Experience Alisal from an unforgettable vantage point and ride horses through canyons, shaded hillsides, past grazing cattle and babbling brooks. Alisal’s scenic horseback rides are available for beginner, intermediate, and advanced riders. All rides are led by friendly and experienced wranglers, with favorites including two-hour scenic rides and the beloved breakfast ride to the historic Adobe Camp for breakfast. Guests can also learn new skills like barrel racing, round-up, drill team, and team sorting, and also say hello to the barnyard animals – goats, miniature Zebu cow, a giant tortoise, South America alpacas, chickens, pigs, bunnies, among many others.

Attend a Country Fair and Rodeo extravaganza and watch the resort’s wranglers demonstrate a wide variety of rodeo events, including roping, barrel racing, and team sorting. Adult team sorting lessons are offered on rodeo day for intermediate and advanced riders who wish to participate in the team sorting competition.

Find some of the best fishing in the region at Lake Alisal, which is home to dozens of bluegill and largemouth bass. Guided fishing trips and fly fishing lessons are available at the resort, as are rentals for any fishing equipment. The lake is also a great place for other kinds of watersports, including canoeing, kayaking, and boating.

Enjoy a round of golf at one of the two championship courses that call Alisal Ranch home. The ancient oaks, manicured fairways and greens, and spectacular panoramic views of the Santa Ynez River and nearby Santa Ynez Mountains make the two private, 18-hole championship courses a favorite among golf aficionados. The resort’s golf courses also offer access to a pro shop, full-service restaurant, putting greens, and instructors who are part of the PGA.

Play a thrilling game of tennis at one of Alisal Ranch’s six full-size courts. With six full-size tennis courts, Alisal provides players of all skill levels with a beautiful setting in which to serve and volley. The on-site tennis pros are on hand to arrange for group or individual lessons, to match players up with other guests or members for practice or competition, and to schedule the occasional friendly tournament. (Two pickleball courts are available within the tennis complex, as well.)

Go for a thrilling hike just outside of Alisal Ranch. With miles of undulating trails that wind through the mountains and along streams, the Santa Ynez Valley is a biking paradise. Alisal offers bike rentals by the day, as well as guided cycling tours. Whether with a group or solo, the resort’s guide will take guests through challenging yet scenic routes. The resort can also pack lunches so guests can experience the lush beauty of the routes on their own.

Get a taste of ranch life with some of Alisal Ranch's many on-site activities. Gather farm-fresh eggs from the hen house, learn how to throw an axe or shoot an air rifle, take up archery, play horseshoes, or meet the menagerie of animals at the Alisal Ranch Barnyard, which is home to miniature horses, pigs, goats, and more.