their passion. Whether you're looking to compete, socialize, or enjoy a beautiful ride, Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for anyone seeking an equestrian lifestyle steeped in luxury, history, and the natural world. 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Bettina is renowned throughout Santa Barbara for its delicious wood-fired pizzas. Their pies are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the restaurant's cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

One of the most unique dining experiences in Santa Barbara is The Stonehouse Restaurant. Located on a luxurious, sun-swept ranch, the restaurant offers an exclusive, fine dining experience often enjoyed by celebrities and business moguls.

For those who enjoy modern Indian cuisine, Bibi J is a must-visit restaurant in Santa Barbara. The restaurant's menu features a range of delicious dishes, from classic Indian curries to modern twists on traditional recipes.

Regarding shopping, Coast Village is a popular destination in Santa Barbara. The shopping center hosts various stores, from high-end fashion boutiques to local artisan shops. Coast Village is also home to a number of popular restaurants and cafes that are sure to satisfy your cravings after a day of retail therapy. 

Things to Do

When it comes to equestrian amenities, the residents of Santa Barbara are spoiled for choice. There are horse-friendly trails throughout the area, and every kind of riding is practiced—including Western, English, and Polo. 

For those seeking a romantic oceanside ride, Loon Point Beach is the ideal place to enjoy galloping across the sand surrounded by dramatic coastal cliffs and, of course, the breathtaking Pacific. Another pristine network of coastal horse riding trails is offered by the Moore Mesa Preservation Coalition.

Foxdale Farm is a full-service equestrian center offering riders a wide range of services and amenities. The center is known for its beautiful setting and well-trained horses, making it a great choice for riders looking to enjoy a scenic trail ride or take lessons. 

Another beloved equestrian center in the area is the San Marcos Stables. Offering a variety of riding lessons, trail rides, and training services, the stables are equipped to educate riders in a variety of fulfilling ways. 

Hartenburg Equestrian is a full-service equestrian facility offering riders a wide range of services and amenities. By virtue of its beautiful setting and well-trained horses, the center is often requested by riders looking to enjoy a truly luxurious equestrian experience.

Finally, the Santa Barbara National Horse Show is hosted annually at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. This exciting event offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe a diverse range of top-notch horse breeds in action.

Work With Us

The Morehart Group has set a standard of excellence in the Santa Barbara and Montecito luxury real estate market. Offering a unique combination of local insight, unmatched experience, and global expertise, the group has a history of cultivating strong relationships within the local community.

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