Chapter One Riding Academy & Holiday Gift Certificates

Is 2026 the year you learn to ride a horse? Ask about Christmas Gift Certificates!

Chapter One Riding Academy at Varian Equestrian Center is dedicated to building confident riders from the ground up, offering a welcoming and skill-building environment for horse enthusiasts of all ages. Located in the stunning setting of Arroyo Grande, California, the academy delivers lessons, horse leasing, and fun-filled camps within the renowned Varian Equestrian Center facilities.

What They Offer

Riding Lessons

Chapter One Riding Academy focuses on providing structured horseback riding lessons suitable for beginners, children, and adults eager to improve their horsemanship skills. Lessons are designed to instill safety, confidence, and a strong foundation, allowing students to advance at their own pace.

Lease Horses

For individuals who wish to deepen their riding practice but aren’t yet ready to own a horse, the academy offers horse leasing options. This gives students the unique opportunity to form a bond with a dedicated equine partner, practice consistently, and experience more of the horsemanship lifestyle.

Camps and Special Programs

Chapter One Riding Academy also hosts seasonal riding camps, providing immersive, multi-day experiences where kids and teens can learn about horses, riding, and stable management in a supportive, fun atmosphere. These camps promote teamwork, responsibility, and a genuine love for equestrian sports.

Community and Philosophy

Set amid the 200-acre, world-class Varian Equestrian Center, Chapter One Riding Academy is guided by experienced instructors who prioritize horsemanship, personal growth, and respectful horse-and-human partnerships. The stunning coastal views and well-equipped arenas provide an inspiring setting for learning and personal achievement.

Chapter One Riding Academy’s commitment is to help each rider write their “chapter one” in horsemanship—preparing them for a lifetime of connection, confidence, and adventure with horses.

Parent Testimonials

"The environment is so welcoming and calming. The instructors truly care about each rider’s growth and happiness. My child has blossomed in confidence and skill since starting here."

"Making confident & capable riders! Watching my daughter interact with her horse is just amazing. The Academy goes above and beyond in teaching both horsemanship and responsibility. We're so grateful to be part of this community."

Student Testimonials

"This is the best trip—so, so much fun! If you missed the last one, you need to come to the next one!"

"I never thought I’d learn so much about horses and myself. The lessons are awesome and the horses are the best!"

Location: 1275 Corbett Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Phone: (805) 664-1401