Koh Samui: The heart and soul of Thailand’s Coconut Island

Koh Samui, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, is often referred to as a tropical paradise. Yet, there’s more to the island than its golden shores and crystal-clear waters. Nicknamed "Coconut Island," it is a vital producer of coconuts, producing large harvests that are exported across Thailand and beyond each year.  

At Homm Chura Samui, explore the many layers of the island’s coconut heritage through thoughtfully curated activities—each one a chance to reconnect with tradition, appreciate nature’s gifts, and gain a deeper understanding of the island and yourself. 

Hands-on coconut oil making at Baan Boran

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Discover why the humble but valuable fruit plays such an important part in Koh Samui’s economy and daily life on the Coconut Culture Tour, which takes you to Baan Boran, a charming spot that feels suspended in time.  

This off-the-beaten-path coconut farm and attraction invites visitors to experience Koh Samui’s coconut legacy not just as a spectator but as a participant. The 2-hour Coconut Oil Local Experience begins with a refreshing drink made from Thai herbs, followed by a sightseeing tour of the Baan Boran Museum, which is housed in a centuries-old building with stunning Thai and Chinese architecture. 

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Guests will get an in-depth look at how every part of the coconut is utilised. For instance, turning the coconut husk into coir ropes and mats, using the water for cooking and hydration, and the oil for skincare, cosmetics, and health treatments. The museum also displays traditional coconut-based tools and household items, providing a fascinating look into how the coconut touches nearly every aspect of life on the island.  

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After this enlightening visit, you’ll learn the art of making virgin coconut oil from scratch using traditional methods. Get hands-on as you peel and crack open coconut shells, use a scraper to extract the flesh, squeeze fresh coconut milk, and learn the traditional way of simmering to create coconut oil. As it bubbles away, take part in a fun local game that involves walking on coconut shells – and once the oil is ready, you’ll walk away with a glass bottle of your own finished product to take home, which can be mixed with lotion to moisturise the skin. Additionally, guests can try kanom kee mun, a sweet and salty treat made from leftover ingredients of rice flour cake with coconut milk.  

Thai cooking class

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After immersing yourself in the coconut heritage of Koh Samui, learn how to use this versatile ingredient in the kitchen at Homm Chura Samui’s Thai Cooking Class. Held at Kan Restaurant, you’ll be using the coconut as the central ingredient, guided by expert chefs. Take a piece of Koh Samui back with you, as these timeless yet unique recipes can easily be recreated in the comforts of your own home. 

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Start by crafting tom kha goong, a delightful Thai coconut soup featuring succulent shrimp. This comforting dish envelops you in warmth, blending the gentle sweetness of fresh coconut with tender shrimp and aromatic herbs. Each spoonful offers a familiar embrace, inviting you to savour the vibrant flavours of Thailand. 

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Another highlight is learning how to make kua kling gai, a southern Thai chicken curry, a bold and aromatic dish enriched with the creaminess of coconut milk. Brimming with the deep, spicy flavours of Southern Thailand, this delicious dish is served with Chinese Bao and Bun, Homm’s signature offering. The soft, fluffy bao paired with robust curry is a culinary experience that bridges cultures and evokes a sense of home, providing the familiar, comforting feeling every guest seeks on a vacation.  

Exploring Koh Samui’s treasures

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Aside from coconut-focused activities, Koh Samui offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Wander along Chaweng Beach, a stretch of white sand that’s perfect for both sunbathing and people watching. The bustling beach scene has everything from water sports to local dining, and come night, transforms into a lively hotspot of beachside bars and clubs along the shore.  

For a taste of local culture, visit Fisherman’s Village Walking Street in Bophut, a lively night market that offers a sensory feast with its array of street food stalls and souvenir shops. Sample traditional Thai dishes and street food snacks, and shop for unique products such as handicrafts and jewellery by local artisans.  

Welcome home

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With your heart full of the many adventures around the island, return to Homm Chura Samui and be enveloped in a feeling of comfort and familiarity. Every moment here is centred around connections — to the island, to its culture, and to the feeling of being at home. After all, discovery doesn’t always have to be about seeking something new: sometimes, it’s about revisiting what makes you feel grounded.

Experience the familiar comforts of home at Homm Chura Samui.