Surrounded by the vivid jungles of Hawaii’s Big Island, Hawaiian Sanctuary is an eco-retreat devoted to sustainable living and holistic wellness. This 44-acre paradise combines permaculture education, yoga classes, spa facilities, and comfortable accommodations with a strong emphasis on environmental consciousness. Powered by solar energy and supplied by water catchment systems, the sanctuary offers farm-to-table dining, daily wellness activities, and a unique opportunity to experience authentic Hawaiian lifestyle. With its pesticide-free grounds and emphasis on community living, Hawaiian Sanctuary provides guests a transformative escape where nature and modern comfort harmoniously coexist.
Their story
Founded in 2005 as Mile Marker 12 Farms, Hawaiian Sanctuary evolved into an eco-retreat nestled in the jungles of Big Island, Hawaii. Owner Steve Lund transformed the 44-acre property into a permaculture-based sanctuary designed by expert Tania Leilani, where buildings harmoniously blend with the natural landscape. Today, it serves as a vibrant learning center offering accommodations, retreats, permaculture education, and holistic wellness services while fostering personal and collective growth. The sanctuary embodies the spirit of Aloha, creating a space where visitors can reconnect with nature, learn sustainable practices, and experience authentic Hawaiian island life. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The eco-retreat relies on rainwater catchment systems for water supply and solar energy for power generation.
- The accommodation units are constructed to minimize environmental impact, blending naturally with the jungle surroundings.
- The sanctuary maintains a strict pesticide-free policy to protect local ecosystems and operates an organic permaculture farm that supplies fresh produce.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The retreat center utilizes solar energy systems to power its lodges and facilities, while also incorporating a water catchment system for water supply.
- This comprehensive sustainability model serves as a practical example of their commitment to responsible energy usage and environmental stewardship in their jungle location.
Pioneer in waste management
- Their kitchen follows farm-to-table principles, composting organic waste to enrich garden soil.
- The facility enforces strict recycling protocols, separates waste streams, and practices responsible disposal methods.
- Through their internship program, they educate visitors about sustainable waste management. They also maintain community compost systems and gardens, ensuring minimal environmental impact in their jungle paradise.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Hawaiian Sanctuary embraces sustainable practices across its 44-acre eco-retreat, operating entirely pesticide-free while incorporating organic farming methods.
- Their farm-to-table program serves organic meals prepared from locally-sourced ingredients, with produce grown in their chemical-free gardens using permaculture principles.
Actively protects nature and community
- The community-focused approach encourages guests to participate in daily yoga, workshops, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Through these initiatives, the sanctuary actively preserves the local environment while fostering meaningful connections between visitors and nature’s rhythms.
Most Popular Activities Near Hawaiian Sanctuary
- Daily yoga classes and sound bath healing sessions.
- Permaculture education and eco-farming workshops.
- Farm-to-table dining with organic locally-sourced ingredients.
- Wellness services including massage, chiropractic care and sauna.
- Ecstatic dance events with live DJs on Friday nights.
- Access to fully equipped gym and cold plunge pool.
- Guided tours of tropical gardens and bird sanctuary.
- Transformative retreats and personal growth programs.
- Sustainable living workshops and community gatherings.
- Traditional Hawaiian cultural activities and ceremonies.
- Nearby excursions to black sand beaches and active volcanoes.
- Access to infrared sauna and ozonated hot tub facilities.
- Internship programs in permaculture and eco-tourism.
- Day trip to some of the island’s most famous waterfalls.
- Experiencing some of the longest ziplines on the island.
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Best Time To Visit Hawaiian Sanctuary
- The best time to visit Hawaiian Sanctuary is during Hawaii’s dry season from April to October. These months offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities like permaculture workshops, yoga sessions, and exploring the nearby volcanic landscapes. The sanctuary’s eco-friendly facilities and rainforest location remain comfortable during this period.
- While winter months (November-March) can bring more rainfall, they offer lush greenery and fewer tourists. Morning activities are recommended year-round to avoid afternoon heat and occasional showers.
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