eco travel resort

The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World (2023)

Looking for the comforts of a luxury resort and want to stay eco-consciously? Welcome to the best eco-resorts in the world to stay at this year.

This is where eco-resorts come into play. These resorts embody sustainable tourism, working to preserve the environment and often contributing to the local community. Eco-resorts are becoming more popular as travelers care more about the environment and want to explore responsibly.

Most of these eco-friendly hotels and resorts are set in secluded areas. This not only lets you engage with nature intimately and harmlessly but also offers an opportunity to unwind and disconnect from the buzz of everyday life.

If you’re intrigued about venturing into the world of eco-resorts or are a seasoned visitor seeking your next eco-experience, here are my top choices for the world’s best eco-resorts. A visit to any of these resorts promises a memorable and fulfilling vacation.

What is the concept of eco-resorts?

An eco-resort is similar to any other resort with good accommodation and hospitality, but it also focuses on sustainability. These resorts are deeply committed to eco-friendly practices and making a positive difference—and in many cases, inspiring guests to do the same.

What is the difference between a resort and an eco-resort?

Eco resorts are like regular resorts, but they also focus on being environmentally friendly. They aim to have no carbon emissions and protect the environment around them, as stated by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

What makes a good eco-resort?

Good luxury eco-resorts and eco-friendly hotels will meet all your standards for service and amenities while implementing real sustainability practices. Some in the travel industry try to profit from misleading claims of being environmentally friendly. To avoid falling for this, research and ensure that the green hotel’s actions align with its marketing and values.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Eco Resorts in the World:

• Turtle Bay Resort Oahu , for the best Hawaii eco resort
• Soneva Kiri Thailand , for the best honeymoon eco resort
• The Stanford Inn by The Sea , for the best California eco resort
• Olas Tulum , for the best Mexico eco resort

The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World

1. playa viva (mexico).

An hour south of Zihuatanejo is Playa Viva , with 19 rooms and an award-winning oceanfront treehouse-style property. The B-Corp Certified resort offers numerous ways to both relax and give back while on the property, including volunteering at its turtle sanctuary. Book the best rates here .

• Playa Viva is 100% off-grid, using solar energy and an onsite well for water.
• The resort uses reforestation to help improve soil quality and water retention. Then it captures carbon in the landscape’s soil.
• Playa Viva supports the community in various ways from offering everything from children’s English classes to environmental and recycling projects to spay and neuter clinics for dogs and cats.

Address: Juluchuca, Zihuatanejo, Playa Icacos, 40834 Gro., Mexico

2. Keemala Eco Resort (Thailand)

This enchanting rainforest property on the Thai island of Phuket is made up of hillside villas with pools overlooking the jungle landscape. Keemala’s focus on holistic living, organic dining, and wellness contributes to a retreat-like feel and helps preserve an air of tranquility around the property.  Book the best rates here .

• Methane from waste management is directed into the ground to reduce greenhouse effect gasses.
• Each villa has its own water treatment system, and the treated water released back into the environment is in line with or exceeds government standards.
• The property was designed to protect the existing ecosystem, with soil, trees, and natural water kept in their natural form or used with minimal disturbance.

Address: 10 88 หมู่ที่ 6 Nakanai Rd, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

3. Turtle Bay Resort (Oahu, Hawaii)

Located on the North Shore of Oahu , the expansive Turtle Bay Resort is an ideal family hideaway, with many curated activities for little ones. There are also endless activities for adults to enjoy, including award-winning golf and horseback riding. Pools, beaches, and the Nalu Spa are also at your fingertips for those seeking relaxation. Book the best rates here .

• Turtle Bay became the first Oahu resort with a solar roof in 2013. In the last 10 years, it has saved the equivalent of 4.3 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.
• A resort-wide recycling program has spurred an average increase of 1.8 tons of recycling over the last two years.
• Turtle Bay decreases water use with upgraded toilets and showers.

Address: 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

4. Olas Tulum (Mexico)

Sea turtles, cenotes, and the Sian Ka’an biosphere await at Olas Tulum , a boutique hotel and guesthouse in Mexico’s bohemian paradise. Visitors can relax on the beach or go to the roof for drinks or yoga with a view of the jungle. Book the best rates here .

• Rooftop solar panels power the entire property.
• Las Olas composts organic food onsite and uses it to feed the vegetation.
• An underground river system feeds water to the property from a nearby cenote.

Address: 10.6 Boca Paila Rd, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

5. Lapa Rios Lodge (Costa Rica)

Named for the majestic scarlet macaw birds that are found in the rainforest where the resort is situated, Lapa Rios Lodge has won several awards since its 1993 opening. 17 bungalows are a jumping-off pad for rainforest adventures, wildlife encounters, and ocean activities on the Osa Peninsula. Book the best rates here .

• 1,000 acres of the Lapa Rios property is a dedicated private nature reserve, providing sanctuary to some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna.
• Lapa Rios partners with the national university on a jaguar program, supporting the study of animals and other native species.
• The property provides local communities with employment opportunities, and 100% of staff are native residents.

Address: Puntarenas Province, Puerto Jiménez, Costa Rica

6. Tri by Amaya (Sri Lanka)

Get to know Sri Lanka and its stunning natural landscapes by staying at Tri by Amaya , an otherworldly hideaway tucked at the end of a dirt road ( Read about my stay at Tri by Amaya here ). The hotel features 11 suites set on a 6-acre hill, as well as a pool with mesmerizing views over Koggala Lake. Book the best rates here .

• Living roofs are planted with species such as water grass and dwarf bamboo.
• The resort was constructed of locally sourced materials including recycled jak wood, cinnamon sticks, and natural pebble.
• Tri implemented a mangrove planting and shoreline protection program to combat lakeshore erosion.

Address: Koggala Lake Aladuwa Watte, Pelassa, Thittha, Ahangama 80650, Sri Lanka

7. Bambu Indah (Bali)

This small boutique hotel captures what it calls “old-school Bali”—a tranquil and laid-back experience in harmony with nature. Spend your days at Bambu Indah in natural river swimming pools fed by waterfalls or in your accommodations, open-air bamboo structures on stilts above the rice paddies. Book the best rates here .

• There are no fluorescent bulbs on-property—only oil lamps and LEDs—in an effort to reduce light pollution.
• Mosquito nets around beds capture cool air as part of a cooling solution that avoids traditional air conditioning and lessens the carbon footprint.
• Banana leaves are used as plates and papaya stems as straws as part of the resort’s no-plastic policy.

Address: Jl. Baung, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

8. Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort (Canada)

This remote, intimate, and family-owned wilderness resort sits in the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Home to exceptional and customized wilderness, culinary, and wellness experiences, as well as opportunities to spot whales and bears. Book the best rates here .

• A hydro-powered water system fueled by streams and waterfalls provides clean drinking water and energy for up to 80% of the resort’s power needs.
• Nimmo Bay offers sustainable bear viewing to guests and partners on the Coastal Carnivore conservation and mapping project.
• The resort sustainably sources its culinary ingredients and supports local farms.

Address: 100 Little Nimmo Bay, Mackenzie Sound, Mount Waddington A, BC V0N 2R0, Canada

9. The Stanford Inn By The Sea (California)

The Stanford Inn in Mendocino paints a picture of wellness that extends beyond diet and exercise. Private classes and sessions in nutrition and healthy living, breathwork, Chinese medicine, mushroom foraging and more make up the onsite programming, and a large greenhouse houses a saltwater swimming pool for year-round use. Book the best rates here .

• The resort hosts students in its Environmental Leadership Field school, providing college students with 4- to 6-week explorations into sustainability.
• The property has been practicing sustainable organic farming for more than 30 years.
• The Stanford Inn offers 9 EV chargers on the property.

Address: 44850 Comptche Ukiah Rd, Mendocino, CA, 95460

10. Naturhotel Leitlhof (Italy)

If you’re looking for mountain views, you can’t do better than the Dolomites , specifically Naturhotel Leitlhof . Epic landscapes are studded with mountain peaks and lush forests that make this area of the Alps a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Nature preservation is at the core of the hotel’s mission. Book the best rates here .

• The hotel built its own wood-fired heat and power plant, consisting of a wood gasifier system and a rooftop photovoltaic system.
• The onsite Mühlhof Farm is home to a garden for fruit, vegetables, and herbs for use in the resort’s restaurant.
• The resort keeps its own Angus cattle in line with organic livestock production principles.

Address: Via Pusteria, 29, 39038 San Candido BZ, Italy

11. Aquila Eco Lodges (Australia)

Hidden away in Australia’s Southern Grampians is Aquila , a collection of modern-day treehouses surrounded by 100 acres of private bushland. Treehouses come with wood fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor patios. Elsewhere, trails and historic sights provide lots of opportunities for exploration. Book the best rates here .

• Aquila has committed to preserving its 100 acres of bushland and is regularly inspected by the Trust for Nature.
• The property uses low-wattage appliances and solar energy capture for power.
• Water is collected onsite and goes through a rainwater purification system.

Address: 586 Victoria Valley Rd, Dunkeld VIC 3294, Australia

12. Mashpi Lodge Quito (Ecuador)

400 species of birds, trees, frogs, and more unique to Ecuador live in the Ecuadorean rainforest that’s home to Mashpi Lodge . Conveniently located not far from Quito, the resort has programming for all ages, from day hikes to guided night tours. Book the best rates here .

• The lodge is constructed using sustainable techniques at the site of a former lumber mill.
• Mashpi has a conservation and resource management strategy based on findings from a biologist-led research project.
• The property has collaboration agreements with national and international conservation organizations.

Address: Reserva Privada Mashpi, Mashpi 150150, Ecuador

13. El Nido Resorts (Philippines)

Located on the Palawan archipelago in the western part of the Philippines, El Nido is a collection of resort gems. The properties span across Apulit Island , Miniloc Island , Lagen Island , and Pangulasian Island , each boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Book the best rates here .

• El Nido operates a sewage treatment plant to prevent raw sewage from being discharged into the sea.
• Marine sports guides accompany guests to supervise activities and make sure guests don’t damage or disturb the environment.
• To avoid competing with the local community for fresh water, El Nido operates its own desalination plant to be energy efficient

Address: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

14. Soneva Kiri (Thailand)

Just 90 minutes from Bangkok, within a tropical rainforest, guests can enjoy the unspoiled beauty and beaches of Soneye Kiri . The resort comprises 33 luxury pool villas with infinity pools ranging from one to five bedrooms. Night snorkeling with bioluminescent plankton and dining in a mushroom cave are just a couple of the unforgettable activities on offer. Book the best rates here .

• A 2% environmental tax on all stays goes toward the Soneva Foundation, which invests in various projects.
• Soneva funds the organization Care for Children, which opened a foster care training and resource center in Thailand.
• Partnerships with NGOs and other organizations help protect local marine life.

Address: 110, Tambon Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand

15. Mahali Mzuri (Kenya)

Mahali Mzuri , whose name means “beautiful place” in Swahili, is part of the provide Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the Maasai Mara ecosystem. It sits directly on the path of the annual great migration, offering guests unbelievable wildlife viewing opportunities. Book the best rates here .

• Guests can take tours to local villages to experience daily life. The tour costs go both directly to families in the community and to a trust that funds community projects.
• Solar panels heat the outdoor swimming pools.
• 100% renewable energy is used throughout the property.

Address: Masai Mara, Motorogi Conservancy, Kenya

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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25 Best Eco Resorts For A Sustainable (Luxurious!) Getaway

What could be better than a luxurious getaway that makes a positive impact? With sustainability becoming an increasingly important priority for travelers of all budgets, accommodations big and small are finding new ways to go green , pushing the envelope to leave their surroundings better than they found them.

In this guide to some of the world’s best eco resorts, you’ll find everything from tented getaways in the shadow of volcanoes to private island tropical retreats.  Leading the way with new projects in conservation, sustainability, and socially-responsible travel, these standout eco resorts are perfect for your next escape.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

25 Best Eco Resorts Around the World

1. bawah reserve – indonesia.

Painstakingly hand-built using locally sourced, sustainable materials, Bawah Reserve is a stunning retreat on a secluded archipelago in Indonesia designed to work with the pristine tropical environment rather than against it. Combining luxurious design and details with sustainability at its core, this dreamy eco resort is one you need to experience first-hand to believe.

Spread across six paradise islands, Bawah Reserve is a dream destination whether you’re looking for rest and relaxation or an active adventure. Relax at one of Bawah Reserve’s thirteen pristine beaches and three crystal-clear lagoons, and enjoy snorkeling, sailing, and boat excursions to nearby islands before ending the night at the open-air cinema, popcorn included.

Bawah Reserve continues to add new eco-friendly features to honor the environment even more; in 2022, a new solar energy farm helped the resort cut back even further on carbon emissions. Its sustainability is central to its mission to provide an unforgettable travel experience that eco-minded explorers will feel good about.

2. Magical Pond – Finland

Recharge among snow-covered pine trees and smell the fresh air from a cozy glass igloo at Magical Pond , a star eco resort in Finnish Lapland you won’t soon forget. The perfect haven amidst the snowy north, this is the perfect destination for a memorable stay, whether you’re looking to spot the Aurora Borealis or enjoy the midnight sun.

Designed to minimize the impact on this frozen yet fragile environment, Magical Pond puts sustainability at the forefront of both design and operations. Using locally-sourced and organic products throughout its igloos , travelers get a taste of Scandanavian innovation at every turn.

3. North Island – Seychelles

Home to just eleven private villas on sandy shores for the ultimate in seclusion and barefoot luxury, North Island in the paradise waters of Seychelles seamlessly combines sustainability into every aspect of its experience for an unmatched eco-friendly tropical getaway.

North Island goes beyond just preservation, as it works to ‘turn back the ecological clock’ and restore these islands to their natural glory. Throughout the island’s history, thousands of invasive plant and animal species were transported here; the extensive Noah’s Ark Conservation Programme has helped restore the island’s diversity to a fertile paradise once again.

Native populations of birds, fish, and even green turtles have returned on their own accord, meaning a stay at North Island offers an unparalleled chance to spot endemic wildlife in their natural habitats.

Whether exploring the water on diving, snorkeling, or sailing expeditions or enjoying a stroll on the island’s four pristine beaches, it’s impossible to deny that North Island feels like a sliver of paradise.

4. Concordia Eco Resort – U.S. Virgin Islands

Perched on the hillside above the warm Caribbean waters of St. John, Concordia Eco Resort offers an unexpected Caribbean getaway perfect for the sustainably-minded traveler looking to get off the beaten path. Offering villas and rustic ridge line tents perfect for families and couples alike, the ocean views from the pool deck will take your breath away, just the start of an unforgettable stay.

With the island’s 11,500 acres of protected land at its doorstep, Concordia Eco Resort is the perfect spot for a natural escape. Whether you’re looking forward to exploring forest trails or relaxing on nearby Salt Pond Bay beach after an afternoon of exploring the seas on clear paddleboards and kayaks, Concordia Eco Resort is the best spot to enjoy the very best of the Virgin Islands.

Read More: 30 Best Islands in the Caribbean To Visit

5. Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas – Costa Rica

Boasting the highest certification in sustainable tourism from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas is a boutique property nestled among the palm trees of Baulas National Park and along one of Costa Rica’s most stunning beaches .

This family-owned luxury property offers an intimate retreat in one of Costa Rica’s most desirable locations, with complimentary open-air yoga classes and an array of holistic wellness activities perfect for a mindful getaway.

At a nearby sustainable farm, La Senda, Cala Luna guests can participate in a weekly Chef’s Table dining experience, exploring the grounds and enjoying a family-style meal from delicious, fresh ingredients. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to savor local cuisine while taking part in efforts to make this beautiful corner of Costa Rica even greener.

Plan a Trip to Costa Rica

• 12 Best Resorts in Costa Rica
• Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Ultimate Travel Guide
• 23 Best Cities in Costa Rica for Travelers

6. Picocanoa Rodavento – Mexico

Surrounded by the lush jungles of Veracruz, Mexico, Picocanoa Rodavento is the perfect spot for a sustainable adventure.

Guests can choose from countless nearby activities, including rock climbing, ziplining, and even whitewater rafting, making it easy to explore this green paradise on a trip packed with adventure. On-site spa and wellness treatments include massages with all-natural ingredients, revitalizing mud baths, and even Mayan temazcal prehispanico steam baths.

Guests can book the affordable tropical cabins at Picocanoa Rodavento instantly on Pitchup.com , for a sustainable jungle escape with all the amenities. Whether you’re looking to get your adrenaline pumping or prefer some pampering, this unique property makes for a perfect stay.

7. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – Maldives

Emerging from the crystal clear waters of the Maldives on a natural white-sand bank above a shallow reef, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has prioritized environmental preservation and protection from the resort’s inception to the most minute detail of its operation.

The environmental commitment of this luxury eco resort ranges from using sustainable materials and implementing innovative conservation projects to generating its own renewable energy to ensure it leaves little to no imprint on this slice of paradise.

Among a never-ending list of activities and amenities on offer at  The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands , guests can immerse themselves in nature by partaking in the legendary Jean-Michel Cousteau’s  Ambassadors of the Environment  program.

Led by the resort’s experienced naturalists , kids and kids at heart can discover one-of-a-kind ecosystems above and below the waves with unique, hands-on learning opportunities found nowhere else in the region.

Plan a Trip to the Maldives

• 10 Best Maldives Resorts (For Every Budget)
• Best Time to Visit the Maldives: Month-by-Month Breakdown
• Maldives on a Budget: 6 Easy Travel Tips
• How Much Does a Maldives Trip Cost?

8. Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel – Costa Rica

Located i n the shadow of volcanoes and among the lush forest canopy in one of the most diverse corners of Costa Rica, Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel is an award-winning and sustainable property that takes seclusion to a new level.

Featuring 26 private bungalows with an array of amenities and a curated selection of activities and excursions, it’s no wonder it snagged a spot on Travel + Leisure’s list of the 14 Most Beautiful Jungle Hotels Around the World in 2022 , one of just a few true eco resorts on the list.

Favorite ways to make the most of this eco resort’s enviable location in the Costa Rican jungle include night walks along forest trails with trained guides and naturalists, swimming and paddling down crystal-clear rivers on the hotel’s property, and epic white water rafting excursions just a short drive away .

9. The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Bali, Indonesia

Nestled among the palm trees and white sand beaches of the exclusive Nusa Dua area of Bali, the newly refurbished eco resort The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa offers a refreshingly sustainable take on a getaway to this bucket list destination. New green initiatives cutting down on plastic preserve this pristine spot, while partnerships with local Balinese NGOs cut back on food waste while providing thousands of meals to families in need every month.

For the ultimate in refined luxury, The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa boasts beautiful interiors inspired by Balinese design, as well as seven stunning beach-side pools, five restaurants, bars and lounges, and a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa.

You won’t even have to leave the resort for an unforgettable experience, though its privileged spot near historic temples, plunging cliffs, and sandy islands means the best of Bali is right at your fingertips. It’s one of the best eco resorts in all of Bali!

10. Ka’ana Resort & Spa – Belize

Nestled among the jungle in western Belize, just a stone’s throw from towering Mayan pyramids, Ka’ana Resort & Spa is the best spot for exploring one of Central America ‘s most impressive yet under-the-radar destinations.

Choose from exploring crystal clear rivers with swimming holes in jungle caves, hiking to waterfalls, or ziplining above the jungle canopy as just a few of the ways to have the adventure of a lifetime while staying at Ka’ana, among the best resorts in Belize .

Ka’ana Resort & Spa is both an eco-friendly and socially-responsible hotel, perfect for travelers looking to make a difference with their travel spending. In addition to the property’s unending list of sustainability initiatives and the locally-sourced products for use throughout the resort, their admirable initiatives to support local schools have a lasting impact.

Read More: 12 Belize Beaches You Won’t Want to Miss

11. Playa Viva – Mexico

The founding member of Regenerative Travel, Playa Viva is a stunning eco resort that goes beyond being simply eco-friendly to offer a restorative luxury experience for guests while keeping environmental protection and conservation at its heart.

Choose from among six luxurious and eye-catching bamboo tree houses on the property, suspended in mid-air by palm trees that serve as a protective barrier for expansive dunes along the white sand beaches. Visit the resort’s own baby sea turtle sanctuary or embark on excursions led by local tour operators to come face to face with the one-of-a-kind natural wonders and diverse communities that surround Playa Viva ‘s own 200-acre property.

With dozens of wellness and yoga retreats scheduled for the upcoming season , there are more ways than ever to enjoy an unforgettable stay at Playa Viva, among Mexico’s best eco resorts.

12. Tiamo – The Bahamas

Along the tranquil “Tongue of the Ocean” in The Bahamas, Tiamo combines luxury living with environmentally-conscious design and sustainable practices to preserve the white sand beaches and clear waters of the untouched Andros Island its calls home.

Home to eleven beautiful villas elevated on stilts, Tiamo takes advantage of ocean breezes for cooling and ventilation efficiency, while sustainable pine wood and locally-sourced roof thatching contribute to the property’s sustainable elegance.

Guests can choose from multiple half-day safari excursions to some of the most beautiful natural spots on Andros Island before taking a dip in warm Caribbean waters and exploring under the waves. Tiamo is also the perfect spot for more adventurous water spots like wakeboarding and waterskiing, while this area is regarded as one of the best spots for offshore fishing in The Bahamas.

13. Hoshino Resorts Iriomote Hotel – Japan

Nestled among the forests of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park on one of Japan’s most remote and untouched islands, Hoshino Resorts Iriomote Hotel is a hidden gem to add to the top of your eco resorts bucket list. Perched along the dramatic coastline among stunning beaches, cliffs, and waterfalls, this is the perfect spot for exploring this unique and beautiful corner of Japan.

Explore native mangrove forests by kayak at dusk, trek to the plunging Kura Falls, and learn about the conservation efforts for the Iriomote wildcat, a critically-endangered species unique to the island. It’s all part of the property’s sustainable focus designed to protect the pristine National Park it calls home.

14. Finca Victoria – Puerto Rico

Set on a 2.5-acre property complete with just four intimate suites, Finca Victoria on Puerto Rico’s “little sister” island of Vieques is a boutique escape for an eco-friendly, wellness-focused Caribbean retreat.

Just minutes from the black sand beaches and bioluminescent coves that make the island of Vieques such a fascinating destination, Finca Victoria offers guests the best base for exploring one of the Caribbean’s most precious hidden gems.

Finca Victoria guests can enjoy the property’s fresh fruit and vegetable garden, as well as designated gardens for herbs and medicinal plants, all of which are put to good use in the ayurvedic vegan kitchen and in the property’s own natural products sold in their store and used in the wellness house. Group yoga sessions and dedicated wellness retreats await.

Read More: 22 Best Things To Do in Puerto Rico

15. Casa Chablé – Mexico

A brand new seaside resort in Mexico’s pristine Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Casa Chablé is wedged between tropical jungles and lapping Caribbean waves for eco-minded travelers looking for the best of both worlds.

Offering five beachfront bungalows and a main villa with five guest rooms, this one-of-a-kind retreat promises both seclusion and connection. Discover hidden bays, impressive archeological sites, and pristine beaches at your doorstep while enjoying the best of Casa Chablé’s barefoot luxury.

Casa Chablé draws exclusively from renewable wind and solar energy and employs reverse osmosis to repurpose gray water for irrigation. Unique projects in mangrove reforestation, eliminating single-use plastics, and sourcing local artisan-made decor support people and places in this special destination. It’s just a small part of the property’s commitment to the biosphere it calls home, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean.

16. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection – Costa Rica

Hidden among the mountains of Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, t he stunning Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection promises sustainable luxury for mindful adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Spend your days hiking to plunging waterfalls or encountering sloths and butterflies on wildlife safaris before retreating to the property’s multiple restaurants to enjoy fresh, locally-sourced dishes with sunset views.

The wellness offerings at Hacienda AltaGracia are absolutely second to none, inviting a connection to self and nature at every turn. From a calendar of seasonal visiting masters to holistic massage techniques and herbal baths alongside the Calientillo River with crystal healing sessions, the opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation are unending.

Read More: 12 Best Beaches in Costa Rica

17. Jungle Bay – Dominica

Jungle Bay is right at home on the island of Dominica , known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean.” Nestled among tropical trees and flowers, this eco-friendly resort is a dreamy refuge for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike looking to connect with the beauty of one of the Caribbean’s few remaining hidden gems.

Guests can choose among sixty inviting villas designed with locally-sourced and environmentally-friendly decor and artwork, offering a distinctly inviting yet luxurious local flair . On-site amenities and activities abound as wellness studios, an intimate spa, a tropical fruit orchard, and an infinity pool with ocean vistas await.

Just above the quaint fishing village of Soufriere and its nearby marine sanctuaries and dive shops, Jungle Bay is also the perfect gateway for travelers looking to explore underwater terrains as unique as those you’ll find across this one-of-a-kind island.

Plan a Trip to Dominica

• 5 Best Resorts in Dominica
• 20 Things To Do in Dominica
• Dominica: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

18. Soneva Fushi – Maldives

The first luxury resort in the pristine islands of the Maldives, Soneva Fushi has long been a pioneer of barefoot luxury .

