A vacation to an all-inclusive resort means endless entertainment options, delicious dining experiences and usually a beach and multiple pools to relax by – or in. However, in addition to all the fun that can be had, an all-inclusive vacation is also an opportunity to practice ecotourism and sustainable tourism. Follow along to see how you can benefit the local community you’re visiting, reduce your carbon footprint and have the vacation of your dreams.

Make lasting green getaway memories by:

Plastic problems

The problem with single-use plastics is that they last long after you’re done using them. Unlike biodegradable materials that return to the earth, single-use plastics break down into tiny fragments that can then release dangerous chemicals into the environment and create hazards for native wildlife.

Hilton Cancún, an All-Inclusive Resort strives to limit its footprint by removing plastic straws, cocktail picks and stir sticks from its property, and by encouraging the use of reusable drinking vessels. The property is also located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, which banned the use of single-use plastics in the area in 2020. Which means you can rest easy knowing you’re putting your best eco-footprint forward while also enjoying on-property bike rides, live entertainment and sparkling infinity-pool views.

Mad about mangroves

Visit Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton and you'll spend your days lounging on the private beach, gliding down the winding King Cobra waterslide and snorkeling offshore during a luxury catamaran cruise. Best of all, though, is that you can do all that while also protecting local marine life through the resort’s conservation program that works to preserve mangrove trees in Willemstad. Considered endangered, Mangroves are vital to ensuring the biodiversity and coastal protection of the area for future travelers.

Water works

Water conservation is one of the biggest ways to reduce our impact on the environment. After all, it’s the one thing that every living thing needs to survive. Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort has an osmosis plant to reduce water consumption and in turn decrease the resort’s carbon footprint. Meaning that all-inclusive Caribbean vacation you’re on is also an opportunity to protect the environment and community you’re in. Even better, the resort’s on-property activities continue the immersive experience through garden-building sessions, full moon celebrations and local art explorations.

Do it yourself

While it’s reassuring to know that your next all-inclusive vacation offers the chance to decrease one’s environmental impact, ultimately travelers must also take the lead. Some easy ways to help preserve local ecosystems for future visitors include using on-site bike rentals to explore the area you’re in, using reef-safe sunscreen to limit pollutants while abroad and always packing a reusable tote and water bottle to use while traveling. Consistently following these simple steps goes a long way towards lowering your environmental footprint.

Cassandra Brooklyn is a freelance writer and guidebook author specializing in travel, accessibility, sustainability and all things outdoors. Originally hailing from the Midwest, she now lives in New York City but escapes to adventures around the world as often as possible. As the caregiver of a disabled parent - and as a hyper involved auntie of three - Cassandra is especially passionate about accessible, inclusive and multi-generational travel. She's the author of the cycling guidebook, Cuba By Bike, has contributed to multiple guidebooks about Egypt, Portugal and the United States, and has bylines in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, National Geographic, Forbes, The Daily Beast and Lonely Planet, among others.