In a world progressively implementing positive initiatives to mitigate environmental impact, several hotels lead the charge in eco-tourism. With our selection of the Best Eco Resorts in Asia, you can rest assured in your luxury suite or villa while contributing positively to the planet.
MALDIVES
SIX SENSES LAAMU
Address: Laamu Atoll 15090, Maldives (location map)
Instagram: @sixsenseslaamu
Experience Six Senses Laamu, a private island haven where sustainability is paramount. Exclusively positioned, this resort is the sole establishment in the Laamu Atoll in southern Maldives, encircled by vibrant marine life. Indulge in luxury within a beachfront villa surrounded by lush vegetation or savor the ocean breeze from an over-water villa. Whichever option you select, a lavish villa designed with natural materials that harmonize with the environment awaits you.
Numerous experiences await you at Six Senses, many accompanied by educational insights into sustainability and showcasing the resort’s efforts in this domain. Gain insight into the vital marine life of the Laamu Atoll through Marine Conservation Presentations, Turtle Hatching, and Marine Biologist Excursions. Participate in an Organic Garden Tour led by resident chefs, and deepen your understanding of the resort’s environmental practices during a Heart of House Tour.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Waste management involving a ban on single-use plastic, the installation of segregation bins, and on-site recycling.
- ✓ 50% of water sales in all restaurant outlets directed towards supplying clean drinking water to local communities.
- ✓ Manta ray conservation efforts in partnership with the Manta Trust UK, with 125 resident manta rays and 400 resident sea turtles identified and protected by their Marine team.
- ✓ 20,000 plastic water bottles avoided monthly through the bottling of desalinated sea water in reusable glass containers.
- ✓ Recycling of all organic waste for mulching and conversion into organic garden soil.
GILI LANKANFUSHI
Address: Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives, Maldives (location map)
Instagram: @gili.lankafushi
Gili Lankanfushi distinguishes itself not merely by its aesthetic appeal, but through its commitment to being environmentally conscious. Guests are immersed in the island’s natural beauty and inspired to adopt sustainable practices during their stay and beyond. While its primary aim is sustainability, rest assured that luxury is not compromised, allowing for a rejuvenating experience in your personal villa or residence.
At the resort’s core lies Gili Veshi, which translates to Gili Environment, the island’s dedicated marine research center. Here, guests can explore the resort’s dedication to marine conservation, particularly through the Coral Lines Project. The team at Gili Lankanfushi works to remediate coral reef damage by cultivating new coral on ropes before transplantation onto damaged reefs, enhancing the overall health of the surrounding One Palm Island Reef.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ All structures constructed using sustainably sourced plantation teak, palm wood, bamboo, and palm fronds, alongside recycled telegraph poles.
- ✓ All accommodations feature organic toiletries in refillable containers and prohibit single-use plastics.
- ✓ A dedicated desalination facility provides bottled still and sparkling water for guests.
- ✓ An organic garden supplies fresh vegetables and herbs.
- ✓ The Maldives’ inaugural Mechanical Biological Composter enables composting of 100% of organic kitchen waste, returning it to the garden.
THAILAND
KEEMALA
Address: 10/88 Nakasud Rd, Kamala, Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand (location map)
Instagram: @keemalaphuket
Situated amidst a lush canopy in Phuket’s hills, Keemala is a luxury resort embodying Buddhist values and committed to respecting nature. Discover a verdant sanctuary meticulously designed to safeguard the ecosystem, where natural resources have been left undisturbed and the resort is constructed around existing landscapes. Relax in a Bird’s Nest Pool Villa, crafted from recycled materials, yet offering all the comforts of luxury, including a private pool and ocean-view bathtub.
Guests are encouraged to engage with the island’s rescued inhabitants, including water buffalo, goats, and peacocks, and learn about their cultural significance in Thailand. Stroll through the enchanting gardens filled with naturally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs cultivated with dedication and free of chemicals. The resort’s menu features an abundance of vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting its commitment to ethical dining.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Each villa incorporates its own water treatment system, ensuring the quality of treated water released back to the environment meets or exceeds governmental standards.
- ✓ Waste is systematically classified, treated efficiently, and recycled where applicable.
- ✓ Reduced dependency on natural materials by utilizing environmentally friendly synthetic materials to prevent deforestation and other ecological impacts.
- ✓ Only glass bottled water is provided in the villas, with paper straws utilized and toiletries packaged in cloth and recycled paper.
- ✓ Structures have been designed to maximize glass features, promoting natural light and minimizing energy consumption.