Located in the pristine Baa Atoll , a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi offers a privileged spot for guests to explore one of the most diverse and stunning below the waves in the Maldives. Spot graceful manta rays, playful dolphins, and colorful corals as you explore a true ocean paradise.

This eco-friendly resort offers an unmatched guest experience while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and best-in-practice environmental measures that guests can enjoy firsthand. From the private island resort’s Eco Centro to its protected nature reserve and marine biologist on staff to guide guests on snorkeling excursions, evidence of the environmental commitment at Soneva Fushi is everywhere.

Read More: 10 Best Maldives Resorts

19. VOMO Island – Fiji

Choose a planet-positive getaway to the private island resort VOMO Island in Fiji for the ultimate in sustainable luxury. Make your private island dreams come true as you explore the resort’s 225 acres of tropical island paradise, covered in lush landscape and ringed with powdery sand.

Forward-thinking and innovative eco-friendly projects include turning desalinated water into cleaning products to eliminate harsh chemicals and building a freshwater bottling plant on the island to reduce single-use plastic consumption. The resort’s own marine biologist monitors sustainability initiatives while introducing guests to the pristine waters at VOMO Island.

Adventurous travelers will love the array of activities available for exploring VOMO Island ‘s pristine environments, both above and below the waves. Hike to the top of Mt. VOMO, stroll along 3 miles of pristine beaches, snorkel with manta rays in the Yasawa Islands, or earn your PADI scuba diving certification at this PADI 5-star gold palm dive resort .  Just a sampling of the unending list of adventures on offer at VOMO, you’ll need to book your return visit to experience it all.

Plan a Trip to Fiji

• Mamanuca Islands, Fiji: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Ultimate Fiji Islands Guide + 4 Best Islands in Fiji
• 10 Best Resorts in Fiji

20. Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Mexico

A desirable stretch of the Riviera Maya coastline is home to Banyan Tree Mayakoba , winner of TripAdvisor’s prestigious Best of the Best Award for its modern luxury and unmatched guest experience. Offering spacious private pool beachfront and lagoon-facing villas and suites, a true retreat awaits at the one-of-a-kind Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

A mix of conservation and preservation projects underpin the resort’s commitment to its pristine environment on land and below the sea.

In addition to Banyan Tree’s brand-wide pledge to reduce and eliminate single-use plastics from the operation, the property supports the reforestation and care of coral reefs, even hosting an annual “Reef Week” during which guests can get involved in planting new coral fragments on guided snorkeling excursions.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba ‘s year-round eco-tours by boat introduce guests to the stunning flora and fauna of the fragile mangrove forests.

21. Nayara Tented Camp – Costa Rica

One of the first luxury camps in Central America, Nayara Tented Camp sits in the shadow of the impressive Arenal Volcano, among hot springs and dense jungles. Unobstructed volcano views await from private decks with hammocks and hot spring-fed plunge pools at Nayara Tented Camp, named Travel + Leisure’s number-one best resort in Central America. It’s easy to see what makes this destination such a special one.

Nayara Tented Camp is a sustainable paradise perfect for exploring one of the most beautiful corners of Costa Rica. Built to work with the natural surroundings to maximize breezes to naturally ventilate and cool rooms, the resort also contributes to local reforestation efforts and supports community development projects offering everything from support for local artists to free early childhood education.

22. Morena Eco Resort – Curaçao

With its rich history, colorful Dutch Caribbean architecture, and crystal-clear waters lapping along white sand beaches, it’s no wonder the island of Curaçao won’t remain under the radar for much longer.

Just a stone’s throw from the stellar beaches on the west end of the island, Morena Eco Resort is the perfect modern and luxurious yet sustainable resort from which to explore all that Curaçao has to offer.

Built with sustainable and eco-friendly materials from local sources, the eco resort continues its environmental commitment in its everyday operations. From using all-natural products in its spa to adding sustainable features like solar water heaters and is designed to enable ocean breezes to ventilate and cool interior spaces naturally, Morena Eco Resort is a leader among eco resorts on the island.

Read More: 20 Best Things To Do in Curacao

23. Mount Cinnamon Resort – Grenada

Tucked among lush greenery above the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Mount Cinnamon Resort on the island of Grenada is a beloved hideaway retreat making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Earning the Golden Green Globe Certification for its efforts, Mount Cinnamon Resort supports a diverse range of initiatives, from giving back to local schools to helping rebuild reefs.

Each of the property’s 37 luxurious villas offers sweeping ocean views, making it a dreamy home away from home in one of the Caribbean’s last hidden gems.

Whether you choose to spend your days at Mount Cinnamon Resort dining on farm-to-table meals prepared from ingredients from the property’s own gardens, snorkeling through crystal clear waters, or enjoying the ultimate in relaxation at the Cinnamon Spa , this is your ideal eco resorts getaway back to nature.

24. The Dolder Grand – Switzerland

Perched on a hillside overlooking both historic Zurich and the rolling countryside, The Dolder Grand is a luxurious, sustainably-minded property for travelers looking for the best of both worlds.

A recipient of the EarthCheck Silver Certification, a global benchmark and certification for sustainable travel and tourism eco resorts, The Dolder Grand employs everything from on-site gardens to energy-efficient heating systems and food waste avoidance programs to make the resort extra environmentally friendly.

With their Cause We Care Initiative , guests are invited to make a voluntary contribution to local and international climate protection projects that make their booking climate neutral. It’s an innovative way to make an unforgettable stay at this historic property even better.

25. Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton – Costa Rica

Hidden among the trees of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, called “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic , the newly-opened and eco-minded Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton is a resort worth traveling for. Opportunities to commune with pristine nature and fulfill bucket list experiences abound, with everything from guided night hikes through the rainforest to paddling alongside whale sharks on offer.

Floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious terraces, and private rooftop spaces make the most of jungle views for spotting hummingbirds and endemic flora and fauna.

For a relaxation and wellness-focused getaway, stick close by and enjoy the Botánika Osa Peninsula ‘s unending amenities like winding nature trails, a natural lagoon-style pool, themed gardens with medicinal plants and orchids, and a restaurant serving up delicious meals made with locally-sourced ingredients.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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What It Means to Stay at an Eco Resort

Enjoy your vacation and do some good, too.

Related To:

As avid recyclers, animal lovers and supporters of our local community, my husband and I wanted to spend our one-year anniversary at a place that shares the same values as we do. When we came across Sandos Caracol Eco Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, we knew we could have an equally relaxing, educational and adventurous vacation with a guilt-free conscience. Yes, we had to travel by plane to get there, but our accommodations, meals and activities impacted the environment in a more positive way than most places we could have chosen.

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa, Playa del Carmen, Mexico 

Photo by: Kayla Kitts

Kayla Kitts

So, what does it mean to be a true eco resort? Simply put, an eco resort is a lodging facility that takes active steps toward environmental sustainability and social responsibility by helping its natural surroundings and the local community. Sandos Caracol, the resort at which we stayed, offers several programs to minimize their eco footprint, and here are the ones that top my list:

Recycling, Reducing + Reusing

Throughout the resort you'll find recycling containers so guests can separate organic and inorganic trash. In 2016, all four Sandos resorts in Mexico recycled more than 200 tons of materials.

Plastic Elimination

Since this is an all-inclusive resort, guests go through  a lot  of drinks. But to eliminate waste, Sandos has integrated a program that includes reusable cups, a "Say No to Straws" policy and the inclusion of water jugs in guest rooms. (We went through three, five-gallon jugs during our stay!)

On-Site Organic Garden

Yes, there's an on-site garden and yes, it's beautiful. The staff uses all organic leftovers from the restaurants and kitchens as compost.

Guests can stop at the garden on their way around the bike path. 

Photo By: Kayla Kitts

On-Site Plant Nursery

The resort created an on-site plant nursery to grow and reforest endemic plant species into the Riviera Maya jungles.

Plant a Tree Program

Before guests leave Sandos Caracol, they're encouraged to plant a local tree to commemorate their stay and help reforest the area. In 2016, guests planted approximately 140 trees a month as part of the "Plant a Tree" program.

On-Site Water Treatment Program

Each Sandos property houses an on-site water treatment plant that takes used water and makes it clean again. The water is then used in the gardens and nurseries.

Animal Rescue

Sandos Caracol houses three natural ecosystems, so you'll find a variety of wildlife roaming freely and happily throughout the resort, including coatis, spider monkeys, iguanas, raccoons and turtles. Sandos is also dedicated to animal rescue. Just behind the outdoor lobby you'll find a mini farm with donkeys, pigs, roosters, peacocks, rabbits, birds, cats and more. Some of these animals, however, roam free around the resort (and love making friends with guests).

A few of the rescued animals at the Sandos Caracol Mini Farm. This donkey loved neck scratches.

Signage along the bike path.

Veterinary Care

As a Cat Lady, I loved seeing the rescued felines roaming around. They had escaped a lousy past to now live happily on the grounds of a beautiful resort. Sandos has programs to provide food, shelter, spaying/neutering and veterinary care to the resort's rescue cats.

Xcalacoco Experience

Xcalacoco loosely translates as 'jungle life,' and it's all about living in tandem with the plants and animals of the Mayan jungle. We were there during Spring Equinox, a particularly special time, so we got the ultimate Xcalacoco experience including amulets that had been purified by a Mayan chaman. Created to celebrate the history and heritage of the Mayan region, the resort's Xcalacoco program provides eco tours, cultural workshops, evening Mayan performances, traditional Mayan cooking, sensory experiences and so much more. There are activities every day, with each day honoring a different element — Earth, Wind, Corn, Water, Sun, Fire and Roots.

Making our way to the Mayan Herbalist path.

Early risers at Plaza del Sol.

Walking quietly and safely around Mayan ruins.

Turtle Camp

Each summer, Sandos protects sea turtle nests on the beach then releases the newly hatched baby sea turtles into the ocean in the fall. The Sandos Turtle Camp helps eggs and hatchlings survive potential predators and bad weather so they can reach the ocean.

Is an eco resort the right fit for you? Research the hotel and find out. But remember, you can always travel sustainably no matter where you go .

Source: blog.sandos.com

Top Eco-Friendly Resorts

Eco Beach Resort

Eco Beach is an award-winning eco-resort set amongst a pristine and untouched environment in Western Australia. With no televisions or telephones, Eco Beach strives to offer a complete wilderness experience and to have minimum impact on its surroundings.

Photo By: Steve Lloyd Smith

Longitude 131°

Luxurious and eco-sensitive, Longitude 131° lies at the gateway of the dual World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia, complete with stunning and private views of the sun rising and setting over Ayers Rock.

Photo By: Voyages Hotels & Resorts

Finca Rosa Blanca

Finca Rosa Blanca is the perfect getaway for nature and coffee lovers. This boutique hotel has the highest rating in Costa Rica for sustainable tourism and even its own organic shade-grown coffee plantation.

Photo By: Finca Rosa Blanca

Located in California's Napa Valley, Bardessono is a LEED Platinum Certified boutique hotel offering intimate spa suites and eco-friendly luxury set in beautiful wine country.

Photo By: Bardessono

WildSpring is a small, secluded eco-friendly resort on the Southern Oregon Coast. Set on five acres of old Native American ground, with a zero carbon footprint, you'll sleep in a peaceful forest and enjoy breakfast overlooking the ocean.

Photo By: WildSpring

Laguna Lodge Eco Resort

Laguna Lodge Eco Resort and Nature Reserve is set on Guatemala's stunning Lake Atitlan. Enter this modern Mayan world by boat and stay in suites inspired by nature and created from volcanic stone, adobe and palm.

Photo By: Laguna Lodge Eco Resort

Each of the rooms at Chaa Creek 's 365-acre eco-resort in Belize promises peace and tranquility.

Photo By: The Lodge at Chaa Creek

There's beauty at every turn at Chaa Creek with a prime location by the Macal Chaa Creek and the Maya Mountains.

El Nido Resort

El Nido Resort in the Philippines are a great choice for eco-friendly dive enthusiasts.

Photo By: El Nido Resorts

El Nido's Lagen Island Resort

Some rooms at El Nido's Lagen Island Resort are surrounded by trees while others sit above the water.

El Nido's Miniloc Island Resort

The lights twinkle on the cove as night falls on El Nido's Miniloc Island Resort .

Hotel Punta Islita

The 1492 restaurant at Hotel Punta Islita in Costa Rica serves tasty regional seafood.

Photo By: Brendan Austin/BAARK

The Hotel Punta Islita is a pristine mountain outpost with a luxurious infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Photo By: Corsetti Photography

Hobbit House

Reachable only by four-wheel drive, Hobbit House is up a remote mountain trail near the south end of Hawaii's Big Island.

Photo By: Hobbit House

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15 Best Eco Resorts For Your Next Earth Friendly Vacation

Danielle Alvarado

My name is Danielle and I am a mother of two, wife, CEO, and lover of vintage treasures. I created SKL in 2020 to help our community in their need for well-researched and trust-worthy articles, listicles and guides to live a more sustainable and healthy life. So happy to have you here! ( Click to learn more) .

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Looking for the best eco-resorts in the world to find the perfect vacation spot for your next slow-paced getaway? We made a list of the top half board and all-inclusive eco resorts U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America have to offer. From luxury retreats in the Caribbean to affordable resorts in Bali, there is something for every taste!

On this Eco Friendly Resort list:

• Best Eco Resorts in Asia
• Best Eco Resorts in the U.S.A.
• Best Eco Resorts in Latin America
• Best Eco Resorts in Europe
• Best All-Inclusive Luxury Eco Resorts
• Best Eco Resorts for Families

If you are looking for the most budget-friendly ways to explore the world, have a look at the 13 Best Eco Hostels For Your Next Ethical Adventure!

This post is about the best all-inclusive & half-board eco resorts in the world

If the thought of spending quality time with your friends, partner, or family away from the hustle and bustle of the city lives rent-free in your head, now is the perfect time to book your next temporary home in one of the best eco resorts in the world.

If retreating away to sun-soaked days, dipping your toes in the oh-so-soft white sand and being steps away from the rich, tropical rainforest sound like the ideal way to relax and unwire, than you are in the right place! Extra bonus? Imagine if your hotel of choice is actually an award-winning sustainable resort designed to change the tourism world for a better tomorrow.

While the tourism industry continues to put a big stain on the planet , the best all-inclusive eco resorts show a true commitment to responsible traveling all while feeding into our lust for seeking the next big adventure high. 

We made it our mission to find the most well-reviewed eco resorts for families, couples, and friends who want to partake in a slew of ecotourism activities and explore the extraordinary wilderness and wildlife in the most sustainable way possible.

What is an "eco resort"?

An eco resort thrives on effectively reducing their environmental footprint by using renewable energy sources,  sustainable building materials, effective water collection systems, and recycling methods as well as organic food ingredients. Also, the best eco resorts in the world usually invest their profits into social and or environmental causes to further help nature and the local community. 

Why are eco resorts better than traditional resorts?

Eco-friendly resorts and hostels are the best way to travel sustainably knowing that the wildlife and nature was not harmed in the process of building the accommodation. From offering eco cleaning products and delicious foods with locally-sourced ingredients to using alternative energy sources and water conservation practices, the best eco resorts are not only good for the environment but also go as far as helping with ecosystem restoration through numerous initiatives.

What are the negative impacts of tourism? ​

Tourism is one of the most polluting industries in the world with a huge environmental “price” . By 2030, we are expected to see a 25% increase in CO2 emissions from tourism compared to 2016. Soil erosion is a common issue with more and more buildings popping up in otherwise virgin areas in the name of profit. Natural habitats are destroyed and endangered species are affected in the process. Also, tourism increases pollution thanks to the huge food and plastic product waste and lack of recycling. Additionally, there is the issue of water and energy overuse. 

This post is about the best eco resorts in the world

2022's best eco resorts in the world, best eco resorts in asia, keemala eco resort | thailand.

Set amidst a rich green scenery of tropical trees right in the hills of Phuket, Keemala is one of the best eco-resorts in the world for avid travelers who want to explore the values of Buddhism and learn about the significance of animals in Thai culture. Skillfully designed to protect the ecosystem, the eco resort offers a pool and ocean-view bathtubs as well as direct access to whimsical organic gardens that supply the local restaurants. With a strong focus on ethical eating, travelers can enjoy plant-based, vegan meals without any added chemicals before they hit the gym or fitness center.

Ethics: Water Treatment System, Recycling, Glass-Bottled Water, Rooms Designed For Minumum Energy Consumption

Location: Kamala, Thailand

Price: $459

Visit Keemala Eco Resort Here

Bambu indah | indonesia.

Bambu Indah is known for their commitment to sustainability and eco-consious living for quite a few years. The breathtaking view of the Balinese landscape, the luxurious private houses, and the array of educational eco experiences are only a few of the many things that make this accommodation one of the best eco resorts in the world. Each artistically-designed villa comes with an innovative mosquito net to capture cool air and eliminate the need for energy-consuming cooling devices. Also, travelers can enjoy delicious daily meals with the freshest ingredients straight from on-site gardens that are free from chemicals. 

Ethics: LED And Oil Lamps, Composting, No Plastic Policy, Water Recycling, And Organic Bath Products And Organic Food Ingredients

Location: Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia 

Price : $236

Visit Bambu Indah Here

Best eco resorts in the usa, post ranch inn | california.

The cliff-top luxury eco-resort in Big Sur is a beloved safe space for nature enthusiasts and avid slow travelers who want to sleep and wake up with breathtaking ocean or mountain views. By booking a private villa, or a treehouse, you’ll gain access to the daily yoga classes, two SPAs, the pool, and the guided tours! Sweeping views, sunset dinner above the clouds, an on-site boutique, and hours of relaxation – what more can we ask for? 

Ethics : Ecological Farming., Only Hybrid Cars Allowed, Sustainable Building Materials, Insulated With Planks From Old Wine Barrels, Recycling And Wastewater Disposing Program. 

Location : Big Sur, California

Price: $1,650 (For a much more budget friendly option, check out the Stanford Inn below)

Visit Post Ranch Inn Here

The stanford inn by the sea | california.

There is nothing quite like a family-owned eco-resort that dates back to the 80s. The Stanfords thrive on educating guests on the slew of topics of sustainability and inspire everyone to live a more green-minded lifestyle. Travelers can participate in a slew of exciting activities on-site like gardening lessons, meditation classes, as well as vegan cooking classes and herbal medicine! Begin your day with morning strolls in the organic gardens that supply all food ingredients, enjoy a few hours at the spa, or join the wildlife tours. Canoe and biking trains are also available for guests who want to experience the beauty of the surrounding nature. 

Ethics: Pet-Friendly & Family-Friendly, Organic Gardens, On-Site Lessons, Plant-Based Food, Paneled In Pine And Redwood,

Location:  Mendocino, CA

Price: starts at $350

Visit Standford Inn Here

Best all-inclusive eco resorts in latin america, olas tulum | mexico.

Olas aims to reinforce our connection with nature in the most sustainable way possible. Located in Quintana Roo, the eco-resort offers eight suites, all with earthy, organic design schemes. Aside from the curved walls that circulate air for the comfiest night’s sleep, the resort uses solar power and rainwater harvesting to minimize its environmental footprint. Travelers can enjoy massages steps away from the beach, hop on a boat ride to explore the nearby areas, wander safely around the Muyil Jungle or even attend a small sacred Maya ceremony to more about this fascinating culture. Also, the eco-resort is conveniently placed directly to the south of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve!

Ethics : Biodegradable Soaps And Shampoos, Beach Cleanups In Collaboration With Local Non Profit Community Groups, Organic Herb Garden, Solar Panel System, Rain Collection Systems

Location: Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Be

Price:    from $310

Visit Olas Tulum Here

Morgan’s rock | nicaragua.

Morgan’s Rock is not only one of b est eco resorts in the world, but also the very first luxury eco lodge in Nicaragua. Nestled in 4,000 acres boasting wildlife and mesmerizing landscapes, the eco hotel aims to protect the turtles that frequent its private sandy beach and bay and preserve the beauty of nature. Monkeys and macaws are frequently spotted in exotic rainforest surroundings in which travelers can participate in a slew of activities, lay on the swinging beds, or walk the famous suspension bridge.

Ethics: Tree Planting Program, Solar Panels, Organic Gardens, Rainwater Collection

Location : San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Price: starts at $576 

Visit Morgan’s Rock Here

Best all inclusive eco resorts in europe,  naturhotel leitlhof | italy.

Naturhotel Leitlhof has won Europe’s Leading Green Hotel award in 2021 and 2016, making it one of the best sustainable small chalet-style eco resorts for admirers of the German and Italian culture, architecture, and food – because it is located in the Dolomite mountains on the Austrian border (near to where SKL was founded!). The 60-room hotel is as cozy as it can get! You can gaze at the stars from the rooms’ floor-to-ceiling glass doors and terraces, or relax in the outdoor pool or garden sauna after a long day skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, or bicycling. The family-friendly eco resort also offers a ton of activities for the kids including hours of fun at the aquatic park.

Ethics : Wood-Fired Combined Heat And Power Plant, Water Collection, Organic Spa Products, Organic Gardens 

Location:  San Candido Italy (South Tyrol)

Price: €430

Visit Naturhotel Leitlhof Here

Whitepod | switzerland.

Winner of the World Prize for Sustainable Tourism in 2005, Whitepod is a safe haven for winter-sports fanatics who adore cuddling up in cozy sheepskin blankets with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, admiring the mountain and Lake Geneva views through floor-to-ceiling windows after a long day at the slopes. Some of the most amazing nature-oriented activities include skiing (the hotel has its own slopes and lifts!) dog-sledding and snowshoeing for kids and adults with a shared love for eco-adventures.

Ethics: Wood-Burning Closed Fireplaces, Organic Bedding, Wooden Or Recycled Material Furniture, Forest Stewardship Council Paper Products, 

Location : Monthey, Switzerland

Price: €378

Visit Whitepod Here

Vila vita parc | portugal.

Set on 54 acres of tropical garden, Vila Vita Parc has obtained numerous eco awards over the years – including the World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort award in 2016 and 2015. The eco-resort also owns a farm in which they produce olive oil and fresh vegetables. Some villa and suite rooms boast hand-painted tiles called azulejos while other building blocks are designed to look like a traditional Portuguese village. Take in the sun-soaked Atlantic Ocean views and Portuguese culture and hospitality. Explore the picturesque tropical gardens right before you dive into one of the many pools! 

Ethics: Recycling And Composting System, Organic Farming, 

Location: Rua Anneliese Pohl Alporchinhos, Porches 8400-450 Portugal

Price : €338

Visit Vila Vita Parc Here

Best all-inclusive luxury eco resorts in the world, hamanasi belize resort | caribbean.

Located on the picturesque Caribbean coast, only a few minutes away from Hopkins Village, Hamanasi Belize Resort is one of the best all-inclusive eco-resorts in the world. Awarded one of the Top 10 Hotels  in the 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, it offers a slew of ecotourism activities for nature lovers. From guided hikes through Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , to exploring the  Belize Barrier Reef underwater and joining a once-in-a-lifetime history tour at the Maya Mountains, this eco resort for families and avid travelers is luxurious, idyllic, and extremely sustainable.

Ethics: Members Of The Conservation International Pilot Project, Composting & Recycling, Rainwater Collection, Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products, Ceiling Fans,  

Location: Hopkins Village, Stann Creek, Belize

Price: $376-$534

Visit Hamanasi Belize Resort Here

Nimmo bay | canada.

Nestle in the old-growth wilderness of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, Nimmo Bay is one of the best Best eco resorts in the world for families, friends and couples with a lust for quiet, secluded yet adventure-packed holidays. Surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking mountains, and the soothing colors of the forest, this all-inclusive eco resort is accessible only by helicopter or floatplane. Relax in front of the majestic wooden chalet and take a hot bath under the night sky or lay and read a book on the floating dock amidst the extraordinary wilderness and wildlife.

Ethics: Eco-Consious Construction, Clean Drinking Water And Green Energy From The Nearby Waterfall, Pet Friendly And Family Friendly 

Location : Nimmo Islet, British Columbia V0N 2R0 Canada

Price: $1,575

Visit Nimmo Bay Here

Secret bay | caribbean.

Located on the northwest coast of the Caribbean island of Dominica, Secret Bay offers boasts six sustainable luxury villas, ideal for a secluded getaway. The resort is on a cliff overlooking the crystal clear water right next to a lush tropical garden and a Private beach area. Enjoy the sounds of nature from your private plunge pool, visit the wellness facilities for a spa day and experience the local, organically-grown food at the restaurant. Also, you can take advantage of the complimentary water activities they offer.

Ethics : Organic Food, Baby Sitting, Sustainably-Sourced Tropical Hardwood Villas

Location: Portsmouth, 000000 Portsmouth, Dominica

Price: $1090

Visit Secret Bay Here

Best eco resorts for families, ulaman eco retreat | indonesia.

Ulaman offers nature-loving travelers the opportunity to experience the traditional Balinese culture in a secluded, lush haven without forgoing comfort. Located in the village of Kaba Kaba, it’s lauded as one of the best eco resorts in the world due to its beautiful architecture that boasts unusually curved rooftops completely made of bamboo and other natural materials. Yogis can visit the yoga-shala atop the cliff that overlooks the waterfall, book a bike ride to explore the area, and immerse themselves in the local cuisine. In fact, all food ingredients are grown in an organic garden or purchased from small farmers.

