13 of the world's most inspiring eco-friendly dive resorts
- EcoOceanEscapes
- Dec 26, 2023
- 9 min read
Updated: Jun 20
Want to stay at one of the best eco-friendly dive resorts in the world? Discover some of our top picks for a sustainable scuba stay, whether you're visiting Asia, Africa or Oceania.
From eliminating single-use plastics to implementing circular waste systems, eco-dive resorts play a leading role in sustainable tourism. Set in some of the world’s most spectacular dive destinations, they are helping to protect the natural beauty and marine wonders that we travel so far and wide to experience.
When you stay at one of these resorts, you become part of the solution and contribute to preserving these environments for future generations. Not only do they nurture nature through renewable energy and sustainable building initiatives but also empower locals through eco-education and ethical employment.
In this article, discover 13 of the world's best eco-friendly dive resorts, in destinations as far flung as Fiji, Egypt and Mozambique. By opting to stay at one of these properties, you're ensuring your next scuba adventure is a sustainable one.
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Misool Eco Resort, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Where shark finning camps once stood, Misool Eco Resort now welcomes guests to experience the spectacular marine environment of Raja Ampat. This transformation is thanks to the resort's non-profit, the Misool Foundation, which champions conservation and community. Their efforts led to the establishment of a 300,000-acre marine reserve in 2005, which provides a safe haven where marine species can thrive.
Misool has established a reputation as one of the top eco-friendly dive resorts in Indonesia, with just a handful of cottages and villages perched around a horseshoe-shaped lagoon. The resort’s world-class Dive Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art gear and adjoins a laidback lounge where you can unwind after an exciting day of exploration.
For non-diving family members, snorkelling and kayaking in this island paradise are awe-inspiring, to say the least.
Featuring a handful of luxury tents overlooking the Red Sea, Marsa Shagra is an eco-friendly dive resort in Egypt. Since its establishment, it has upheld a sustainable vision - one dedicated to safeguarding the coral reefs for which the Red Sea has long been renowned.
Aside from offering daily dive trips, this eco-friendly Red Sea dive resort also boasts a yoga shala where classes are held at sunrise and sunset.
The passionate team behind Marsa Shagra Village helped establish the local Shaa'b Samadai Marine Park, which tirelessly monitors and protects shark populations. One-third of the property's power flows from the sun's rays and the team is committed to upholding sustainable dive practices. Fringing the resort is a lush mangrove forest that is playing an important role in helping the reef to thrive.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in the world
The eco-friendly chalets and tents at the Marsa Shagra Village in Egypt (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Occupying the site of a former coconut plantation, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a trailblazer in sustainable tourism and one of the best eco-friendly dive resorts in Fiji. It’s located on the stunning island of Vanua Levu, where you can join forces with local communities to safeguard Fiji’s legendary soft corals and thriving marine ecosystems.
In addition to planting coral gardens, guests can help to cultivate giant clams and restore vital mangrove forests along the coastline. On land, you can trek through the lush rainforest while gathering ancient herbal wisdom or enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at the spa.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is ideal for an eco-friendly family holiday thanks to its Bula Kids Club while the adults-only dining options ensure serenity for honeymooning couples.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Fiji
An aerial view of the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Set in the heart of Bunaken National Marine Park, Siladen Resort & Spa is the place to go for an eco-friendly dive vacation in Sulawesi. Upon arrival, guests are asked to make a pledge to safeguard this underwater paradise by signing the resort's conservation code.
In addition to protecting endangered sea turtles and keeping the beaches free of debris, this sustainably-run Indonesian dive resort helps to restore reefs and deter illegal activities in the marine park.
On land, Siladen Resort limits waste wherever possible and uses sustainable materials in its everyday operations. Each of its elegantly appointed villas features a king-sized bed, outdoor shower and sundeck overlooking the tropical waters, so you won't be skimping on comforts for the green credentials.
While the world-class scuba diving of Bunaken is a huge draw, this sustainable Indonesian resort also offers treks around Manado, white water rafting, yoga and cooking classes.
