Rivalling Phuket is Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island. Located off Thailand’s southern coast, Koh Samui is an island retreat that is worth a visit. Like Phuket whose world-famous beach attracts visitors to spend hours snorkelling, surfing or relaxing under the tropical sun, Koh Samui offers many outdoor activities that offer a real work out!
While days spent lazing on the beach outside your beachside Samui Resort can be dull, Koh Samui welcomes visitors to try their hand at the many water sports the ocean has to offer. With the surf-friendly waves crashing against the shore, experienced surf enthusiasts can enjoy an afternoon surfing along the taller waves farther from the shore while others can try Stand-Up- Paddle-Boarding which is ideal to navigate the smaller waves. If you want to take to the skies and enjoy a birds-eye view of Samui’s breathtaking coastline, try Kite-boarding but if an adrenalin-fuelled sport is not what you are looking for, Kayaking is a great way to explore the beaches around Samui. Take a boat excursion from Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort & Spa to nearby islands and visit the popular Angthong National Marine Park and snorkel in the clear waters surrounding this undisturbed island.
Outdoor activities in Koh Samui don’t end at the beach. Further inland, the lush jungles welcome visitors to trek along the jungle trail and discover tropical plants and animals. Ride an elephant half way up the mountainous jungle trail and proceed on foot and you may stumble upon a beautiful waterfall with an inviting natural pool that is perfect for a swim. For a rigorous work out, enrol in one of several Muay Thai training camps and learn the popular Thai boxing sport.
In the more luxurious setting of the island’s resorts, visitors can experience the zen of Yoga, learn the ancient Korean martial art of Taekwondo and learn Latin dance moves which will impress the crowd during the popular Salsa Nights held at Koh Samui’s dance clubs. Golfers, in the meantime, can enjoy a friendly game at one of three spectacular golf courses in the island.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.