Sustainable Hotels Making a Difference

World Oceans Day (June 8) celebrates our oceans and raises awareness about sustainability.

The hotels below are striving to protect the world’s oceans with innovative practices that go above and beyond eco-friendly norms.

Let’s celebrate and book reservations at hotels striving to make a better planet:

Reef-Friendly Sunscreen Dispensers at The Marker Key West Harbor Resort 

The Marker Key West Harbor Resort, the modern waterfront resort located on the Key West Historic Seaport, has partnered with local nonprofit Reef Relief and sustainable sun care brand Raw Elements to install two public sunscreen dispensers on property to encourage the use of mineral sunblock. In 2023, it became the first hotel in Florida to offer sustainable public sunscreen dispensers. This initiative not only benefits skin health but also works toward preserving coral reefs and supporting ocean conservation. On Saturday, June 1, 2024, the hotel will host its second annual World Reef Day pool party, with proceeds from special menu items benefiting Reef Relief. Raw Elements will also be donating free samples for attendees to try out the brand’s products. The hotel’s environmental, social and governance webpage highlights its commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly practices. Another way The Marker is giving back to sustainable organizations is through its partnership with MANG, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mangrove conservation and planting. As part of the brand’s “Buy One, Plant One” initiative, MANG T-shirts are available for purchase in the hotel lobby; proceeds will be donated to the organization to fund its mission to plant mangroves across Florida.

Address: 200 William St., Key West, FL 33040

Canal Cleanups at The Gates Hotel South Beach

The Gates Hotel South Beach is a tranquil retreat along the Indian Creek Canal on Collins Avenue, where the timeless allure of South Beach meets a sanctuary for wellness and sustainability. In an effort to keep the Indian Creek Canal clean and implement a new sustainability-forward initiative, the hotel has begun hosting monthly canal cleanups based around the king tides, higher-than-normal tides that typically last about three hours. Participating guests will receive a branded Gates Hotel South Beach shirt as a keepsake.

Address: 2360 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139