Fifteen minutes from José Ignacio, Santa Cruz Polo Club has established itself as one of the most sought-after polo destinations in Uruguay. Founded in 2020 on the Estancia Santa Cruz, it has a field of specialised turf, a teaching field and stables with dozens of horses, all with views over the José Ignacio lagoon and the ocean. Every summer players cross over from Argentina to play its season.

The club welcomes both beginners wanting their first lessons and high-goal players, with support from international professionals. In January it hosts the Copa Santa Cruz, a medium-handicap tournament that runs alongside the Uruguayan Open. The offering is rounded out with villas for staying during the season and the restaurant La Sierra, which opens in the busiest months of the resort.