Ethics : Sustainable Building Materials, Organic Food, 

Location : Bali, Tabanan, Indonesia 

Price: $160

Visit Ulaman Eco Retreat Here

Campi ya kanz | kenya.

Touted as one of the best eco resorts in the world for families who want to experience the African wildness, Campi Ya Kanzi’s purpose is solely to help the Maasai tribe and preserve their culture. Located in the south of Kenya, in the Chyulu Hills, the six cottages offer stunning views of Mount Kiliman. Some of the most noteworthy activities are safari in Kanzi Reserve or Amboseli National Park where you can fully immerse yourself in the Massai culture. Last but not least, during the day, you can spot the animals visiting the watering hole right from the eco resort’s terrace area.

Ethics: Sustainable Building Materials, Furniture Crafted From Natural Wood Fallen B Elephants, Daily Environmental Fees, Photovoltaic Panels, Rainwater Collection, Food Waste Used As Fertilizer 

Location: Mtito Andei, Kenya

Price: $151 

Visit Campi Ya Kanz Here

Lapa rios ecolodge | costa rica.

Build in a 1000-acre private nature reserve in Central America’s last remaining lowland tropical rainforest in Costa Rica, Lapa Rios Ecolodge is not only one of the best eco resorts in the world in terms of construction but also a model ecotourism project and a sustainable tourism pioneer. The luxurious bungalows boast stunning views of the surrounding tropical rain forests and ocean. In fact, Lapa Rios is one of only 24 National Geographic Unique Eco Lodges of the World! Is there something better than starting your day with harmonious birdsong and the sound of howler monkeys along with numerous other rare species of animals that inhabit the area?

Ethics : Solar Energy, Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies, Organic Jungle Vegetable Garden, Non-Plastic Dishes

Location: Cabo Matapalo Costa Rica

Price : $1246

Visit Lapa Rios Lodge Here

This post was all about the best eco resorts in the world.

Best eco resorts for families, couples, and friends allow us to dive deep into the local culture all while respecting the environment and all its inhabitants. No matter if you are looking for your next sustainable luxury getaway to the Caribbean or a secluded retreat perfect for yogis and solar travelers, the above half board and all-inclusive eco-resorts in Europe, Asia, and Latin America will meet all your quality and sustainability demands.

If you liked this post, you’ll definitely want to check out these other posts from SKL:

• 13 Best Eco Friendly Travel Products for Your Next Eco Adventure!
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• 14 Best Reusable Water Bottles: Stainless Steel, Glass & Safe Plastic

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The Knot's Top Eco Hotels and Resorts for 2024

With the global climate crisis making headlines regularly, more and more travelers are prioritizing eco hotels and resorts—and rightly so. In fact, one of the top honeymoon and travel trends of 2024 is intentionally sustainable stays and we're far from the only ones who are saying it. According to the Boston Consulting Group , "80% of consumers we surveyed say that they are concerned about the environment and that they considered aspects of sustainability when they last traveled.

The travel industry accounts for approximately 10% of global emissions, making it vital to reduce emission. But sustainability is about much more than just our carbon footprint. It's about preserving the natural environment and empowering local communities. These eco hotels and resorts are doing much more than just reducing their use of plastic. They're leading the way with a variety of sustainable initiatives and they're proving that being sustainable doesn't mean sacrificing quality. On the contrary, these eco hotels and resorts are some of the world's best hotels and resorts for a honeymoon , anniversary getaway , or couples trip.

In this article:

Best Overall Eco Hotel: Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal

Best for luxury: nihi sumba, indonesia, best budget friendly: bambu indah, bali, best all-inclusive eco resort: nayara bocas del toro, panama, best eco beach resort: joali maldives, best rural eco hotel: casa di langa, piedmont, best urban eco hotel: 1 hotel brooklyn bridge, new york city, best glamping eco resort: singita sabora tented camp, tanzania, best eco safari lodge: chobe game lodge, botswana, best eco resort for spiritual seekers: habitas bacalar, quintana roo.

Thai brand Six Senses—now under the umbrella of IHG Hotels & Resorts—is a leader when it comes to creating sustainable hotels. Far from just eliminating plastic, Six Senses works to improve the environment and social fabric of each destination where they have a hotel or resort. In Portugal's famed wine region, the Six Senses Douro Valley occupies a restored 19th-century farmhouse with a sleek, modern design, a renowned spa, and plenty of activities, from cooking classes and wine tastings to workshops designed to teach you how to make all natural skincare products. They grow fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs in the on-site organic garden, study ways of being sustainable at the Earth Lab, and even partner with a donkey sanctuary to protect these animals that live in the countryside surrounding the hotel.

Quinta de Vale Abraão, Samodães, 5100-758 Lamego, Portugal

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World on the idyllic island of Sumba in the Indonesian archipelago, NIHI Sumba offers understated luxury for guests while improving the lives of the islanders. A collection of 27 thatched roof villas and treehouses is spread out over 500 acres of tropical jungles, mountains, and pristine beaches where horses wander freely. (There are also equine therapy retreats offered.) Notably, the resort partners with the Sumba Foundation, which has helped over 45,000 islanders gain access to clean water and reduced malaria on the island by up to 93%. Guests who are interested in learning more can take a Sumba Foundation tour.

Hoba Wawi, Wanokaka, West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia 87272

Deep in the jungle of Ubud, Bali's capital, Bambu Indah rises like a dreamscape out of The Jungle Book . Created by Canadian jewelry designer John Hardy, who moved to Bali in the 1970s, and his wife Cynthia, the property is a collection of antique Javanese bridal huts and bamboo treehouse-style suites set along the Ayung River and designed by Elora Hardy, John's daughter and a visionary architect known for her work with bamboo. The entire resort was constructed using natural materials, without any plastic, and all of the bath products are organic. The signature restaurant serves farm-to-table Balinese cuisine sourced from the property's gardens and the surrounding area. Bambu Indah is part of the Green Family, a collection of sustainably-minded initiatives that includes Green Village and Green School.

Jl. Baung, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, Nayara Bocas del Toro is the only resort on Frangipani Island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago. This adults-only resort is a favorite among couples and honeymooners looking for the right balance of relaxation, romance, and adventure, with activities like kayaking and guided night swims on the bioluminescent bay. The resort comprises 16 overwater villas crafted by Balinese artisans and two fifty-foot tree houses designed by Elora Hardy's firm IBUKU and made with locally sourced bamboo and reclaimed wood from the Panama Canal. The resort operates completely off the grid, with solar energy and rainwater treatment. Nayara also supports the community by hiring locally and providing English classes, seminars on environmental and sustainability practices, and covering some of the costs of career development courses.

Isla Frangipani, 6QQH+7J Punta Laurel, Panamá

Occupying a private island in the Maldives, JOALI was conceived according to the principles of biophilic design, a scientific system of integrating architecture with nature, and comprises a variety of dreamy overwater villas and beach villas. The resort is silver certified by EarthCheck and is especially focused on preserving the marine environment that makes the Maldives such a unique and magical place. JOALI and its sister resort, JOALI BEING, partner with the Olive Ridley Project to protect sea turtles and guests at JOALI can join the resort's marine biologist in a coral regeneration project, snorkeling out to the coral farm to plant new coral and see the project's progress. As a woman-owned resort, JOALI also supports women's empowerment through the arts with initiatives like JOALI Art Week and by donating to Zero Waste Maldives, which empowers local seamstresses to create bags and other items using upcycled fabrics.

Muravandhoo Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives

Nestled in the rolling hills of Piedmont, the northern Italian region famous for fine wines, Casa di Langa is a member of Beyond Green, a portfolio of sustainable hotels, lodges, and resorts within the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection. Overlooking 40 hectares of vineyards and countryside, the property was designed to be carbon neutral, with geothermal heating, solar panels, and recycled water for irrigation. The chefs at the hotel's gourmet restaurant Faulà use fresh ingredients from the property's garden and greenhouse and spa treatments incorporate local ingredients like honey and olive oil. Guests are encouraged to embrace the destination with activities like truffle hunting, wine tastings, and cooking classes.

Località Talloria 1, 12050 Ceretto Langhe (CN), Italy

Located on the DUMBO waterfront in Brooklyn Bridge Park, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge sets a shining example for sustainability at urban hotels. The hotel is LEED Gold certified, which means it meets stringent sustainability requirements. Aside from being plastic-free, it has energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, LED lighting, and occupancy-based thermostat controls. The rooftop, which boasts a pool with fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline, is planted with garden beds, shrubs, and trees that absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the hotel offsets its inevitable carbon emissions through carbon offset projects. So go ahead, indulge in a zero-waste cocktail at the Osprey and admire the living green wall in the lobby lounge.

60 Furman Street, Brooklyn, NY, U.S.A.

One of Africa's leading safari operators, Singita is also one of the continent's sustainability leaders. The recently renovated Singita Sabora Tented Camp is set on the Grumeti Reserve, a 350,000-acre reserve near the Serengeti that represents an inspiring success story for African conservation. Years of hunting had decimated the wildlife population in the area, which the Tanzanian government turned into a protected reserve in 1994 and in 2002, the reserve's management was turned over to the Grumeti Community and Wildlife Conservation Fund, which succeeded in bringing the animals back. Aside from caring for the wildlife, Singita cares for the natural environment and the local community by adhering to Bioregional's One Planet Living framework. Guests staying at Singita Sabora Tented Camp can not only see the wildlife on game drives but also see the anti-poaching canine unit to learn more about wildlife conservation and visit a local school to learn how Singita supports the local community.

Grumeti Game Reserve, 31623, Tanzania

The only permanent lodge set within Chobe National Park in Botswana, Chobe Game Lodge was one of the first ten properties to be awarded the highest Ecotourism level by the Botswana Tourism Organisation. The distinction is especially impressive because the property is also the oldest five-star lodge in Botswana . In recent years, the lodge has converted the majority of its fleet to electric vehicles and solar-powered boats that ply the Chobe River. Behind the scenes, the lodge processes over 100 kilos of biodegradable waste and recycles 60,000 liters of gray water everyday, and around 95% of the lodge's waste gets sorted and recycled. Perhaps most inspiring, Chobe Game Lodge employs an all-female guiding team known as the Chobe Angels in an effort to empower women to work in the traditionally male-dominated safari industry.

Chobe National Park, Serondela, Botswana

Direction: Please source a photo of the property from the website if available

Guests checking into Habitas Bacalar , an eco-wellness resort set on Lake Bacalar—known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors—in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, are invited to begin their trip with a short intention-setting meditation session. That pretty much sets the tone at the property, where the roster of on-site activities includes sunrise paddleboarding on the lagoon, aerial yoga, sound meditations, and temazcal ceremonies. As a brand, Habitas is all about sustainability and has pledged its commitment to fulfilling the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals for 2030. All their resorts are created using modular building techniques that leave a light footprint on the landscape and other sustainability measures include a single-use plastic-free policy, waste management, and carbon offsetting.

Carretera Federal 307 Xul Ha, 77963 Bacalar, Mexico

The world's eco-luxury resorts that are worth the hype

Oct 4, 2021 • 6 min read

You don't need to sacrifice luxury to stay at a top sustainable resorts © Artem Beliaikin / Shutterstock

Responsible travel isn’t just for backpackers pitching a tent in remote locales. With the uptick of quality lodging at the intersection of environmental and social sustainability, it’s easier than ever to stay in eco-conscious luxury resorts around the globe without sacrificing comfortable amenities.

Tapping into technology to reduce carbon emissions, utilizing solar power and cutting down on single-use plastics is just the beginning of a long list these eco-conscious luxe resorts are undertaking to reduce their footprints. 

These green stays are worth the hype and they’re truly making a difference; these are the best resorts in the world that are offering luxury for guests as well as the environment. 

Rondon Ridge, Mt Hagen, Papua New Guinea

On the upper crust of Kum Mountain in Papua New Guinea sits Rondon Ridge , one of the finest resorts in the country. Dedication to environmental and social sustainability sets this upscale lodge apart. Upon arrival, guests receive reusable water bottles for on-site filtered water. During off-site culture and nature tours, guests explore in an electric vehicle. 

Apartment-style rooms overlook the spectacular Wahgi Valley and are powered by a zero-emission hydroelectric system producing power from local mountain streams. The resort sustains the community by sharing clean energy, hiring local staff and sourcing produce directly from neighboring hill tribe farmers. 

Deforestation is a burgeoning issue, so Rondon Ridge works hand-in-hand with neighboring villagers to protect the surrounding forest from logging. Villagers are eager to protect the land in order to reap the financial benefits from tourism.

Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas, Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Eco-resorts may be a dime a dozen in Costa Rica but Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas is an exception. The resort's transparent approach to weaving sustainability into all aspects truly makes an impact. The eco-resort is in a protected nature reserve for sea turtles on a semi-private wild beach. It received the highest sustainable tourism certification (level 5) from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. 

In early 2019, Cala Luna unveiled one of the largest solar energy installations in Central America. The property has 1400 solar panels which offset 34 tons of energy usage and brings the property one step closer to achieving its carbon neutrality goal. 

Beyond clean energy, Cala Luna houses an organic garden to supply its farm-to-table restaurant – enjoy fine cuisine, organic wine and fresh-fruit cocktails complete with homemade bamboo straws. Additional produce is sustainably sourced from local vendors. 

Spacious guest rooms are cleaned with eco-friendly products and equipped with biodegradable toiletries. The open-air spa also uses all-natural ingredients. All of the furniture was produced in-house and the resort staff is mainly local.

Discover Costa Rica's most unique tree houses

Copal Tree Lodge, Punta Gorda, Belize

Surrounded by 22,000 acres of preserved rainforest in the Maa Mountains is Copal Tree Lodge and its 3,000-acre USDA-certified organic farm – the first of its kind in Belize . 70% of the food served at the Copal Tree’s open-air restaurant is produced on the farm while other ingredients, such as line-caught fish, are sourced from local purveyors. The resort offers guests hands-on learning about organic chocolate and sustainable farming.

The on-site Copalli Rum distillery produces estate rum made from organic sugar cane, canopy water and yeast from the farm. Sustainable regenerative biomass power the stills, supporting the full-circle conversion of waste and allowing the distillery to minimize its negative environmental impact. Excess water is used for liquid fertilizer on the farm. 

To help guests reduce waste, the resort provides aluminum water bottles and containers of potable water in guest rooms and throughout the property. Biodegradable garbage bags, takeaway containers and straws are used throughout. Guest rooms are adorned with sustainably harvested wood furniture handcrafted in-house from trees that fell naturally in the wild and the eco-lodge plants thousands of trees annually through its agroforestry program.

When to plan a trip to Belize

MahaRaja Eco Dive Lodge, Raja Ampat, Indonesia

The only genuinely eco-friendly dive resort in the world is in the MahaRaja Eco Dive Lodge  in Raja Ampat , Indonesia. Preserving nature is at the heart of everything at the lodge, making it one of the best places to see aquatic life. It’s the first dive shop to have boats with electric motors to prevent fuel and noise pollution in the ocean.

The eco-lodge owns the surrounding reef and banned fishing in the area to allow coral to heal naturally after years of fish bombing. The revitalized reef is a hotbed for sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, octopuses, sea stars, nudibranchs and more. Before exploring the underwater paradise, guests must pledge to respect all marine life without harassing, touching, feeding, harming or killing any sea creature and people may not stand on or kick the coral. 

MahaRaja aspires to have the smallest footprint possible. The property is mostly solar-powered. Overwater bungalows with unobstructed ocean views were hand-built by local staff using wood from 100 different family farms to limit deforestation. There’s no running water, but it’s far from roughing it. Fresh spring water is used for the western-style showers and toilets and the guest rooms are supplied with biodegradable toiletries, corn-based toothbrushes and mineral-friendly SPF. Vegan renditions of traditional Papuan meals are made with locally sourced produce.

What would a truly eco-friendly city look like? We ask the experts as Indonesia plans to build new capital

Secret Bay, Portsmouth, Dominica

An ultra-luxe resort that approaches hospitality through environmentalism, Secret Bay is a boutique resort with only ten sustainable luxury villas. The hotel is the recipient of a  Green Globe Certificate , the first hotel in Dominica to pass the rigorous building and operating standards required to receive the recognition. Sustainable principles promote eco-friendly practices and are enforced by the eco-resort’s ‘Green Team’. 

Team members sign an agreement promising to adhere to the resort's mission of conservation measures including a program to recycle and compost waste. Wastewater is also repurposed via a drip irrigation drainage system. 

Energy conservation is another eco-conscious aspect of the property that utilizes LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances throughout the property. The villas were strategically designed to allow natural lighting and fresh air to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Suites are equipped with reusable glass bottles and Culligan water filtration systems. Locally-made all-natural toiletries are available in the guestrooms.

Secret Bay guests feast on exquisite meals prepared from natural resources around the property, such as speared Lionfish or foraged herbs and spices. Additional ingredients are purchased in bulk to reduce transportation fuel emissions. Secret Bay is dedicated to only using biodegradable food packaging.

How your vacation can help save sea turtles in the Caribbean

You might also like: Into the green: eight destinations for an eco-friendly escape Costa Rica is asking travelers to offset their carbon footprint Explore 8 of the world’s most sustainable cities

This article was originally published on September 20, 2019. 

This article was first published September 2019 and updated October 2021

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Taking a vacation is often seen as the ultimate solution for all your problems. As a traveler who is environmentally conscious, you may have thought about the impact your trips have on the planet and society. Perhaps you may want to contribute to the communities you visit or reduce your carbon footprint due to the growing climate change concerns. This is where the concept of Eco travel comes in!

To help you plan your next green vacation, in this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of eco-lodges, eco-hotels, and eco-resorts. We will explore the key differences, sustainable practices, and the benefits they offer to travelers and the planet. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge and resources to embark on an eco-friendly vacation.

What is Eco-Tourism?

According to The International Ecotourism Society , the definition of ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people and involves interpretation and education” with an emphasis on educating staff and guests. 

Or, in simple words, we can say that ecotourism is tourism centered around the conservation of the natural environment while supporting the local communities, educating travelers about the importance of the environment, and imparting knowledge about the cultural heritage of the locals. 

Research shows that global interest in ecotourism has grown rapidly in recent years. The Travel Trends & Statistics report by the Center For Responsible Travel reveals that 21% of consumers are willing to pay a higher price to travel with a company that has a strong environmental and social record.

Why Choose Eco-Tourism?

Tourism has experienced significant growth over the years. In 1950, there were only 25 million international arrivals, but by 1990, this number had increased exponentially to 435 million. From 1990 to 2018, international arrivals tripled to 1.442 billion. And by 2030, this number is expected to reach 1.8 billion unequivocally. This tremendous growth has significant economic benefits for the country but also poses substantial challenges to the local communities and the environment.  

For this reason, Eco-travel has emerged as a powerful movement in the tourism industry with increasing concerns about environmental conservation and the desire to minimize the negative impact of travel. Eco-travel offers a way for individuals to explore the world while supporting sustainable practices. 

The concept of ecotourism /travel goes beyond simply reducing carbon emissions. It encompasses a holistic approach that embraces sustainable principles, such as conserving natural resources, supporting local economies, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering community engagement. By practicing eco-travel, travelers can make a positive difference while experiencing an enriching and authentic travel experience.

What are the Ecotourism Principles and Practices?

Ecotourism involves bringing together conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. To achieve this, those involved in implementing, participating in, and marketing ecotourism activities should adhere to the following ecotourism principles :

• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
• Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities.
• Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

Practices in Eco-Hotel, Eco-Lodge, Eco-Resort

Characteristics or practices’ of any eco-friendly accommodation will be more or less the same and focus on environmental conservation and sustainable use of natural resources while also supporting the local communities. These are but not limited to the following:

• Eco-accommodations contribute to the local economies and help demonstrate that ecotourism is a more sustainable approach for travelers.
• People who are trained in biology or have significant knowledge are employed as nature guides. They can provide educational tours to tourists about the local ecosystem and culture.
• These accommodations have a sustainable infrastructure, and rainwater harvesting tanks, and are certified by various national and international organizations focusing on green travel.
• Some of the newly constructed buildings are made of natural products like bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, or plastic.
• Food is sourced locally and is usually organic, and crockery is non-disposable.
• They frequently employ energy-saving strategies, and energy-efficient lighting, and may utilize renewable energy technology.
• All the products are sustainable: sheets and linens are organic, and toiletries are reusable/refillable & ordered in bulk from organic vendors to reduce waste.
• Gray water recycling is done; this water is then used for gardening and landscaping.
• They have Strict solid waste management rules.

Differences Between Eco-Hotel, Eco-Lodge, Eco-Resort

The concept of ecotourism is centered around responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment, engaging in eco-friendly practices, and improving the well-being of local communities. 

The primary difference between an eco-resort, eco-lodge, and eco-hotel is the settling in which you’ll find them. Eco resorts and lodges are located in pristine natural environments, and the difference usually is the amount of services provided in them and the size of the property. Eco-resorts are usually located in large properties like isolated islands, mountains, etc., and provide many amenities like spas, choices of restaurants, and local tours. However, these terms are used interchangeably. Eco hotels are often associated with cities and towns, but that’s not the case always. In the past, these hotels were commonly referred to as eco-lodges due to their location in jungles and their use of traditional building methods crafted by skilled locals.

The best eco-accommodations offer recycling services, eco-friendly toiletries, energy efficient and well-illuminated infrastructure, source their food locally, have organic linens, non-toxic cleaning supplies, reusable crockery, water conservation methods, operate on renewable energy, and have various other initiatives focused on sustainable living practices. 

Therefore, eco-hotel, eco-lodge, and eco-resort all have one thing in common, i.e., they are all “green” accommodation options emphasizing elements such as environmental responsibility and minimizing the negative impact of tourism. So you can choose whatever option you want, but as long as it’s “green,” you’re good to go!

Benefits of eco-travel for Communities and the Environment

Ecotourism offers a plethora of benefits not just to the environment but to the local communities as well. While as a traveler, you can have an experience of a lifetime, indulging in the rich cultural heritage of the locals and having an overall immersive experience. Some of these benefits are listed below:

• It helps combat climate change as the concept revolves around the conservation of natural resources; thus, by supporting responsible travel, you can help lower carbon emissions. 
• Ecotourism often provides incentives to enhance conservation efforts for biodiversity protection and preservation of natural resources.
• Responsible travel will help boost the income of locals and address problems like poverty while empowering the indigenous communities by creating employment opportunities.
• Ecotourism activities promote environmental awareness among travelers and locals by educating them about the importance of biodiversity conservation.
• Ecotourism offers a more authentic travel experience than simply visiting landmarks, museums, and other popular sites. It allows travelers to gain a better understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
• Both visitors and locals have the opportunity to share and learn about each other’s cultural values and traditions. Additionally, travelers have the chance to fully immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of the world.

One example is the tropical forests in Tambopata, which are currently under threat of deforestation. However, local lodge owners have recognized the potential for profits through ecotourism and have invested in preserving forested lands while implementing conservation efforts to ensure continued forest cover.

Overall, ecotourism is a great alternative to traditional tourism, which often has a huge carbon footprint and pollutes the environment while also affecting local communities. 

What are the Famous Ecotourism Activities?

Many people enjoy ecotourism activities as a way to interact with nature responsibly and sustainably. By minimizing the impact on the natural environment, ecotourism allows for an authentic and immersive experience that fosters a growing appreciation for the natural world. As a result, ecotourism is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry. Some of the fun activities you can do are:

Hiking or Trekking Through Nature

Engaging in ecotourism through hiking and trekking is one of the best activities you can do. You can opt for beginner-friendly or advanced options depending on your skill level. You can choose to go on single-day hikes or embark on multi-day expeditions to explore diverse terrains such as deserts, jungles, and mountains.

A Small-Group Eco-Tour 

Small-group tours are an excellent option for exploring the natural world if you’re interested in nature, ecotourism, and adventure. These tours are designed to be ethical and immersive, allowing travelers to witness some of the world’s most incredible wildlife in a responsible manner.

Ecotourism activities are gaining popularity, and cycling holidays are among the top choices. The biggest plus point? It combines exercise with the beauty of nature. The freedom of strapping your bag to the bike and cycling off allows you to explore places inaccessible by cars, such as mountain trails and off-road routes!

Diving or Snorkeling

Exploring the marine world is an unforgettable experience. Life underwater is diverse and colorful, with corals and fishes of hundreds of different types. But be careful not to damage these extremely fragile ecosystems. Also, sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can damage corals, so make sure you’re wearing a coral-safe sunscreen.

Dolphin or Whale Watching

It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience if you get to see a dolphin or a whale. But ensure that you do not feed or touch them as these species are wild; any human interference is a no. Also, choose responsible travel guides and take care of your safety if you are planning on doing such activities. 

There are plenty of other activities that you can do depending on the location you’re traveling to and the kind of landscape there. If you plan to engage in activities like diving or whale watching activity, make sure to select travel companies that prioritize responsible practices. Look for those with marine biologists on board or donate some of their profits towards conservation efforts. Overall you will have plenty of eco-friendly activity options to keep you engaged!

