7 Eco-Friendly Hotels for a Fun, Sustainable Vacation

These days, “going green” is a red-hot topic in the hotel industry. A recent study by Booking.com reports that 83% of tourists agree that more sustainable travel is important, and over 60% of respondents say they are the best version of themselves when they travel more sustainably. 

Across the Independent Collection, our certified Green Key hotels and resorts are doing their part to lower carbon footprints and protect the fascinating ecosystems we call home, from the mangrove forests of Key West to the sand dunes of Monterey Bay. 

Ahead of Earth Day in April, we’re spotlighting some of our favorite eco-friendly destinations and fun local experiences that are as spectacular as they are sustainable. Here’s where to travel for a mindful vacation in 2025.

Tables of Contents

1. Parrot Key Hotel & Villas | Key West, FL
2. Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club | Miami Beach, FL
3. The Sanctuary Beach Resort | Monterey Bay, CA
4. The Ambrose Hotel | Santa Monica, CA
5. The Envoy Hotel | Boston, MA
6. The Boxer | Boston, MA
7. The St. Gregory Hotel | Washington, D.C.

Learn About Native Plants in Key West

Key West is the ideal backdrop for an Earth Day celebration, and Parrot Key Hotel & Villas, a 4 Green Key hotel, offers the perfect oceanside oasis for your own. Step into a world of white sand and glimmering pools, surrounded by a haven of lush native plants.

Naturally integrated into the property’s landscape, you’ll find dozens of native plant species, each labeled with its own botanical tag. Ecologists have shown that plants indigenous to a specific place support a balanced ecosystem, supporting local wildlife — like bees, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and even feeding creatures at the bottom of the food web.

Learn all about Parrot Key’s native plants and sustainability practices during your stay, and get the little ones involved, too. Mini-explorers can participate in their Kids Scavenger Hunt at The Grove Restaurant & Bar while adults enjoy frozen daiquiris by the pool.

Soak Up the Sun (Sustainably!) in Miami Beach

For a stay that transports you to the Mediterranean without the carbon footprint, stay at the alluring Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club in Miami Beach. Every aspect of this 4 Green Key hotel embodies the spirit of the European Riviera while blending seamlessly with Miami’s iconic Art Deco design, from its impeccable hospitality to its fresh seaside cuisine. 

Their attention to detail carries over to their environmental ethos, encompassing a triple-bottom-line approach to sustainability through the implementation of EarthView®, a proprietary sustainability program created by HHM Hotels. They focus on a holistic approach to hospitality, providing memorable amenities and unique offerings that enhance the guest experience. A prime example of this is Cadillac’s bicycles, which are available for guest use, offering a stylish and eco-friendly way to discover Miami. They are also careful to protect and celebrate the marine life around the property, implementing safety precautions to care for the sea turtles that grace the shores of Miami Beach.

When you step foot into the oceanfront rooms and suites at Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, European-inspired amenities won’t be the only thing you find. Environmental impact is considered down to the smallest detail, including thoughtful touches like energy-efficient light bulbs (LED), smart thermostats, and more. Book your Riviera-style escape to Cadillac to experience a sustainable Miami Beach stay.

Connect Mind, Body, and Spirit with Monterey’s Coastline

When busy life calls for a quiet retreat, head towards The Sanctuary Beach Resort, a calming eco-wellness resort in Monterey Bay. Nestled on 19 acres of pristine California coastline, The Sanctuary is surrounded by ocean views and windswept sand dunes, part of Monterey’s protected Marina Dunes Preserve. And just beyond the resort, the famous National Marine Sanctuary beckons with a world of underwater wonders. 

Every detail at The Sanctuary draws inspiration from California’s coast, from the beachside bungalows to the hotel spa treatments, to Sanctuary’s on-site restaurant, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette. Sustainability and food waste are top of mind at Salt Wood. Here, local chefs infuse each dish with culinary creativity, cross-utilizing ingredients to minimize waste and spotlight local agriculture like organic certified produce from Aromas and the world’s first sustainable caviar company based in Sausalito. 

The Sanctuary’s sustainability efforts go far beyond its culinary offerings. In fact, the luxury California resort has earned the prestigious Green Key Global: 3 Keys Rating, a nod to The Sanctuary’s industry leadership and commitment to protecting the environment. Energy-efficient lighting, biodegradable packaging, and non-toxic cleaning products are used throughout to minimize impacts on surrounding landscapes. Fireplaces utilize gas logs for cleaner air, while silent, emission-free golf carts offer eco-friendly tours of the property. Even the volleyball court is sustainable (it’s made from recycled oyster shells)! 

