Great experience! I was gifted a trail ride through The Tijuana River Valley Park today as a birthday gift with my daughter! What a wonderful time! Chuey was an excellent guide, knowledgable and patient while refreshing this past-horsewoman with riding techniques. The ride itself was beautiful through lush heavily foliaged forested areas. The horses were great trail horses, sweet and well-behaved, easy to handle. Can't wait to go back and take my husband! Thank you, Chuey!!! I highly recommend this experience! read more

Chuy is an amazing person. He is knowledgeable and truly cares about the horses under his care. I've had the pleasure of of using his services several times with my family members and we all had an amazing time and can't wait to book another horseback riding experience at the blanco brothers read more

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I cannot express what an amazing experience this was! My husband made reservations for our anniversary and it did NOT disappoint. Horses are beautiful and very well taken care of and trained. Chuy our guide was wonderful. He made sure we knew what to do with great instruction and patience making sure we were safe, that we saw all we could see. I have dreamt about riding a horse on the beach with the love of my life and my dream came true! We will go back again and recommend to everyone! Thank you Chuy!!! read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

I contacted Chuey early in the week and after playing a bit of phone tag I was able to secure a reservation. There's not really an office so bear with him as he keeps his phone on his belt while he rides and won't always answer. Chuey rearranged his schedule so I could have a more experienced ride. The ride was extensive and beautiful. At $100 for 3 hours none of the other local places can compete. On top of that we trotted and galloped for extensive stretches which was amazing. It is a long ride so be prepared, but I was all for it. Chuey even gave me a bottle of water before we took off. When the breeze dies down, the mosquitos will come out to grab a bite, so make sure to wear or bring bug spray. This was the highlight of my trip I can't reccomend it highly enough. read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Galloping on the beach - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

Went riding today with Chewy the wrangler and two other customers. Using GPS it was very easy to find and large sign out front. Chewy introduced himself and gave us 3 water bottles each in our horn bag. It was a warm day so that was greatly appreciated. Long trail to the beach with tall brush and beautiful bamboo. It felt like we where in a maze. Horses where wonderful, healthy and wanted to move. Tack was good and ranch looked organized. Beach was so cool. Chewy let us lope a while and then back to ranch on a different trail. I had Lobo but the other 2 horses where good too. Wear hat, boots, pants and long sleeve shirt and enjoy the ride. read more

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My husband planned horseback riding for my birthday in May (late review I know). I love horses, had never gotten to do a trail ride or any ride where someone wasn't leading the horse or pony. I grew up in Otay Mesa so I remembered seeing a lot of ranches out there, looked up on Yelp and found this fantastic business. Chuy was amazing and so flexible! We scheduled for the 3 hour trail ride special, I had a few questions over the phone about how to prepare and he was very informative, especially as I told him I was a first timer and he informed me it was a long ride. What I also loved was that our riding group was just me, my husband and Chuy! So it was an incredible value for basically a private ride. On the day we arrived a little early and got to watch Chuy prepping the horses. My husband was on a grey named Canelo and I believe my horse was Chase (?). We got on the horses and he gave us a little training to get started, then headed out. FYI for the other first time riders - anything beyond a walk takes some getting used to. I definitely got bounced around until I adjusted to the rhythm and held my seat, which was all on me and not the horse or our guide! LISTEN TO CHUY! His tips kept me on the horse and having fun! The trail is absolutely gorgeous, that day there was a bit of flooding on the usual trail so we went on a different route with more bamboo and less trees. The best was going through a low scrubby area, we saw and heard plenty of birds (and a falcon). We did an early morning ride to enjoy some light sun. The ride takes you through the trail to the beach, once we were there the horses were raring to run - Chuy gave us tips on how to stop/start galloping and we got to run the horses up and down for a bit. He will also take nice pics for you if you ask! Overall an amazing experience, I can't express how great Chuy is. The horses are wonderful and sweet & you can tell they are excited to be on the trail. I'm already planning to come back for next year's birthday and ride again, if not sooner. (Maybe a sunset ride next time...) read more

We rode with Chuey about two months ago, and just made reservations to do the beach ride again for next weekend, so I don't know why Yelp lists this business as closed. The horses are healthy and well-cared for. If there is no answer on the phone line, leave a message and Chuey will call you back. Our family of 4 - parents and two teenagers, are experienced to intermediate riders. All are comfortable trotting, cantering and galloping. The beach ride is a beautiful ride through native ravines and salt plains with wild roses and various flowering plants. Once the ride reaches the beach, those who want to go faster on the horses will have chances to do so. We highly recommend Blanco Brothers Ranch. read more

