For many of us, traveling more consciously has become just as important as the destination itself. Rather than contributing to extractive tourism, overdevelopment, or travel that harms local communities and the environment, we want our vacations to leave a positive impact.
That's why we've put together a list of destinations using tourism as a tool to protect what makes them so special. From conservation initiatives to community-led development, these places are proving that sustainable tourism can preserve local culture, safeguard natural ecosystems, and create meaningful economic opportunities for the people who call them home.
As you start planning your next tropical getaway, consider choosing a destination where your visit helps strengthen the community rather than strain it. Because the best trips don't just leave you with unforgettable memories, they leave a positive impact, too.
Las Flores, El Salvador
On the eastern coast of El Salvador, about three hours from the capital of San Salvador, lies the small surf community of Las Flores, a tropical oasis tucked between lush mountains and volcanic landscapes. In recent years, this stretch of coastline was designated part of the Oriente Salvaje World Surfing Reserve, an initiative dedicated to protecting the region's world-class waves, coastal ecosystems, and the communities that call it home. Rather than encouraging unchecked tourism development, the reserve works alongside local residents to promote conservation, sustainable development, and community empowerment.
Start your mornings with a surf lesson led by local instructors who grew up surfing these waves and continue to call Las Flores home. When you're not in the water, hike nearby volcanoes, tour sustainable coffee plantations, or visit a nearby spider monkey sanctuary to experience another side of the region's incredible biodiversity.
For your stay, we recommend Las Flores Resort, a barefoot-luxury retreat perched directly on the beach. Thoughtfully designed to complement the natural contours of the coastline, the family-friendly resort offers sweeping ocean views from nearly every corner. Even better, it's locally owned by a Salvadoran entrepreneur who also helped spearhead the Oriente Salvaje World Surfing Reserve project. His commitment to protecting both the environment and the local community is reflected throughout the resort, which is currently pursuing certification as a sustainable surf tourism operation.
Mo'orea, French Polynesia
Most famous for its breathtaking reefs and rich Polynesian culture, Mo'orea should be at the top of your list for a sustainable tropical getaway. Home to inspiring conservation organizations like Coral Gardeners, this idyllic island has become a leader in lagoon restoration, reef education, and low-impact tourism that celebrates and preserves Polynesian traditions.
If you're planning a visit, we recommend staying at Green Lodge Mo'orea. A portion of every stay supports Keep Mo'orea Wild, an organization dedicated to protecting the island's forests and biodiversity. Guests even have the opportunity to "adopt" a square meter of protected land during their stay. The lodge also partners with local guides, artisans, and small businesses, helping ensure that tourism dollars stay within the community.
When you're not unwinding at the lodge, set out on a guided snorkeling adventure through Mo'orea's world-famous reefs or join a marine naturalist to explore the island's coral gardens while learning about ongoing restoration efforts. For a slower pace, spend the afternoon paddleboarding or kayaking across crystal-clear lagoons. To immerse yourself in the island's culture, watch a traditional Polynesian dance performance, create your own flower crown or lei, or visit a local vanilla or pineapple plantation to learn about these iconic crops while sampling their fresh, tropical flavors.
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Tucked away on Panama's Caribbean coast, the archipelago of Bocas del Toro is a tropical paradise where vibrant island culture meets marine conservation. Home to protected marine areas, coral restoration projects, and a growing collection of eco-lodges, it's the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the Caribbean while supporting a more sustainable model of tourism.
For your stay, we recommend Tranquilo Bay Eco Adventure Lodge. Sustainability is woven into every aspect of the lodge, from its nature-first design to its commitment to supporting the local community. With a fully Panamanian staff, 86% of whom are from Bocas del Toro Province, the lodge prioritizes local employment while investing in conservation initiatives, scientific research, and educational experiences that allow guests to better understand the incredible ecosystem surrounding them.
When it comes to adventure, Bocas has no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Embark on wildlife hikes in search of sloths, monkeys, and vibrant poison dart frogs, snorkel among colorful coral reefs, or join a guided visit to nearby Indigenous Ngäbe communities to learn more about their traditions and culture. Birdwatchers will also be in paradise, with hundreds of tropical bird species calling the islands home. And for the surfers, Bocas del Toro is known for its fun, warm-water waves, making it an ideal destination to mix adventure with relaxation.
IIha Grande, Brazil
Just off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Ilha Grande is a car-free tropical paradise where much of the island is protected as a state park. Best known for its lush Atlantic rainforest, scenic hiking trails, and more than 100 pristine beaches, many of which are only accessible by boat, this untouched island is the perfect destination for travelers looking to disconnect without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Spend your days trekking through the island's rainforest, snorkeling in crystal-clear bays, or learning about the rich traditions of the local Caiçara communities, whose culture has been shaped by generations of living in harmony with the sea.
For your stay, we recommend O Sítio Ilha Grande. This small, family-owned retreat was thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding rainforest while minimizing its environmental footprint. With a strong commitment to preserving the island's natural beauty and encouraging low-impact travel, O Sítio offers an authentic, sustainable escape that allows visitors to experience one of Brazil's most spectacular islands while helping protect it for generations to come.
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