SONEVA KIRI
Address: 110 หมู่ 4 Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand (location map)
Instagram: @discoversoneva
Experience unparalleled beauty on an island where luxury intertwines with eco-friendly design, nestled among a tropical rainforest in Thailand. At the heart of Soneva Kiri is the SLOW LIFE philosophy – Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wellness, Learning, Inspiring, Fun, Experiences. This philosophy guides the resort towards achieving unforgettable experiences while minimizing environmental impact. Soneva considers sustainability from its inception, utilizing sustainable materials for construction and collaborating with local communities to enhance environmental and social effects.
Explore Koh Kood by boat, engage with the residents of the local fishing village, or uncover the underwater habitat through diving expeditions. If traveling with children, the Den, a vast bamboo structure suspended in trees staffed by educational childcare experts, offers enriching experiences designed to educate young guests about the environment.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ The resort’s water treatment system meets or exceeds government standards for released water quality.
- ✓ Waste and rubbish are efficiently sorted and treated via recycling and other methods.
- ✓ Utilization of environmentally friendly synthetic materials has reduced the usage of natural resources such as wood, aiding in conservation efforts.
- ✓ Accommodation features only glass bottled water, paper straws, and toiletries packed in cloth and recycled paper.
- ✓ Building designs maximize natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
NIHI SUMBA
Address: Hoba Wawi, Wanokaka, West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia (location map)
Instagram: @nihisumba
Located on the remote island of Sumba in Southeastern Indonesia, Nihi Sumba luxury resort has been recognized as Travel + Leisure’s#1 Hotel in the World for two consecutive years. It represents excellence in luxury and sustainable tourism, being one of the few hotels globally operating solely on biofuel while prioritizing recycling efforts, organic farming, smart composting, and an effective water recycling system.
Discover the island’s stunning beauty by horseback, explore pristine waterfalls, snorkel the protected reef, and enjoy breathtaking views from your luxurious villa constructed using sustainable materials. Additionally, your stay directly supports the Sumba Foundation’s goodwill initiatives through the resort’s profits.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ The Sumba Foundation has facilitated over 70 humanitarian projects in the region, focusing on clean water access, education, and health, notably reducing malaria rates by nearly 70%.
- ✓ Culinary offerings are made with on-site or locally sourced ingredients.
- ✓ A portion of profits is reinvested in the local community.
- ✓ The resort is the principal employer on the island, enhancing local economic development.
- ✓ Constructed facilities include 60 water wells, 240 water stations, 16 primary schools, and 4 medical clinics benefitting over 25,000 individuals.
BAWAH RESERVE
Instagram: @bawahreserve
Bawah Reserve, isolated with the nearest neighbor being 30 km away, invites you to explore the unblemished beauty of its six islands, with three turquoise lagoons and over a dozen private beaches. This retreat offers luxury travelers both adventure and tranquility. Experience nature in your Jungle Lodge, which serves as a perfect sanctuary for families, elevated within the rainforests, providing sea breezes and expansive views overlooking the coastline below.
At the core of Bawah Reserve is its commitment to sustainability. From design to operations, sustainability is integral, reflecting a vision aimed at safeguarding and enhancing these islands while simultaneously fostering the local communities on neighboring islands. Guests can participate in guided tours of the organic farms supplying produce for their meals, and learn how Bawah Reserve is leading the way in organic farming and innovative recycling practices.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Reduction of water use through rainwater collection and desalination.
- ✓ Marine conservation conducted by resident marine biologists, including the safe relocation of turtle eggs.
- ✓ Continuous reforestation initiatives.
- ✓ Design and construction ensuring minimal environmental disruption.
- ✓ Installation of solar panels aimed at reducing energy consumption.
MAHARAJA ECO DIVE LODGE
Address: Dokri Island, Batanta Utara, Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua 94884, Indonesia (location map)
Instagram: @maharaja_eco_dive_lodge
MahaRaja Eco Dive Lodge in Indonesia stands out for its unique Eco Lifestyle. Recognized among the Top 5 World’s Best Eco-Luxury Resorts by Lonely Planet, MahaRaja is designed for guests seeking a distinctive vacation with minimal environmental impact. Enjoy a comfortable overwater lodge featuring a luxurious bed crafted from local, natural materials, entirely solar-powered.
MahaRaja’s Eco Lifestyle emphasizes appreciation, respect, and care for the environment. Each activity is designed to ensure the lowest impact on nature while maximizing positive engagement with the local community. Guests can immerse themselves in Papuan culture through traditional singing, dance, cooking authentic meals, and creating lasting memories.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Built entirely from locally sourced natural materials.