Exploring Eco-Lodges, Eco-Hotels & Eco-Resorts

Typically, these establishments have fewer than 30 rooms, making them smaller and less impactful on the environment. Eco-lodges are usually located in isolated locations in jungles and forests and can be found around the world, especially in African countries, Indonesia, Gambia, and Costa Rica. These accommodations are found in areas that are much more nature-focused.

Best Eco-Lodges For Your Next Travel:

Sarinbuana eco-lodge , bali.

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bali, Sarinbuana Eco-Lodge offers a tranquil and sustainable haven for eco-conscious travelers. This eco-lodge embraces a harmonious blend of traditional Balinese architecture and modern eco-friendly practices. From its eco-friendly accommodations made with natural materials to its organic farm-to-table dining, baliecolodge.com strives to minimize its environmental footprint while providing guests with a memorable and rejuvenating stay.

Terragna Mountain Hut , Italy

Terragna Mountain Hut, a captivating destination offered by Wildlife Adventures, is a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking Italian wilderness. Surrounded by stunning vistas, lush forests, and captivating wildlife, Terragna Mountain Hut provides a tranquil haven where guests can indulge in hiking, wildlife observation, and peaceful relaxation.

Eco Camp , Patagonia

Eco Camp is an exceptional destination that combines sustainability and adventure in one unforgettable experience. With a commitment to preserving the environment, Eco Camp provides guests with immersive opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park. From guided treks and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and gourmet cuisine, this remarkable destination allows travelers to connect with nature while leaving a positive impact on the planet.

They usually have fewer than 50 rooms. Are surrounded by nature and have a tranquil feel. Eco-hotels are more or less similar to eco-lodges but are sometimes associated with cities and towns though not limited to these. These eco-friendly accommodations follow strict policies regarding waste management, the use of chemical-free cleaning, and the conservation of local biodiversity. 

Las Neubes Holbox , México

Las Nubes Holbox is a captivating beachfront resort nestled on the pristine shores of Holbox Island in Mexico. The resort features luxurious accommodations, including stylish bungalows and spacious suites, providing guests with a tranquil and comfortable retreat. With its emphasis on sustainability, Las Nubes de Holbox offers eco-conscious amenities and practices, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with the island’s natural beauty.

Kura Design Villas , Costa Rica

Kura Costa Rica is a luxury eco-resort nestled in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica. With its stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and its commitment to sustainability, Kura offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. From its beautifully designed accommodations and infinity pool to its farm-to-table dining experiences and curated adventure activities, Kura Costa Rica is a haven for those looking to connect with nature and indulge in luxurious comfort.

Kawilal Hotel , Guatemala

Kawilal Hotel is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Guatemala, offering a serene escape for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With its soothing thermal waters and luxurious spa facilities, Kawilal Hotel provides a unique wellness experience. Guests can indulge in a range of therapeutic treatments, immerse themselves in thermal pools of varying temperatures, and unwind in the lush gardens.

Eco-Resorts

Eco Resorts are located in large pristine areas like isolated islands, mountains, or pristine natural surroundings and have over 100 rooms. The amenities provided are many compared to eco-lodges and hotels and include spaces, restaurants, sports courts, gyms, libraries, pools, bars, etc. 

Various activities are carried out like hiking, trekking, cycling, educational tours around the site, yoga sessions, eco-volunteering opportunities, cooking sessions and, live music, keeping in mind sustainability and making sure that no harm is done to nature or local communities. 

Best Eco-Hotels For Your Next Travel:

Bawah reserve , indonesia.

Bawah Reserve is a breathtaking private island resort nestled in the Anambas Archipelago of Indonesia. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, and pristine white sandy beaches, it offers an idyllic getaway for discerning travelers. The resort boasts luxurious eco-villas and overwater bungalows, each designed with sustainable materials and offering stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. Guests can indulge in world-class dining experiences, explore vibrant coral reefs, engage in thrilling water sports, or simply unwind at the serene spa.

Picocanoa Rodavento , Mexico

Pico Canoa Rodavento is a captivating adventure retreat located in the heart of Mexico’s stunning Valle de Bravo. From zip-lining through the treetops and exploring the scenic hiking trails to kayaking on the tranquil lake and embarking on thrilling mountain biking adventures, Pico Canoa Rodavento provides endless opportunities for adventure and adrenaline. With comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, it is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor escape.

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Bali, Indonesia

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa in Nusa Dua, Bali, is a prestigious hotel offering a captivating blend of elegance, luxury, and natural beauty. Situated on a pristine beachfront, the resort boasts stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and lush tropical gardens. With its spacious and beautifully designed rooms, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, The Laguna provides an unforgettable retreat for discerning travelers seeking tranquility.

What are the Top Green Accommodation Certifications?

LEED. The LEED program acknowledges buildings that are constructed with sustainable practices, starting from the ground up. It’s important to note that this program only applies to newly built buildings, so it may not be relevant for everyone. However, if you are currently undergoing a major renovation, it’s worth considering the LEED certification standards to see if you qualify. This is a valuable credential that showcases your commitment to sustainability to environmentally conscious travelers.

EarthCheck. EarthCheck is a global organization that has been providing consulting, software, and certification services since 1987. They offer certification for all types of accommodations, from small lodges to large resorts. The certification process is thorough and covers various criteria, such as land-use patterns, waste management techniques, reduction of greenhouse gases, and management of the local community and culture.

Green Seal. The non-profit organization Green Seal empowers consumers, purchasers, and companies to create a sustainable world through science-based programs. Their certification process, which involves annual compliance monitoring and a commitment to continuous improvement, is rigorous.

Audubon Green Lodging Program. Audubon International is a non-profit organization that focuses on the sustainable use of natural resources and environmental education. They also certify hospitality properties through their Audubon Green Lodging Program. This program verifies hotel properties that meet specific environmental standards, with a strong emphasis on water quality, resource conservation, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

There are also numerous other certifications like Green Tourism Active, Green Key Global, TripAdvisor Green Leaders, and Travelife, which provide certification for eco-friendly stays around the world to make it easier for you to choose the best eco-friendly stay for your next vacation.

When we travel, we have the chance to support sustainability and improve the lives of indigenous communities. By staying in eco-friendly accommodations like eco-lodges, eco-hotels, and eco-resorts, we can make a positive impact. Each of these options prioritizes green living with some slight variations. Embracing sustainable and responsible tourism on your next vacation can have tremendous benefits and contribute to making the world a better place. So on your next trip, choose your accommodation wisely. Have a wonderful trip, eco-champion!

For more eco-friendly inspiration, be sure to check out our Home and Lifestyle section. Discover sustainable tips, green ideas, and innovative solutions to make your daily life more environmentally conscious.

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The Best Eco-Resorts Where You Won’t Leave a Carbon Footprint

From Chile to Canada, here’s where to go green.

ION Adventure Hotel — Selfoss, Iceland

Near Reykjavik is ION Adventure Hotel , an eco-friendly resort surrounded by lava fields. The minimalist rooms feature furniture made from recycled materials and water-saving shower systems. Gullfoss Waterfall and glacier-trekking are nearby, and you can watch for the Northern Lights from the hotel's outdoor hot tub.

More: Take These Awesome Eco-Friendly Gadgets on Your Next Trip!

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji — Vanua Levu Island, Fiji

Marine conservation is a prime focus at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort , one of Fiji's original eco-resorts , featuring upscale thatched-roof bungalows steps from the beach. The in-house marine biologist can fill you in on its sustainable fishing and reef protection projects — plus, there's stellar snorkeling and diving.

Explora Patagonia — Patagonia, Chile

One of the world's most ruggedly beautiful destinations is Patagonia, and one of the best places to stay there is Explora , an upscale eco-lodge located within Torres Del Paine National Park . Some of the activities offered through the resort include hiking on glaciers and horseback riding through the pampas (grasslands).

Papaya Playa Project — Tulum, Mexico

Head south of the border to Tulum for a stay in a thatched-roofed cabana at Papaya Playa Project . This beachfront, rustic-chic eco-resort, surrounded by lush tropical terrain, is built from locally sourced and low-impact materials like wood, clay, and palapa. Start your day with beach yoga, then hit the nearby Tulum ruins .

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge — Brooklyn, New York

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge hits the trifecta: It's a stylish, eco-friendly boutique hotel; it's in supercool Dumbo ; and its Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline views are to die for. The hotel is run on wind power, uses reclaimed pine beams from the former Domino Sugar Factory, and even has hemp-blend mattresses.

Mashpi Lodge — Quito, Ecuador

For a true escape, head to Mashpi Lodge , touted as one of South America's top eco-lodges . Located in the lush Andean foothills, the lodge was designed to blend in with its natural environment, and features glass-walled rooms for Insta-worthy jungle views. Activities include zip lining, bird-watching, and waterfall hikes.

Fogo Island Inn — Newfoundland, Canada

The 29-room Fogo Island Inn , which juts out of the rugged land near the coastline of Newfoundland, is one of Canada's top eco-friendly resorts. Beyond the futuristic architecture, you'll find handicrafts from local artists and locally foraged ingredients on menus. Plus, some of the inn’s profits fund local micro-lending projects.

Tierra Atacama — San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

This eco-resort , located in Chile's Atacama Desert, is housed in a sustainable stone-and-adobe lodge and uses solar-powered electricity. After a day of trekking through the desert's gigantic sand dunes and salt flats, unwind in the Uma Spa, which offers yoga overlooking the Licancabur Volcano and reiki massages.

Soneva Kiri — Ko Kood, Thailand

While being pampered at the luxurious Soneva Kiri resort on a palm-fringed Thai island with gorgeous beaches , it's easy to forget that the resort takes sustainability seriously. Conserving water, recycling waste, protecting the fragile coral reefs, and buying from local fisherman are all part of the resort's green initiatives.

Post Ranch Inn — Big Sur, California

One of the crown jewels of California's spectacular Big Sur coastline, the eco-friendly Post Ranch Inn is set on 100 acres of ocean-facing cliffs. The solar-powered rooms are made from renewable and recycled materials. A resort highlight is a meal at Sierra Mar restaurant with insane Pacific Ocean views.

Jill is the former travel editor at BestProducts.com, showing her expertise on everything from the Best Rooftop Bars in NYC to the 30 Most Beautiful Cities in the World;  the NYC native has previously worked at Travel & Leisure and has written articles for The New York Times , InStyle, Huffington Post , and Fodors . Recent trips have included the Bahamas and Natchez, and Patagonia and Vietnam are high on the bucket list. Though she’ll deny it, she is kind of obsessed with buying refrigerator magnets from the places she visits.

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7 Eco-friendly Resorts – 100% Sustainable Tourism

Imagine waking up to the symphony of nature, surrounded by lush greenery, pristine beaches, or majestic mountains. Eco-friendly resorts not only provide a haven of tranquility but also prioritize minimizing their ecological footprint. From innovative architectural designs that harmonize with the environment to renewable energy sources that power their facilities, eco-friendly resorts are committed to sustainability in every aspect of their operations.

Indulge in organic and locally sourced cuisine, pamper yourself with eco-conscious spa treatments, and embark on adventures that allow you to explore the natural wonders of your surroundings. Discover how eco-resorts support local communities, engage in conservation efforts, and offer immersive experiences that deepen our connection to the Earth.

As the travel industry embraces a greater sense of responsibility towards our planet, these resorts stand out as shining examples of how hospitality and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

• Soneva Fushi – Baa Atoll, Maldives – Soneva Fushi is a luxury eco-resort situated in the Maldives. It focuses on sustainability, conservation, and community development. The resort implements various eco-friendly practices, such as using solar power, recycling waste, and supporting local communities. Soneva Fushi offers exquisite accommodations, pristine beaches, and a range of sustainable activities.
• Song Saa Private Island – Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia – Song Saa Private Island is a secluded eco-luxury resort set amidst the turquoise waters of the Koh Rong Archipelago. It aims to protect the surrounding marine environment and promotes sustainable practices. The resort features stunning villas, a spa, and various eco-friendly initiatives, including water conservation and waste management.
• Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica – Lapa Rios Lodge is an ecolodge located in a remote rainforest reserve in Costa Rica. It is dedicated to conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism. The lodge offers immersive nature experiences, comfortable accommodations, and eco-friendly practices such as using renewable energy, supporting local initiatives, and protecting wildlife habitats.
• Six Senses Yao Noi – Phang Nga Bay, Thailand – Six Senses Yao Noi is a luxury resort situated on a picturesque island in Thailand. The resort is committed to sustainable practices, including renewable energy usage, water conservation, and supporting local communities. It offers stunning villas, spa services, and various eco-friendly activities.
• Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort – Vanua Levu, Fiji – Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a luxurious eco-resort in Fiji, founded by renowned ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau. The resort follows sustainable practices, including coral reef conservation, renewable energy usage, and supporting local communities. Guests can enjoy pristine beaches, water sports, and educational marine activities.
• Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda – Gargnano, Italy – Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda is an eco-friendly wellness retreat nestled in the scenic Italian Lake District. The resort is built to high energy efficiency standards, features sustainable architecture, and utilizes renewable energy sources. It offers spa treatments, holistic wellness programs, and organic cuisine.
• Islas Secas – Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama – Islas Secas is a private island resort in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí. The resort is dedicated to marine conservation and operates sustainably by employing solar power, desalination systems, and recycling initiatives. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations, water activities, and nature exploration.

These resorts showcase a commitment to sustainability and offer luxurious experiences while minimizing their impact on the environment. However, it’s worth noting that achieving 100% sustainability can be challenging, and different resorts may have different interpretations and approaches to sustainability. It’s always a good idea to research and contact the resorts directly to inquire about their specific sustainable practices and certifications.

How to Verify if a Resort Is Eco-Friendly

When verifying if a resort is eco-friendly, there are several certifications and awards that you can look for.

LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized green building certification program. It assesses a building’s design, construction, and operation based on factors such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials usage, and indoor environmental quality.

Green Globe Certification

Green Globe is an international sustainability certification program for the travel and tourism industry. It evaluates a resort’s environmental performance, social responsibility, and contribution to local communities.

EarthCheck Certification

EarthCheck is a leading scientific benchmarking and certification program for the travel and tourism industry. It assesses a resort’s environmental, social, and economic sustainability based on rigorous criteria and performance indicators.

Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Recognition

The GSTC is a global authority on sustainable tourism standards. Their recognition indicates that a resort aligns with internationally recognized criteria for sustainable tourism.

Also look out for awards and accolades specifically related to sustainability and eco-friendliness, such as TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders Program, National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, or Sustainable Travel International’s Sustainable Tourism Awards.

What Makes a Resort Eco-Friendly

An eco-friendly resort is characterized by its commitment to minimizing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability in various aspects of its operations.

Sustainable Design and Construction

Eco-friendly resorts often incorporate sustainable design practices, such as using locally sourced and renewable materials, maximizing natural light and ventilation, and implementing energy-efficient technologies. The resort’s buildings and infrastructure are constructed with a focus on reducing their environmental footprint.

Renewable Energy

Eco-friendly resorts prioritize the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power, wind energy, or geothermal systems. They aim to minimize reliance on non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels and actively seek ways to reduce energy consumption throughout the property.

Water Conservation

Sustainable resorts implement water conservation measures through initiatives like rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment and recycling, low-flow fixtures, and landscaping practices that minimize water usage. They also educate guests about the importance of water conservation and encourage responsible water usage.

Waste Management

Eco-friendly resorts are conscientious about waste reduction, recycling, and proper waste disposal. They implement recycling programs, use composting systems for organic waste, and minimize single-use plastics and packaging. These resorts also aim to educate guests about waste reduction practices and encourage them to participate in eco-friendly initiatives.

Conservation and Biodiversity

Eco-friendly resorts often operate in harmony with their natural surroundings and take steps to protect local ecosystems and biodiversity. They may engage in conservation efforts, support local wildlife rehabilitation programs, and implement sustainable practices that preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Community Engagement

Sustainable resorts strive to have a positive impact on local communities. They may source products and services from local businesses, provide employment and training opportunities to local residents, and support community development initiatives. These resorts often collaborate with local organizations to implement environmental and social projects that benefit the community.

Guest Education and Engagement

Eco-friendly resorts aim to raise awareness among guests about sustainability practices and environmental conservation. They may offer educational programs, nature tours, and workshops to encourage guests to engage with and appreciate the natural environment. By fostering a sense of environmental stewardship, these resorts empower guests to make eco-friendly choices during their stay and beyond.

By incorporating these elements, eco-friendly resorts create a harmonious balance between luxurious experiences and responsible, sustainable practices that contribute to the preservation of our planet.

How to Prepare and Enjoy Your Eco-Friendly Vacation

Preparing for an eco-friendly vacation involves taking conscious steps to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying your trip.

Pack Light and Responsibly

Opt for eco-friendly travel essentials such as reusable water bottles, cloth bags, and eco-friendly toiletries. Avoid single-use plastics and excessive packaging.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Follow guidelines and regulations when visiting natural areas. Avoid disturbing wildlife, refrain from feeding them, and observe animals from a safe distance. Leave nature as you found it, avoiding littering or damaging ecosystems.

Conserve Water and Energy

Be mindful of your water and energy usage during your stay. Take shorter showers, turn off lights and air conditioning when not needed, and reuse towels and bed linens instead of requesting daily replacements.

Respect Local Communities and Cultures

Learn about and respect the local customs, traditions, and cultural practices of the destination you’re visiting. Support local communities by purchasing locally made products and by interacting with respect and cultural sensitivity.

Leave No Trace

Practice the “Leave No Trace” principle by taking your waste with you and disposing of it properly. Leave natural areas as you found them, without leaving any garbage or traces of your visit.

Remember, small actions collectively have a significant impact on preserving our planet for future generations.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Resorts

Soneva fushi – baa atoll, maldives.

Situated in the idyllic Maldives, Soneva Fushi is not just a luxury resort but a beacon of sustainability and conservation. This eco-resort embraces a holistic approach to environmental responsibility, implementing a variety of eco-friendly practices.

Soneva Fushi harnesses the power of the sun through its extensive use of solar energy, reducing its carbon footprint. Waste is carefully managed through recycling and waste reduction initiatives.

The resort actively engages with local communities, supporting their development and fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Amidst the stunning surroundings, guests can enjoy the exquisite accommodations, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse themselves in a wide range of sustainable activities, creating unforgettable memories while leaving a positive impact on the environment.

Visit the Soneva Fushi website for more information.

Song Saa Private Island – Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia

Tucked away in the captivating Koh Rong Archipelago, Song Saa Private Island is a hidden gem, offering a secluded and eco-luxurious escape. This pristine resort takes its commitment to environmental preservation seriously, with a focus on protecting the surrounding marine environment and promoting sustainable practices.

Guests are treated to stunning villas that blend seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty. The resort also boasts a luxurious spa that rejuvenates both body and mind.

Embracing eco-friendly initiatives, Song Saa Private Island prioritizes water conservation by implementing measures such as rainwater harvesting and efficient water usage. Waste management practices ensure that the resort minimizes its environmental impact through recycling and responsible disposal.

To learn more about Song Saa Private Island head over to their website.

Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Snuggled within a remote rainforest reserve in Costa Rica, Lapa Rios Lodge stands as an extraordinary ecolodge that harmonizes conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism. This eco-conscious retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in transformative nature experiences while enjoying comfortable accommodations that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Lapa Rios Lodge is committed to eco-friendly practices, utilizing renewable energy sources to power its operations. By harnessing the power of the sun and wind, the lodge minimizes its carbon footprint and sets an example for sustainable living.

Lapa Rios Lodge actively supports local initiatives and empowers the surrounding communities. Through collaborations with local organizations, the lodge contributes to community development, creating a positive impact on the lives of the residents.

The eco-lodge also plays a vital role in protecting wildlife habitats, ensuring the preservation of the rich biodiversity found in the rainforest reserve. By promoting responsible tourism and respecting the natural surroundings, Lapa Rios Lodge fosters an environment where guests can witness the beauty of nature firsthand while actively contributing to its conservation.

Visit the website to learn more about Lapa Rios Lodge.

Six Senses Yao Noi – Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

Perched on a scenic island in Thailand, Six Senses Yao Noi is an exceptional luxury resort that showcases a deep dedication to sustainable practices. Embracing renewable energy usage, the resort minimizes its environmental footprint and harnesses the power of nature to create a luxurious experience for guests. Water conservation is also prioritized, ensuring responsible usage and preservation of this precious resource.

Beyond its commitment to the environment, Six Senses Yao Noi actively supports and engages with local communities, fostering sustainable development and cultural preservation. Guests can revel in the beauty of the surroundings, indulging in the stunning villas and rejuvenating spa services offered by the resort.

With a range of eco-friendly activities, such as nature walks, kayaking, and organic cooking classes, Six Senses Yao Noi provides guests with a truly immersive and sustainable experience. Whether exploring the island’s natural wonders or simply relaxing in the lap of luxury, guests can feel good knowing they are supporting a resort dedicated to sustainability and responsible tourism.

Six Senses Yao Noi website .

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort – Vanua Levu, Fiji

Situated in the paradise of Vanua Levu, Fiji, the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a luxurious eco-resort that reflects the passion for conservation and exploration of its founder, Jean-Michel Cousteau. With a strong commitment to sustainable practices, the resort takes an active role in coral reef conservation, preserving the vibrant marine ecosystems that surround it.

The Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort embraces renewable energy usage, minimizing its impact on the environment and showcasing the potential for sustainable living. The resort also engages with and supports local communities, recognizing the importance of community empowerment and cultural preservation. Through initiatives that provide economic opportunities and educational programs, the resort contributes to the well-being and sustainable development of the local area.

Guests at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort are treated to the epitome of luxury, with immaculate beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a range of water sports activities available. Beyond recreational pursuits, the resort offers educational marine activities that provide insights into the incredible underwater world, allowing guests to deepen their understanding of the importance of marine conservation.

Visit the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort website to find out more.

Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda – Gargnano, Italy

In the beauty of the Italian Lake District, Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda stands as an exceptional eco-friendly wellness retreat. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the resort has been built to high energy efficiency standards, ensuring a minimal ecological impact.

The resort’s architecture harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings, showcasing sustainable design principles and utilizing locally sourced materials. Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda embraces renewable energy sources, harnessing the power of nature to minimize its carbon footprint.

Guests can indulge in a wide range of spa treatments and holistic wellness programs that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. From yoga classes to meditation sessions, the resort offers a serene sanctuary for nourishing the mind, body, and soul.

The resort’s commitment to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients ensures a dining experience that is both delicious and environmentally conscious.

Check out the Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda website.

Islas Secas – Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama

Located in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí, Islas Secas is a private island resort that seamlessly blends luxury with a profound commitment to marine conservation. The resort serves as a steward of the surrounding marine environment, employing sustainable practices that leave a minimal ecological footprint.

Islas Secas operates with a focus on renewable energy, utilizing solar power to meet its energy needs. The resort also employs desalination systems to ensure a sustainable freshwater supply, reducing its reliance on external sources.

In line with its dedication to sustainability, Islas Secas implements comprehensive recycling initiatives, minimizing waste and promoting responsible waste management practices.

Guests of Islas Secas are treated to luxurious accommodations that harmonize with the natural beauty of the island. They can partake in a wide range of water activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while witnessing the vibrant marine life that the resort strives to protect.

Nature exploration is also encouraged, with opportunities to discover the diverse flora and fauna found on the island and engage in educational activities that foster a deeper understanding of the surrounding ecosystem.

Visit the Isla Secas website to find out more.

Read 10 BEST SUSTAINABLE FASHION BRANDS .

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been to any of these resorts? Do you plan on visiting an eco-friendly resort soon? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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Eco-friendly Earth Day escapes that inspire and delight

Sustainable living doesn’t need to be limited to your home. Here’s how to incorporate eco-friendly practices into your next trip. | By Paul Oswell | April 4, 2022 (Updated April 24, 2023)

Earth Day is an annual event that has been taking place on April 22 since 1970. It rallies and centers support for global environmental protections, and is a good reminder that mindful eco travel is a rewarding way to see the world while making lifelong memories. If you want to travel while tapping into some of the great green eco-friendly resorts and sustainable practices on offer around the world, consider:

Socially-conscious Seychelles: Explore protected national parks and help restore the region’s coral reefs

Mindful Maldives: Get to see the real Maldives, including a local food tour that ends with an authentic family dinner

Thoughtful Tulum: See the region’s historic and natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The Seychelles — made up of some 115 islands far out in the Indian Ocean — continue to be an alluring, tropical destination thanks in part to their active conservation efforts. Over 50% of the country is officially protected land, which is among the world’s highest making it a top eco travel destination. This has resulted in some of the most spectacular national parks on Earth, and private tours with a knowledgeable guide uncover their delights.

Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé starts on a palm-fringed beach and ascends almost 1,000 meters (around 0.6 miles) up as it becomes a lush interior rainforest. Tours can be taken on foot or by bike, keeping visitors’ carbon footprints to a minimum. Your guide should be able to point out species once thought extinct that have recovered on Mahé, such as the jellyfish tree and the Seychelles scops-owl.

If you want to actively help conservation efforts, then signing up for coral gardening is a great way to start. Several programs around the island welcome volunteers to help transport living coral from degraded areas to living reefs, where they can thrive and be enjoyed for generations to come. Overseen by local marine experts, it’s also an enjoyable way to learn about the island’s ecosystems. Reach out to your hotel concierge in advance of your arrival to set it up.

