If you’re yearning for sublime waves but also seeking sustainable adventure, this article has you covered. From barefoot beach huts to five-star indulgences, it encompasses stays that match your style. Whether you’re after renewable energy, homegrown organic produce or community-focused conservation initiatives, you’ll find a property to inspire an eco-conscious surf escape.
Read on to discover 16 of the world’s best eco-friendly surf resorts, from Nicaragua to Portugal and the Indonesian archipelago.
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Tavarua Island Resort, Fiji
Welcome to surfing paradise. Tavarua Island Resort is the stuff of legends: a heart-shaped slice of heaven in Fiji that's long lured the world's best surfers with its perfect waves and endless barrels. Not only has this luxurious retreat hosted the prestigious WSL Fiji Pro but it has established a reputation as one of the world’s best eco surf resorts.
After long days spent scoring empty peaks, you can unwind in your breezy beachfront bure. The island runs entirely on solar and the resort plays an important role in protecting the surrounding reefs as a certified Mission Blue Hope Spot. The surf is at its best from March to August when you can expect thrilling walls and tubes.
"If you're dreaming of a place that's the perfect mix of 5-star surfing, snorkeling, diving, community, and laid-back vibes, Tavarua Island Resort is your place." - Patrice
Check out more incredible Fiji surf resorts here.
Eco-friendly surf resorts
Suarga Padang Padang, Bali, Indonesia
Nestled on Bali's southern coast (which is famed for its epic lefts), Suarga Padang Padang is one of Indonesia’s top eco-friendly surf resorts. With only 36 rooms inspired by Balinese design, the resort feels intimate and enjoys stunning views overlooking the surf. Solar panels power the property sustainably and raised walkways protect the local habitat.
Imagine waking to the sounds of the Indian Ocean, then strolling to Uluwatu, Impossibles, Dreamland or Padang Padang to catch the morning glass. The reefs and points surrounding Suarga Padang Padang promise thrills for short boarders, particularly when the dry season hits between April and October.
"Perfect place at Uluwatu." - Olga
Discover more inspiring Bali resorts for surfers here.
World's best eco-friendly surf resorts
One of the luxurious suites at Suarga Padang Padang in Bali (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Maqai Beach Eco Resort, Qamea Island, Fiji
Hidden away in Fiji's northern islands, Maqai Eco Resort offers world-class surf right outside its front door. This is the place to go if you want to score empty tropical tubes far from the crowds and keep your environmental footprint to a minimum.
Maqai Eco Resort walks the line between luxury and sustainability, with just a handful of traditional thatched bures dotting its pristine beach. It’s powered by solar and has implemented wastewater systems that minimise the impact on the marine environment. If you feel the urge, you can even participate in coral gardening and beach cleanups during your stay.
"One of the best resort locations I've been to in the Pacific. Getting there is half the fun." - David
Harana Surf Resort, Siargao, Philippines
Home to “Cloud 9” and dozens of other breaks, Siargao is a surfing paradise in the Philippines. The island boasts waves for every level and style, and the eco-friendly Harana Surf Resort puts you right in the heart of the action. It features deluxe rooms, private villas, and hostel-style lodging, meaning there are options for all budgets.
With sustainability a top priority at this eco-conscious Siargao resort, you can rest easy knowing your stay supports local environmental initiatives. Visit between August and November to ride the perfect tubes of “Cloud 9” when the offshore winds are up.
Discover more sustainable resorts and hotels in Siargao here.
Best eco-friendly surf resorts in Philippines
One of the eco-friendly bungalows at Harana Surf Resort in Siargao (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Matanivusi Surf Resort, Fiji
Looking for empty barrels amidst a private paradise? Pack your bags for Matanivusi, Fiji's premier eco-friendly surf resort. Located on the stunning Coral Coast, this family-run hideaway has been hosting wave-chasers from across the globe since 2000. But with only 12 beachfront bungalows, the crowds here are refreshingly sparse.
Matanivusi was the world’s first STOKE-certified surf resort, cementing its commitment to environmental sustainability. All of its buildings are crafted from local materials, rainwater is collected and waste recycling is mandatory. Guests can even participate in educational programs at nearby schools, giving back to the local community.
"Matanivusi is a splurge and a bit off the beaten track...but well worth the effort to get there and worth every penny." - Julie
Sustainable surf resorts
Areias do Seixo, Portugal
If riding epic waves in Portugal sounds like your dream trip, get stoked about staying at Areias do Seixo. This eco-chic boutique hotel near Lisbon is surrounded by some of the country’s best surf in an area that’s considered a wave-riding paradise.