Discover more inspiring eco-friendly dive resorts in Indonesia here.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in the world
Discover the wildlife wonders of the Galapagos Islands at the Finch Bay Hotel, a sanctuary that National Geographic dubbed one of their “Unique Lodges of the World”. It is the only full-service Galapagos eco-hotel located directly on a beach, with a tranquil pool that attracts finches and herons throughout the day.
Each of the rooms and suites at this sustainably-run Galapagaos hotel has been envisioned by the Ecuadorian designer Julio Vinueza. The interiors are undeniably sophisticated but with lots of "nods" to the natural magnificence of the surrounding environment.
Sheltered from the outside world, Galapagos National Park protects an exceptional diversity of animal life that thrives both above and below the waves. Guests at the Finch Bay Hotel can dive alongside hammerheads, marine iguanas, penguins and seals during what is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime dive adventure.
Discover everything you need to know about planning a sustainable dive vacation in the Galapagos Islands here.
Best eco-friendly dive hotel in the Galapagos Islands
An elegant lounge at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Discover paradise with a purpose at Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives. This exclusive eco-resort is set on a remote atoll and sets the gold standard for sustainable luxury dive vacations.
It features a combination of on-land and overwater villas, as well as six sublime restaurants, a heavenly spa and an open-air yoga studio. From diving with manta rays to witnessing newborn sea turtles take their first swim, it’s a place to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature without scrimping on creature comforts.
At Six Senses Laamu, luxury meets responsibility. This eco-friendly Maldives dive resort partners with leading conservation organisations like the Manta Trust to protect threatened species through research and education initiatives. Aside from its commitment to zero waste and self-sufficiency, the resort also gives back to local communities by donating water purification systems to provide clean drinking water for all.
Discover everything you need to know about diving the Maldives sustainably in our detailed guide here.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Maldives
An aerial view of the overwater bungalows at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Alphonse Island Lodge, Seychelles
From the moment you step foot on Alphonse Island, you'll feel the magic of this pristine paradise. Nestled amidst the idyllic scenery of the Seychelles, this island oasis is a sanctuary for endangered wildlife and a beacon of sustainability.
At the heart of it all is the Alphonse Island Lodge, an eco-friendly Seychelles resort that is committed to conservation. It lies adjacent to the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to dozens of rare Aldabra tortoises.
The lodge proudly runs the Island Conservation Society Center, which hosts beach cleanups and works tirelessly to protect local sea turtles. Among the sustainable practices championed at this eco-friendly Seychelles resort is sourcing ingredients for meals as locally as possible.
With its wide choice of villas and diverse array of activities, Alphonse Island Lodge is ideal for divers and their non-diving family members wanting a sustainable vacation in the Seychelles.
Feeling inspired? Discover 5 of the Seychelles' best eco-friendly dive resorts here.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Seychelles
Nestled beneath swaying palms and overlooking a gorgeous beach, the eco-friendly dive resort in Palawan is a tropical paradise with a purpose. Since 1994, the Sangat Island Dive Resort has made protecting the planet and uplifting the local community integral to its mission. Not only does it offer easy access to amazing reefs that are bursting with life but also the incredible wrecks for which Coron Bay is known.
Located in the remote and strikingly beautiful Calamian Islands, this solar-powered dive resort features 14 low-impact bungalows framed by towering limestone cliffs. The resort provides jobs, training and support for nearby schools, empowering locals to thrive, as well as giving guests the opportunity to connect with community members.
Discover more sustainably-run dive resorts in the Philippines here.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in the Philippine
An aerial view of the white sandy beach at Sangat Island Dive Resort in Palawan (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Perched on the shores of Tofo Beach, Liquid Dive Adventures is one of the leading eco-friendly dive resorts in Mozambique. It comprises several nature-inspired bungalows that have been artfully constructed using locally sourced and sustainable materials. Plus, there's a restaurant that serves sustainably sourced seafood and vegetarian cuisine.
Liquid Dive Adventures specialises in ocean safaris and whale-watching trips, with guests having the opportunity to dive with incredible megafauna. As a 5* IDC Scuba Dive Centre, it offers a range of dive specialties, with a focus on conservation and responsible diving. Their onsite dive centre is a certified 100% AWARE partner and offers an impressive example of what protecting our oceans can look like.