The Sanctuary is also a proud partner of Kind Traveler, supporting the important work of Rancho Cielo in furthering the well-being and sustainability of its community. Kind Traveler, a veteran-and-women-owned public benefit corporation, is the first socially conscious “give + get” travel platform empowering a new generation of responsible travelers to positively impact the communities they visit. This partnership directly benefits Rancho Cielo, providing culinary training to an underprivileged community of youths seeking to grow in life skills and development. 

The Sanctuary is committed not only to bettering its physical environment but also to helping its community flourish. Enjoy a coastal getaway that not only connects you with the natural beauty of California but also helps ensure that future generations can do the same.

Bike to the Beach and Buzzy Local Restaurants in Santa Monica

Look no further than The Ambrose Hotel for a stay that offers a refreshing coastal retreat paired with a tasteful, sustainable space. This 4 Green Key hotel in Santa Monica is filled with inviting indoor-outdoor spaces and plant-filled patios that give the feeling of being tucked away in nature without sacrificing the convenience of its urban surroundings.

Within walking distance from your accommodations, you can easily find Santa Monica’s renowned shopping, restaurants, museums, and local events, making The Ambrose an earth-friendly hotel in the heart of Los Angeles. On the other hand, if you prefer to discover Santa Monica with a bit of wind in your hair, take advantage of the hotel’s bike program. Prefer to venture by car? Take advantage of The Ambrose’s on-site electric vehicle chargers or the Tesla house car, available to be used within a three-mile radius of the hotel daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Santa Monica is also home to fantastic eco-friendly dining options, like Blueys Santa Monica. This casual eatery gives off the inviting vibe of the beach cafes found throughout Australia, offering fresh fuel to surfers and locals. Blueys focuses on locally sourced produce, seasonal cooking, and healthy eating, offering elevated simplicity with fresh, flavorsome food and quality ingredients.

Even more to love, The Ambrose Hotel was the first hotel in the U.S. to earn the prestigious LEED EB certification in 2007 – a certification they’ve maintained ever since. More eco accolades include the City of Santa Monica Green Business Certification, the state of California’s Green Lodging Program Certification, and TripAdvisor’s Gold Green Leader Certification.

You’ll notice these sustainable touches throughout the property from the moment you arrive. Guestrooms utilize their own energy management system (EMS) smart thermostats, as well as towel and linen reuse programs, property-wide recycling, refillable water bottle stations,  and recycled-content paper products conveniently available for use.

Harbor Views and Sustainable Values at The Envoy Hotel

Perched along Boston’s vibrant Seaport District, The Envoy Hotel offers a contemporary and stylish retreat with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. This modern 4 Green Key hotel, with its stunning harbor views and innovative design, provides a unique base for exploring Boston while minimizing your ecological footprint.

The Envoy’s location in the Seaport District offers guests a unique perspective on Boston. This rapidly developing area is known for its modern architecture, vibrant waterfront, and innovative attractions. Guests can easily explore the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston (ICA), a contemporary art museum, or take a stroll along the Harborwalk, a scenic waterfront path.

Boston’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its hotels and restaurants. The city has invested in green spaces, public transportation, and initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. Guests can take advantage of the city’s efficient public transportation system, including the MBTA’s subway and bus network, to explore neighborhoods throughout Boston.

Boston’s culinary scene is also embracing sustainability. Many restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients, seasonal menus, and sustainable seafood. Guests can find a variety of dining options that cater to different dietary preferences and culinary interests, all while supporting responsible food practices.

A standout feature of The Envoy’s sustainability efforts is its on-site restaurant, Para Maria. Helmed by Chef Tatiana Pairot Rosana, Para Maria showcases a fusion of Latin-inspired cuisine, reflecting her diverse culinary background. Under Chef Tatiana’s leadership, the restaurant prioritizes thoughtfully sourced ingredients and implements practices to minimize food waste, striving to utilize the entirety of each ingredient. This dedication to sustainable dining aligns with the growing movement toward responsible food consumption.

After a day of exploring Boston’s attractions and enjoying its sustainable offerings, guests can return to The Envoy, knowing that their stay has contributed to a more environmentally conscious form of travel. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability, coupled with its prime location and innovative dining, makes it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers.