- ✓ Water is sourced through seawater desalination, rainwater harvesting, and natural springs.
- ✓ Hygiene and personal care products are prepared locally with organic ingredients.
- ✓ The menu is entirely organic and consists exclusively of vegan offerings.
- ✓ All boats are crafted using traditional methods from sustainable wood and powered by solar engines.
SRI LANKA
JETWING YALA
Address: Palatupana, Kirinda 82614, Sri Lanka
Instagram: @jetwinghotels
Jetwing Yala resides adjacent to Yala National Park along a rugged stretch of Indian Ocean coastline, creating a luxury resort intimately connected to its natural surroundings. Guests can fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife and awaken to the soothing songs of native birds coexisting peacefully with the resort. During the day, discover the breathtaking landscapes of the nearby national park with a guided tour by a resident naturalist and delve into ancient Sri Lankan culture at nearby historical sites.
Enjoy confidently knowing that your meals are sourced directly from the resort’s organic garden, ensuring the freshest ingredients reach your table. Any produce not grown on-site is locally sourced straight from farmers, including the fresh milk used in regional recipes that feature prominently in the Jetwing Yala menu.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Hosts Sri Lanka’s largest privately-owned solar park.
- ✓ Reverse Osmosis Plant purifies seawater into potable water.
- ✓ Organic waste is treated and recycled on-site through a process-improved composting machine.
- ✓ Wildlife is frequently seen roaming freely on property, maintaining a harmonious coexistence.
- ✓ Features an on-site glass bottling facility, reducing plastic waste and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with bottled water transportation.
INDONESIA
CEMPEDAK ISLAND
Address: Air Gelubi, Bintan Pesisir, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, Indonesia (location map)
Instagram: @cempedakisland
Located just off the eastern coastline of Bintan, Indonesia, Cempedak Island offers a secluded 17-hectare private resort featuring pristine beaches and magnificent white granite formations. Abundant in wildlife, the densely forested area is home to numerous bird species such as hornbills and eagles, and acts as a sanctuary for critically endangered pangolins and a family of otters. Part of Cempedak’s commitment to sustainable tourism involves protecting and conserving the island’s diverse wildlife.
Cempedak’s philosophy emphasizes that choosing sustainability does not require sacrificing luxury, which is evident in the innovative bamboo villa designs. Curved roofs made from local grass blend the villas into their natural surroundings while providing shelter from the elements, with each villa featuring private plunge pools. The commitment to sustainability was foundational in planning and constructing Cempedak Island, solidifying its status as one of the premier eco-resorts in Asia.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Bamboo straws crafted by local families replace plastic straws, generating local employment.
- ✓ A ban on single-use plastics.
- ✓ All organic materials are composted, excluding cooked food and meat waste, which are separately contained for decomposition and subsequently used to feed chickens or fish.
- ✓ On-site pond with Tilapia is utilized for staff meals.
- ✓ Local hiring practices bolster the local economy.
VIETNAM
SIX SENSES CON DAO
Address: Dat Doc Beach, Con Dao Town, Côn Đảo, Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu 74000, Vietnam (location map)
Instagram: @sixsensescondao
Nestled in seclusion yet only a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Six Senses Con Dao offers modern elegance and expansive villas enveloped by lush greenery. Each villa features a private infinity pool and a plethora of activities, from water sports to spa treatments. Emphasizing sustainability, Six Senses Con Dao actively pursues eco-friendly initiatives to improve the resort’s ecological footprint.
Guests are encouraged to engage in complimentary Global Sensibility Workshops, learning to create their own garden compost and setting up similar processes at home. They are also invited to explore the organic garden where the fresh produce for the restaurants is harvested and can participate in local clean-up efforts alongside resort hosts committed to maintaining the area’s cleanliness.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Sea turtle incubation and research – 2,904 endangered sea turtles successfully hatched and released into the wild.
- ✓ Organic farming and composting initiatives.
- ✓ On-site reverse osmosis plant provides still and sparkling remineralized drinking water, eliminating reliance on 10,000 plastic bottles per month.
- ✓ Each villa is equipped with solar panels for energy efficiency.
- ✓ Ongoing community education initiatives, including English classes, environmental workshops, and life skills activities.