Along the South Coast of Mahé, the beautiful Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts has implemented property-wide sustainable practices to be expected at eco-friendly resorts. The hotel’s locally produced amenities are packaged in eco-friendly glass bottles and ceramic vessels, and in-room guest amenities, such as razors and toothbrushes, are made from biodegradable bamboo.

Guests can enjoy the figurative and literal fruits of the hotel’s sustainable, organic garden that provides produce used across all five on-site restaurants. Additional ingredients are all locally and ethically sourced, down to the hotel’s delicious homemade limoncello, made from lemon peelings to reduce waste and offset environmental impact.

The Maldives are an equally remote string of almost 1,200 islands with lavish and breathtaking beaches , also in the Indian Ocean. Around 130 of these islands have been developed with resorts, and eco-tourism and sustainable travel here has almost become an imperative. Happily, the hospitality and tourism industries here have taken up the challenge with aplomb.

Companies such as Secret Paradise Maldives, for example, lets you experience “the real Maldives” while being mindful about your visit and helping support local communities and conservation projects. Carefully curated tours leave from the capital Malé and focus on helping guests discover authentic, community-based experiences and off-the-beaten-path locations. The tours can be anything from an Insight Into Maldives Marine Conservation, which includes a reef restoration element, to a Maldives Local Food Tour, which starts with a tour of the food markets before a picturesque boat ride to Hulhumale to join a family and prepare a feast.

The eco-friendly choices continue at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , located in a tranquil corner of the South Ari Atoll. The hotel has a dynamic partnership with the organization Parley for the Oceans, which aims to help promote sustainable travel. Single-use plastics have been replaced by bamboo or similar biodegradable materials, and the resort spearheads a local reef restoration project and community outreach programs that create apprenticeships for local youngsters and sustainable farming in the region. A healthy ocean is especially important to the hotel, as it boasts not only the world’s first underwater restaurant, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, but also THE MURAKA, the world’s first luxury residence with a master bedroom that’s submerged 16-feet below sea level.

Eat, stay and love your sustainable culinary destination

A happier, healthier you: 5 fantastic wellness retreats

Nourish the soul: 3 restorative vacation spots in outstanding locales

Formerly a quiet fishing village, Tulum’s popularity as a holiday destination has skyrocketed in the last decade or so. Around 80 miles from Cancun, the town is best known for its proximity to a walled Mayan city overlooking the Caribbean. The beautiful coastline south of the site has been developed with upscale retreats promising a rustic environment.

Conserving the region’s resources and natural beauty, as well as its historical legacy, is of utmost importance. The good news is that you can travel here mindfully with a little forethought, and there are many activities once you arrive that offer a low environmental impact.

As well as the Mayan city , the region has an additional UNESCO-recognized site, the wonderful Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is a sustainable tourism hub on the Riviera Maya. You can organize tailor-made tours with expert guides, or sign up for one of their set tours. The reserve contains the second largest barrier reef in the world, and is home to 115 species of mammals, 276 species of crustaceans and more than 500 species of fish. Whether you opt for their Nature Encounter tour, the Reef Snorkel & Mayan Canal tour or Birdwatching at Sunset, you’ll likely encounter wildlife that is rarely seen outside of the reserve.

Environmental concerns are high on the list of priorities at Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya , and the hotel is dedicated to safeguarding Tulum's landscape and resources. The property has worked with local partners to create an environmental education curriculum involving multiple rescue and relocation programs for the surrounding mangroves, wildlife and coastal forest. You can see the day to day work with their sea turtle protection program as well as innovative waste management systems and water monitoring projects.

While we all enjoy adventurous trips to tropical locations, there’s nothing that says we can’t do so while also travelling responsibly and being mindful of how we can preserve these areas of natural beauty for future generations. From rebuilding reefs in the Seychelles to local food tours in the Maldives and rescuing turtles in Tulum, today’s world offers plenty of opportunities to travel thoughtfully and make lasting memories along the way.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.

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In Harmony with Nature: Top 10 Luxury Eco Resorts in the World

Imagine yourself cocooned in a natural paradise. Secluded, exclusive, and deliciously plush, these top 10 luxury eco resorts spell perfect vacations for nature enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.

Imagine yourself cocooned in a natural paradise at our top 10 luxury eco resorts in the world.

A pristine, untouched landscape stretches out before you; fresh, clean air invigorates your senses; beautiful birdsong awakens you every morning; each day is filled with authentic safari experiences or just pure relaxation. All this, and you can still contribute to sustainable environmental practices and do your bit to empower local communities.

Sounds like a dream come true?

Say hello to the Enchanting Top 10 resorts that exist in harmony with their local environment! Secluded, exclusive, and deliciously plush, some of these resorts are new offerings in our collection and spell perfect vacations for nature enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.

TOP 10 LUXURY ECO RESORTS: SOUTH AMERICA

Tierra chiloé.

The uniquely designed  Tierra Chiloé  occupies pride of place in the mysterious  Chiloé archipelago , offering breathtaking views of the islands from its 12 exclusive rooms. The hotel has been built to optimize the use of renewable resources, and benefit the local community through employment opportunities and low-impact tourism, while offering every conceivable luxury. Enjoy leisurely boat rides through tranquil waterways, see a host of wildlife, and learn about local legends and customs from the expert Chilean staff.

Awasi Patagonia

Glorious views of the  Torres del Paine National Park  in  Chile  await at your exclusive, private villa at  Awasi Patagonia . Each villa is built in the style of traditional Patagonian outposts, built on raised stilts. Spaciously constructed with local material, this is your ticket to luxurious living in wild Patagonia! Venture into the vastness with your personal guide!

Explora Rapa Nui

Untouched nature and mysteries of a lost civilization await you in the midst of the Pacific at the  Easter Islands .  Explora Rapa Nui  is a harmonious blend of luxurious comfort, modern architecture and ecological consideration. There is something for everyone – from excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling and snorkeling. Witness the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Moai statues that keep silent vigil over this remote and carefully conserved island.

TOP 10 LUXURY ECO RESORTS: ASIA

Six senses koh yao noi.

Rustic, tranquil and utterly luxurious, all 56 villas at  Six Senses   Koh Yao Noi  in  Thailand  have been built amid a former rubber plantation. Today, the plantation is gone, but some giant trees remain. The vast gardens and landscape are specifically designed to preserve untouched native flora and fauna, and there is a dedicated sustainability policy for the entire resort focusing on community development and careful resource use. Whether you go exploring in the adjoining mango grove, snorkeling in the cobalt ocean or simply lounge in your private pool ensconced in lush greenery, incredible experiences await!

Four Season Tents, Chiang Rai

When it comes a secluded natural paradise, far away from the sea of humanity,  Four Seasons’ Tented Camp  in  Chiang Rai ,  Thailand , does not disappoint. From handcrafted furnishings to private encounters with friendly elephants and nature-inspired treatments in an open-air spa, the property offers many unique experiences. Spacious and luxurious tents offer every modern comfort, while the digital detox of TV and radio ensures complete peace and quiet, punctuated only by the harmonious sounds of the forest. The tents are specifically designed for active adults with a penchant for adventure!

TOP 10 LUXURY ECO RESORTS: INDIA

Treehouse hideaway.

Live the real Jungle Book experience perched high above the treetops inside India’s most popular tiger reserve –  Bandhavgarh National Park . Spread over a large forested estate,  Treehouse Hideaway  strikes the perfect balance between rustic-chic and luxury, with high exposed beams framing the ceilings and plush furnishings to keep you comfortable. All eight stilted rooms offer superb views of the landscape with plenty of wildlife to keep you company. Each hideaway is built locally sourced materials that blend in effortlessly with the natural surroundings. Watch animals roam freely in the wild from your vantage point atop the machaan (platform).

Guest Speak: “This hotel is worked hard to upgrade it’s facilities. It is rustic but it is an amazing experience.” – Courtney Hoblock, April 2014

Grassroots, Wayanad

From your arrival at the foothills of the Vythiri Range in Kerala until your departure  Grassroots  in  Wayanad  will have you enchanted! Situated within a coffee plantation, each luxurious Swiss tent offers magical views of the tranquil landscape. Experience a healthy lifestyle vacation, with delicious cuisine made from fresh, local produce. Your days will pass in a flurry of activity as you hike, trek or wander through the verdant forests, or pop into the  Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary  nearby. Prepare to immerse yourself in nature and return truly relaxed and rejuvenated!

TOP 10 LUXURY ECO RESORTS: AFRICA

The highlands.

Exclusive, remote and utterly luxurious,  The Highlands  easily redefines the typical  Ngorongoro  experience in  Tanzania . Each of the eight spacious tented camps are fitted with floor to ceiling bay windows that open up to spectacular views of diverse wildlife species roaming freely. The camp uses state-of-the-art technology, including solar power and rainwater harvesting, to minimize its footprint. From exciting game drives, hikes through cattle trails in the forested mountains, excursions to see pink flamingos at the soda lake and visits to local communities, there is much to do. Don’t miss the daily gossip from the resident researcher about the local lions’ latest relationship dramas!

Nkwichi Lodge

The pristine sandy beaches on the shores of the vast  Lake Malawi , are a luxury unto themselves. Add to that the eco-friendly comfort of  Nkwichi Lodge  – a hidden paradise tucked far away from the madding crowd, and you have your perfect vacation! Nkwichi partners with the Manda Wilderness Project, helping the local communities with environmental conservation. Enjoy true tranquility by the  Mozambique lakeshore  as you stay in uniquely designed accommodation. For something extra special, settle into the unique Star Bed set on a secluded beach.

Enjoy complete harmony with nature and at these top 10 luxury eco resorts. Our Travel Consultants will be happy to tailor your vacation and ensure that you receive all the luxury and pampering amid some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world! Contact us today for your obligation-free itinerary.

Plan a tailor-made luxury vacation in the lap of nature.

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Eco-Resorts: 16 of the Best Eco-Lodges and Eco-Friendly Hotels

By Destiny Hagest September 20, 2017 13 min read

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The hospitality industry is one that takes its toll on the environment, and a rising wave of resorts and retreats are looking to change that. More and more, eco-resorts are taking it upon themselves to protect and preserve the ecosystems their guests often travel so far to see, if not to protect their businesses, than to protect the beauty and biodiversity in these stunning locales.

All over the world, you can stay, play, and relax in style, all while knowing you’re supporting private conservation efforts and enjoying the world-changing innovations that are the future of the hospitality industry. Prepare for wanderlust. Here are our top 16 picks for the best eco-resorts, ecolodges, and eco-friendly hotels.

#1 — Lapa Rios, Costa Rica

Luxury ecolodge nature experience.

Nestled on a 1,000 acre nature preserve, Lapa Rios provides a secluded getaway with a little bit of everything. From sweeping ocean views to nature walks through the surrounding rain forest, at Lapa Rios you can soak in an otherworldly connection with nature.

The entire resort was built with sustainable, local materials, and employs only local staff to assist guests in its private bungalows, which start at $720/night

EXPLORE LAPA RIOS

#2 — Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco

Secluded mountain ecolodge.

Exotic, lush, and remote, Kasbah du Toukbal  is the stuff of fairytales. Nestled against the stunning Morroccan Atlas Mountains, mules have to carry your luggage for the 15 minute walk to the mountainside resort.

Kasbah du Toubkal employs only local staff, and they’ve renovated their facilities using only local resources. They’re also responsible for providing support for the local school children, and allow guests to make contributions as part of their stay.

Stay for a while — rooms at the Kasbah du Toubkal start at just $208/night .

DISCOVER KASBAH DU TOUKBAL

#3 — Chumbe Island Coral Park, Tanzania

Award-winning nature reserve.

Conveniently located by one of the “most spectacular coral gardens to be found anywhere in the world”, Chumbe Island Coral Park is a sustainable, highly eco-conscious resort in Tanzania that goes above and beyond to protect the ecosystem its guests enjoy.

With private bungalows for guests, $260/night gets you a slice of this eco-friendly heaven.

EXPERIENCE CHUMBE ISLAND CORAL PARK

#4 — The Lodge at Chaa Creek, Belize

Luxury belize eco-resort.

If you’re looking for less rugged and more resort, check out The Lodge At Chaa Creek in Belize. With an eco-friendly infinity swimming pool, private cottages, a horse stable, spa, nature preserve, restaurant, working farm, and a butterfly exhibit, there’s something for everyone at this incredible destination.

Their sustainability initiatives are impressive too. This resort makes an effort to support the surrounding community, with 10% of their accommodation revenues going to social and environmental causes. They also support local healthcare and education initiatives.

Cozy up and settle in — this tropical eco-retreat starts at $279/night , with romantic private cottages available as well.

EXPLORE THE LODGE AT CHAA CREEK

#5 — Natura Cabana, Dominican Republic

Boutique hotel & spa ecolodge.

Located in the lush Dominican Republic on the northern coast, Natura Cabana is an unspoiled oasis for those looking to unplug and reconnect with themselves. With an on-site yoga temple and no TV or phones, guests can disconnect from the hustle and bustle and truly relax in this paradise.

When you’re not lounging in your private beachside cabana, you can go horseback riding on the beach, explore underwater caves, or zipline through the jungle.

Their entire resort is constructed with natural, local materials, and much of the food supplied for their guests comes from their on-site garden.

Ready to book your stay? Go for it, because private cabanas start at just $135/night .

DISCOVER NATURA CABANA

#6 — Adrère Amellal Oasis Ecolodge, Egypt

Sustainable desert ecolodge.

An unforgettable trip takes you beyond the Cairo city limits to one of the remotest resorts on this list — the Adrère Amellal Oasis Ecolodge in Siwa Oasis.

This is a resort that’s eco-friendly by design, and its exquisite, otherworldly experience is what keeps people coming back to experience the romantic serenity of this unique locale. Rooms start at $605/night .

EXPERIENCE ADRÈRE AMELLAL OASIS ECOLODGE

#7 — Milia Mountain Retreat, Greece

Zen crete eco-retreat.

If you swoon for Greecian vacations with lush spreads of mediterranean cuisine, stop in the Milia Mountain Retreat , where you can stay in a refurbished 17th-century room-house.

EXPERIENCE MILIA MOUNTAIN RETREAT

#8 — Daintree Ecolodge and Spa, Queensland

Rainforest retreat eco-resort.

DISCOVER THE DAINTREE ECO LODGE AND SPA

#9 — Belle Mont Farm, West Indies

Farm to table green resort.

Caribbean vacations top the list for most wanderlusters, Belle Mont Farm is the perfect mix of seaside beauty and upscale hospitality.

This unique farm-to-table resort features edible landscaping, with private guesthouses and villas for a truly private and tranquil experience overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Its traditional style bedrooms with large, colonial style furniture and pane glass windows are reminiscent of another time in this alternative to the hustle and bustle of Caribbean resort life.

At $232/night , it’s a getaway that takes you away from busy hotels, to a place where quality and service is everything.

DISCOVER BELLE MONT FARM

#10 — The Green House, United Kingdom

Luxury boutique eco-hotel.

Ironically, The Green House , located in the hustling and bustling resort area known as Bournemouth on the southern coast of England is perhaps one of the greenest destinations on this list! It boasts an impressive green resume, and has rightfully earned the title of the greenest hotel in the United Kingdom.

In the restaurant, local and organic foods are sourced whenever possible, and the company car is run off of used oil from the kitchen. The bar stocks local and sustainably produced spirits and wines, with the carbon footprint of every bottle taken into account before it is stocked.

This isn’t a preachy hotel though, and one that prides itself on its dedication to luxury, while not abandoning its eco-friendly principles. Guests can stay at the Green House for $192/night .

EXPLORE THE GREEN HOUSE

#11 — Dominican Treehouse Village, Dominican Republic

Tropical jungle treehouse cabins.

Looking to try something really wild? The Dominican Treehouse Village is exactly what the doctor ordered. With open air treehouses situated in the lush surrounding jungle, you can enjoy a resort experience unlike anything else.

With a yoga dome, pool, bike rental, and a seasonal waterfall with a rope swing, this place provides for adventure and relaxation, while also preserving the surrounding paradise from further development.

The Dominican Treehouse village employs locals, and even offers programs that allow guests to personally get involved with the surrounding community and help locally.

Absorb the culture and beauty of your surroundings, and lend a hand where it’s needed at the Dominican Treehouse Village for just $125/night .

EXPERIENCE DOMINICAN TREEHOUSE VILLAGE

#12 — Eco Retreat B&B, British Columbia

Canadian wilderness eco cabins.

Adjacent to the breathtaking Othello Tunnels in British Columbia, Canada, the Wilderness Eco Retreat B&B sits ready for your stay. These rustic cabins are anything but rugged, though. With lush feather beds, a wood fired hot tub, and eco-friendly toiletries, this simple backwoods retreat is the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and relax in the wilderness of Canada.

Just 90 minutes from Vancouver, the property features an organic garden and friendly staff that are happy to accommodate the special dietary requests of their guests. Local dairy products are supplied for meals, line dried linens for the beds, and bathrobes and bedhead are highly encouraged breakfast attire.

Rates for these comfy refurbished rustic cabins start at $99/night .

DISCOVER ECO RETREAT B&B

#13 — Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji

Luxury island eco-getaway.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is an ultra high-end resort. It boasts two nature preserves in the waters off the island of Fiji, where they aim to preserve the natural wonders below from fishing efforts, and showcase to their guests the natural wonders of the surrounding waters.

The Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort boasts several programs and initiatives to protect and rebuild the ecosystems surrounding the resort, from their Mangrove reforestation program, to their giant clam re-population initiative.

The resort utilizes 100% non-toxic pest control, and employs a full-time marine biologist to ensure that all other practices, including cleaning products at the resort, are safe for the surrounding environment.

With rates starting at $1,069/night , this once in a lifetime experience has even attracted guests like former President Barack Obama.

EXPLORE JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU RESORT

#14 — Star Island, Bahamas

Sustainable island destination.

When you think of the Bahamas, you usually think of high-rises and water slides — it’s time to reimagine it.  The Bahamas Eco-Resort on Star Island is a private getaway for two, complete with a king-sized suite and energy efficient appliances. When you’re not soaking up the sun on the beach or reading on your balcony overlooking the ocean, you can tour the organic gardens or go fishing for some dinner.

The facility is on a 100% closed-loop water system for conservation, and utilizes rainwater collection for fresh supply. Though it’s a working prototype, the Star Island resort is solar powered and comes with all of the amenities of a cushy vacation pad.

Want to book it? Get the whole island to yourself for $950/night .

EXPERIENCE STAR ISLAND

#15 — Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam

Luxury eco-resort and spa.

Sitting in beautiful Vietnam is the Six Senses Ninh Van Bay , and this resort is the stuff dreams are made of. On the edge of the Vietnam Sea, you’re surrounded by stunning rock formations, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters.

This incredible resort features more than just breathtaking views though. With an on-site spa, yoga pavilions, intimate restaurants with exquisite local fare, fishing trips, snorkeling, and so much more, there’s never a shortage of things to do, and ample opportunity to get out and explore the stunning scenery.

More than anything though, this is a resort that focuses on sustainability without compromising luxury. With an on-site farm, all of the food is provided either by their organic garden, or by the local market of seafood and fresh produce. They even have a small chicken farm, where guests can enjoy fresh eggs!

The buildings are all designed with passive cooling in mind, minimizing the need for air conditioning and electric measures to keep the rooms comfortable for the guests. A reusable glass bottle system is used for hotel guests to eliminate plastic bottle waste, and the resort employs a policy to reduce waste whenever possible.

This resort also makes every effort to support the surrounding community, funding education, community initiatives, and always employing local staff whenever possible.

Book it now, and sink into your little slice of paradise at $576/night .

DISCOVER SIX SENSES NINH VAN BAY

#16 — The Barefoot Island Resort, Maldives

Eco-hotel and island resort.

Who hasn’t seen those gorgeous aerial videos of island resorts in the Maldives? It’s one of the most sought after destinations right now, and with good reason. The crystal clear waters, serene setting, and unbelievable bungalows have made the Maldives the center of wanderlust attention all over social media these past few years.

The Barefoot Island Resort , nestled in the Maldives, is no exception to the luxury you swoon over on social media. This resort focuses on giving guests a new way to experience the Maldives — through awareness, sustainability, and conservation.

Tucked away on Hanimaadhoo Island and surrounded by virtually untouched forest, the Barefoot Island Resort faces the crystal blue waters of a turquoise lagoon where guests can snorkel and sunbathe on the white sand.

Beachfront rooms stocked with locally-sourced goods provide guests with stunning ocean views, right outside their door, and all of the buildings were made with sustainably grown wood. Solar panels supply a portion of the resort’s electricity, and the heat generated by the air conditioning units is actually recycled to heat water for guests.

From just $95/night , guests can enjoy the stuff Pinterest boards are made of at The Barefoot Island Resort.

EXPERIENCE THE BAREFOOT ISLAND RESORT

Have you been to an eco-resort? Did our list make you want to try one? Continue the conversation on social media by tagging us with @AvocadoMattress or #AvocadoGreenMagazine.

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Sustainable Travel: Best Caribbean Eco Resorts

Christa adams.

• Costa Rica , Destinations , Sustainable

The allure of the Caribbean lies not only in its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters but also in its commitment to sustainable tourism.

Amidst the turquoise waters and swaying palms, a selection of Caribbean eco resorts stands as a testament to the region’s dedication to preserving its lush natural beauty.

From the Seychelles to Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Saint Barts, Dominica, and Mexico, these eco-friendly resorts combine luxury with environmental consciousness, offering travelers an unforgettable experience that is both ethically and aesthetically pleasing.

Here are the best Caribbean eco resorts to add to your bucket list!

Where is the Caribbean?

Picture yourself kicking back on a powdery beach with the bluest water you’ve ever seen – that’s the Caribbean for you! This tropical paradise stretches like a necklace of gems across the Caribbean Sea, and it’s like a secret hideaway for those who seek sun-soaked days, swaying palm trees, and that oh-so-perfect island vibe.

You’ll find it south of the United States and Mexico, east of Central America, and north of South America. Basically, it’s where many of those postcard-worthy dreamy scenes come to life.

Best Caribbean Eco Resorts & Lodges

Grab some kind sunscreen, an oversized sunhat, your favorite swimsuit, and probably some hiking shoes… Here are some must-stay hotels in the Caribbean.

Acajou Beach Resort , Seychelles (Best Green Resort in the Seychelles)

Nestled on the shores of the Seychelles’ Praslin Island, the  Acajou Beach Resort  is one of the best green hotels in the Seychelles, Caribbean. This boutique resort seamlessly blends into its lush surroundings, offering a front-row seat to the Indian Ocean’s pristine beauty.

Sustainable practices are at the forefront, with solar panels powering the resort and locally-sourced materials used in construction.

You can unwind in tastefully designed beachfront bungalows, surrounded by tropical gardens. From the infinity pool to a cocktail bar and Creole eatery, every aspect of Acajou exudes relaxation and eco-consciousness.

This Caribbean eco resort is known for its beautiful location with beachfront access and picturesque sunsets. The food is also popular. And it’s a great affordable price compared to other resorts in the Seychelles.

So, if you’re visiting Seychelles and are looking for a green hotel, definitely check out Acajou Beach Resort. 

Pacuare River Lodge , Limón, Costa Rica (Remote Caribbean Eco Lodge in Costa Rica)

If you want to stay at a really exclusive and romantic hotel in Costa Rica, the  Pacuare River Lodge  is only accessible via raft, 4×4, or helicopter. Talk about exclusive!

Tucked away in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest, Pacuare Lodge offers an immersive experience in sustainable living. The rooms are all made from natural materials and include cozy hammocks with unforgettable rainforest views.

From its use of solar energy and locally-sourced materials to its involvement in local community projects, Pacuare Lodge champions eco-friendly practices.

You can stay in luxurious thatched-roof bungalows nestled within the rainforest canopy. On top of that, enjoy activities like white-water rafting and guided jungle treks. All while leaving a minimal environmental footprint!

There are also guided hikes, activities like white-water rafting, and tours freely available for all guests. Meals are also included but there is a fee for alcoholic drinks. This is a great option for an all-inclusive stay in the Caribbean! 

Before you go, see my guide on what to know before visiting  Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast.

Selina , Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica (Budget-Friendly Hotel on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast)

Selina in Puerto Viejo , Costa Rica, is not just a hotel but a hub for eco-conscious and youthful travelers looking to socialize and have fun. Blending accommodation with coworking spaces and wellness facilities, Selina emphasizes community and sustainable practices.

This vibrant space supports local artisans and businesses, offering guests a chance to experience Puerto Viejo’s culture while minimizing their ecological impact. Rustic-chic rooms and comfortable shared spaces harmoniously merge with the lush surroundings, making Selina a haven for those who seek eco-friendly adventure.

What makes this Puerto Viejo hotel in the Caribbean unique is that it has interesting teepee huts for a naturistic and rejuvenating stay. What’s more, there are also cozy private rooms right off the beachfront and shared rooms for a hostel stay in Puerto Viejo!

This is the perfect affordable eco hotel in Costa Rica if you’re looking for laid back fun.

Plus, Selina is known for its fun energy, from live music, a bar, coworking, food, excursions, surf lessons and more! Seriously, this is the best hotel in Puerto Viejo.

