SUMMERLAND HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Salt spray, bluff-top trails, and a secluded seaside picnic — a 2½-hour private ride from the hills above Summerland
A private guided horseback ride that begins in the hills of Summerland, follows a trail to Santa Barbara’s beaches, and finishes with a curated picnic — an on-the-ground guide to what to expect.
Salt spray, bluff-top trails, and a secluded seaside picnic — a 2½-hour private ride from the hills above Summerland.
Adventure brief
Salt spray, bluff-top trails, and a secluded seaside picnic — a 2½-hour private ride from the hills above Summerland
Los Padres Outfitters leads private, guided beach rides that begin in the hills of Summerland and follow a trail down to the beaches of Santa Barbara, offering riders ocean bluffs, mountain backdrops and coastal riding in one continuous outing.
Experience a unique blend of coastal adventure and quiet relaxation with the 2 ½ Hour Private Beach Picnic Ride offered by Los Padres Outfitters in Summerland, California. This private excursion invites you to explore the scenic coastal trails and sandy shores of Summerland, combining a gentle ride with a carefully curated picnic on the beach. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups, this trip delivers a peaceful escape from the everyday, with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. Riders can enjoy spotting native wildlife, feeling the ocean breeze, and unwinding on soft sands while savoring gourmet picnic treats tailored to your preferences. The ride is designed for all skill levels, with expert guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience every step of the way. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to soak in California's coastline with a personal touch, this private beach picnic ride is an ideal choice for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and key stops
The ride follows a clear sequence: hills departure, trail descent, beach ride and a final picnic stop with coastal views.
Hills of Summerland — meeting and mount
Rides begin in the hills of Summerland where guests meet guides and horses and prepare for the trail descent to the coast.
Trail descent to the beach
A part-trail section takes riders down from the hills to the shoreline, transitioning from inland ridgelines to coastal terrain.
Beach ride along Santa Barbara’s coast
Once on the sand riders follow the coastline, taking in ocean bluffs and Pacific views on a guided beach canter or walk depending on conditions.
Secluded picnic viewpoint
After dismounting the guide leads the group to a secluded spot with expansive land-and-sea views for a curated picnic of locally sourced treats.
Participants must meet operator restrictions, including a 220 lb weight limit and a minimum age of 10; the operator may alter the route for safety or conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Coastal ridgelines, ocean bluffs and the Pacific
The route threads from summer-greened hills down toward Santa Barbara’s beaches, pairing bluff-top views of the Pacific with the shelter of nearby mountains — a compact cross-section of the Central Coast in a single ride.
Well-trained mounts and experienced wranglers
Rides are led by knowledgeable wranglers and provided with well-trained, friendly horses suited to riders of all experience levels, making the outing accessible whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced rider.
A secluded seaside picnic with locally sourced treats
After dismounting your guide will take the group to a secluded spot with impressive land-and-sea views where a specially curated selection of locally sourced treats is served; guests may bring their own wine and should note that a 20% automatic gratuity is pre-added on picnic rides.
What the day feels like
What the 2½-hour private beach picnic ride feels like
The outing moves from hilltop saddles through part-trail sections that lead the group down to the beach, where riders follow the coastline on horseback before dismounting for a quiet picnic in a secluded coastal viewpoint — all conducted as a private, guided experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private beach picnic ride suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 2½-hour private beach picnic ride.
Small cameras and water bottles may be carried in a small pouch (saddlebags) provided on the saddle; large purses and backpacks cannot be carried on the horse. Guests with dietary requirements may notify the operator or bring their own items and are welcome to bring wine.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are recommended. Plastic rain ponchos and umbrellas are prohibited; guests may wear rain jackets or rent slickers from the operator for $5 per ride.
All beach rides start in the hills of Summerland; rides operate year-round and seven days a week thanks to the Central Coast climate.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is included in a picnic ride?
The picnic ride includes a private guided beach ride followed by a scenic picnic with a curated selection of locally sourced treats; 20% automatic gratuity is pre-added upon booking for picnic rides.
How long is the ride?
The outing is a 2½-hour private beach picnic ride.
What are the age and weight limits?
Rides are offered to guests aged 10 years and older and there is a 220 lb weight limit.
Do I need prior riding experience?
No experience is necessary; the operator provides experienced wranglers and well-trained horses suitable for all riding levels.
What should I bring and can I bring wine?
Bring small items only (they can be stored in a small saddle pouch provided on request); guests may bring their own wine and should inform the operator of any dietary requirements for the picnic.
What about rainy weather?
Plastic ponchos and umbrellas are prohibited; guests may wear rain jackets or rent slickers from the operator for $5 per ride.
When do rides operate?
Los Padres Outfitters runs beach rides seven days per week, year-round, given the temperate Central Coast climate.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:54:06.068Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.