Hawaii is a tropical wonderland of amazing beaches, excellent surfing, volcanic landscapes, and relaxed island living. It’s the kind of bucket-list destination that offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer or a sun-seeker, or someone just looking for a deeper connection with yourself and nature.
On an island so blessed with natural beauty, it’s no surprise that the list of the best eco-resorts and eco-lodges in Hawaii is continually expanding. Options are becoming increasingly varied to suit the tastes and budget of eco-conscious travellers from all walks of life. Whatever your travel style and desired experience, there’s a unique accommodation option in Hawaii to suit.
We’ve created this list of some of the best eco-resorts ad lodges in Hawaii to illustrate this growing variety of options for you to choose from. All of the properties will offer you a unique and memorable stay, while also taking steps to protect the environment.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Hawaii for One Night
Eco Adventure Treehouse
This quaint forest cabin offers off-the-grid living in a tranquil area of the island. The cabin is an ideal base from which to explore all that The Big Island has to offer. It's fully equipped with all the essentials, offering great value for money.
- Akatsuka Orchid Gardens
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Kehena Black Sand Beach
Is this amazing Hawaii Eco-Resort and Eco-Lodge booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!
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Why Stay in an Eco-Resort in Hawaii?
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The more you discover about a destination, the more memorable your trip will be. Eco-resorts are some of the best places to stay in Hawaii as they allow you to get close to nature while learning about the local culture and heritage.
Whether you choose to stay on a beach during your Hawaii trip, or high up on the volcanic slopes, you’ll enjoy an experience of this magical island like no other. Plus, you get the added benefit of knowing that your stay is having a minimal impact on the environment.
What is an Eco-Lodge?
An eco-lodge or eco-resort is any accommodation that strives to respect and protect the environment in some way. This is done by committing to various initiatives that minimize the impact of its operations. Methods include using renewable energy, eliminating single-use plastics, composting, and recycling.
It isn’t just about the environment, however. It’s also about supporting and uplifting local communities. Part of this commitment means supporting local businesses and artisans, making use of local guides and experts, and offering guests a way to understand and experience local cultures.
Eco Adventure Treehouse
- > $$$
- > 4 guests
- > Off-grid eco-treehouse
- > Zip line + swinging bridge
Private Cabin Near Waterfall
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Multiple private waterfalls
- > Ocean views
Turtle Bay Resort
- > $$$$
- > 4 guests
- > 4 Swimming pools
- > Eco friendly resort
Rainforest Eco Cabin
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Cozy and private eco-cabin
- > Forest location in a tranquil setting
Hawaii Island Retreat at Ahu Pohaku Ho’omaluhia
- > $$
- > 2 guests
- > Ocean views and 50 acres of lush gardens
- > Sustainable stay without sacrificing comfort
The Kahala Hotel and Resort
- > $$$
- > 5 guests
- > Situated on a private beach
- > Entertainment for the whole family
Cauldera Camp Cabin
- > $
- > 3 guests
- > Next to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- > Clear roof “glamp”
The Top 13 Eco-Lodges in Hawaii
This list features a sample of the best eco-resorts and eco-lodges in Hawaii. These will not only offer you a memorable and comfortable stay but they are also engaged in responsible travel practices.
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Overall Best Eco-Lodge in Hawaii – Eco Adventure Treehouse
If you’re in the market for an epic Hawaiian treehouse, stop your search! It doesn’t get much better than this. This top-rated eco-friendly rental was featured on HGTV Tiny Homes and is filled with things to do.
The off-grid home is filled with natural light, and might just be the only Hawaii vacation rental with its own zip line. Many aspects of the home are built with sustainability initiatives in mind, and it certainly ranks on another kind of “best” list for its lava-themed bathroom.
The treehouse runs off of a solar roof installation, and all water is served via a rain catchment device, though drinking water is also provided by the hosts. You’ll also find a swinging bridge and a hammock to lounge around in. Located in Mt. View, you’re only a short drive away from the iconic Volcanoes National Park, which is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii.
Best Value Eco-Lodge – Private Cabin Near Waterfall
You certainly won’t regret adding this eco-lodge to your Hawaii itinerary. It doesn’t get much better than a sweeping ocean view and a ton of hidden waterfalls in my book!