Discover more amazing places to dive in Mozambique + eco-friendly stays in our detailed article here.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Mozambique
The whitewashed rooms at Liquid Dive Adventures in Mozambique (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Located just off the coast of Bali on the island of Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan Divers is one of Indonesia’s top eco-friendly dive resorts. As an award-winning Green Fins Operator and PADI AWARE Partner, Ceningan Divers leads the charge in protecting the Nusa Penida Marine Area.
In addition to banning all single-use plastics, the dedicated staff at Ceningan Divers frequently organise beach and mangrove cleanups.
At this eco-friendly PADI Dive Resort, you can select from one of their rustic yet comfortable rooms, all of which are surrounded by tropical gardens. The resort sits on the edge of a mangrove forest that lines the channel between Lembongan and Penida, with the ridge behind offering incredible sunset views.
When you’re not out on thrilling drift dives to spot manta rays and oceanic sunfish, you can visit local seaweed farms and villages.
Discover more inspiring eco-friendly resorts and hotels in Bali here.
The Brando, Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
Rising from the shores of Tetiaroa, The Brando stands as an inspiring example of eco-friendly luxury. Its impressive structures are crafted from local wood and palm leaves and blend seamlessly into the island landscape.
Coconut oil powers the resort while seawater cools the air, making it one of the top eco-friendly resorts in French Polynesia. Through partnerships and collaboration, The Brando is also dedicated to sharing its eco-wisdom with resorts worldwide, something that we absolutely love!
The resort was designed to carry out the vision and legacy of Marlon Brando and is 100% energy-independent. It features 35 private villas located along the coast of Motu Onetahi, all of which are set back from the beach for maximum privacy.
In addition to two gourmet restaurants, the resort features a luxurious spa and an organic vegetable garden.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in French Polynesia
One of the luxurious villas at The Brando in French Polynesia (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Papua Explorers Dive Resort, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
On the doorstep of some of Raja Ampat’s most enchanting dive sites, Papua Explorers is a community-focused and eco-friendly dive resort in Indonesia. It features 15 overwater bungalows backed by the dense rainforest of Gam Island and overlooking a massive house reef that’s bursting with life.
At the heart of the resort is an open-air restaurant and a stilted pier that leads to a well-equipped dive deck and a breezy spa. Nestled just behind the bungalows is a flourishing kitchen garden where seasonal produce is lovingly grown using sustainable and organic methods. Eco-friendly practices are championed throughout the resort, from the use of chemical-free soaps to the absence of air-conditioning.
With majestic underwater landscapes on its doorstep, Papua Explorers takes marine conservation seriously. It runs its own charity (Papua Explorers Foundation), which works collaboratively with scientists from around the globe to preserve the surrounding environment. Also on site is the Raja Ampat SEA Centre, which offers hands-on, citizen science opportunities.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Indonesia
A jetty leads into the water at Papua Explorers Resort in Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Pole Pole, Tanzania
Located on the shores of Chole Bay, Pole Pole is an eco-friendly dive resort on Tanzania’s Mafia Island. It features just seven private bungalows tucked beneath the swaying palms, all of which are just steps from the island's white sandy beach.
Thanks to an innovative purification system, waste is kept to a bare minimum at this sustainably-run resort, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty.
When you’re not scuba diving in the Mafia archipelago or snorkelling with whale sharks, you can relax in a hammock while being lulled by the sound of lapping waves. Pole Pole is a place to live out your wildest castaway dreams, without sacrificing life's little luxuries.
Each of its bungalows is eclectically furnished with antiques and carvings - we particularly love the Zanzibari beds on the spacious verandahs for an afternoon siesta.
Staying at an eco-friendly dive resort
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the urgent need to address environmental challenges, eco-dive resorts have emerged as shining examples of sustainable tourism in action. Set amidst some of the planet's most renowned dive destinations, these forward-thinking establishments are leading the charge toward a greener future.
By eliminating the use of single-use plastics, harnessing renewable energies and pioneering innovative circular waste management systems, they are minimising their ecological footprint. In doing so, they are helping to safeguard the very natural wonders that draw travellers from across the globe.
Want to learn more about what makes a dive resort eco-friendly? Check out our explainer here.