TOPAS ECOLODGE
Address: 24 Mường Hoa, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai, Vietnam (location map)
Instagram: @topasecolodge
Topas Ecolodge, a charming lodge perched atop a stunning hill within the Hoang Lien National Park of Northern Vietnam, embodies sustainable practices in its 33 uniquely designed chalets inspired by rustic homes. Guests can unwind on their private balconies with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, all while knowing they are in a National Geographic ‘Unique Lodge of the World’.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Commitment to community development through job creation.
- ✓ A focus on sharing resources with the local community, including recyclable materials and food waste to nourish livestock.
- ✓ On-site glass recycling facilities with a crushing machine.
- ✓ Implementation of constructed wetlands for treating kitchen and laundry wastewater before it returns to the fields.
- ✓ Ongoing sponsorship of local schools enhancing environmental education.
CAMBODIA
SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND
Address: Koh Ouen Private Island, Koh Rong Archipelago, Near Sihanoukville, Cambodia (location map)
Instagram: @songsaaprivateisland
Embark on an extraordinary journey at Song Saa Private Island, a secluded sanctuary designed in harmony with nature and founded upon sustainable principles. Inspired by Cambodia’s coastline, the resort remains committed to preserving the natural environment, with luxurious wooden villas constructed from local materials and decorated with artwork by regional artisans. Stroll along your private beach or dive into the vibrant coral reefs—a perfect escape from daily life.
At Song Saa, the guiding principles revolve around Water, People, Land. The Song Saa Foundation tirelessly works towards improving the well-being of marine ecosystems, local communities, and terrestrial habitats. From sea turtle rescue operations to community health initiatives and educational programs, guests are invited to learn more about the foundation’s efforts through guided tours of Prek Svay village on a nearby island.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Protection of ocean habitats and preservation of marine biodiversity.
- ✓ Initiatives aimed at improving local community lives, including medical missions and organic farming support.
- ✓ Conservation of soil habitats and species in Koh Rong Archipelago and Banteay Srey.
- ✓ Active solid waste management projects implemented in Prek Sva.
- ✓ Pioneering rainforest restoration efforts in Banteay Srey.
4 RIVERS FLOATING ECO LODGE
Address: Koh Andet Island, Tatai, Cambodia (location map)
Instagram: @4rivers.tatai
At 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, escape the concerns of the outside world while enjoying a luxurious tent floating on the Tatai River, nestled deep within the Cardamom Rainforest. Embrace the essence of glamping, drifting to sleep on your luxurious tent while surrounded by nature, all with modern comforts at your disposal. This floating resort places a clear emphasis on sustainability, aiming for a high positive impact on the local populace while minimizing environmental repercussions.
Rather than solely observing the environmental efforts made by the team at 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, guests are invited to participate in these initiatives. Engage with the local community through organized tours that provide insights into the area’s rich culture, explore the Cardamom Rainforest through daily excursions to waterfalls or mangroves, and witness the enchanting fireflies by night—all contributing to a balanced ecosystem along the river.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ Ongoing employment of local citizens to support the economy.
- ✓ Organized Tatai River Clean-Up Days with community leaders to educate about waste reduction and environmental impact.
- ✓ Crafted a water catchment system to provide clean, drinkable water at the Tatai school.
- ✓ Collaborating with Wildlife Alliance for wildlife and forest conservation.
- ✓ Waste reduction managed through mindful consumption, including segregation and recycling; food waste is used to nourish local poultry, and all plastic is recycled.
PHILIPPINES
NAY PALAD HIDEAWAY
Address: Siargao Island, 8419 Malinao Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte, Philippines (location map)
Instagram: @naypalad
Nay Palad Hideaway is the epitome of barefoot luxury on Siargao Island’s southeastern coast. Featuring just 10 exquisite villas set amidst lush tropical foliage, it promises an unmatched level of privacy. Upholding eco-friendly practices, each villa has been constructed using sustainably sourced local materials, complemented by traditional craftsmanship.
Beginning upon arrival on Siargao, guests can fully immerse themselves in the island’s culture. From being transported via a traditional Jeepney to embarking on island-hopping tours led by locals, guests can experience the unique island lifestyle. Engage with local delicacies, such as the famous pan de coco (coconut bread) made by local women, while enjoying the renowned surfing opportunities Siargao offers, all while respecting marine conservation initiatives.
Sustainability Efforts:
- ✓ A certified member of The Long Run, promoting sustainable development led by nature-focused businesses.
- ✓ Establishing the Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape sanctuary.
- ✓ Plantation of 50,000 mangrove trees.
- ✓ Conservation of 19,700 acres of land.
- ✓ Utilization of sustainably sourced building materials.
