Discover a Higher Standard of Horsemanship

Who are we

At Ocean View Stables, we believe riding isn’t just about sitting in a saddle it’s about connection, trust, and growth. Our mission is to provide a safe, joyful environment where riders and horses come together as partners. We blend technical skill with empathy, and every service is rooted in what we call “living horsemanship.”

We don’t just teach people to ride. We guide them to listen, to lead and to understand the horse behind every movement.

Imagine riding through coastal trails, feeling ocean breezes, with panoramic views stretching coast to forest. That’s what you’ll find here.

Our facility includes:

  • Outdoor arenas & round pens

  • Turnout pastures

  • Barns, tack rooms, wash racks

  • Trailheads with easy access to riding paths

  • Guest areas for events & workshops

  • On-site parking and amenities

Every corner is designed with horse comfort, rider convenience, and scenic beauty in mind.

Trail Rides: What to Expect

One of our most beloved offerings. Here’s how it goes:

Structure

  • 30 minutes of safety & horsemanship instruction

  • 1 hour guided trail ride

  • Intimate groups, steady pace, scenic views

Rider Requirements

  • Minimum age: 8 years old for Trail experience;

  • 3 and older for pony rides & lessons

  • Maximum weight: under 250 lbs

  • No riding experience is needed — we start with the basics

What You’ll See & Do

Ride along coastal paths, over gentle hills, with the Pacific as your companion. Photographic spots, quiet moments, and the kind of peace that stays with you.

Riding Lessons & Horsemanship

We offer a full spectrum of lessons tailored to where you are in your journey:

  • Beginner Foundation Lessons

  • Intermediate & Progression Lessons

  • Advanced / Competition Prep

  • Western Riding, Trail Skills, Dressage Basics

  • Monthly Programs / Packages for Consistent Riders

You choose the pace. Our instructors will help you grow—from first steps to confident riding.

Natural Horsemanship & the Leyden Approach

This is at the core of what makes Ocean View Stables different.

  • Natural Horsemanship focuses on understanding the horse’s mindset, responding with clarity and calm, and cultivating a partnership—not dominance.

  • Founder Zachary Leyden and Kalea Leyden have developed a system that blends modern biomechanics, traditional horsemanship principles, and depth work so that you and the horse learn to speak the same language.

    Throughout your lessons or rides, you’ll learn:

    • How to read body language

    • Groundwork techniques

    • Clear leadership & connection

    • Building consistency in behavior

    Many riders describe the experience as transformational—not just for riding, but for life.

Kids’ Programs & Camps

We love introducing young hearts to horses. Our youth programs include

Seasonal Camps

Riding lessons, horse care, horsemanship lessons, crafts

Discovery Clinics

Intro modules for new kids

Junior Horsemanship Track

For kids who fall in love and want more

Boarding, Leasing & Horse Care

We offer select opportunities for people who want more than a visit.

Boarding

For private owners or advanced students, we provide:

  • Daily feed & care

  • Scheduled turnout

  • Access to trails, arenas, and facilities

  • 24/7 security

Space is limited, and there is often a waitlist.

Leasing / Student Leasing

A way to “have your own horse” without full ownership. Your instructor helps match you to a suitable animal, working through lessons, care, and riding schedules.

Horse Care Standards

We hold high expectations for health, turnout, nutrition, veterinary oversight, and overall welfare.

Special Events, Retreats & The Painted Trail

Beyond riding, we host events year-round that mingle art, community, and horses.

The Painted Trail (Sip & Paint with Horses)

A guided art evening set in the barn or pasture, where guests sip, paint, and absorb the energy of horses nearby. Relaxed, beautiful, connective.

Private Events & Retreats

  • Weddings & elopements

  • Birthday parties & milestone celebrations

  • Overnight stays / cowboy cookouts

  • Corporate retreats & team building

  • Food truck nights & pop-up ranch dinners

Each experience is customized to your vision—with horses as focal elements.

Meet the Founders

Zachary & Kalea Leyden are the heart of OVS.

Together, they’ve built a place where horses teach, humans grow, and moments become memories.

Also meet our instructors, ranch hands, guest liaisons, and support staff—each committed to safety, growth, and joy.

Kalea Leyden

Kalea is the architect of the Leyden Horsemanship Process. She has decades of experience training horses, coaching riders, and developing mindful equestrian systems.

Zachary Leyden

Zachary is the engineer of the Leyden Horsemanship Process. He has developed the software, SOP and systems that helps the operations run smoothly.

Safety, Policies & Eligibility

Your safety and the horses’ wellbeing are non-negotiable.

Rider Eligibility

  • Age: Must be 8+ for riding experiences

  • Weight Limit: Must be under 250 lbs

  • Health & Mobility: Must be able to mount/dismount with minimal assistance

Safety Protocols

  • Helmets and safety gear provided

  • Pre-ride instruction mandatory

  • No risky behavior or sudden movements

  • Horse matching carefully based on rider info

  • Emergency procedures and staff trained in first aid

Booking & Cancellation Policy

  • Advance reservations required

  • Deposits required (non-refundable)

  • Rescheduling allowed with 48-hour notice

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, all trail rides and beginner lessons start with foundational instruction.

  • Our minimum age is 8 years for the Trail Experience. We have Many things for Younger kids to do, including lessons and do Pony rides!

  • Due to safety and horse welfare, we cannot accommodate riders 250 lbs or above.

  • Typically yes, with prior approval. For events, we’ll set the rules.

  • Closed-toe shoes, long pants, comfortable layers. Helmets provided.

  • As early as possible—especially for weekends, camps, or events.

Contact us.

Your next adventure starts here.

Whether you want to ride, learn, board, or host something magical, we’re ready to guide you.

zachary@oceanviewstables.com

(415) 969-1223