Your honeymoon is a special time to celebrate your love and embark on a journey that marks the beginning of your life together. However, in this era of heightened environmental consciousness, many couples seek ways to make their honeymoon extra special by opting for more eco-friendly honeymoon destinations.

But with all the pressures and red tape of booking flights and accommodation, as well as a whole wedding that needs to happen beforehand, it can be tricky to get all the information you need together to make a sustainable decision. Luckily for you, we’ve got all that and more right here.

Why Choose a Sustainable Honeymoon?

Opting for a sustainable honeymoon allows you to minimize your ecological footprint and support destinations that prioritize conservation and community engagement. By making conscious choices, you can contribute positively to the environment and local economies, ensuring that the beautiful destinations you visit can be enjoyed by future generations.

Now, let’s explore how to plan a sustainable honeymoon and discover some of the best eco-friendly destinations that will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Before we reveal our top eco-friendly destinations, let’s look at what you should be paying attention to before you select your honeymoon location:

Research and Choose Eco-Friendly Destinations

When planning a sustainable honeymoon, selecting destinations that prioritize environmental conservation, sustainable tourism practices, and community involvement is crucial. Research eco-friendly destinations that have certifications like Green Globe or are known for their commitment to sustainability. Consider places that offer eco-lodges, renewable energy initiatives, waste management programs, and protection of natural resources.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Air travel contributes significantly to carbon emissions. To offset your honeymoon’s carbon footprint, consider supporting carbon offset programs. These programs invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or support renewable energy initiatives. Calculate the emissions produced by your flights. Then, donate to a reputable carbon offset organization to neutralize your impact.

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Selecting eco-friendly accommodations is essential for a sustainable honeymoon. Look for hotels and resorts that have green certifications, such as LEED or EarthCheck. These establishments often implement sustainable practices like energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, waste management, and locally sourced food. Consider staying in eco-lodges, ecolodges, or sustainable resorts that integrate with the natural surroundings and support local communities.

Support Local and Sustainable Cuisine

One of the joys of travel is experiencing local cuisine. Opt for restaurants and eateries that prioritize sustainability and support local farmers and producers. Choose restaurants that offer organic, farm-to-table, or vegetarian/vegan options. By supporting sustainable food practices, you’ll contribute to the local economy. Plus, you’ll help reduce the environmental impact associated with conventional agriculture.

Engage in Responsible Activities

When planning your honeymoon activities, seek out experiences that promote responsible and sustainable tourism. Choose excursions and tours that prioritize environmental conservation, respect local cultures, and support local communities. Activities such as wildlife conservation projects, sustainable safaris, nature hikes, snorkeling or diving in protected areas, and cultural exchanges with indigenous communities can provide meaningful experiences. At the same time, they respect the environment and local traditions.

Embrace Ecotourism and Nature Conservation

Consider eco-friendly honeymoon destinations that offer opportunities for ecotourism and nature conservation. Explore national parks, wildlife reserves, or marine protected areas known for their commitment to preserving biodiversity. Engage in activities like birdwatching, wildlife safaris, or coral reef conservation efforts. These experiences allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the destination while contributing to its preservation.

Practice Responsible Waste Management

Maintaining proper waste management practices is crucial during your sustainable honeymoon. Avoid single-use plastics by carrying reusable water bottles, tote bags, and utensils. Dispose of waste responsibly by recycling and using designated bins. Leave no trace and ensure that the natural areas you visit remain pristine for others to enjoy.

Support Local Communities

Make an effort to engage with and support local communities during your honeymoon. Purchase souvenirs from local artisans, dine at family-owned restaurants, and learn about indigenous knowledge from people who belong to those groups.

Our Top Eco-Friendly Honeymoon Destinations

If you’re committed to a sustainable honeymoon but are not sure where to go to enjoy an eco-friendly yet indulgent getaway, we recommend the following options:

Costa Rica

Costa Rica has made remarkable strides in sustainable development and environmental protection. The country has invested in renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric, wind, and solar power, so now more than 98% of its electric consumption comes from renewable sources. Additionally, it implemented stringent conservation policies, resulting in an impressive 25% of its land being designated as protected areas and national parks.

Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-lodges and resorts. All of which offer comfortable accommodations while minimizing environmental impact. Choosing eco-lodges allows honeymooners to support local communities, learn about conservation efforts, and enjoy an authentic experience immersed in nature.

The republic boasts an incredible array of natural landscapes, from pristine beaches and dense rainforests to majestic volcanoes and cascading waterfalls. This abundance of natural beauty allows couples to immerse themselves in the wonders of the environment while supporting sustainable tourism.

Honeymooners can embark on unforgettable adventures such as hiking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, exploring the lush Tortuguero National Park, or soaking in hot springs near the Arenal Volcano.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s tourism industry has embraced sustainability, ensuring that visitors can experience the country’s natural wonders without causing harm to the environment.

The country’s accommodation options range from eco-lodges and boutique sustainable hotels to farm stays and wilderness retreats, all committed to reducing their ecological footprint. Many tour operators and activity providers adhere to sustainable practices, offering eco-friendly transport options and providing educational experiences that promote environmental awareness. Whether it’s exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, cruising through the Milford Sound, or experiencing Māori culture, honeymooners can enjoy unforgettable experiences while supporting New Zealand’s eco-tourism initiatives.

Known for its dramatic mountains, stunning fjords, pristine beaches, and lush forests, New Zealand’s natural beauty is simply awe-inspiring. Couples can immerse themselves in the country’s diverse ecosystems while leaving a minimal environmental footprint.

With a vast network of national parks and protected areas, New Zealand offers countless opportunities for eco-friendly activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, kayaking, and even eco-friendly cruises to marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Norway

Norway is at the forefront of sustainability and green initiatives. The country relies heavily on renewable energy, with a significant portion of its electricity coming from hydroelectric and wind power sources. In addition, Norway promotes sustainable transportation options, such as electric vehicles and efficient public transportation systems.

Honeymooners can support these initiatives by opting for eco-friendly accommodations, participating in eco-tours, and embracing eco-conscious activities, such as wildlife watching and low-impact outdoor adventures. Norway’s commitment to sustainability allows couples to enjoy their honeymoon while minimizing their ecological footprint.

For couples seeking a unique and eco-friendly honeymoon, Norway offers unparalleled natural beauty and sustainable practices. Discover its majestic fjords, vibrant northern lights, and picturesque landscapes. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations, experience sustainable transportation options like electric ferries, and support local conservation efforts.

Maldives

The Maldives is home to a growing number of sustainable resorts and eco-lodges that prioritize environmental stewardship. These establishments implement eco-friendly practices such as using solar power, recycling waste, desalinating seawater for freshwater, and practicing responsible water and energy consumption. Additionally, some resorts actively participate in marine conservation projects, promoting coral restoration, and protecting endangered marine species.

By choosing to stay in eco-friendly accommodations, honeymooners can enjoy luxury while minimizing their ecological footprint and supporting sustainable tourism practices.

The Maldives boasts an abundance of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a haven for snorkeling, diving, and underwater exploration. The country recognizes the importance of preserving its fragile ecosystem and has implemented various initiatives to protect its coral reefs.

Many resorts have established marine protected areas, initiated coral planting programs, and promoted responsible snorkeling and diving practices. Honeymooners can witness the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world while supporting efforts to preserve these delicate ecosystems. It’s the perfect destination to relax, recharge, and indulge in a bit of self-care after all the wedding planning and preparations.

The Next Move

Ready to pack your bag? These eco-friendly honeymoon destinations provide exceptional opportunities for environmentally conscious newlyweds to experience the beauty of the world while supporting sustainable practices. 

Remember to research specific eco-friendly accommodations and activities within these countries to make the most of your experience.

Once you’ve decided where you’re going, contact a Covington vacation advisor to make your sustainable honeymoon dreams come true.