How to Choose a Sustainable Hotel: Lessons from Maui 

By Classic Vacations

In Maui, sustainability isn’t just a philosophy — it’s a promise. Standing on the golden sands of Kā‘anapali, with trade winds carrying the scent of plumeria and the sound of waves meeting the shore, it’s easy to see why protecting this paradise matters. For travelers, the question is no longer should we travel sustainably, but how. 

Classic Vacations recently gathered travel advisors from across the country for its annual E3: Elite. Education. Experience. event — this time, with a powerful new focus on sustainability. In partnership with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and California State University Monterey Bay’s Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management program, advisors came together at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali to earn their GSTC certification and deepen their understanding of responsible travel. 

Learning What Sustainability Looks Like in Action 

The training, led by Dr. Paige Viren of CSUMB, went beyond classroom discussions. Advisors explored how tourism can protect, rather than deplete, the destinations we love — from conserving energy and water to ensuring tourism dollars stay within the community. 

Through guided learning, they discovered that sustainability isn’t a checklist. It’s a mindset. It’s about asking better questions: Who benefits from my stay? How does this hotel support its environment and people? Does this property reflect the culture it represents? 

Seeing Sustainable Hospitality Firsthand 

To bring those lessons to life, advisors toured two of Classic Vacations’ preferred partners — the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and the Royal Lahaina Resort — both recognized for their sustainability leadership. 

At the Sheraton Maui, the group learned how the resort collaborates with more than 80 local businesses, ensuring that everything from food to furnishings supports Maui’s economy. Guests can also experience Hawaiian culture through culinary programs that highlight indigenous ingredients and through educational experiences like coconut weaving and storytelling with local artisans. 

Nearby, the Royal Lahaina Resort shared how its teams weave cultural heritage into daily operations — from employing local staff and sourcing island-grown produce to hosting community-led events that celebrate Hawaiian traditions. Each initiative demonstrated that sustainability and authenticity are deeply intertwined. 

Why Responsible Travel in Maui Matters 

For Maui, tourism is more than an industry — it’s a lifeline. Supporting responsible tourism means helping the community, culture, and environment recover and thrive together. The island’s recent challenges have underscored how vital it is to ensure that every visit gives back more than it takes. 

When travelers choose hotels that honor local culture, employ local residents, and invest in conservation, they become part of that recovery. For the advisors who attended the training, the experience reinforced a shared perspective: sustainable travel isn’t just about where clients stay, but about the impact those choices make on destinations and communities. 

How to Identify a Sustainable Hotel 

You don’t need to be an expert to make responsible choices. A few simple steps can make a meaningful difference: 

• Look for certifications. Programs like GSTC, Green Key, or EarthCheck signal verified sustainability standards. 

• Read beyond the amenities. A transparent sustainability page that outlines local hiring, waste reduction, or community initiatives is a good sign. 

• Notice how culture is represented. Hotels that authentically incorporate local traditions — in cuisine, design, and programming — are often those most committed to respectful tourism. 

Sustainability is ultimately about connection: connecting travelers to place, culture, and purpose. 

Travel Toward a Better Future 

Maui taught us that sustainable travel isn’t a trend — it’s a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a travel advisor guiding clients or a traveler planning your next journey, choosing a sustainable hotel is one of the simplest ways to make a lasting difference. 

Because every mindful stay helps ensure that destinations like Maui — and the communities that make them extraordinary — continue to thrive for generations to come. 

About Classic Vacations

Since 1978, Classic Vacations® has been a trusted resource for travel advisors, dedicated to helping them design unforgettable journeys for their clients. Classic evolves with advisors, meeting them where they are affirming the belief that travel experiences are better with advisors. By combining technical innovation with a steadfast commitment to exceptional service, Classic consistently exceeds expectations, delivering unmatched value. Classic has earned a reputation for providing advisors with world-class travel products, unmatched white-glove support, industry-leading expertise, top commissions, ongoing education, and recognition. Classic offers everything advisors need to scale their businesses efficiently and create and retain loyal customers for life. Learn more: www.classicvacations.com

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