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & SPA , Dominican Republic (Picturesque Caribbean Eco Lodge)

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & SPA is a serene eco-hideaway in the Dominican Republic, inviting guests to unwind in harmony with nature. The resort’s individual thatched-roof cabanas are constructed using natural and reclaimed materials, offering a rustic yet luxurious escape.

Natura Cabana embraces organic farming and sources locally-produced goods, making for a beautiful farm-to-table dining experience.

As you explore the yoga pavilion, spa, and pristine beach, you’ll become part of a sustainable narrative that celebrates both relaxation and environmental mindfulness!

This is an incredible yoga retreat eco resort in the Dominican Republic!

Hotel Manapany, Saint Barts (Green Luxury Hotel in the Caribbean)

Set against the stunning backdrop of Saint Barts’ Anse des Cayes Beach,  Hotel Manapany  is perfect for a luxury, green hotel in the Caribbean.

Its commitment to sustainability shines through solar energy utilization, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient design. All with that aesthetic beach shack vibe!

With panoramic ocean or garden views, private terraces, and direct beach access, the resort offers a tropical paradise while prioritizing the environment.

Other amenities include yoga and pilates classes, a charming indoor/outdoor restaurant, a laid back bar area, and two outdoor swimming pools. There’ also a spa and a gym for the complete resort experience!

Amansala Resort , Tulum Mexico (Amazing Eco-Friendly Resort in Tulum, Mexico)

Nestled on the Caribbean Sea of Tulum, Mexico,  Amansala Resort  is a holistic eco-retreat with dreamy views at every turn.

With eco-chic accommodations and a commitment to zero-waste practices, the resort emphasizes well-being and mindfulness. Guests can indulge in yoga, beachfront relaxation, and farm-to-table dining, all while immersing themselves in Tulum’s natural beauty.

There’s also a trendy beach club offering healthy food, amazing cocktails, and all-around good vibes. It’s easily one of the best Caribbean hotels in Tulum for an eco-stay.

Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & spa , Dominica (Best Eco Resort in Dominica, Caribbean)

Nestled on the unspoiled nature island of Dominica,  Rosalie Bay Resort  is a model of sustainable luxury.

This Caribbean eco resort is set against the backdrop of lush rainforests and the Atlantic Ocean and it takes pride in its commitment to conservation and community engagement.

During your stay, you can relax in oceanfront rooms and suites, constructed with locally-sourced materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. There are also all sorts of room styles and most include free-standing tubs and balconies with swaying palm-tree views.

From organic farming practices to supporting local initiatives and a nice spa, Rosalie Bay Resort offers an eco-conscious experience! The Dominica resort invites its visitors to reconnect with nature while making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

What to pack for caribbean resort vacation

Packing essentials:

• The sun is sizzling hot on the Caribbean Coast! Here’s a run-down on what you need to pack for a resort in the Caribbean.
• A good sunhat
• 2-3 swimsuits
• A rash guard for extra sun protection
• Reef-safe sunsreen (I use this one)
• Walking shoes (especially if you’ll be hiking)
• Beach-friendly shoes or sandals
• Flowy dresses or skirts
• A lightweight linen layer for added protection
• Polarized sunglasses
• Clothes for hiking (if you’re doing this)
• One or two dressier outfits for dinner nights
•  Lightweight shirt + shorts combo
• Sweatshirt or caridgan for chilly nights
• All necessary toiletries
• Underwear for every day you’ll be there
• Eco-friendly bug repellent spray (mosquitos can be a problem in the Caribbean)
• A portable charger can be really handy
• An Instax camera for fun pictures
• Allergy pills might be handy
• A book to reach at the beach (see my beach reads here)

My top travel recommendations ♡

These are a few of my top travel tips that will save you time and money while setting up for an AMAZING trip.

B ooking flights: I can’t get enough of Google Flights . They have a cool feature where you can type in your departure airport and discover where you could fly within a certain budget. Otherwise, you can also compare airports and see what day is best to fly in/out to help you save money and have the most efficient flight path.

T ravel insurance : SafetyWing is my go-to choice for travel medical insurance. They have a global policy that covers 180+ countries. You can visit any doctor, cancel anytime, and you’re even covered for a few weeks after returning to your home country.

Anti-theft bag: To help protect against pickpockets, I like to carry my beloved Travelon bag . It’s slash-resistant, has locked zippers, and is very sleek and functional for traveling abroad.

A ccommodation: I almost exclusively use Booking.com to find places to stay when traveling. I got tired of all the additional fees from Airbnb and their hosts. Plus, Booking has everything from hotels and hostels to b&bs and entire house/apartment rentals.

Travel Credit Card: I love-love-love my Capital One Venture One credit card. It has a $0 annual fee and no fees when using abroad or paying in a foreign currency. Plus you get 20,000 bonus miles when you spend $500 in your first three months when you get this card .

Tours: I don’t travel on complete tours as I like to travel on my own terms, but I do like to book experiences, walking tours, and excursions through GetYourGuide . They have an amazing line-up of things to do in destinations around the globe. You can also fass a lot of skip-the-line tickets as well.

Hi, I’m Christa! Welcome to my sustainable solo travel blog dedicated to inspiring others to travel slowly, embracing a heart-forward and spirited approach to adventure. 

-The Spirited Explorer

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8 Pacific Northwest Eco-Resorts, And Where To Camp Nearby

This eco-resort article was brought to you by OOFOS, who understand that after every marathon, every trail run, and every epic hike, your feet deserve to feel great. Their therapeutic sandals  aid in active recovery for a spa-like experience anywhere you bring your OOFOS.

Whether you’re a committed ‘dirtbag’ or an RV camper who enjoys camping with a side of comfort, we can all agree that sometimes a little luxury is just what you need after roughing it. Even if you enjoy the dust accumulation in your hair after a week or so without a shower, it can feel refreshing to get back to the creature comforts of civilization.

Part of the fun of camping is how your everyday routine seem positively luxurious after a night or a few of the great outdoors. That’s even more true when you trade camping for a luxury eco-resort.

These 8 Eco-Resorts Blend Nature and Luxury

If you like the sound of mixing camping with the good life, a trip to an eco-resort might be right up your alley. We’ve collected eight destinations where you can live your perfect blend of luxury and dirt, yurts and tents, hot tubs and clear blue streams.

1. Sacred Groves and Fay Bainbridge State Park , Washington

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Therese & Tere (@sacredgroves) on May 7, 2015 at 5:00pm PDT

This Bainbridge Island eco-resort is just a thirty-minute ferry ride from Seattle, but feels like its own little world in ten acres of forest. They have several yurts available packed with creature comforts like wifi and electricity. There are nearby trails for forest bathing , a meditative labyrinth in the woods, gorgeous gardens, sunny deck space, and even a trampoline.

You’re more than welcome to book a yurt and simply enjoy spending time in the woods with real furniture, but Sacred Groves also offers a number of workshops and events including grief support, aging groups, sweat lodges, and women’s only spiritual gatherings called the Sacred Groves Women’s Mysteries School. You can camp on Bainbridge Island, too, at Fay Bainbridge State Park. It’s a popular spot for day use activities as well as camping, and has a number of amenities from full hookups to showers to firewood for sale. Enjoy the lovely views of Puget Sound and proximity to everything Bainbridge Island has to offer.

2. Wildspring Guest Habitat and Cape Blanco State Park , Oregon

Kayaking at Cape Blanco State Park Image from The Dyrt camper  Meghan O.

A slate hot tub overlooking the Pacific Ocean should be enough to convince you to visit  Wildspring Guest Habitat . Tucked away from the touristy portions of the  southern Oregon  coastline, Wildspring eco-resort is just a few minutes from downtown Port Orford, Oregon. Its cabins are separated from one another by stands of trees that glimmer gold and green in the morning light, surrounded by a lush carpet of ferns. There’s a labyrinth to walk in the middle of the glade, and it’s fun to see the little trinkets left by other meditative visitors.

You can check out movies and other entertainments from the community room, or have a bottle of wine delivered to your cabin. You can socialize at the hot tub or amongst the sculptures that dot the property, or soak up the peace and quiet in your cabin. The cabins are compact but nicely appointed, with a shabby-chic vibe that feels just right. Gear up to wind down at Cape Blanco State Park, just a few miles north on the coast. There you’ll find a similar vibe to Wildspring.

“Cape Blanco State Park is the hidden treasure of the Oregon Coast – maybe of all of Oregon. Each site is secluded with lovely hedges. The hikes through the forests are like taking a walk through a Tolkien novel with hanging moss, giant trees, ferns, mushrooms and meandering trails.” — The Dyrt camper Debbie B.

Don’t forget to visit the historic Hughes House, built in 1898, while you’re in the area.

3. The Woodlands House and Milo McIver State Park , Oregon

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Woodlands House (@thewoodlandshouse) on Jun 4, 2018 at 3:28pm PDT

The Woodland House is a gem situated just outside of Portland, Oregon. It was given new life by Rachel and Rico Castillero, a pair of wedding photographers originally from San Diego. They built a new deck overlooking a creek on the property, put in a hot tub, and gave the place a fresh, minimalist vibe that compliments the surrounding forest without feeling too rustic. Located close to Mount Hood, Lake Trillum, and Latourell Falls—as well as some local-favorite swimming holes—it’s a great place to crash after a day of hiking, wandering, and skiing. This eco-resort has also been used for photography sessions, women’s retreats, and to host intimate weddings.

See what else the area has to offer at Milo McIver State Park, which sits right on the lovely Clackamas River. There’s 900 acres to explore here, including equestrian trails and two competition-grade disc golf courses. In the summer you can rent floats at the boat launch or launch your own canoe or kayak. During the day, it can get busy with all the rafters and afternoon visitors, but you’ll have plenty of privacy at night.

“There are private feeling hiking trails around the large park. The campground area is a standard State Park area, mostly private sites tucked into the trees.”  — The Dyrt camper Nancy H.

Milo McIver State Park has a walking bat trail to follow that’s perfect even if you aren’t a chiroptologist (a bat researcher). There are six species of bats that live here in the park, some in special houses made for them by local scouts. The bat trail is home to one of Oregon’s breeding colonies of Townsend’s bats, which have adorably big ears.

4. Lakedale Resort , San Juan Islands, Washington

Lakedale Resort Image from The Dyrt Camper Jen R.

Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor both feel a little luxe as soon as you step off the ferry or seaplane. After all, they’re incredibly picturesque islands whose harbors are lined with historic homes, quaint shops, and sleek white yachts. Lakedale Resort, which is halfway between the two ports, will do nothing to dispel that first impression. Not when they have real log cabins, canvas tent glamping, and a family-friendly campground and RV park. You can have an eco-resort experience here if you want, or just camp the old-fashioned way.

If you stay in the tent glamping section, you can expect services like the Toasty Toes turndown, in which Lakedale delivers a pair of hot water bottles wrapped in fleece to warm your feet and your bed. Or you can get a little privacy on the water in Lakedale’s vintage, fully-restored 1978 Excella Airstream. Even the camping is super easy— if you want to give the outdoor life a try but don’t have the gear, Lakedale will have a two-person REI tent with rain fly and canopy, two cots, and two camp chairs for lounging set up at your campsite upon arrival.

Pack a pair of therapeutic sandals for a stroll into Roche Harbor for supplies at the Company Store. The name is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the building’s history as the actual company store, where workers in the nearby lime kilns could purchase their essentials.  Now the Company Store is a lovely waterfront market where you can pick up salads, sodas, wine, beer, and other groceries.

If you grab some picnic supplies you can head up to the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park and see some lovely outdoor art. Wherever you wander, it’ll feel like you’re getting a foot massage.

5. Stillpoint Lodge and Homer Spit, Alaska

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Alaska Stillpoint Lodge (@stillpointlodge) on Feb 14, 2018 at 11:01pm PST

If the idea of watching for sea lions, otters, and moose from a Scandinavian-inspired Alaskan eco-resort sounds sublime, you need to head to the Stillpoint Lodge in Halibut Cove. Their “Mindfulness Cabin” is open 24 hours a day for those seeking stillness. The resort also offers guided meditations, yoga classes, massage services, and a cedar hot tub gazebo. The folks at Stillpoint can arrange all sorts of adventures for you, from whale watching cruises to excursions to catch a glimpse of wild grizzlies.

Not far from the village that shares its name, the campground at Homer Spit offers 280 degree views of Alaska’s pristine wilderness. You can enjoy incredible proximity to wildlife, including numerous eagles, while also sticking close to shops and groceries where it’s quick to grab picnic supplies.

“The Spit is such a unique place to camp and explore. It does assume a stop at the Salty Dawg Saloon as well as a swing under the gift shops. Kachemack bay has an abundance of critters and sea shells making beachcombing amazing. Rent a bike to explore more or just walk the boardwalks and smell the sea air.” — The Dyrt camper Sierra S.

6. Stormking Spa and Mounthaven Resort , Washington

Mounthaven Resort Image fromThe Dyrt Camper Celina M.

At the foot of Mount Rainier, the Stormking Spa and eco-resort used to be a family homestead that was built 1890. Since 2003, the property has hosted guests in luxurious cabins with hot tubs and gas fireplaces. In addition to a spa that offers body polishes, massages, and more, they also host events including weddings.

Most of the cabins are round, yurt-style, but hard-sided with wood paneling. They have plenty of privacy and large windows, so you can remember that you’re lounging in the forest, even when you’re curled up by the fireplace wrapped in quilts.

Also at the foot of Mount Rainier, Mounthaven Resort is just 1/2 mile from the Nisqually entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park , and they offer camping amongst the towering cedar trees on their property. This private campground, like Stormking, has a long history. The Billings Lodge was once a family home in the 1920s but turned into a boarding house during the Great Depression.

Mounthaven offers cozy cabins, too, some overlooking Tenas Creek, others with large outdoor fire pits or fireplaces. One has a hot tub, and one overlooks a “deer station” where you’re likely to see wildlife. You can also rough it at Mounthaven at one of their full hookup RV sites or tent sites. Whichever option you choose, there’s a playground on site and lawn games to borrow.

7. Breitenbush Hot Springs and Piety Island, Oregon

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Bhaktishop Yoga Center (@thebhaktishopyogacenter) on Jan 8, 2018 at 4:53pm PST

Breitenbush  Hot Spring resort is, perhaps, the quintessential eco-resort. Unplugging is a necessity, given the lack of cellphone reception or WiFi (though there is a landline phone in case of emergency). There’s no alcohol, cannabis, or even caffeine served on site, but three nutritious, vegetarian meals a day are served up in their dining room. The buildings are warmed with the same geothermal heat that keeps the hot springs steamy. Depending on availability, you can choose between cabins, hostel-style bunks, platform tents, as well as tent campsites and boondock space for small trailers or campervans.

Not only does Breitenbush offer a meditation labyrinth and sanctuary space, but also numerous workshops based in a variety of spiritual traditions and psychological contexts. That means you can decide just how much mindfulness and mineral water you want to soak up, from an afternoon dip to a multi-day yoga, Qi Gong, or emotional awareness retreat. And, of course, there are the (clothing optional) hot springs and sauna that attract day users in addition to overnight guests.

For a slightly different vibe in the same neck of the woods, try visiting Piety Island before or after your stay at Breitenbush. It’s right on…or, well, in… Detroit Lake, opposite the popular Cove Creek Campground . It’s pretty easy to boat in to Piety Island, and once you’re there you can enjoy the relative seclusion.

If you want to get your blood pumping, hike up to Piety Knob on the island to get excellent views of the lake and shorelines that surround you. Detroit Lake is also full of rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon and catfish.

8. Doe Bay Resort and Doe Island Marine State Park , Washington

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sarah Richelle Starnes (@sarahnatureyoga) on Sep 10, 2018 at 7:54am PDT

Luxurious cabins and yurts, gourmet “seed to table” food, massages, yoga, a sauna, the community fire pit. Doe Bay on Orca Island definitely has all the trappings you’d want from an eco-resort. They even host their own summer music gathering called Doe Bay Fest, as well as the usual events like weddings, corporate retreats, reunions, and other gatherings.

“You can camp out in the woods and see the local wildlife (lots of deer and otters!) and there are plenty of trees to hang your hammock. There’s also a restaurant, and a concert hall on site. If you’re lucky enough to be there during a show it is life changing. Don’t forget you are in WA. and it rains more often than not, so come prepared with tarps and rain gear. All in all this is an amazing spot to camp and I highly recommend checking it out.” — The Dyrt camper Dawnielle C.

For a little more remote an experience, paddle out to nearby Doe Island Marine State Park.

“There are only about 4 camping sites on the island, 1 well maintained composting toilet, but no fresh water. However, Doe Bay resort is a quick ten minute paddle away and offers the luxuries of food, hot tubs, sauna, showers, and a calendar of events including music festivals, in a down to earth, hippie-vibe way. So check out their information so that you can plan accordingly, to either go or stay away from the resort as you wish.”  — The Dyrt camper Shari G.

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Meghan O'Dea

Meghan O'Dea is a writer, world traveler, and life-long learner who grew up in the foothills of Appalachia. College led to summer stints in England and Slovenia, grad school to a sojourn Hong Kong, and curiosity to everywhere in between. She has written for the Washington Post, Fortune Magazine, Yoga Journal, Eater Magazine, and Uproxx amongst others. Meghan hopes to visit all seven continents with pen and paper in tow.

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• May 2, 2022

Eco resorts are a type of tourism accommodation that focuses on sustainable practices and environmental conservation. They aim to provide a meaningful and authentic travel experience that has a positive impact on the environment and local culture. Eco resorts come in a variety of forms, including treehouses, yurts, caves, domes, and lodges, and often offer a range of activities that allow guests to immerse themselves in nature.

One of the main principles of eco resorts is the use of sustainable materials and practices. This may include the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, and the implementation of water conservation measures. Eco resorts may also prioritize the use of locally sourced materials and support local businesses and communities.

Another key principle of eco resorts is the promotion of environmental conservation. This may include the protection of natural habitats and wildlife, as well as the implementation of waste reduction and recycling programs. Eco resorts may also offer educational opportunities for guests to learn about the local environment and its unique features.

Permaculture , a design philosophy that seeks to create self-sustaining systems that mimic the natural environment, is often incorporated into the design and operation of eco resorts. Permaculture principles include the use of natural resources efficiently, the creation of diverse ecosystems, and the promotion of natural patterns and processes. These principles can be applied to the design of eco resorts in a variety of ways, including the use of native plants and the integration of natural elements into the built environment.

The best eco resorts are those that effectively balance environmental conservation with the needs and desires of guests. This may include the provision of comfortable and well-equipped accommodation, as well as a range of activities and amenities that allow guests to fully experience the local environment. Eco resorts that successfully incorporate permaculture principles and make a positive contribution to the local community are likely to be the most successful and sustainable.

Overall, eco resorts offer a unique and authentic travel experience that allows guests to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts of modern amenities. By prioritizing sustainable practices and environmental conservation, eco resorts can contribute to the long-term health and well-being of local communities and ecosystems.

By now, we all have a sense of what ecotourism means. However, words like sustainability enc eco have been flung around too much by different groups and have begun to lose their original meanings. 

Eco historically has referred to the environment. But, like how the word sustainability probably had original meanings in the environment, ecosystems have increasingly come to represent part of the economy at the expense of … ( expense well now I am using a market metaphor, aren’t I).  The point is, not everything needs to get consumed into market systems to have value. 

Sustainable Eco-Resorts  accessed from https://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB_DC24679.pdf

Ecotourism  wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotourism

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• Travel Guide
• Sustainability

What Is An Ecotourism Resort?

Published: November 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Fanni Glynn

• Hotel Reviews
• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Ecotourism resorts are not just ordinary vacation destinations. They are havens for nature lovers, conscious travelers, and those seeking unique and sustainable experiences. In recent years, ecotourism has gained popularity as people become more aware of the impact of their travel choices on the environment and local communities.

An ecotourism resort goes beyond simply offering accommodation in a natural setting. It focuses on providing immersive experiences that allow guests to connect with nature, learn about local cultures, and actively contribute to the conservation of the surrounding environment. These resorts are designed to minimize negative environmental impacts and maximize the benefits for both travelers and the host community.

With the rise in global awareness and concern for sustainable travel, more travelers are seeking experiences that align with their values and have a reduced ecological footprint. This has led to the growth of ecotourism resorts around the world, offering a wide range of options for environmentally conscious travelers.

In this article, we will delve into the concept of ecotourism resorts, exploring their features, sustainable practices, benefits, and challenges. We will also highlight examples of successful ecotourism resorts that have made a positive impact in their respective destinations.

So, if you are interested in experiencing the beauty of nature while leaving a positive impact on the environment and local communities, let’s dive into the world of ecotourism resorts and discover how they can be a truly enriching and sustainable choice for your next vacation.

Definition of an Ecotourism Resort

An ecotourism resort can be defined as a type of accommodation that is specifically designed to immerse guests in nature, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the conservation of natural and cultural resources. These resorts prioritize environmental responsibility, community engagement, and education, providing guests with the opportunity to experience and appreciate the beauty of the natural world while minimizing their impact on it.

Unlike traditional resorts, ecotourism resorts strive to harmonize with their natural surroundings, integrating sustainable design principles and minimizing resource consumption. They are often located in pristine natural areas such as rainforests, coastal regions, or wildlife reserves, offering guests a unique and immersive experience in remote and untouched environments.

What sets ecotourism resorts apart is their commitment to practicing responsible tourism. This means that they prioritize the well-being of the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage. They work closely with local stakeholders, including indigenous communities and conservation organizations, to ensure that their operations align with sustainable principles and provide tangible benefits to the host destination.

Additionally, ecotourism resorts typically offer educational programs and activities that allow guests to learn about the local ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural traditions. These experiences not only foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world but also help to raise awareness about conservation issues and sustainable practices.

It is important to note that not all resorts labeled as “eco” or “ecotourism” truly embody sustainable practices. Greenwashing, where businesses falsely claim to be environmentally friendly, is a common practice in the tourism industry. Therefore, when choosing an ecotourism resort, it is essential to research and verify their commitment to sustainability through certifications, partnerships with conservation organizations, and positive guest reviews.

In summary, an ecotourism resort is a unique type of accommodation that emphasizes sustainable practices, environmental conservation, and community engagement. By choosing to stay at an ecotourism resort, guests can connect with nature, learn about local cultures, and contribute to the preservation of our planet for future generations.

Features and Characteristics of an Ecotourism Resort

Ecotourism resorts are distinguished by certain features and characteristics that set them apart from traditional vacation destinations. These unique attributes contribute to their overall goal of providing sustainable and immersive experiences for guests. Let’s explore some of the key features and characteristics of an ecotourism resort:

• Natural Setting: Ecotourism resorts are typically located in pristine natural environments, such as rainforests, mountains, or coastal areas. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views, tranquil surroundings, and opportunities to observe and appreciate local flora and fauna.
• Sustainable Design: Ecotourism resorts prioritize environmentally friendly design and construction practices. They are built using locally sourced materials and incorporate renewable energy systems, efficient water management, and waste reduction techniques.
• Conservation Focus: These resorts actively contribute to the conservation of the surrounding ecosystems and natural resources. They may support local conservation projects, engage in reforestation efforts, and implement measures to protect sensitive habitats and wildlife.
• Community Engagement: Ecotourism resorts strive to engage with and support local communities. They may collaborate with indigenous groups, provide employment opportunities, and facilitate cultural exchange programs to preserve and promote local traditions and heritage.
• Educational Opportunities: A major aspect of ecotourism resorts is the emphasis on education. They offer various activities and guided tours that allow guests to learn about the local environment, wildlife, and cultural practices. This helps raise awareness about conservation and sustainability issues.
• Sustainable Practices: Ecotourism resorts adopt sustainable practices in their day-to-day operations. They implement waste management systems, promote the use of eco-friendly products, practice responsible water usage, and encourage guests to participate in sustainable activities.
• Local Sourcing and Cuisine: These resorts often prioritize local sourcing of ingredients for their cuisine, supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Guests can enjoy delicious meals featuring locally grown produce and traditional flavors.
• Opportunities for Outdoor Activities: Ecotourism resorts provide a range of outdoor activities that allow guests to connect with nature, such as hiking, wildlife safaris, birdwatching, kayaking, and snorkeling. These activities are designed to minimize impacts on the environment and promote appreciation for the natural world.

By incorporating these features and characteristics, ecotourism resorts create a unique and sustainable experience for their guests. They offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate in harmony with nature while also contributing to the conservation and well-being of the local environment and communities.

