Las Grietas is a stunning inland stretch of crystal-clear emerald green water nestled at the bottom of a dramatic earth fissure. Located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos Islands, it’s truly a hidden gem.
For us, it turned out to be the best swimming spot on Santa Cruz Island. Just a short distance from Puerto Ayora, Las Grietas is home to three sparkling blue pools, all beautifully tucked between towering volcanic cliffs, creating a breathtakingly picturesque setting.
How to Visit Las Grietas
To reach Las Grietas, you’ll need to start from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. It’s located just across Academy Bay, opposite the main docks. We took a quick water taxi ride across the bay, which was a fun start to the adventure. From there, it’s a short walk along a scenic trail that winds past the beach and towering cacti. The journey to get there adds to the whole experience, making it feel like a little hidden paradise waiting to be discovered.
To get started, head to the municipal dock in Puerto Ayora, where regular water taxis are available for just $0.50. Just let the driver know you want to get off at Finch Bay. From there, it’s pretty straightforward—follow the signs pointing to Finch Bay Hotel.
Once you reach the hotel, the real adventure begins as you make your way to Las Grietas. The walk takes you through diverse landscapes, which was one of our favorite parts. We passed a picturesque beach, navigated through a lava field, wandered into a cactus forest, and even stumbled upon some old, abandoned salt mines. It’s like a mini-tour of all the island’s unique features before you reach the main attraction!
Upon arriving at Las Grietas, you’ll find a set of narrow wooden steps leading down to a cluster of large rocks. We carefully climbed down, excited to dip into the cool, crystal-clear waters below.
The walk from Finch Bay Hotel to Las Grietas takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your pace. Do keep in mind that since it’s a protected area, you’ll need to hire a guide and pay an entry fee of $10 per person. It’s definitely worth it, as the experience is truly one of a kind!
You can also check Las Grietas in my video:
What to See in Las Grietas
Las Grietas is the perfect spot to unwind and cool off while taking in the stunning scenery. We spent a relaxing few hours there, enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re up for swimming, snorkeling, or even some adventurous cliff diving, this spot has it all.
What makes Las Grietas unique is the mix of seawater flowing in from one end and freshwater filtering in from the other. The towering volcanic walls protect the pools, resulting in incredibly clear, calm waters with no currents—ideal for a leisurely swim. It was one of the most refreshing experiences we had on Santa Cruz Island.
While Las Grietas isn’t known for abundant marine life, it’s definitely the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day. The focus here is more on relaxing in the clear waters than snorkeling for wildlife. However, the walk to get there is a treat for anyone who enjoys spotting Galapagos animals.
As we strolled along the path, the mangroves and Opuntia cactus were vibrant with life. We saw busy little Galapagos finches fluttering from one plant to another, while flycatchers and woodpeckers kept the forest lively. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a Galapagos Hawk or a short-eared owl. Large brown pelicans swooping overhead and lava lizards darting between the rocks were regular sights during our visit. It felt like a mini safari even before we reached the swimming hole!
When to Visit Las Grietas
Las Grietas is a year-round destination, with the dry and drizzle season from June to December, bringing temperatures between 18 to 20°C, and the hot and rainy season from January to May, when it’s warmer, ranging from 24 to 29°C.
We found that the best time to visit is around midday, when the sun is high, making the cool, refreshing waters even more inviting. The contrast between the warm air and the chilly pool is just perfect for a refreshing dip!
That said, due to its popularity, Las Grietas can get quite crowded during the peak daylight hours. If you’re like us and prefer a bit of tranquility, aim to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This way, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the place with fewer people around.
Las Grietas Travel Tips
- Bring simply what you need: drinking water, swimming gear, a towel, sunscreen, and a little amount of money for the water taxi.
- The route is easy to follow and flat, but wear closed-toe shoes since the lava rocks are pointy and spiky.
- Las Grietas’ lake is around 10 meters deep and 7 meters broad. Because there are no lifeguards on duty, only go into the water if you are a strong swimmer or have a floating device.
- You should also wear water-resistant shoes since the underwater rocks are slick with algae and the entrance and exit to the water might be difficult.
- People enjoy jumping down the cliffs into the ocean. However, this is risky and should be avoided.
- A lengthy trail extending directly along the top of the canyon provides excellent views of Las Grietas. This is also a fantastic location for picturesque shots of the mangroves and opuntia forest, as well as the town of Puerto Ayora across the sea.
- Leave Las Grietas well before dusk because the pathway is not illuminated and becomes even less well-defined at night.
Bottom Line
Las Grietas is truly a gem and absolutely worth the journey. It’s not just a swimming hole; it’s an experience that captures the essence of the Galapagos. Whether you’re looking to connect with fellow travelers or simply soak in the natural beauty, this spot offers a little bit of everything.
The scenery is breathtaking, with its dramatic volcanic cliffs and emerald waters, making it one of the most unique swimming spots in the world. If you’re after an authentic Galapagos experience, this place should definitely be on your list!
So, make the most of your Las Grietas experience by taking in the surrounding landscape and animals, and, most essential, have a wonderfully calm swim! It’s definitely one of the best places to visit on the Galapagos Islands.
