It’s been roughly a dozen years since our friend Dave purchased Blue Grotto from the prior owner. Almost immediately, Dave began making substantial improvements to the property’s infrastructure.
Today, all that remains from the time before this is the guest house. Everything else is new. We recently came across some photos from 2013 that help show just how much has changed.
New pavilions
Here, you see Pavilions 4, 5, 6 and 7 under construction. The area at the back of the photo is now home to the hydroponics field and greenhouse. Before this, visitors had to make do with a dilapidated series of mismatched awnings and shelters.
A new deck
This is what the large deck that overlooks the water looked like when being built. Before this, getting to the water made you feel like yoåu were taking your life in your hands.
The cabins arrive
Our cedar-lined cabins arrived as three separate modules. After connecting the plumbing and power, we added the porch, stairs, walkways and swimming pool, creating what you see now.
A much-needed demolition
Arguably, the least-favorite feature of Blue Grotto before 2013 was the bathhouse. It was cramped, cold, dirty and only had one toilet on each side. The shower was outside and always cold. It had to go.
In contrast, the new bathhouse is roomy, warm, has multiple fixtures and warm showers both inside and out. Our staff works hard to keep it as clean as possible. You can help by rinsing the dirt off your boots before entering. ￭