Located between Waipo Valley and Volcanoes National Park on a 20 acre property, this eco-friendly Hawaii cabin features multiple-on-site swimming holes, and gives you access to plenty of wildlife.
The eco friendly cabin can sleep two with a comfortable queen-sized bed. Cool off in the high-pressure outdoor shower, and rest easy knowing the hosts have made a lot of sustainable efforts to get this cabin to its current shape.
Best Eco-Resort for Couples – Turtle Bay Resort
Located on Oahu, Turtle Bay is one of the best eco friendly resorts in Hawaii. The resort serves locally sourced food, which includes organic produce from a local farm.
It also features a solar roof installation, smart room technology that automates air conditioning for energy efficiency, resort wide recycling, and numerous other sustainability initiatives.
Aside from their fantastic commitment to green practices, the 1300 acre eco resort offers a private shoreline, miles of exclusive hiking and biking trails, FOUR swimming pools, a golf course and so much more.
While it is one of the more expensive Hawaiian resorts, a sustainable stay doesn’t get much better than this!
Another Great Eco-Lodge for Couples – Tree Tops Villa
This eco retreat is located in the lush tropical landscape overlooking verdant valleys, undulating hills, and the glittering ocean. All the comforts of a luxury eco retreat are enjoyed from within this organic architecture that blends in effortlessly with nature.
The treehouse comprises a wooden structure accented by natural fabrics and artifacts. The surrounding vegetation grows wild and untamed. This helps the house blend in with its surroundings and ensures a more organic feel. There’s no need for additional cooling as the trade winds are maximized through large windows and doors.
Despite its remote and secluded feel, the house is close to some of Hawaii’s best beaches, outdoor activities, and entertainment. Alternatively, guests can relax beside the infinity pool, or rock gently in a hammock and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature.
Best Eco-Resort for a Weekend in Hawaii – Rainforest Eco Cabin
Rainforest Eco Cabin is hidden in a leafy setting within easy reach of all the island’s top attractions. The cabin is compact but provides everything needed for a comfortable stay.
During construction, only the essential amount of land was cleared to prevent disturbing too much of the natural vegetation. It’s now off-grid–water is provided from a rainwater collection system and filtered for consumption, and electricity comes from a solar roof installation.
From the cabin, it’s a short drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the black sand volcanic beach at Kehena. Guests can rent scooters to explore all that The Big Island has to offer, including Akaka Falls and Hilo beaches. Because of all this thriving nature nearby, this eco accommodation is one of my favorite places to stay near Hilo.
Most Ecological Eco-Resort in Hawaii – Hawaii Island Retreat at Ahu Pohaku Ho’omaluhia
The Hawaii Island Retreat is located along the North Kohala coast and is an area of lush vegetation and ocean views. The rooms offer a spacious and comfortable retreat after a day of adventuring.
The resort makes many sustainable efforts throughout the property. It uses water-efficient toilets and showers, energy-efficient LED bulbs, and 100% renewable energy throughout. It also provides meals made from locally sourced food, employs local guides, and supports local businesses. In addition, a portion of the resort’s carbon footprint is offset.
Guests can relax beside the swimming pool, enjoy one of their body treatments at the wellness center, or enjoy a class at the yoga studio. The resort also offers walking tours, snorkeling, hiking and golf.
Best Eco-Resort for Families Visiting Hawaii – The Kahala Hotel and Resort
The Kahala Hotel and Resort boasts a beautiful location and a wide variety of facilities and activities for every member of the family. Elegant rooms provide a restful retreat after a day’s fun outdoors and a variety of restaurants are available.
The resort does not use single-use plastics, so make sure to add a reusable water bottle to your Hawaii packing list. Most of the food at the resort is locally sourced and waste is recycled wherever possible. There are energy-efficient light bulbs throughout, and the resort aims to use local guides and businesses where possible.
The resort offers a wide range of activities to keep the entire family entertained, from horse-riding to tennis, cycle tours to snorkeling, and a kids club for the little ones to enjoy. There are two swimming pools and a wellness center for adults to enjoy some well-deserved pampering.
Best Eco-Lodge for Backpackers – Cauldera Camp Cabin
Looking for a break from Hawaii’s hostels?
Check into this epic cabin, that’s quite literally located ON a prehistoric volcano wall! This affordable glamp will give you a comfy taste of what it’s like to go camping in Hawaii–complete with a clear roof that’s ideal for star gazing.
