Travel Better: 5 Island Hotels Fighting Climate Change

From coral regeneration to seaweed farming—these island stays are turning the tide on climate.

When we think of island escapes, we imagine turquoise water, soft sand, and a break from the noise of modern life. But behind the scenes, many island destinations are on the frontline of climate change—rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and ecosystem loss threaten not only their future but the planet’s. That’s why some island hotels are doing more than just offering scenic views and bamboo straws. They're actively working to protect the very nature they depend on.

Here are five island stays that aren’t just greenwashing—they’re rewriting the rules of hospitality to help reverse environmental damage.

NIHI Sumba – Sumba Island, Indonesia

Best for: Regenerative tourism with community impact

NIHI Sumba is more than a resort—it’s a living example of regenerative travel. Tucked away on the remote Indonesian island of Sumba, this eco-luxury resort doesn’t just minimize its impact—it aims to leave the island better than it found it. NIHI works closely with the Sumba Foundation to provide clean water, healthcare, and education for local communities.

Its sustainability initiatives include permaculture gardens, on-site water filtration, and investments in renewable energy. NIHI also respects local materials and crafts in its design, empowering the surrounding economy while staying low-impact.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort – Aruba

Best for: Carbon-neutral Caribbean relaxation

The first certified carbon-neutral hotel in the Caribbean, Bucuti & Tara is a leader in sustainable luxury. Guests are greeted with a quiet, adults-only beachfront experience—but behind the scenes, the hotel is running a tight ship: solar panels power much of the resort, energy-efficient systems reduce usage, and a rigorous recycling and composting program keeps waste to a minimum.

They even offer guests the ability to offset their travel emissions during booking, making climate responsibility part of the experience—not an afterthought.

Best for: Coral reef restoration with a luxury twist

Lovango may be new, but its mission is clear: protect the ocean it sits on. Partnering with marine nonprofit Reef Response, Lovango funds and facilitates coral restoration around the island. Guests can take part in eco-tours, snorkel around reef-safe zones, and learn about the crucial role coral plays in ocean ecosystems.

With off-grid elements, solar energy, and sustainable dining, Lovango balances indulgence with ecological awareness.

Lovango Resort + Beach Club – U.S. Virgin Islands

El Blok Hotel – Vieques, Puerto Rico

Best for: Design lovers with a conscience

This architecturally bold hotel stands out for more than its curves. Built to blend with its environment and survive tropical weather extremes, El Blok is powered in part by solar, uses rainwater collection systems, and minimizes waste through composting and local sourcing.

It’s a celebration of island resilience—where contemporary design meets environmental pragmatism.

Dunas de Formentera – Formentera, Spain

Best for: Slow travel and Mediterranean minimalism

Located on Spain’s quietest Balearic island, Dunas de Formentera is leading the way in low-impact hospitality. The hotel supports rewilding and coastal regeneration projects, sources from sustainable fishing cooperatives, and prioritizes native vegetation in landscaping.

With zero single-use plastics and design that reflects the natural tones of the island, it encourages travelers to disconnect and tread lightly.

Island hotels have a unique responsibility—and opportunity—to lead in climate action. These stays prove that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or experience to protect the planet. If anything, these conscious choices deepen the connection between guest and place.

Travel Better. Choose places that give more than they take.

Location Tag: Indonesia, Aruba, USA, Puerto Rico, Spain

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