Cool Green Adventure Vacations
Searching for your next sustainable vacation? You've come to the right place! Some people I talk to think sustainability meant giving something up. But on these trips, I've found the opposite: more connection, more wonder, more space to breathe. I'm sharing my favorite green vacations that I hope you will love too.
1. Rancho La Puerta - Tecate, Mexico
I thought this place in Tecate, Mexico was the ultimate wellness retreat where relaxation, nature, and rejuvenation all come together. Nestled at the base of Mount Kuchumaa, it felt like a hidden sanctuary designed to help us reset mind, body, and spirit, and it's one of my favorite green adventure vacations.
My studio accommodations for five blissful days was called Ranchera Solo. It's meant for one guest on a solo vacation, built in clusters in central areas closest to the Dining Hall and gyms.
From morning hikes through golden hillsides to evening sound baths under the stars, every day carried a peaceful rhythm that felt restorative and inspiring.
Located just across the border from San Diego, getting there was easy in around an hour by car, and once inside the gates, it felt like a completely different world.
Check prices at Rancho La Puerta
What I loved best:
Healthy eating was my favorite part of my stay. The restaurant serves healthy, farm-to-table meals, and inspired by Baja California cuisine - I loved their organic salads made, fresh, and seasonal ingredients.
2. Blue Lagoon, Grindavík, Iceland
I loved how this place felt like stepping into another world and I thought that it was one of the coolest adventure vacations! Why? First off, with its milky-blue geothermal waters set against black lava fields, it felt surreal, awe-inspiring. Slipping into the warm water on a chilly day was pure bliss. With the mineral-rich silica masks and steamy clouds swirling around us, Blue Lagoon was unlike anything I’ve experienced before!
Our room for two days was in the Silica Hotel (around $792/night) and had clean lines, cozy minimalism, and stunning views. We received complimentary breakfast, One Premium admission to the Blue Lagoon for each guest, and Unlimited use of Silica Lagoon.
Located just 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport, Blue Lagoon was the perfect first or last stop on our Iceland trip. I loved how easy it was to get there, yet once inside the lagoon, it felt remote and otherworldly.
Check prices at the Blue Lagoon
What I loved best:
Soaking in the rich mineral waters was my favorite!
3. The Carter Company, United Kingdom
This was one of the coolest adventure getaways right in the heart of Scotland!
The Carter Company crafts gentle walking vacations across England, Scotland, and Wales, often following rivers, coastlines, and countryside trails. I think it's convenient how luggage is transferred ahead while you stroll at your own pace through meadows, stone villages, and woodland paths. Each night, you stay in charming inns and eco-minded hotels rooted in local character.
What I loved best:
My favorite moment? A picnic by the River Thames with locally made cheddar, fresh-baked bread, crisp apple slices, and elderflower soda.
4. Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort, Costa Rica
For me, this Costa Rica getway was the definition of natural luxury and green adventure! Set at the base of the Arenal Volcano, it felt like stepping into a tropical paradise where hot springs flowed through lush gardens.
Chris and I checked into a Rainforest Room for five relaxing days, complete with a king bed, a bathtub and a separate, glass-enclosed shower, and a wonderful outdoor terrace surrounded by a tropical landscape. I found it to be the perfect secluded romantic getaway that would also make a great honeymoon!
Check prices at the Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort
What I loved best:
Sinking into warm mineral pools beneath a canopy of rainforest leaves was my personal highlight.
5. Pikaia Lodge, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands
Perched high on an extinct volcanic crater on Santa Cruz Island, this unique lodge was among my top coolest adventure vacations! This place gave us sweeping views of the Pacific and a front-row seat to one of the most extraordinary ecosystems in the world.
From snorkeling with sea lions to returning for sunset cocktails by the infinity pool, every day felt like a balance of exploration and indulgence.
Located in the heart of the Galapagos, the lodge made it easy to blend once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters with comfort and style.
I loved how green and sustainable the lodge felt with solar-powered energy, thoughtful design, and a real focus on preserving the islands.
Our suite for five blissful days was modern yet warm, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the landscape. It was the perfect base for venturing out by day and retreating in total comfort by night.
What I loved best:
The unbelievable scenery was my favorite.
6. Good Day Out - Wildlife Experiences in Wales
I loved how this wasn't a traditional resort but instead it’s a series of small, ethical adventures designed to connect you with Welsh landscapes and local life.
My favorite experience was one morning walking through the Brecon Beacons with a tiny pig named Cinnamon. We wandered down meadow paths and forest edges, the air cool and grassy.
Other cool adventure vacation options with Good Day Out include herding sheep with a farmer, wildlife sketching in nature reserves, or spending a quiet afternoon learning about re-wilding efforts in the hills!
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