The cabin is near some epic Big Island hikes and is a great choice for budget backpackers and nature lovers alike. Cyclists will particularly like the location for its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere– despite feeling like it’s inside a forest, this Hawaii eco-lodge is within walking distance from shops and restaurants.
Another Amazing Eco-Lodge in Hawaii – Kai Malolo
Situated on a sloping hillside overlooking the ocean, Kai Malolo is a spacious and airy home-away-from-home with everything needed for a luxurious Big Island holiday. Three spacious bedrooms, a bright living room, and a large outdoor deck offer plenty of space to relax in.
The house is entirely eco-friendly with solar power and is made from plenty of natural materials, . Between November and April, you can even see whales right from the property.
Relax beside the swimming pool, enjoy a barbeque on the deck, or head out to explore Hawaii. While the ocean in front of the house is not suitable for swimming, there are thermally heated tide pools nearby as well.
Another Great Eco-Lodge for a Weekend in Hawaii – Lotus Room of Opua House, Maui Eco Retreat
The Lotus Room offers a private retreat with access to the main house’s kitchen, living room, and parlor. The room has a private bathroom and a deck where guests can enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature.
The house has been ecologically built and features local artifacts and hand-crafted pieces that reflect the area’s cultures. Water is obtained from a volcanic aquifer via a well, and organic produce is grown on the property.
Guests can enjoy serene strolls through the gardens, agroforestry gardens, and flowerbeds. If you’re up for a challenge, put on your hiking shoes and head out along the cliff trail that takes in the rugged beauty of this region. The seaside town of Paia is a short distance away with its many restaurants, boutiques, and beaches.
Best Eco-Lodge with an Epic Location – Maui Sands 4B
Located on a stretch of coastline known for having a low density of properties, Maui Sands offers a more laid-back and crowd-free experience. The condo looks out over the pristine ocean that forms part of the Kahekili Marine Reserve.
The house features granite, timber, bamboo and river rock elements to incorporate natural elements. There’s a reverse osmosis water filtration system in the house to eliminate the need for bottled water, and energy-efficient appliances have been used in the kitchen.
Guests can relax on the lanai which looks over the ocean where often marine species can be spotted in the reserve. There are a number of shops and stores nearby, including West Maui’s only health food shop. Further out, guests have a variety of beaches to explore.
Best Eco-Lodge for Honeymooners – Dreamy Tropical Tree House
This dreamy tropical treehouse is a romantic retreat above the leafy canopy. Enjoying a secluded location, the tree house is the perfect retreat offering an off-the-grid experience with all the comforts of home.
The entire treehouse has been hand-built using local materials. Solar power provides electricity and rainwater is harvested for showers and toilets. The accommodation supplies organic toiletries and clean drinking water.
Guests can spend lazy days on the hanging bed, listening to the sounds of the jungle, or reading a good book. Volcanoes National Park is a short drive away, as well as a number of Hawaii’s top attractions.
Most Beautiful Eco-Resort in Hawaii – Volcano Eco Retreat
Volcano Eco Retreat is a beautiful resort featuring thatched bungalows in a lush setting. The bungalows are made from bamboo and timber and offer a comfortable and well-equipped stay.
The resort does not offer guests single-use plastics and makes an effort to recycle wherever possible. Water-efficient toilets and showers are used as well as LED energy-efficient light bulbs throughout. Local businesses are supported; most food is locally sourced, and tour guides come from the surrounding areas.
Lava Tree State Park is a short drive away, while various beaches and some of Hawaii’s top attractions are within easy reach. Guests can remain at the resort and enjoy a barbeque or relax in the hot tub after a day’s adventure.
Don’t Forget Your Hawaii Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Hawaii Eco-Resorts and Eco-Lodges
Hawaii’s incredible landscapes are best experienced up close. Staying in one of the best eco-resorts and eco-lodges in Hawaii will offer just that. Not only will you be immersed in nature, but you’ll have a minimal impact on these amazing ecosystems and the planet in general.
Whether you opt for a rustic treehouse in the forest, or something luxurious closer to the beach and the nightlife, there’s an eco-lodge to suit. What we’ve gathered here is but a small sample of unique accommodation in Hawaii to help guide you in making your decisions for your next trip.
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