As sustainability becomes a top priority for travelers, eco-friendly resorts are rising in popularity. In 2025, eco-conscious tourism will be even more essential, with a growing number of resorts across the United States offering eco-luxury and sustainable practices. These resorts not only offer a relaxing getaway but also minimize their environmental impact, supporting both nature and local communities. Here are the top eco-friendly resorts in the U.S. to consider for your next trip in 2025.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Resorts?
Choosing eco-friendly resorts is no longer a trend—it’s a necessity. Sustainable resorts reduce carbon footprints, protect local wildlife, and often run on renewable energy sources. According to a report by Booking.com, 81% of travelers now want to stay in eco-friendly accommodations, a number that is expected to increase in 2025. Eco-resorts focus on minimizing waste, using eco-friendly building materials, conserving water, and promoting local culture.
Beyond the environmental impact, these resorts also provide unique experiences. Many offer locally sourced food, natural surroundings, and wellness activities centered on reconnecting with nature.
Best Eco-Friendly Resorts in the U.S. for 2025
Post Ranch Inn, California
Located in Big Sur, California, Post Ranch Inn is a leader in sustainable luxury. The resort operates primarily on solar energy and practices comprehensive waste reduction. Rooms are built with recycled materials, and their water-saving initiatives help reduce usage by up to 30% compared to standard hotels. Guests can enjoy organic meals prepared from the on-site garden, making it a truly eco-conscious experience.
- Notable eco-features: Solar energy, recycled materials, water-saving technologies.
- Activities: Nature walks, wellness programs, and organic farm tours.
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Utah
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, The Lodge at Blue Sky focuses on sustainable living. The resort promotes environmental stewardship through its low-impact energy use, natural building materials, and organic farming. Their horses are cared for in an eco-friendly equestrian center, and guests are encouraged to explore the vast landscape in an environmentally conscious way.
- Notable eco-features: Organic farming, locally sourced materials, equestrian center.
- Activities: Horseback riding, yoga, sustainable farming workshops.
Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel, Montana
Whitepod is one of the most sustainable hotels in the U.S., boasting LEED certification. This off-grid resort focuses on minimizing its carbon footprint by relying entirely on renewable energy, including wind and solar power. The pods are made of local, sustainable materials and are designed to blend into the natural landscape, leaving minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.
- Notable eco-features: Off-grid energy systems, local materials, minimal disruption to nature.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife watching, eco-building workshops.
Terramor Outdoor Resort, Maine
Terramor Outdoor Resort is a camping haven for eco-conscious travelers. This glamping resort minimizes environmental impact through its solar-powered cabins and waste management system. Terramor also educates guests on sustainable camping practices and offers activities that promote environmental awareness.
- Notable eco-features: Solar-powered cabins, eco-friendly camping practices.
- Activities: Eco-camping education, hiking, and nature conservation activities.
Cavallo Point Lodge, California
Cavallo Point Lodge is a luxury eco-resort located near the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The resort practices energy-efficient operations with LEED Gold certification. Their restaurant uses local, organic ingredients, and they have a robust recycling and composting program that diverts 80% of waste from landfills.
- Notable eco-features: LEED Gold certification, energy efficiency, waste diversion.
- Activities: Guided historical tours, hiking, culinary workshops with organic ingredients.
Amangiri, Utah
Amangiri, located in the heart of the Utah desert, focuses on low-impact architecture that merges with the surrounding landscape. The resort uses renewable energy, promotes water conservation, and offers guests eco-tours to explore the unique desert ecosystem. This luxury resort ensures that every part of its operation, from water usage to food sourcing, aligns with sustainability principles.
- Notable eco-features: Water conservation, renewable energy, low-impact architecture.
- Activities: Eco-tours, wellness programs, desert exploration.
Inn by the Sea, Maine
Inn by the Sea in Maine combines eco-luxury with a strong focus on conservation. The resort supports local wildlife conservation programs and has removed invasive plant species from its surroundings to preserve the local ecosystem. It also runs on sustainable energy and follows a zero-waste policy. For travelers interested in marine life, the resort’s partnership with local environmental groups provides opportunities for hands-on learning.
- Notable eco-features: Wildlife conservation programs, sustainable energy, zero-waste initiatives.
- Activities: Marine wildlife tours, educational programs, eco-walks.
Eco-Friendly Resorts for Families and Couples
Many eco-friendly resorts in the U.S. cater specifically to families and couples seeking a green vacation experience. Here’s a look at some top options:
Family-Friendly Eco Resorts
For families, resorts such as Terramor Outdoor Resort and Post Ranch Inn provide hands-on educational experiences for children. They offer eco-friendly programs such as nature walks and workshops on wildlife conservation, helping kids connect with nature in an engaging way. According to a report from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, 74% of families are now prioritizing eco-conscious vacations, a trend expected to continue in 2025.
Eco Resorts for Couples
For couples seeking a sustainable and romantic getaway, resorts like Amangiri and The Lodge at Blue Sky are perfect choices. These destinations combine eco-luxury with serene, nature-focused settings, offering a tranquil escape with minimal environmental impact. Sustainable honeymoon trips are also gaining popularity, with 64% of newlyweds now considering eco-friendly options .
How to Choose the Right Eco-Friendly Resort
When selecting an eco-friendly resort, here are some factors to consider:
- Certification: Look for resorts with certifications like LEED or those approved by organizations such as Green Key or Green Globe. These resorts follow strict guidelines to minimize their environmental impact.
- Energy Use: Does the resort use renewable energy such as solar or wind power? Many eco-friendly resorts rely heavily on green energy solutions.
- Water Conservation: Check for water-saving technologies like low-flow showers, rainwater collection, or greywater recycling.
- Waste Management: Does the resort recycle, compost, or divert waste from landfills? Look for information on their waste reduction initiatives.
- Local Sourcing: Resorts that use locally sourced food and materials often have a smaller carbon footprint. This also supports the surrounding community.
For additional tips on identifying sustainable resorts, you can visit authoritative sources like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council .
In 2025, eco-friendly resorts will play a critical role in shaping the future of tourism. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway or a romantic escape, the eco-resorts mentioned above provide luxurious and sustainable options across the U.S. These destinations ensure that your vacation leaves minimal impact on the environment while offering memorable, nature-centric experiences.
By choosing eco-friendly resorts, travelers not only enjoy a unique and peaceful experience but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Start planning your 2025 eco-friendly vacation now and make a lasting positive impact on the planet.
