Though my airbnb host claimed a preference for Escondido Place, advance research told me that La…read moreGruta would be cleaner and more to my liking. Both places, I was warned, will be packed on the weekends so I opted for a weekday visit.
Advance research won't just help you decide which place is more "you" but it might also reveal to you things that you might not have discovered if you failed to investigate. For one, you should arrive knowing that you definitely want to get yourself in the pool tunnel that leads to the enclosed grotto, hopefully when the latter is dumping out buckets of water.
Am I getting ahead of myself?
La Gruta is a place for which I have no US equivalent. It's not a US-style "water park" nor is it a fancy place to sunbathe and swim. There's nothing fancy at all about La Gruta. Mostly, it's a series of warm pools, chaise lounges, lawns, food, and drink. I'd have been happy enough laying by the largest pool, in the sun, occasionally dipping into the warm waters but I was happier once I found the pool that leads to the tunnel and the grotto.
La Gruta costs about $12US per person to enter. Bags are quickly checked at point of entry to ensure that no outside food or drink is brought in (do bring your own towels). A refundable cash deposit is required to obtain a locker key and the locker room and changing areas are clean and functional.
Once inside and changed, claim your chaise lounge (or table and chairs) with your towel and let the day begin. You've hopefully packed a good book, a comfortable swimsuit, a hat, and sunscreen; all will be used.
There's at least 5 different pools at La Gruta, of varying sizes and depths. Some have occasional water spouting from above and others are quiet. Each seems to have its own appeal. The way it's built you can't sit beside the pool that leads to the tunnel and the grotto but you should definitely find it. Then, keep returning until that water spout in the grotto is activated. Guests line up in the water to take their turn getting pelted. It's invigorating and fun.
Other stuff:
* I hired a driver to take me here and back. It's a short distance away from central SMA but you cannot get here on foot.
* Some pools have tree leaves in them, not excessive, but probably not as pristine as one would hope for. This didn't affect my enjoyment of the pools.
* Massage, food, and drink also available. I sampled none but heard that those massage appointments fill up fast.