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Man... shout out to Chuy. I booked the beach ride for me and my girls anniversary. She has never ridden before so he gave her a little basic training to get her going. The trail was that of a middle of a forest vibe which in my opinion was dope. As we approached the beach we road till it was time to go. If you know how to ride he will let you ride(cause ya boi was getting it lol). Don't front on your skills though cause the horse and Chuy will know. Btw: take sunblock Thank you Chuy for a great time and hospitality. We will be back read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

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My boyfriend and I had the most wonderful time on our ride! The horses were WONDERFUL, and the views were incredible. This was my boyfriend's 2nd time horseback riding, and Chuey did an amazing job of teaching and guiding him for a successful ride. We even had a chance to practice some galloping on the beach. We will definitely be back next time we are in the SD area! read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

Booked a horseback trip for my wife and niece for my wife's birthday. This is what she had to say: First time horseback riding, ever. Had an "AWESOME" time! Chuey exceeded all expectations for a first time experience. My niece rated her experience (previously horseback riding 2 times) a million stars out of 5. Our horses (Cash & Lobo) were beautiful and well trained. Chuey also provided horseback riding tips for safe riding. We will definitely be returning! read more

Horrible customer service, absolutely horrible customer service, absolutely could probably not have worse customer service

I found the Blanco Brothers Ranch while on a business trip to San Diego with my two coworkers. Our experience was truly amazing - we are still smiling and laughing about it. I have been on multiple horseback riding trails but this one tops all. Chuey made the experience personal and showed us the ropes to make us feel comfortable before we went out. The horses were behaved and well taken care of. If you want a personalized experience, it does not get much better than this! Chuey, we will be back! :) read more

TL;DR: About a 3 hour ride with great horses & trails. Chuy allows you to ride to your ability & he only guides your group. Call to book as I don't think he uses the web often. He will be my go-to beach trail guide from now on. Chuy is a wonderful guide & owner. Back in January 2018, I called him because my fiance' (now husband) & I wanted our engagement photos on the beach while on horseback. I read his Yelp reviews & visited his website, but took the advice of other Yelpers to book our ride & to ask if using his horses for our photos were alright. He said it was no problem & we had our photographer meet us at the beach. The trail to the beach is easy & a bit long but the scenery was so pretty we didn't mind (about 2.5-3hrs total). His horses were not spooked by anything & are well behaved. Once we got to the beach, we took our photos & got to trot & lope on the beach. He also let us walk the horses in the water. Many companies will only allow you to walk your horse (I'm sure for liability reasons), but Chuy has trust & confidence with his horses & his guests; therefore, you may ride to your ability. What also separates him from other companies is that he only takes your group on the trail. You're not with a bunch of strangers & it makes it a more intimate experience. Thank you Chuy & Blanco Brothers Ranch! read more

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I have over 10 years of riding experience so I was looking for a place that has an experienced ride option. This place was great- exceeded all expectations! It was a beautiful ride through the forest before we got to the beach. Will definitely be going back in the future! read more

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I scheduled a trail ride to celebrate my daughter's 16th birthday for the morning of SuperBowl Sunday. In the weeks prior, I called Chuy to schedule and as others say, you'll want to use the phone number and have a little patience. These horses receive exceptional care and Chuy runs the 10 acre ranch on his own so he's a busy guy likely not spending much time on a smart phone. We rode one hour to the beach, spent about 30 minutes there, galloping along the water's edge (we are both experienced riders) and posing for a few pictures (courtesy of Chuy's photo skills), and then headed back to the ranch (one hour back). Each ride is a personal ride with your group and Chuy which I really enjoyed. The horses were well cared for and all hooves were in great shape. The experience was paramount to any other guided trail ride experience in SoCal primarily because Chuy is so skilled and kind, the trail is beautiful in the Tijuana River Valley and the horses are exceptionally trained. The commute from our North County community to the border was worth every minute. You should look no further for a trail ride. This is the place you'll want to go. read more