Exploring Boston’s Green Spaces

Just as The Ambrose Hotel provides a sustainable haven within the urban landscape of Santa Monica, The Boxer offers a similar experience in the heart of Boston. This boutique 4 Green Key hotel, with its commitment to eco-friendly practices, serves as the perfect base for exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, all while minimizing your environmental impact.

Stepping outside The Boxer, you’ll find yourself immersed in Boston’s historic North End, a neighborhood brimming with charm and easily navigable on foot. This allows guests to reduce their reliance on cars, embracing a more sustainable way to explore. Discover the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path that winds through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering a fascinating glimpse into America’s revolutionary past.

For those eager to venture further, the Boxer’s complimentary bicycles provide a delightful and eco-conscious way to traverse the city. Pedal along the scenic Charles River Esplanade, enjoying breathtaking views of the skyline while embracing a healthy and sustainable mode of transportation. Boston’s extensive network of bike lanes makes it easy to explore neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay, each offering unique attractions and sustainable dining options like The Boxer’s Bulfinch Social.

The Boxer hotel stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of urban charm and environmental responsibility. The premier green hotel takes a proactive approach to preserving the beauty of its surroundings, embodying a commitment to sustainable practices that enhance the guest experience.

The Boxer embraces a triple-bottom-line approach to sustainability through the implementation of EarthView®, a proprietary program by Hersha Hotels & Resorts, focusing on a holistic approach to hospitality. This comprehensive program ensures that every aspect of the hotel’s operations considers its environmental impact.

Sustainable highlights are woven throughout the guest experience, from the energy-efficient LED light bulbs and guest room energy management systems (EMS) smart thermostats to the towel and linen reuse program. The Boxer has also eliminated single-use plastics and styrofoam, opting for recycled-content paper products and key cards. Property-wide recycling and the EcoLab Aquanomics laundry program further minimize waste.

Guests are encouraged to explore Boston sustainably with the hotel’s bicycles, offering an eco-friendly way to navigate the city’s historic streets. Inside, refillable amenity dispensers, cleaning bottles, and water stations reduce plastic waste, while compostable K-Cups® highlight the hotel’s dedication to reducing its footprint. The Boxer also prioritizes locally sourced food, supporting regional producers and reducing transportation emissions.

The Boxer hotel demonstrates that urban hospitality can thrive in harmony with environmental stewardship, offering a mindful and memorable stay in Boston.

Embracing Sustainable Sophistication at The St. Gregory Hotel

Nestled in the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood, The St. Gregory Hotel offers a refined urban retreat that seamlessly integrates sustainability into its luxurious experience. As a premier 4 Green Key hotel in Washington, D.C., The St. Gregory is dedicated to preserving the city’s beauty and resources, embodying a commitment to responsible hospitality.

The St. Gregory’s prime location in Dupont Circle provides an ideal starting point for exploring Washington, D.C.’s rich history and cultural attractions. The neighborhood itself is a haven for pedestrians, with its charming streets, historic architecture, and abundance of green spaces. Guests can easily stroll to nearby landmarks such as the Phillips Collection, a renowned art museum, or enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Dupont Circle’s namesake park.

Washington, D.C., is a city that embraces alternative transportation, making it easy for visitors to explore sustainably. The city’s extensive network of bike lanes and trails encourages cycling, and numerous bike-sharing programs are available. Guests can also take advantage of the city’s efficient public transportation system, the Metrorail, which provides access to all major attractions.

Like its sister properties, The St. Gregory implements EarthView®, a comprehensive sustainability program developed by HHM Hotels. This program ensures that every aspect of the hotel’s operations, from energy consumption to waste management, is conducted with environmental consciousness. Guests can expect to find energy-efficient LED lighting, guest room energy management systems (EMS) smart thermostats, and a towel and linen reuse program, all designed to minimize the hotel’s ecological footprint.

The St. Gregory has also taken significant steps to eliminate single-use plastics and styrofoam, opting for recycled-content paper products and key cards. Property-wide recycling initiatives and participation in Clean the World, a program that recycles discarded soap and hygiene products, further demonstrate the hotel’s commitment to reducing waste and supporting social responsibility.

After a day of exploring the city’s landmarks and enjoying its sustainable offerings, guests can return to The St. Gregory, knowing that their stay has contributed to a more environmentally responsible form of travel. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its walls, encouraging guests to embrace eco-friendly practices throughout their Washington, D.C., experience.

Independent Collection is committed to the well-being of our guests, our teams, and our beautiful planet. Learn more about our sustainability efforts and eco-friendly hotels that directly support the environment and local communities!