Shores of Sustainability: Exploring Eco-Friendly Beach Resorts

beach destinations dedicated to eco-friendly practices are becoming more popular —here's a list of some of our favorites

Mark

Jul 18, 2024 - 20:00

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Shores of Sustainability: Exploring Eco-Friendly Beach Resorts

Undisturbed shining water of an infinity pool overlooks the Costa Rican coastline. Photo via The Barracuda

When preparing for a luxurious and relaxing beach vacation, many travelers now search for a stay where Mother Nature is truly at the forefront. Sustainability is the name of the game; beach destinations dedicated to eco-friendly practices are becoming more popular —ones where crystal-clear waters and smooth sands are cared for and protected. When planning your next vacation, check out these dedicated dream destinations.

Zeavola Resort and Spa- Thailand

Yellow beach umbrellas shade people lounging on the sand looking out on turquoise waters

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Nestled in the lush jungle of Phi Phi Don you’ll find a stunning retreat rich with the charm of a rustic Thai village. Rather than destroying an entire ecosystem by developing monstrous buildings, this stay focuses on authenticity and embraces natural beauty with teakwood villas and grass-thatched roofs. You’ll find no cars on this pristine island as everything is only accessible via boat.

Situated on a serene stretch of the Northeast coast, each villa offers breathtaking views of blue waters and lush jungle. Simple, yet impactful practices have been put in place to maintain a sustainable relationship with the environment around the resort. By replacing plastics in all of their deliveries, along with providing purified water refill stations, this dedicated team has eliminated over 120,000 single-use bottles every year.

Hotel Nantipa- Costa Rica

A beach with hammocks at sunset with the Costa Rican coastline behind. Photo via Hotel Nantipa

This tropical paradise is one of the only blue zones on the planet; surrounded by natural wonder and vibrant life, it’s no surprise people live longer here. During your stay, you can be part of the sustainable initiative through a beach cleanup. Guests are encouraged to spend some time during a beach stroll to join the resort’s efforts to eliminate ocean pollution by picking up any small pieces of trash they find. Get this- if you post a photo on socials with your cleanup, the resort will reward you with a free smoothie!

Environmental stewardship has been integral to Nantipa since its inception, with only 6 trees having been cut down to make way for the resort; and all of the wood was upcycled and used to make furniture for the hotel. By reducing single-use plastics like straws and water bottles, along with reutilization of resources and solar energy, this eco-conscious paradise is leading the way in sustainable luxury.

The Barracuda- Brazil

Bright blue sky with the ocean in the background. In the foreground a bed out on a large tropical patio. Photo via The Barracuda

This boutique experience combines all the flourishing wonders of Brazil’s jungle environment with Scandanavian refinement, creating an unparalleled stay surrounded by natural beauty. Dedicated to developing and adopting ecological practices, this group leads the industry in social and environmental responsibility. Part of the “climate guardians” initiative, this lavish and laid-back resort focuses on utilizing the power of Brazilian tourism to drive climate-conscious practices across the board.

The Barracuda embraces the enchanting and romantic scenery by offering exquisite views of the ocean from nearly every angle. Winner of the Sustainable Tourism Initiative Challenge and Gold Winner of the WTM Latin America Responsible Tourism Awards, this serene retreat utilizes solar energy and bamboo to embrace climate activism.

Pimalai Resort and Spa- Thailand

Pool and sunchairs overlooking the ocean. Photo via Pimalai Resort and Spa

Situated on 100 acres of tropical beauty, this beachfront resort embraces and highlights the stunning natural wonder that sets Thailand apart. Not only does this resort lead the way in sustainable practices and eco-conscious amenities, but it is also a local network leader for scientific study and research, focusing on ecological movements and inventive accommodations.

The grounds were specifically and thoughtfully designed not to compete with the existing environment and to blend with the gorgeous scenery without interfering with the local flora and fauna. From collecting rainwater and recycling fully treated wastewater for watering plants to implementing zero-waste practices in all areas of service, this flourishing resort supports the natural landscape with a dedicated and conscious operation.

Finca Rosa Blanca- Costa Rica

Jungle view with Finca Rosa Blanca nestled amongst the trees with a rainbow overhead. Photo via Finca Rosa Blanca

This unique and intimate stay is nestled deep in the hilly jungles of Costa Rica’s tropical jungle. Uniquely situated on a coffee farm, embracing the majesty of the surrounding environment, guests will receive the freshest coffee, farm-to-table fare, and an authentic local experience. Dedicated to community growth, environmental education, and ecological practices, this dazzling haven takes sustainability very seriously.

To mitigate and reduce the ecological footprint of the hotel, a robust reforestation plan has helped combat biological impact by planting over 5,000 native trees. Additionally, solar power is utilized for electricity and hot water. Focusing on respecting and protecting the local ecosystem, Finca Rosa Blanca leads the charge as one of the first carbon-neutral hotels in Costa Rica and stewards of Mother Nature.