Such an amazing experiance! Chuy is very professional and happy to give tips if you are a beginner on horseback riding. The horses are well behaved and (once you get your bearings) easy to ride. The price is astounding for what you get and I will defiantly be back with friends! Thank you Chuy! read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Riding free - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

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There needs to be an option to choose 10 stars because this place deserves it. We felt like we were somewhere tropical. Riding through trails surrounded by bamboo to riding along a beautiful beach. Chuy made us feel like we were riding with a friend. We will definitely be back! read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

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We had such an amazing experience. Thanks Chuy for being such a gracious and patient host. Riding along the beach was the highlight of our day!! You helped us create a timeless memory! read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

Wish we could give Chewy and his Ranch MORE STARS! My Husband and I went recently for our 1 year anniversary and we LOVED it! There's no other horseback riding experience like it in SoCal! Chewy was a great instructor and made sure we felt safe and confident. We loved having the freedom to roam around and gallop or trot! I recommend being very honest with your horseback riding level so that Chewy can best accommodate you to your skill. Even if you're a beginner, you will have so much fun. The beach was super private and it was only my Husband and I with Chewy. He only takes one ride out per day so the horses are not overwhelmed. Hands down the best horseback riding experience we've had. Better than our horseback riding waterfall tour we did in Kauai! We will be coming back regularly! read more

We had such a great time today ridding with Chewy. His horses are beautiful and he takes great care of them. He was friendly and welcomed us on his ranch. Ride down to the beach was relaxing. Beach was beautiful. Highly recommend checking this place out. You won't be disappointed. See you next time Chewy. read more

I'm family so my review is way biased. Though Blanco Brothers Ranch is only one of two 5 Star ranches in Cali with access to the beach front. The other being in No Cal. Tio Chuy loves his horses and in sharing his knowledge and care of these majestic creatures. He takes the time for you to learn how to ride and know the horse. read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

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Chuy was great to work with! I planned a trail and beach ride as a surprise for my husband's birthday. Chuy asked about our riding history, and was so accommodating to our inexperience. The horses were very well trained and easy to work with, and Chuy checked in often to make sure we were comfortable. There are a lot of mosquitos along the trail, though, so use bug spray! I was surprised by the number of mosquitos for mid-day in the summer. read more

My friend and I both grew up riding and we were looking to ride somewhere more tailored to experienced riders. Chuy and his horses exceeded our expectations. We had such a blast. I haven't had that much fun in awhile. We will definitely be back. Thanks again Chuy! read more

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First of all, if I could, I would give him 10 stars and not just five. We had an opportunity to ride today and it was amazing! We rode last year and there was no comparison to riding with Blanco brothers. The owner, Chuy, is very knowledgeable and let you ride at your discretion. Chuy is a long time resident of the area and had a lot of great history to share with us. He only does one trail ride per day so you have the opportunity to receive a very individualized experience. This was the best experience we've ever had! I guarantee you won't be disappointed if you choose to ride at Blanco brothers ranch! read more

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If you're looking for an out-of-this-world horseback riding experience, look no further! My sister was visiting me in San Diego and I wanted to surprise her with a birthday horseback ride--she's an advanced rider and I'm much less experienced. From the moment we arrived at Blanco Brothers, Chuy put us both at ease and had two beautiful horses ready to go that were great matches with our experience levels. We took a beautiful ride through a nature preserve and ended up on the beach, where we were able to gallop--those horses were FAST! Chuy was a great guide. He knew a lot about the surrounding area and offered some really interesting commentary. I could tell that safety is a priority for him, but he still allowed us to canter and run. Without hesitation, I'd recommend this experience to anyone who wants to see beautiful landscape and see the beach from the back of a horse! read more

Chuy was an amazing guide! If I could give him 6 stars, I would. We were able to walk, trot, canter, and gallop and had an amazing time. I can't express enough how satisfied we were with him and how well his horses were trained! read more