Sustainable Practices in Ecotourism Resorts

Ecotourism resorts are at the forefront of promoting sustainable tourism practices. They prioritize minimizing their environmental impact and maximizing the positive contributions to local communities and ecosystems. Here are some common sustainable practices that you can find in ecotourism resorts:

• Energy Conservation: Ecotourism resorts prioritize energy conservation by using energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines. They may also encourage guests to conserve energy by offering incentives for using minimal electricity.
• Water Conservation: Water is a scarce resource in many destinations, so ecotourism resorts adopt water-saving measures such as low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling systems. Guests are informed about responsible water usage and are encouraged to participate in water conservation efforts.
• Waste Management: These resorts implement effective waste management systems by reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. They may also compost organic waste and educate guests about proper waste disposal practices. Some resorts even work with local communities to establish recycling initiatives.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Ecotourism resorts play an active role in preserving local biodiversity. They may support conservation projects, habitat restoration, and species protection. Some resorts also collaborate with research organizations to monitor and protect endangered species found in the area.
• Supporting Local Communities: Ecotourism resorts prioritize community engagement and support. They actively involve local communities in decision-making processes, provide training and employment opportunities, and support local businesses by sourcing products and services from them. This helps to improve local livelihoods and preserves cultural heritage.
• Educational Programs: These resorts understand the importance of education in promoting sustainability. They offer educational programs, workshops, and guided tours that teach guests about the local environment, culture, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices. This helps raise awareness and inspire guests to adopt sustainable behaviors in their daily lives.
• Local and Sustainable Food: Ecotourism resorts prioritize the use of local and sustainable food options. They source ingredients from nearby farms and fisheries, supporting local producers and reducing carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation. They may also promote organic and fair-trade products to ensure environmental and social responsibility.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: These resorts strive to minimize their carbon footprint by implementing measures such as carbon offset programs, energy-efficient transportation for guests, and promoting alternative transportation options like cycling or walking within the resort.

By implementing these sustainable practices, ecotourism resorts not only reduce their environmental impact but also create a positive ripple effect in the surrounding communities. They inspire guests to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle and contribute to the overall preservation of the destinations they visit.

Benefits of Ecotourism Resorts

Ecotourism resorts offer a multitude of benefits, both for the travelers who visit them and the destinations they are located in. These benefits extend to the environment, local communities, and even the guests themselves. Let’s explore some of the key advantages of choosing to stay at an ecotourism resort:

• Environmental Conservation: Ecotourism resorts actively contribute to the conservation of natural resources and the protection of fragile ecosystems. By promoting sustainable practices, minimizing their carbon footprint, and supporting conservation initiatives, these resorts help preserve biodiversity and maintain the beauty of the surrounding environment.
• Economic Growth: Ecotourism resorts provide economic opportunities for local communities. They generate income through accommodations, dining, and guided tours, often offering employment to local residents. This infusion of tourism revenue can help stimulate the local economy and support small businesses.
• Cultural Preservation: Ecotourism resorts prioritize cultural preservation by engaging with local communities, supporting traditional practices, and showcasing local heritage. This helps to revitalize and preserve cultural traditions, generating pride among the local population and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
• Education and Awareness: Guests at ecotourism resorts have the opportunity to learn about the natural environment, local cultures, and sustainability practices. Through guided tours, educational programs, and interactions with local communities, guests gain a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and responsible tourism, inspiring them to make more sustainable choices in their own lives.
• Health and Wellness: Ecotourism resorts are often located in serene natural settings, providing guests with opportunities to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature. Spending time in nature has been proven to have a positive impact on mental and physical health, reducing stress levels and promoting overall well-being.
• Authentic Experiences: Ecotourism resorts offer unique and authentic experiences that allow guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and local culture of the destination. From wildlife encounters to cultural interactions, guests have the chance to create lasting memories and connect with the essence of the place they are visiting.
• Positive Impact on the Local Environment: By practicing sustainable tourism, ecotourism resorts minimize their environmental footprint and actively work towards preserving natural habitats. They implement measures to conserve water, reduce waste, and conserve energy, thereby protecting fragile ecosystems and ensuring they remain intact for future generations.

Choosing to stay at an ecotourism resort not only allows travelers to have a memorable and meaningful experience, but it also enables them to play a part in conserving the environment and supporting local communities. By supporting these sustainable establishments, travelers can contribute to a more responsible and sustainable tourism industry.

Challenges and Criticisms of Ecotourism Resorts

While ecotourism resorts strive to promote sustainable practices and positive impacts, they are not without their challenges and criticisms. It is important to acknowledge these issues and work towards addressing them to ensure the long-term success and effectiveness of ecotourism. Let’s explore some of the challenges and criticisms associated with ecotourism resorts:

• Greenwashing: One of the major challenges in the ecotourism industry is greenwashing, where businesses falsely claim to be eco-friendly without actually implementing sustainable practices. This misleading marketing can make it challenging for travelers to differentiate between genuinely sustainable resorts and those that are simply capitalizing on the green trend.
• Overcrowding and Environmental Impact: The popularity of ecotourism resorts can lead to issues of overcrowding, particularly in fragile ecosystems. Increased foot traffic, waste generation, and habitat degradation can occur if proper visitor management and impact assessment measures are not in place.
• Conflicting Interests: Balancing the interests of conservation, local communities, and tourism development can be challenging. There may be differences in opinions and priorities among various stakeholders, which can hinder sustainable development efforts and lead to tensions.
• Dependency on Tourism: In some cases, ecotourism resorts can create a dependency on tourism as the main source of income for local communities. This overreliance on tourism can lead to vulnerability during times of economic downturn or natural disasters, illustrating the need for diversification of livelihoods in these areas.
• Accessibility and Affordability: The remote location and sustainable practices of some ecotourism resorts can make them less accessible and more expensive for certain travelers. This can limit inclusivity and prevent a wider range of individuals from experiencing the benefits of sustainable tourism.
• Cultural Appropriation: There is a risk of cultural appropriation when tourist demand leads to a commodification of local cultures and traditions. It is important for ecotourism resorts to work closely with local communities, respecting their cultural practices and ensuring that tourism does not erode or exploit their heritage.
• Monitoring and Regulation: Effective monitoring and regulation of ecotourism resorts are necessary to ensure compliance with sustainable practices and prevent negative impacts. Insufficient oversight and weak enforcement of regulations can undermine the authenticity and integrity of ecotourism practices.

Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach and ongoing commitment from both the industry and travelers. By promoting transparency, supporting responsible tourism certifications, and engaging in dialogue with local communities, ecotourism resorts can work towards mitigating these challenges and ensuring a more sustainable future for the industry.

Examples of Successful Ecotourism Resorts

Many ecotourism resorts around the world have successfully implemented sustainable practices and made positive contributions to their local environments and communities. Let’s explore a few notable examples of successful ecotourism resorts:

• Grootbos Private Nature Reserve – South Africa: Located in the Western Cape of South Africa, Grootbos is an award-winning ecotourism destination that combines luxury accommodations with conservation efforts. The resort is committed to protecting the unique biodiversity of the region and uplifting the surrounding communities through various initiatives, such as education programs, sustainable farming projects, and eco-tourism training for local youth.
• Lapa Rios Ecolodge – Costa Rica: Nestled within a private nature reserve on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, Lapa Rios Ecolodge provides guests with an immersive rainforest experience. The resort focuses on environmental stewardship, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. They utilize solar energy, practice waste reusing and recycling, and actively engage in reforestation and wildlife conservation efforts.
• Spirit Bear Lodge – Canada: The Spirit Bear Lodge is a unique ecotourism resort located in the beautiful Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia. Dedicated to wildlife conservation, the lodge offers guests the opportunity to witness rare and endangered species, including the spirit or “Kermode” bear. The resort partners with local First Nations communities, actively involving Indigenous guides and promoting cultural preservation.
• Bawah Reserve – Indonesia: Situated in the Anambas Archipelago of Indonesia, Bawah Reserve is an eco-luxury resort surrounded by crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs. The resort focuses on sustainable practices such as water conservation, waste management, and enhancing local livelihoods. Bawah Reserve also supports marine conservation efforts, including coral reef restoration and protection of endangered marine species.
• Caiman Ecological Refuge – Brazil: Located in the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil, Caiman Ecological Refuge has become a model for wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism. The resort actively participates in scientific research, biodiversity monitoring, and environmental education programs. They are dedicated to protecting the endangered jaguars of the region and involve guests in their conservation efforts.

These examples highlight the diversity of ecotourism resorts and the variety of ways they contribute to sustainable development. Through their commitment to conservation, community engagement, and responsible tourism practices, these resorts serve as inspirations for the industry as a whole and demonstrate the positive impacts that can be achieved through ecotourism.

Ecotourism resorts are not only vacation destinations but gateways to immersive and sustainable experiences. They prioritize environmental conservation, community engagement, and educational opportunities, offering travelers the chance to connect with nature and make a positive impact on the places they visit.

Throughout this article, we have explored the definition and characteristics of ecotourism resorts. These unique accommodations are designed to harmonize with their natural surroundings, implement sustainable practices, and provide guests with unforgettable experiences. From sustainable design and conservation focus to community engagement and cultural preservation, ecotourism resorts embody the principles of responsible tourism.

While there are challenges and criticisms associated with ecotourism resorts, they serve as important reminders of the ongoing work needed to achieve sustainable tourism. By addressing issues such as greenwashing, overcrowding, and cultural appropriation, the industry can continue to evolve and improve upon its environmental and social commitments.

Examples of successful ecotourism resorts, such as Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Lapa Rios Ecolodge, and Spirit Bear Lodge, showcase the positive outcomes that can be achieved through sustainable practices. These resorts prioritize conservation, support local communities, and provide educational opportunities, encapsulating the essence of ecotourism and inspiring other destinations to follow suit.

In conclusion, choosing to stay at an ecotourism resort offers travelers the chance to have unique and meaningful experiences. By supporting sustainable tourism, guests become active participants in environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and community development. Ecotourism resorts provide a pathway for travelers to explore the world responsibly, leaving a positive footprint and creating a legacy of sustainability for future generations to enjoy.

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An eco hotel, or a green hotel, is an environmentally sustainable hotel or accommodation that has made important environmental improvements to its structure in order to minimize its impact on the natural environment and eco resort Vietnam are considered excellent place to hang out for a couple of weeks in Vietnam and beyond.

Vietnam ranks 52nd worldwide on the inaugural Sustainable  Cities Index from Arcadis, the leading global natural and built asset design and consultancy firm.

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country known for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas and bustling cities. Hanoi, the capital, pays homage to the nation’s iconic Communist-era leader, Ho Chi Minh , via a huge marble mausoleum. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has French colonial landmarks, plus Vietnamese War history museums and the Củ Chi tunnels, used by Viet Cong soldiers.

Best Day Trips in Vietnam

• Cat Ba – Lan Ha Bay Discovery Full 1 Day Tour
• Day Trip to Perfume Pagoda from Hanoi
• Cai Be and Mekong Day Trip from Ho Chi Minh City
• Cuc Phuong National Park Day Tour from Hanoi
• Hoi An City Tour and Marble Mountain Full-Day

See all Day Trips in Vietnam on Klook

1. Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang 4* – Eco Resort Vietnam

Evason Ana Mandara, one of Six Senses’ brands, is Nha Trang’s only beachfront resort. It offers luxurious guest rooms with sea or garden views, and free internet.

Guests can enjoy traditional Vietnamese body treatments and massages at the Six Senses Spa. A fitness room, off-site tennis courts and weekly Yoga classes are provided.

Video Review of Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang

Evason Ana Mandara has its own water sports centre offering island trips and activities like fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving.

Guests can als o hire a motorbike to explore the area.

All rooms are spacious and come with a cable TV, DVD player and a bathroom with bathtub and a rain shower.

A minibar, safe and tea/coffee making facilities are also provided.

Set on Nha Trang Bay, this elegant beachfront resort is 5 km from both the Long Sơn Pagoda and the Vinpearl Cable Car linking to Hon Tre Island.

Airy pagoda-style rooms with covered terraces and garden views offer free Wi-Fi, satellite TVs, minibars and coffeemakers; some come with 4-poster beds.

Upgraded rooms add sea views and outdoor soaking tubs.

Beachfront suites have private gardens and living areas. Room service is available 24/7.

Amenities include 2 refined restaurants, a polished lobby bar and an outdoor infinity pool, as well as beach access.

There’s also a spa, and a childrens’ play area.

The Ana Mandara has been classic in Nha Trang ever since it was introduced many years ago and it remains so.

The setting is picturesque offering an oasis of relative calm in a beach city that is bustling and developing rapidly. Service and amenities are 5 stars.

The hotel is   eco  friendly and has direct beach access in contrast to all other hotels in the city.

Loved the chic and  eco  design.

The grounds were impeccably maintained. Garden view room was clean with comfortable beds.

Nice spacious bathroom with nice products. Spent most of our time here at the pool or beach.

The private beach was key. I didn’t appreciate this until venturing into the public beach area- was completely packed with a very boisterous predominantly Russian crowd (think Jersey Shore!).

Apparently Nha Trang is a huge tourist destination for Russians and there are direct flights from Moscow .

Incredible service from EVERYONE- from the concierge to the maids and servers.

Shiena at the front desk helped to arrange diving and activities, airport transport, really anything.

There’s two on-site restaurants. A more formal one, where breakfast is served buffet style.

Lots of options both Vietnamese and American. Spent a lot of time at the casual poolside bar , which served up excellent cocktails and bites.

The hotel is like an oasis of peace and luxury in the tourist city of Nha Trang.

The property is beautiful and very well maintained.

The bungalows are nice and a lot of attention is given to small details. What I especially like is that the hotel makes a good effort at being  eco -friendly.

The staff is extremely friendly and appears to be very well trained.

The beach is great, and the beach chairs are comfortable. The hotel section of the beach is private, so it is really quiet compared to the public sections.

There are also two swimming pools to choose from.

The breakfast buffet is delicious , and caters both to Western and Eastern tastes.

The food is also of very good quality at the hotel restaurants, but of course a lot more expensive than the local restaurants in town.

But then again, if you consider the quality of the ingredients and compare the hotel restaurant prices to other high class resorts , then the food & drink prices are very fair.

The Evason has a real commitment to being  eco  friendly, which is excellent, however they do supply ashtrays and lighters in their rooms, such a mis-step.

They don’t automatically supply everything but it is available, a nice  eco  touch eg earplugs on demand instead of supplied and wasted.

Everything comes in calico bags, another nice touch.

There is a pillow menu, linen fragrance menu, and anything else you could want, all you needed to do was ask if it wasn’t already there.

Unfortunately the room slippers were unwearable being made of some rough rattan material, but bare feet were fine.

The bed was probably the best we have ever slept in.

The Evason seems to be the only resort of its kind in Nha Trang.

There are some positives – the hotel is run on  eco  principles which seems to more than a gimmick.

The pools are amazing and the views from the restaurant over the hotel’s private beach are spectacular.

The rooms are quaint with mosquito nets and thatched roofs but many of the rooms back onto the very noisy road.

The beds were the most comfortable I have ever slept on.

How much does a room costs at Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang  ?

Prices start 257$ /night for  Room with Garden View.

Offering views of the garden, the rooms feature a private terrace and an en suite bathroom with a full-sized bath, rain shower facilities.

Where to book online  – Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang – Eco Resort Vietnam   – you can find the best eco friendly hotels deals in Vietnam during Tết Festival which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Vietnam on Booking.com or  Agoda.com   or Trip.com and see more reviews on TripAdvisor .

2. Mango Bay Resort 3* – Eco Resorts Vietnam

Mango Bay Phu Quoc Resort is spread over 2,300 feet of private sandy  beach  and 20 hectares of natural greenery. Private and quiet, this eco-friendly  nature resort  features free WiFi access and complimentary parking on site.

Cool natural wind enters the rooms and bungalows through wooden shutters. Four-poster beds, ceiling fans, Evening Breeze cooling system and cotton mosquito nets are provided.

Video Review of Mango Bay Resort

All rooms and bungalows enjoy views of either the sea or the garden from terraces.

Solar-heated hot-water showers are equipped in the bathrooms.

Set on 10 hectares of beachfront grounds along the Gulf of Thailand, this tropical resort is 9 km from both Dinh Cau night market and Sùng Hưng Cổ Tự temple, and 10 km from Phu Quoc Bee  Farm.

Featuring thatched roofs, the relaxed bungalow-style rooms (no air-conditioning) offer fans, free Wi-Fi, 4-poster beds and safes, plus tea and coffee making facilities.

Breakfast and activities such as snorkeling, paddle boarding, beach tai chi and yoga classes are all complementary.

Amenities include a beach bar, a waterfront seafood restaurant, and a spa offering beauty and massage treatments.

Everything is wonderful – the staff are incredibly kind and friendly, with amazing English, too.

The   eco -friendly resort and its surroundings are just beautiful and far more special to immerse yourself in than a luxury hotel.

The tropical outdoor bathroom/shower was just a wonderful experience and the food was delicious, too!

Meals were a good deal more expensive than I’d normally pay but as breakfast was so big, I didn’t need lunch. 😉

There’s plenty to do, from free yoga classes to paddle boarding and kayaking, although I was happy to just do some writing and lounge on one of the different private beaches in the afternoons.

I can’t fault Mango Bay and will definitely be returning there again. Highly, highly recommended.

Many years ago 3 mates protected a peninsular and designed sustainable bungalows for mates with an excellent bar and menu – with plenty of vegan options.

Details are inspiring/visionary – solar panel – low impact/focused aircon, open air bathrooms, sustainable building materials including rammed earth – staff are beautifully human and perfectly trained.

Pathways plus are by a Kew Garden’s horticulturist/ environmentalis t – great plants and animals. Crystal clear water.

A great place to take over for special occasions with old mates.

The resort is situated in a beautiful secluded spot surrounded by the natural forest and the resort bungalows are rustic but more than comfortable with comfortable 4 poster beds with full mosquito net, electric fans and air conditioning.

The outside toilet features a shower with solar heated hot water.

The staff are friendly, welcoming and extremely helpful. The service throughout our stay was excellent.

The restaurant features a varied menu of western/Vietnamese fusion dishes as well as a good selection of pizzas, perhaps reflecting the resort’s emphasis on foreign guests.

Overall the food and restaurant service was very good.

The Spa and Wellness centre is outstanding and the treatments are worth the higher than usual prices.

This resort may not be for everyone’s taste.

If you like hotels with all the modern amenities, this place is not for you, but if you enjoy quiet, relaxing holidays in nature, Mango Bay is as good as anything you’ll find in Vietnam .

Big compliments to the staff that have a rare eye for detail and always provided services with a smile.

The food were amazingly fresh everything you could wish for while staying at a beach resort.

Rooms were minimalistic designed with being eco friendly in mind so no mini bar or big AC unit.

Instead a clever cooling wing above the bed and thermo mini bar filled with ice and drinks to your likings.

How much does a room costs at Mango Bay Resort  ?

Prices start 59$ /night for  Superior Twin Room with Sea View – Verandah.

Facing the sea from a large shaded terrace, this room comes with a fan, a seating area and an en-suite bathroom with shower. It includes an Evening Breeze® energy saving and environmentally friendly bed-space cooling system.

Where to book online  – Mango Bay Resort – Eco Resort Vietnam   – you can find the best eco friendly hotels deals in Vietnam during Tết Festival which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Vietnam on Booking.com   or  Agoda.com   or Trip.com and see more reviews on TripAdvisor .

3. Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat 3* – Eco Resort Vietnam

With garden views, Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat is located in Sapa and has a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, bar, garden and terrace.

The lodge features both WiFi and private parking free of charge.

There’s a private bathroom with bidet in all units , along with a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Video Review of Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat

Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat offers a continental or buffet breakfast

Looking for a place to stay in Sapa?

Then look no further than Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat, a hotel that brings the best of Sapa to your doorstep.

Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat is a hotel offering a kitchenette in the rooms, and it is easy to stay connected during your stay as free wifi is offered to guests.

The hotel features room service.

Plus, guests can enjoy a sauna and free breakfast, which have made this a popular choice among travelers visiting Sapa.

Nearby landmarks such as The Stone Church (Holy Rosary Church) (1.6 mi) and Quang Truong Square (1.6 mi) make Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat a great place to stay when visiting Sapa.

While in Sapa be sure to experience local tapas favorites at Viet Emotion Sapa Coffee and Restaurant.

Sapa is also home to Ho Chi Minh Friendship Monument, a popular that is not too far from Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat.

We’re sure you’ll enjoy your stay at Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat as you experience everything Sapa has to offer.

We have spent 3 days on a trekking in the south of Sa Pa and decided to add one more night in this  Eco -Home.

That was the perfect choice, just a shame we could not enjoy the view as it was foggy that day.

Nevertheless, it is a beautiful place, very relaxing, the people are friendly and very welcoming, the bungalow is spacious with a nice terrace overlooking the rice fields , very clean and the food was delicious.

We highly recommend it!

We loved everything about this place. The view – stunning, you can spend hours taking photos and you still can’t get enough.

We knew the location was going to be a bit tricky, because it wasn’t walking distance to Sapa town, but it was worth it because why would you come to Sapa and stay at a hotel without a view of the beautiful mountains? 🙂

We booked our taxis in advance to help. Sapa Eco  Home provides private car from train station for $35 each way.

Honestly, you don’t even need to go to Sapa town – you can book a hike/tour through Sapa  Eco  Home.

The tour guide will come get you from there. Next time I come to Sapa, I will stay here again, without a doubt.

The staff (most of which were family to the owners) were so sweet, even though their English was limited.

They let us hang out and made us food and tea while we waited for our room to be ready.

The food and drinks they served were delicious and yet seemed so simple… must be the fresh ingredients.

They had a little shop inside the restaurant/lobby area. Most of the things sold there were made by one of the Hmong owner’s mother.

Beautifully textiles for you to take home as souvenirs. I cherish all of the things I bought from Sapa.

Our room (the corn house), was one of the bungalows. It was so perfect! I love the decorations they put in the room.

It was unique and made me feel like I was in Sapa, which I appreciated.

I didn’t want to stay in a place with no character! We had our window curtains open a bit so that we could wake up to the sight of the beautiful hills.

The bathroom was nice and clean. It had soap, shampoo, toothbrush, etc, everything you expect from a regular hotel.

Had an amazing stay at Sapa  Eco  home last week, in the lap of mountains surrounded by lush green rice paddies.

The location is perfec t, unlike other usual hotels Sapa  eco home offers the peace, tranquility away from city life one requires for a lovely vacation.

The staff is lovely and very helpful. The rooms were really clean and had all modern services needed.

I would definitely consider going back again and recommend this place for anyone seeking peaceful and relaxing holidays.

How much does a room costs at Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat ?

Prices start 23$ /night for Deluxe Bungalow with Mountain View.

This bungalow features a balcony, air conditioning and iPod dock.

Where to book online – Sapa Eco-Home – Mountain Retreat – Eco Resort Vietnam – you can find the best eco friendly hotels deals in Vietnam during Tết Festival which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Vietnam on Booking.com   or  Agoda.com   or Trip.com and see more reviews on TripAdvisor .

4. Topas Ecolodge Sapa 4* – Eco Resort Vietnam

Lying within the boundaries and overlooking valleys of the Hoang Lien National Park, Topas Ecolodge is a quaint and charming mountain property where guests can freely mingle with the ethnic villagers. A free shuttle bus operates daily to and from Sa Pa Town, 11 mi away .

Besides admiring the beautiful scenery, other activities include cycling and trekking or simply enjoying the free WiFi in the public areas.

Video Review of Topas Ecolodge

Granite walls and wooden furnishings add to the rustic feel of the guestrooms.

Guests have a choice of heated or air-conditioned rooms, all equipped with a private bathroom and balcony to enjoy the views of the valley .

Topas Ecolodge is located within Ban Lach Village overlooking Hoang Lien Mountain Range.

This relaxed ecolodge is set on a remote hilltop in the Sapa Valley, close to tribal mountain communities.

Built from local white granite, the rustic, chalet-style bungalows offer natural bathroom products, mosquito nets, and tea and coffee making facilities, along with dehumidifiers and fans/heaters.

Upgraded bungalows add air-conditioning, minibars and rain showers.

Free breakfast is served in a restaurant set in a traditional stilt longhouse.

There’s also a lounge and a spa. Shuttle buses run to Hanoi and nearby Sapa town.

Local guided tours , cycling, trail-running and cookery classes are also available.

A private bungalow stay at Topas Ecolodge is the perfect way to experience the authentic charm of Northern Vietnam, its landscape, fresh air and ethnic minorities.

Set deep in the spectacular Sapa valley, Topas Ecolodge has a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and across the scenic valley.

As our guest you will enjoy all the comforts of a pleasant stay in an environment that is making a commitment to preservation and sustainable development of to the nature and people of Sapa Valley.

We have two heated infinity pools, spa and massage services, free mountain bikes and a great range of excursions around the ecolodge and area.

Wonderful eco friendly hotel , and as promised, the rooms blend in to the surroundings very well.

The location is also stunning , with lovely views of mountains from all room balconies.

The food at the restaurant is also very good, and the Danish chef Christian took a special interest in making sure we, a group of vegetarian, were well taken care of.

Staff in general were very pleasant and I believe most of them are from the nearby villages, which makes for an authentic and feel-good experience even if the professional polish may sometimes be missing.

Magnificent view right in front, chilly weather (better if it’s not ☔️).

Falling in love with this place and will plan a longer stay in the next visit.

Gave a 5 stars ⭐️ as it’s truly awesome place and love the concept of “ eco   friendly ” ?? Keep up the good job.

Not forgetting to mention the excellent dinner & breakfas t too.

The Topas Ecolodge has a really stunning view. You can see many mountains.

The hotel is also very  eco – friendly . They replace plastic straws with bamboo straws.

The ecolodge consists of 25 mountain bungalows all built as rustic chalet-style houses from local white granite.

