Who says you can't enjoy the beach, and take care of it, too? Ecologically conscious folks deserve a relaxing beach vacation just as much as anyone else, so it's a good thing that there are plenty of beautiful and exotic seaside ecotourism resorts out there from which to choose. From the Indian Ocean beaches of Tanzania to the coastal islands of Belize, check out our list of five top seaside ecotourism resorts (and don't forget the biodegradable sunscreen).
The first yoga retreat and family eco-resort in Belize, Ak'Bol is smack dab in the middle of one of the world's most popular ecotourism destinations: Belize's barrier islands. In additional to an eclectic mix of yoga classes, Ak'Bol offers its guests ample opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive or just lounge around and work on their tans. Ak'Bol's sustainable housing is made up of a series of cabanas designed to resemble a Mayan village.
Miami Beach may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of top ecotourism destinations. This eco-friendly, beachfront hotel is located right in the city's snazzy art deco district. Unique among luxury ecotourism resorts, Cassanova has undertaken a large number of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. For example, Cassanova has committed to use in its facilities only products with recyclable packaging. They are one of the only Miami Beach hotels to be a member of Florida's Green Lodging Program.
Located in one of the world's top ecotourism destinations, Kervan Saray offers sustainable housing and several adventure travel options, including guided diving, birding and wildlife safari packages. Kervan Saray's rooms are located in individual thatched beach huts, built and furnished with locally-sourced materials. Water for showering is solar heated using a traditional African village system.
The only U.S. North American property to be named to Condé Nast Traveler's list of the world's Top Luxury Eco-Friendly Beach Destinations, Mauna Lai Bay generates the most solar electric power of any resort in the world with its extensive rooftop system. The hotel is also known for its sea turtle fostering program and was one of only 10 golf resorts worldwide to be chosen for Golf Magazine's Green Golf Award.
Offering 24 well-appointed beachfront rooms, Nalla Eco aims to promote eco-friendly tourism practices that will enhance the economic development of nearby villages while preserving the surrounding natural environment. Their farm-house style sustainable housing was built using recycled wood and locally-made ceramic tiles. Guests can take workshops to learn weaving and other skills from local villagers as well as tour the local environs to see dolphins and other wildlife.