Blanco Brother's Ranch is a boarding and training facility that also does the occasional private beach ride. This review is for individuals looking to do the private beach trail ride. Blanco Brothers' Beach Ride is ideal for riders of all levels. I say this because the horses here are not your typical "only trail" horses that are dead on the bit and dead on the sides. The horses that the owner, "Chewy," has trained are calm enough for beginner riders, and respond magnificently to riders who would like to do more than just walk and occassionally trot. They are beautiful, athletic with excellent temperaments on the ground and under saddle. Our experience was the highlight of our trip in San Diego. We booked our ride for 8:30am on a Saturday. Chewy was very accommodating and flexible when we had to modify our time. As the more experienced rider between my husband and I, I rode Cash (an 11 year old barrel racing chestnut gelding quarter horse - he was fantastic, full of go and a blast to ride!) and my husband rode Cheyenne (a 12 year old paint mare who was calm and listened well as he was more of a beginner). On our way to the beach we went through the Tijuana River Valley and the trail was beautiful. As we were nearing the beach, the trail opened up and I was able to do an easy lope through some of the stretches. When we got to the beach, we brought the horses to the water and they splashed and trotted. The waves crashing, the wind blowing and the view took my breath away. We walked all the way down to the Mexican border, and were able to canter our horses full speed a couple of times up and down the stretch of beach. It was a magical experience just letting the horses go. You could tell that they loved being there and ready to work. We walked the horses back to the stables and ended our trip thanking our horses with pets and carrots. Horses were very grateful and loved the treats. Chewy was a fun tour guide, and as a trainer was able to give my husband some extra pointers. My husband was able to do a little loping on the beach and he was all grins. Chewy is just a great human being who takes excellent care of his animals and treats his riders like family. Every trip we make to San Diego will now always include a beach ride with Chewy. He isn't tech savvy (his website does not utilize seo so it doesn't show up on the first couple of pages on Google search) and is a smaller outfit, and I don't normally do this, but he made such a great impression that I would be happy to field questions, if you have them, about our experience. Otherwise give Chewy a call and get your beach ride on! :) read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - At Imperial Beach. I am on Cash (12 year old quarter horse gelding) and my husband is on Cheyenne (an 11 year old paint mare). - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

My husband & I went a few days ago & had a blast! Highly recommend! Here's what you need to know: 1) The website isn't the most interactive. Call to book! They spend their time with the horses instead of online (which is a good thing!) 2) Its appt only so you only go with the people in your group. You won't have strangers with you which is really nice! They also only do one ride per day so the horses are happy & excited to go on their rides. 3) You get to ride to your ability. We galloped up and down the beach! It's good exercise for the horses (& you! If you don't ride often expect to be sore!). It's almost impossible to find a place that lets you go faster than a walk so this is a huge win! Overall, Chuey is great! The scenery is awesome! The horses are well cared for! Bring your phone for photos & get ready to ride along a beautiful beach that reminded me of something in a movie. 10/10 for sure. Book it! read more

if you have always wanted to ride a horse on the beach this is the ultimate !!! What a Fun, relaxing, envigorating 3 hrs well spent. Chuy might be one of the few good men left on this planet, great personality, only wants you to enjoy your beach ride experience - and will make sure you are safe, confident and at ease on the ride. I have been twice now and plan to go again soon. This was a very relaxed ride great for people with some experience riding. So happy I found this place - the scenery, sun, sand, and trail through the national park is breath taking - over all a great day spent. read more

My boyfriend and I did the 3 hour beach ride with Chuey and it was awesome. I can't say enough nice things about him. He was very friendly and professional the entire time. My bf and I have both been on horses before but aren't experienced by any means. The horses were well behaved and fun to ride. I've been to other places before and I prefer Chuey's relaxed vibe compared to a more hands on approach. Chuey even recommended an amazing place for Mexican food which made it all in all a wonderful day. Can't wait to come back! read more

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We had a blast with our guide Chuy! He gave us plenty of instruction and made us feel very comfortable. He was also very knowledgeable and took excellent pictures to capture the memory! The horses were well trained and very sweet. The ride was amazing and the beach views were unbeatable. We would not hesitate to go again. Thanks Chuy!!! read more

Blanco Brothers Ranch - Horseback riding tour - Horseback Riding Near Me - San Diego, California

My husband, 12 year old granddaughter and I just finished a great ride. It was beautiful! Chuy was so patient and a great teacher. The horses were calm, well trained and perfect for beginner and intermediate riders. The air was cool and the ocean was spectacular! We had a great time and will definitely go again!! Thank you Chuy!!! read more