From soaking up the sun's rays through solar panels to sinking your toes into their chemical-free gardens, every stay at Areias do Seixo is light on the planet. Sustainability is at the core of the resort’s operations, with geothermal energy powering the A/C and 36 photovoltaic panels cranking out clean electricity. All food waste is composted and you can even plant veggies in their organic garden during your stay.
Check out more sustainable hotels and resorts for surfers in Portugal here.
Eco-friendly hotels near Lisbon for surfers
One of the eclectically decorated rooms at Areias do Seixo near Lisbon (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Florblanca Resort, Costa Rica
The enchantment of Florblanca begins the moment you arrive at this secluded eco-paradise along the Pacific shores of Costa Rica. This eco-friendly surf resort nestles amidst seven acres of jungle and seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings. As one of the only resorts in Latin America accredited as a Sustainable Tourism Partner, Florblanca is deeply committed to preserving the beauty that envelops it. At the same time, surfers can ride epic waves just steps from their villas.
Organic and biodegradable products are used for all pest control and fertilisation while a comprehensive recycling program and private waste management system ensure minimal environmental impact. From the purified drinking water flowing from every tap and shower to the solar-heated laundry and kitchen facilities, Florblanca has engineered sustainability into its operations.
"An exquisite property on an incredible beach." - Stephanie
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Maldives
A spectacular overwater bungalow at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Soneva Fushi, Maldives
As one of the Maldives' leading eco-surf resorts, Soneva Fushi approaches sustainability as a way of life. This eco-conscious resort has made it their mission to provide a luxurious travel experience while respecting the pristine natural beauty of the archipelago. The resort's innovative "from waste to wealth" philosophy recycles over 90% of waste, transforming trash into functional art and furniture.
Soneva Fushi is aiming to be completely plastic-free while producing all of their own drinking water. They have implemented a carbon levy to offset emissions and run sustainability programs that include reforestation projects and sustainable surf lessons. Wave-chasers can indulge here guilt-free, knowing their stay supports the environment and local communities.
"Amazing. No words." - Krisztina
Find more sustainable Maldives surf resorts that will blow your mind here.
World's best eco-friendly surf resorts
Waves break out the front of NIHI Sumba - one of the world's best eco-friendly surf resorts (photo courtesy of Expedia)
NIHI Sumba, Indonesia
Nestled on the pristine shores of Sumba Island, NIHI Sumba is an eco-friendly surf resort that’s leading the charge in sustainable tourism. This luxury resort seamlessly blends five-star indulgence with care for the environment and community. Beyond its world-class waves, Nihi Sumba enables guests to discover the rich Sumbanese culture through weaving classes and village tours.
Nihi Sumba runs entirely on biofuel and sources much of its produce from its organic garden. Clever composting and water recycling systems have also been implemented to help reduce waste. By investing in education and health, the Sumba Foundation is reducing poverty and protecting heritage, proving that conscious tourism can uplift communities, without sacrificing comfort.
"Experience of a lifetime." - Joshus
Discover everything you need to know about surfing Sumba here.
World's best eco-friendly surf resorts
One of the luxurious villas at NIHI Sumba - an eco-friendly surf resort in Indonesia (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Scorpion Bay Hotel, Baja California, Mexico
Craving epic point breaks along Mexico's remote Baja coast? Scorpion Bay is a surf paradise that first attracted wave riders in the 1970s with its lineup of right-hand point breaks. They march along the shores of San Juanico, a tiny fishing village that feels as though it’s well and truly off the beaten track.
Scorpion Bay Hotel is an eco-friendly surf resort that offers VIP access to all four breaks. It runs on solar (with a single generator supplying energy for the village) and participates in conservation projects such as mangrove restoration to reach carbon-neutral status. Scorpion Bay is at its best from March to November when south swells roll in from the Pacific.
"Amazing ambiance!" - Charlotte
Los Cardones Eco Lodge, Nicaragua
Unwind in tropical tranquility at Los Cardones Eco Lodge, a surfers' sanctuary on Nicaragua's Pacific coast. It offers exceptional waves throughout the year, although its legendary lefts and A-frames light up between April and October. When things get big, head to the hollow river-mouth break.
As one of Nicaragua’s top eco-friendly surf resorts, Los Cardones features a handful of ocean-facing cabanas and rustic bungalows. Its commitment to sustainability includes supporting a sea turtle conservation program that protects thousands of hatchlings as they take their first, precarious steps.