When my family and I reached the Topas Ecolodge, we received a free  eco – friendly bamboo tumbler. The hotel has a heated pool called the “ Infinity Pool”.

The “ Infinity Pool ” has an awesome view of the Topas Ecolodge. Despite the around 1 hour ride up the mountain to Topas Ecolodge, I would still recommend you to go to Topas Ecolodge if you are visiting Sapa, Vietnam.

The bungalows are superbly furnished, each having their own unique view of the surrounding valley.

The main reception area, bar and restaurant was well fitted out and the pool area was also great.

The staff were all very helpful and  friendly  – we arrived early due to the train arrival time into Lao Cai and the staff rushed through to get our room ready as soon as they could, which we were very thankful for.

The scenery is of course breathtaking , but the  eco lodge also really lives up to the hype, and we had a very enjoyable, relaxing stay here.

The attention to detail from the minimal and tasteful furnishings in the room, to the  eco – friendly  water bottles , to the heated radiator in the bathroom, the amazingly comfortable duvets… every square inch of this property reflects thought, mindfulness and care.

The whole area is out of this world in terms of natural beauty.

Being a  eco  resort, the resort is very well built on top of many hills.

Birds, bees, butterflies and small insects enhance the whole  eco  feel of the lodge.

I have no words to express how beautiful the entire place was and the have a pool which is one of the best in terms of the view you get from it. Spent hours there.

The room was really nice with a spacious balcony that gave you the best of the hills around. Sat there for hours admiring the nature around throughout my stay.

The wifi speed throughout the resort was excellent but there was no internet, TV or phone in the room ( Eco  resor t).

We never felt the need of it as we were completely engulfed by nature.

The staff were  friendly , food at the restaurant was delicious and the whole experience was wonderful.

They have a free shuttle service to Sapa town and back. That was a bonus.

Overall, we had an awesome time there and we will be back. Thanks to everyone at the resort for making it memorable for us. Keep up the good work.

How much does a room costs at Topas Ecolodge ?

Prices start 272$ /night for Premium Executive Bungalow.

Where to book online – Topas Ecolodge – Eco Resort Vietnam   – you can find the best eco friendly hotels deals in Vietnam during Tết Festival which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Vietnam on Booking.com   or  Agoda.com   or   Trip.com and see more reviews on TripAdvisor .

5. An Lam Retreats Saigon River 4* – Eco Resort Vietnam

Located along the Saigon River, An Lam Saigon River offers accommodations in Thuan An Town, away from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. It features a restaurant, fitness facilities and sweeping views of the Saigon River. Free Wi-Fi and parking are provided.

Set amid a vibrant tropical garden, elegant nonsmoking rooms come with modern interiors. Each is equipped with a flat-screen TV, sofa seating area and private bathroom with a bathtub.

Guests can take a dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy relaxing body massages at the spa.

Video Review of An Lam Retreats Saigon River

Set on the banks of the Saigon River, this upscale, tranquil resort with traditional architectural details is 14 km from the 19th-century Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and 15 km from the War  Remnants Museum.

Featuring private balconies and glass-enclosed bathrooms, the polished suites have TVs, minibars and sitting areas; most have canopy beds.

There are also 2-bedroom villas; some have river views, open-air showers and/or private plunge pools. Wi-Fi is available.

Breakfast is free . Other amenities include an open-air restaurant/bar with river views, plus an outdoor pool, a luxe spa and a gym.

There’s also a sundeck.

Located on the brink of Saigon river we enjoyed watching the boats and the water hyacinths floating serenely by as we ate our meals at the restaurant.

We were accompanied by a zillion hungry mosquitoes and fortunately the hotel provides repellant as it is sorely needed.

The speedboat shuttle to downtown Ho   Chi   Minh  city is a pleasant and convenient mode of transport.

We ventured in only once, the heat, noise, construction work and litter was too overwhelming.

We soon got the hang of crossing the roads and dodging the traffic, something that seemed insurmountable at first sight!

The resort is located next to a poor, industrial neighbourhood and finding a store that sold wine or SIM cards for phones was impossible, nor were there any restaurants nearby which means you have to rely heavily on what the resort provides at premium pricing.

The quality of cleaning, politeness, beds and pillows was flawless, absolute top rating from me and the room was very luxurious .

I also want to call out that the quality of the food and cooking is the best we have had in all of Vietnam.

Do yourself a favour and try the gazpacho soup on a hot day , it is divine and completely on par with what you can taste in the best of places in Spain.

The croissants served in the morning were fresh, hot, and crisp (unlike all other places in Vietnam where we’ve had croissants ).

The speedboat tour to the Cu  Chi tunnels is a 45 min boat ride from the resort. At first the afternoon time slot was not available (we sensed there was something more behind the lack of the afternoon tours, a gentle nudging from the resort to go for the morning tour), but as we are not early risers we insisted on the afternoon.

How much does a room costs at An Lam Retreats Saigon River ?

Prices start 181$ /night for An Lam Deluxe Suite.

Where to book online – An Lam Retreats Saigon River – Eco Resort Vietnam – you can find the best eco friendly hotels deals in Vietnam during Tết Festival which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Vietnam on Booking.com   or  Agoda.com   or   Trip.com and see more reviews on TripAdvisor .

Best Hotels in Vietnam

Find the best deals for hotels & apartments and resorts in Vietnam. Check with Booking.com or Hotelscombined.com for best prices & hotels in Vietnam.

Day Tours in Vietnam

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These Are The Best Eco-Friendly Breaks In The US

Posted: June 13, 2023 | Last updated: November 14, 2023

Sustainable breaks

Want to travel in the US while keeping your carbon footprint light? We’ve done the hard work for you and created a round-up of the best eco attractions, hotels, destinations and experiences in the country, which put sustainability at the heart of everything they do. Take a look through and get planning your next adventure.

Farm-to-table food at Chatwal Lodge, New York

If you’re after eco luxury and willing to splash out a bit, look no further than the hotly-anticipated Chatwal Lodge. Situated in 2,500 acres of pristine wilderness in Bethel, around 95 miles (153km) north of Manhattan, the resort is built in harmony with its stunning location. Its main restaurant, the Timber Lounge, serves up farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on hyper-seasonal and foraged produce. Plus, there are countless ways to engage with nature, from kayaking on the Toronto Reservoir to stargazing, birdwatching and hiking on local trails. 

World-leading plant conservation at New York Botanical Gardens

As the largest botanical garden in any US city, New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) allows visitors to discover a wealth of plant species while working towards their conservation. As well as being breathtakingly beautiful and endlessly fascinating, the historic greenhouse and gardens are also working hard to run as sustainably as possible. To that end, there are modernized, energy-efficient lighting, electric vehicles, composting restrooms, stormwater management systems and other measures to keep its carbon footprint as low as possible.

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Energy efficiency at ARIA Resort & Casino Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas might not be the first place you think of when it comes to sustainability, but one hotel is looking to change that. ARIA Resort & Casino has not one but six Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certificates and has been awarded platinum by Tripadvisor’s Green Leaders program. It’s at the forefront of energy-efficient design, with measures resulting in a 30% energy reduction across the resort, including a state-of-the-art heat and power plant which captures excess heat to use for hot water. And it’s utterly luxurious to stay in, with spacious rooms offering breathtaking views of the city’s twinkly lights. 

Mangrove protection at Key West Eco Tours, Florida

The otherworldly emerald waters of Key West’s mangrove islands can be explored in a variety of ways. But whether you choose stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, sailing or kayaking, keep things green by booking with Key West Eco Tours. A family-run provider with a passion for preserving the local ecosystem, the company gets all guests to participate in a five-minute clean-up during their visit, while it also runs several clean-up days throughout the year and hires marine science students at Florida Keys College to help create its unique tours. 

Check out Florida's prettiest small towns you must visit

Carbon offsetting and energy efficiency at Virgin Hotels Chicago, Illinois

Frequently listed as one of the greenest hotels in the US, Virgin Hotels’ Chicago resort has earned plenty of eco brownie points. It has energy-saving features throughout, including smart thermostats, water-efficient toilets and well-insulated walls. Guests can also pay a small extra fee to offset any further carbon emissions from their stay. What’s more, with its convenient location in the heart of downtown Chicago, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Windy City. 

Support for indigenous communities through whitewater rafting, various states

Thrill-seekers need look no further than ROW Adventures for a fun (and sustainable) way to get their adrenalin fix. The company offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing and other watersports along some of America’s most breathtaking waterways, including Idaho’s Salmon River, Oregon’s Hells Canyon and Montana’s Clark Fork River. As well as recognizing, and raising awareness of, the indigenous communities whose land it uses, it also supports the conservation of these areas through a number of initiatives. 

Solar electric and water at Proximity Hotel, North Carolina

The first hotel in America to gain a prestigious LEED platinum certification – a step up from gold – Proximity Hotel, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, certainly has impressive sustainability credentials. Its roof is covered in 100 solar panels which generate electricity and provide hot water, while the hotel’s energy-saving measures mean it uses 33% less water and 39.2% less energy compared to similar luxury hotels. It’s a joy to visit, too, with spacious loft-style rooms decorated with custom artworks, while in the vibrant restaurant you can enjoy farm-to-fork cuisine and choose from 75 different wines. 

Geothermal tech and rainwater recycling at Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, Pennsylvania

Nature by name and nature by, er, nature, this stunning eco lodge sits in the heart of Bald Eagle State Park in Pennsylvania, overlooking a tranquil 1,700-acre lake. The hotel has just 16 rooms in total but each is an oasis of calm, offering lakefront views, sweeping balconies and natural-wood furnishings. It’s heated and cooled by geothermal technology, while a rainwater recycling system is used to flush toilets and recycled metal, glass and wood are used throughout. These adaptations, along with other energy-saving measures, have allowed it to achieve a 30% water use reduction and a 14% decrease in energy costs.

America’s Farm-to-Fork capital in Sacramento, California

It may have been declared the nation’s Farm-to-Fork capital since 2012, but Sacramento’s history of serving up uber-local produce goes back further than that. With some 1.5 million acres of farmland around the city, chefs and residents here have relied on local farmers’ bounties for generations. To get the full experience, head to the Farm-to-Fork Festival (pictured), which takes place each September. Attracting 100,000 visitors each year, the event is a full-blown celebration of sustainable, local farming, with a range of street food, regional wine and craft beer stalls, as well as cooking demos and live concerts.

‘Slow food’ and plastic-free rules at the Palms Hotel & Spa, Florida

To keep its stunning beachfront location as pristine as possible, Miami’s The Palms Hotel & Spa doesn’t use any single-use plastic. Instead, there are reusable takeout containers and paper straws at food and drink outlets, as well as refillable toiletry containers in rooms. At the hotel restaurant you’ll find dishes created with a ‘slow food’ ethos, which means sourcing local, seasonal ingredients where possible (some vegetables are even grown in an on-site garden). Meanwhile, the decor takes inspiration from its oceanside setting: think natural furnishings, fresh tropical flowers and sumptuous white bedding.

Biodynamic wine at Oregon’s wineries

As the region which is responsible for more than half of America’s biodynamic wine output, Oregon is leading the way in this eco-friendly method of producing wine. What does biodynamic mean exactly? Essentially, it’s a process which views the farm or vineyard as a whole organism and aims to create a self-sustaining system, doing away with chemical pesticides and fertilizers in favor of time-honored natural practices. There are lots of fantastic vineyards to choose from, but Maysara Winery, Beaux Frères and Brick House are all worth a visit. 

Impressive energy savings at The Allison Inn & Spa, Oregon

It’s hard not to be wowed by The Allison Inn & Spa. Perched on a verdant slope in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, the hotel’s well-positioned terrace, spa and restaurant allow guests to soak in the views (and sunshine, if you’re lucky). This LEED gold-certified hotel has more than just good looks to offer, though, with efficient measures achieving 50% energy savings across the board compared to similar resorts. Among other things, these actions include solar hot water and electric systems, LED lighting and eco-friendly cleaning and laundry practices.

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Climate-conscious design and history at Hotel Andaluz, New Mexico

Not only is Albuquerque's Hotel Andaluz ultra-sustainable, it’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and dates back to 1939. The LEED gold-certified resort saves on energy thanks to an award-winning motion-sensitive system, which detects when guests are in the room and adjusts light and heat accordingly. As for the energy it does use, 70% is from renewable sources. Throughout the rooms,1940s Hollywood-style decor provides a nod to its past, with plenty of gilded surfaces, antique wooden furniture and copper bathtubs. 

Off-grid energy at Earthship Rentals, New Mexico

If you’re after something a little quirky for your next break, look no further than Earthship Rentals. Situated in the heart of New Mexico’s desert, around 20 minutes from Taos, there are a number of different ‘earthships’ to suit various travel styles and budgets. According to its website, the ultra-eco accommodation is designed in such a way that it heats and cools itself without the need for fossil fuels, while each structure has its very own renewable power plant to provide light and electricity. Despite being completely off-grid, they feature all the mod-cons you could need, including Wi-Fi, TVs and washing machines. 

Now discover the world's most remote retreats

Epic vegan food in Portland, Oregon

In Portland, which regularly ranks as one of the best cities for vegans in the world, skipping meat and dairy doesn’t feel like a sacrifice at all. In fact, with so many vegan restaurants and food outlets, the only sacrifice is that you can’t possibly visit them all in a single trip. We’d recommend making a beeline for Plant Based Papi, which serves up meat-free comfort food and Cultured Kindness, a fully vegan cheese shop. Meanwhile if it’s sweet treats you’re after, Voodoo Doughnut is an unmissable Portland institution.

Off-grid and solar power at Nurture Through Nature, Maine

Looking to completely reconnect with nature? Consider booking a lodge or cabin at Nurture Through Nature, an off-grid, solar-powered retreat which makes the most of its incredible location within western Maine’s lakes and mountains region. To go completely back to basics, opt for a yurt, in which you’ll have no electricity but rely on olive oil lamps and solar lanterns for light and use a wood stove for warmth. For a (slightly) more luxurious option, the lodges and cabins are equipped with electricity and Wi-Fi as well as plusher furnishings. The real selling point here though is the tranquil woodland, which is the perfect backdrop for hiking and watersports, or taking part in the retreat’s yoga and meditation classes. 

Eco-friendly wineries on the Green Wine Trail, California

Thankfully, being climate-conscious doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the finer things in life. In California’s Napa Valley, almost a quarter of the county’s 500 wineries have the Napa Green certification, which recognizes them for sustainable growing and production methods, so you can sip away safe in the knowledge you’re doing the planet some good. Highlights in the Green Wine Trail include Ehlers Estate (pictured), a 100% organic vineyard in St Helena; Spottswoode, a female-led operation which uses biodynamic farming methods; and CADE Winery, the state’s first LEED gold-certified winery built from 98% recycled materials. Now the only thing left to decide is: red, white or rosé?

Check out our expert guide to California's wine regions

A sanctuary for wild horses in Hot Springs, South Dakota

Longstanding environmentalist and conservationist Dayton Hyde is the man behind the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. In 1988, he bought an 11,000 acre patch of land near Hot Springs, South Dakota and turned it into a sanctuary for rare and endangered wild mustangs which couldn’t be adopted. His legacy has endured to this day. Not only does the seemingly-endless patch of prairie support 350 horses, it’s also home to unspoiled natural landscapes, native plants and wildlife, as well as providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about conservation.

Grizzly bear conservation in West Yellowstone, Montana

Many people head to Yellowstone National Park for its amazing scenery, and rightly so. But if you’re eager to go off the beaten track and learn about how we can protect the region’s beautiful wildlife, make a beeline for West Yellowstone’s Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center (GWDC). At this not-for-profit sanctuary, visitors get to see bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and other animals which, for various reasons, are unable to survive in the world. As well as protecting these stunning creatures, the park provides a wealth of resources so guests can learn about the dangers they face.

World-leading sustainable wineries in Sonoma County, California

Even the most die-hard eco-warriors would be impressed by the vineyard-studded region of Sonoma County, California, where 99% of wineries are certified sustainable by a third-party organization. The area, which is on a mission to become the greenest wine-growing region in the world, is made up of small, family-run farms which focus on reducing emissions and preserving planet-friendly growing techniques. There are around 1,800 to choose from, but Donum Estate, Gundlach Bundschu, Hamel Family Wines and Scribe Winery are said to be the best of the best. 

Under-the-radar national parks easing overtourism

Perhaps one of the easiest – and most rewarding – ways to travel sustainably in the US is just by visiting a less popular national park. As well as avoiding the crowds associated with big hitters like the Great Smokies and Yellowstone, you’ll get to see epic landscapes and unique wildlife which far fewer people have experienced. Among the least visited are Washington’s North Cascades (pictured), Michigan’s Isle Royale, Florida’s Dry Tortugas, South Carolina’s Congaree and Alaska’s Kobuk Valley, Lake Clark and Katmai. 

Here's what you can see in America's national parks for free this year

Food with minimal carbon footprint at the Chicago Green City Market, Illinois

The food at Chicago Green City Market travels on average 65 miles (105km) to get there, which is just 5% of the distance traveled by produce in the average grocery store. The food market is also the first in the country to ensure all its stall holders are recognized by third-party sustainability organizations, including USDA Certified Organic, Animal Welfare Approved and Certified Naturally Grown. So if strolling through farmers' markets at the weekend is your thing, this incredible place alone might be enough reason to book a city break to Chicago.

A one-acre city farm at New York’s Javits Center

Those visiting the Big Apple shouldn’t miss a trip to the Javits Center’s seven-acre green roof – the second-largest of its kind in the country. As well as serving as a working urban farm which grows 40,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables, the rooftop is also home to a solar farm – the largest in New York City with more than 3,000 panels. Last but not least, it serves as a crucial habitat for bees, bats and birds.

Solar-powered luxury at Spirit wilderness retreat, Utah

One of the hottest debuts in the world of sustainable travel in 2023, Spirit will be a stunning luxury eco resort in Utah’s Zion National Park. Created by Nomadic Resorts, it will comprise 36 individual suites and four homesteads, whose unique leaf-shaped rooftops will be covered in 3.2kWh of solar panels and photovoltaic fabric to generate energy. Other planet-friendly features include an aquaponic greenhouse, where guests can check out a range of plant life, plus electric bikes for traveling around on. 

Now check out the most eco-friendly hotels in the world

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Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the best spa getaways for moms who travel.

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The sauna in Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge at the Seaside Ocean Resort & Spa.

For moms who travel, a spa getaway is the perfect excuse to send mom on a glamorous vacation that’s uniquely all about her. Exceed mom’s expectations this Mother’s Day with one of the best spa getaways on Earth.

The Preserve Resort & Spa in Richmond, Rhode Island features the OH! Spa Beauty & Bentley Experience ... [+] for Mother’s Day.

Preserve Resort & Spa - Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024

New England-based travelers within 15 miles of the Preserve Resort & Spa can purchase the OH! Spa Beauty & Bentley Experience. With the experience, guests are chauffeured from home by a private driver in a custom Bentley Bentayga and taken to OH! Spa (an extension of the Forbes Travel Guide 5-star Ocean House spa ) for luxurious treatments. The solo package ($800) features a 90-minute custom massage with chocolate foot scrub enhancement and a 90-minute custom facial. The couples package ($1,000 per person) includes a 90-minute custom massage and a 1-hour private couples suite rental with a steam sauna and a whirlpool. Both come with chocolate-covered strawberries and a bottle of Prosecco. At the end of the spa experience, the Bentley will return guests home. Reservations can be made here.

Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa - Mother's Day Gift Guide 2024

The farm-to-sea treatments at Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge are a fantastic reason to treat mom to sunshine and sea air at the Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa in Oceanside, California, a beachfront destination north of San Diego. In addition to the standout facials and massages, moms can choose from a menu of IV therapy treatments that go the extra mile to provide complete wellness, including the IV therapy that helps hydrate, combat fatigue, restore skin glow and the craniosacral therapy, which uses touch and intention to help mom unwind restrictions to motion in the cranial rhythmic impulse.

VEA Newport Beach, A Marriott Resort & Spa - Mother's Day Gift Guide 2024

Inside Spa VEA at Newport Beach, a Marriott Resort & Spa.

A long spa weekend for mom at VEA Newport Beach , a Marriott Resort & Spa, is a perfect spa destination to get glowy. The Sunday Funday package allows guests to sleep in late, get that deep tissue massage at Spa VEA , enjoy the hotel’s Sunday brunch, or lounge poolside with a discounted late checkout until 5 p.m. Use promotional code “ARN” at checkout .

Inside the Penthouse suite at the Four Seasons Las Vega

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas - Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024

A Forbes Travel Guide verified luxury hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas delivers the ultimate luxury spa vacation. Choose from several great day packages for Mother’s Day at The Spa, including the Divine Relaxation ($530), a 50-minute full-body exfoliation and a 50-minute body wrap. The Easy Escape ($320), a 25-minute express facial, followed by a 25-minute spot treatment massage and a 25-minute Decadence & Delight manicure at the adjacent Nail Bar. On Mother’s Day, the Four Seasons' signature brunch will be elevated with marinated steak and herb-spiced chicken carving stations, personalized omelets, and decadent pastries. Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas recently completed a redesign of all guestrooms and suites, including the Penthouse and Presidential specialty suites. Take advantage of a 25 percent room discount (or indulge in one of the new especially suites) with “Suite Dreams” at checkout.

The Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona Switzerland sits on the sparkling shores of Lake Maggiore

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The best romantic comedy of the last year just hit netflix, the world s best beers according to the 2024 world beer cup, hotel eden roc, switzerland - mother’s day gift guide 2024.

Located on the South side of the Alps along Lake Maggiore, the Hotel Eden Roc is a slice of heaven on Earth. The hotel is Switzerland’s only beach resort and has everything from fantastic water sports and boat charters to a wild mountain landscape and The Garden of Eden, a retreat for healing and basking in the sun. Each spa experience is tailored to the needs of the guest and features organic or certified natural products. In keeping with the rich natural landscape, the Moving Mountains massage relaxes muscles and joints with a full-body deep tissue massage with a combination of hot and cold stone therapy. The Swiss Pine massage uses Swiss pine oil and massage rollers of locally grown pine to relax and release blockages and improve circulatory function. A bonus to this spa getaway is the upcoming Safari del Gusto 2024: Edizione Lago Maggiore on May 10. This culinary journey begins with an aperitif at the hotel, followed by a walk through the grounds to sample the flavors and textures of the lakeside restaurants.

One&Only Mandarina spa in Mandarina, Mexico features a healing ritual in a volcanic rock garden for ... [+] renewal and spiritual regeneration.

One & Only Mandarina, Mexico - Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024

The luxury beach resort of One & Only Mandarina is set among the cliffs of a coastal rainforest in Mexico. The lush experience is elevated with spa treatments inspired by indigenous and pre-Hispanic culture as well as the expansive natural wonders of Mandarina. Designed to connect you with the movements of the rainforest, the Temazcal healing ritual is led by Mexican Curanderas, healers in the community. The ceremony uses hot stories, herbs and chanting to stimulate detoxification and purify the mind. The well-being journeys are a wonderful way to celebrate Mother’s Day. From clay remedies and hiking through the rainforest, to massages and cleansing ceremonies, if you’re looking for something truly different, One & Only Mandarina is the destination.

The indoor pool at the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa.

Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa - Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024

The name alone beckons a Mother’s Day gift for mom. Just 45 minutes from Paris in the gorgeous French countryside, the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa features a 16,000-square foot spa and overlooks the Champagne vineyards. The indulgent treatments at the Royal Champagne spa include luxurious massages and other treatments using Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian techniques. The resort also has indoor and outdoor heated pools, a sauna and a mosaic-tiled Hammam. Mom can book personalized yoga sessions and spin classes, or enjoy a guided nature walk through the vineyards.

The stunning outdoor firepit at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa.

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa - Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is an idyllic spa getaway for mom this Mother’s Day. The resort sits on the beach with stunning views, and offers everything for a resort staycation to myriad on-site restaurants and outdoor dining options — even MELT, the poolside ice cream parlor. Eau Spa is a jaw-dropping 42,000-square-foot playground for glamorous pampering treatments and relaxation nooks for a total melt. Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Girls Getaway package, including two nights’ accommodations, a $500 credit for spa treatments at Eau Spa and a complimentary cocktail or mocktail at Breeze Ocean Kitchen or Stir Bar & Terrace. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a Forbes Travel Guide verified-luxury five-star resort.

The spa at The Park Hyatt St. Kitts is a glorious oasis of indulgent relaxation and pampering for ... [+] mom.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts - Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024

Nestled within Christophe Harbor on Banana Bay with unobstructed views of the crystal clear Caribbean Sea and neighboring Nevis, the Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers some great packages this Mother’s Day. Among them, the Escape to Park Hyatt includes an upgraded suite and luxurious amenities for two including a rum tasting experience, a one-day cabana rental, cooking demonstration, wellness activity, Sugar Mill Spa & Sanctuary 50-minute couples massage in the Sugar Mill, and daily breakfast. The resort offers three signature dining experiences: an all-day restaurant at Great House, Fisherman's Village ocean-to-table dining for lunch and dinner, and Stone Barn's fine dining experience. The Mother’s Day Sunday Brunch in Great House offers live entertainment, international buffet, sushi station, local favorites and a decadent dessert experience.

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