I can't speak more highly of Chewie and his horses. They are very very well cared for and well loved, and as someone who has been riding for 10+ years incredibly well trained. I found Chewie's ranch while trying to find a beach to be able to go s little fast. There are a couple other barns nearby but they paled in comparison from the impression I got from the blanco brothers. My first impression on my first ride was amazing Chewie was very clear on how his horses liked to be handled, they were a dream to ride alert but not jumpy, mellow but not lazy, and all around great horses. The beach is absolutely stunning and the horses love going in the water. If you are a beginner just go here, you are guaranteed an amazing time and if you are more experienced this is the treat you've been looking for. 300/10 would recommend read more

I have been visiting Blanco Brothers Ranch for 3 years and absolutely LOVE riding here! Chui is the owner and trail leader - he does not disappoint and loves his horses. The horses are very well cared for and Chui takes great care at leading rides. I have been riding since childhood and have taken people like myself all the way to folks who have never ridden a horse and EVERYONE has a great time. He matches each horse up with the rider based on skill level, personality and size and this is so very important. He is very patient and does educate each rider so he/ she understands how to proceed safely. Honestly, I will not take any of my guests to any other ranch because each time I go here I have nothing less than a wonderful time. Whether you're an experienced rider or new to the equine blessing, this place is the one! You will pay a good price, be safe, secure and have an excellent (THE BEST) guide! As a horse lover, I push equine-human interaction and equine therapy. With everything going on in the world, coming out to Blanco Brothers Ranch again was a breath of fresh air (literally and figuratively). It hasn't even been week and I am hoping one of my friends will ask to go riding again soon! ha ha ha. If you are looking for a peaceful, fun and relaxing ride on beautiful, healthy horses with breathtaking scenery and a wonderful leader, this is your place! You wont regret it - not a single person I have ever brought has had any negative comments and neither have I! :) Love Horses? GO RIDE! Interested in nature? GO RIDE! Needing an exhale from life? GO RIDE! Yearning for some equine therapy? GO RIDE? Wanting something new and different to try? GO RIDE? :) Enjoy! read more

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We decided last minute to go for a ride and Chuy made it happens even though he had a busy day! It is an amazing place to go for a ride especially if you are already a good horse rider. Horses are in very good shape, well trained and will listen to you very well. Chuy was an amazing guide, very professional. He loves his horses and definitely knows what he is talking about. He wants the experience to be perfect for you and It was the perfect experience for us! Thank you so much for the experience, and when I come back to SD I will definitely come back for a ride!!! read more

everything was great, only giving 4 out of 5 because we paid for an hour an a half and the tour started late and ended early. Everything was great otherwise! read more

This was a surprise for me and I was so excited. Chuy was so welcoming and nice. We took about an hour and 15 minutes to the beach and then I was able to gallop a few times on "Cheyenne" then an hour and 15 back to the ranch. Had so much fun and would do again! read more

A big thank you to Chuey at Blanco Brothers Ranch for an incredible day of horseback riding! My best friend came to San Diego to celebrate her birthday and all she wanted to do was ride horses on the beach. Having done this before I was afraid I wouldn't be able to offer her the ride she wanted, being able to run the horses on the beach. I accidentally found Blanco Brothers in the reviews and they were so overwhelmingly good that I decided to take the chance. We were not disappointed! Chuey was informative and fun and once he saw our level of experience he let us go and we were able to run the horses all we wanted. What a treat and treasure for my friend's birthday. I highly recommend Blanco Brother's for horseback riding on the beach. Thank you Chuey! Iris and Jan read more

30 years as a rider and NEVER have I experienced such amazing scenery, amazing horses and a magical experience for me and my son. The owner is a real cowboy whose family has been in the ranch business for generations. He trains every horse on the ranch himself and we had 2 great rides under us. The walk out to the beach was loaded with flowers and lush green trails. Once on the sand I was overwhelmed by the ocean and beautiful private beach for us to play on. The owner will let you ride to your ability will take care of you. It was my first time riding along the edge of the waves and it was amazing. read more

This is a great place to ride, especially if you want to do more than just ride a horse while it walks.  My son is a good rider, so Chuy lets him get up and go when there is room out on the trail.  He even helped me get to a gallop (after some coaching).  I hadn't done that in over 20 years. I should point out that I am just over 250 lbs. and most places won't let me ride let alone gallop, so just that alone is worth 5 stars.  The trail is interesting, and that was without going on the beach (it was temporarily closed).  It is a private ride at a good price on good horses, and my only complaint is that we don't live closer so we can ride more often! read more