"Idyllic - I can't see any other word to describe this pristine, sweet, eco-friendly place."
Discover all the best places to surf in Nicaragua + eco-friendly stays here.
Eco-friendly surf resorts
Kandui Villas, Mentawais, Indonesia
Positioned right in front of Kandui Left and Baby Kandui, this eco-friendly Mentawais surf resort has been designed for conscious travellers seeking world-class waves. Each of its 12 villas features open-air living areas and stunning views while the onsite restaurant serves up gourmet meals featuring produce from the organic garden.
With sustainability a core value of its operations, Kandui Villas runs on solar power and has implemented recycling systems to minimise its environmental impact. Waste from local cattle ranching is even used to fertilise the homegrown produce! As part of its responsible tourism initiatives, the resort strives to provide meaningful and ethical employment for locals.
"Exceptional experience!" - Kevin
To discover more sustainable surf resorts in Indonesia, check out our article here.
Palo Verde Sustainable Hotel, El Salvador
Located on El Salvador's Pacific coastline, Palo Verde Hotel is a luxury eco-surf resort that takes its name from the native trees dotting the grounds. Beyond the greenery and cliffside infinity pool, you'll find world-class surf just steps from your room and epic views of the world-renowned El Zonte point break.
But Palo Verde is much more than just its waves. Through solar power, on-site water treatment and partnerships with local NGOs, the hotel champions environmental and social sustainability. Also central to its mission are women's empowerment programs and community initiatives that help to bolster the local economy.
"The best food in El Salvador at the best property in El Zonte." - Andrew
Check out more sustainable surf resorts in El Salvador here.
Sustainable surf resorts
Olas Verdes Hotel, Costa Rica
Tucked away near a wildlife refuge at Playa Guiones, Olas Verdes is one of Costa Rica’s top eco-friendly surf resorts. It’s a sustainable paradise for wave riders, with plenty of green initiatives and community programs in addition to its legendary waves. While you can surf year-round, the biggest swells hit between May and August.
Reflecting Costa Rica's diverse regions, each of the suites and apartments at Olas Verdes Hotel is decorated with traditional crafts. As the world's first LEED-certified surf hotel, it is equipped with solar panels, a solar water system and rainwater storage, as well as being planted with native species to boost local wildlife habitat.
"A true 10/10 - can’t wait to go back." - Kathryn
Noah Surf House, Portugal
What began as a humble surf retreat has blossomed into a sustainability haven along the shores of Santa Cruz. Back in 2015, the founders of Noah Surf House envisioned a laid-back escape that was centred around surfing, food and nature. Today, it is a reality.
Each of the bungalows balances on pillars to limit environmental impact while the sand-strewn roofs mimic the natural terrain. Summer breezes drift through open windows and eliminate the need for air conditioning while aerothermal heating keeps the floors cosy in the wintertime. Solar panels generate 70% of water heating needs, while rainwater gets harvested for toilet flushing, gardening, and washing. Not only that but the on-site garden and chicken coop supply fresh and organic produce for guests.
"More than a hotel - A social surf ecosystem perched above the beach." - Nick
Chicama Boutique Hotel, Peru
On the doorstep of the longest left-hand surf break in the world, Chicama Boutique Hotel is an eco-friendly surf resort in Peru. In fact, the wave is so long, there’s a zodiac boat to shuttle you back to the peak after your ride. Chicama features just 20 rooms, which cater to surfing couples and friends, and with private balconies overlooking the break.
In addition to keeping the beach plastic-free, the hotel rewards wave warriors who collect trash. In the past, it played an important role in protecting the break by partnering with local NGOs to stop a proposed pier that would have ruined the wave. You can surf at Chicama year-round, although March to November has the most consistent swell.
"Best surf resort in Chicama." - McDougall
Eco-friendly surf resorts around the globe
From the pristine beaches of Fiji to the rugged shores of Portugal, these exceptional properties cater to sustainability-minded travellers. Whether you envision yourself staying in a simple, barefoot beach hut powered by renewable energy sources or you're seeking a luxurious five-star experience, these eco-friendly surf resorts have you covered. Each embodies a deep commitment to minimising its environmental footprint, utilising innovative technologies and practices to reduce waste, preserve natural habitats and uplift local communities. By staying at an eco-friendly surf resort, wave riders can revel in the world-class breaks on their doorstep, secure in the knowledge that their stay is supporting a greener, more sustainable tourism model.