How to Explore Koh Samui like a Local: 5 Non-Touristy Things to Do - 5 Best Ways to Stay off the Trodden Path and Enjoy Activities while Discovering Koh Samui

 As one of the most popular beach holiday hotspots in all of Thailand, Koh Samui is on the bucket list of nearly every traveller. Blessed with stunning beaches and sunny skies, this tropical paradise is home to some of the swankiest resorts and the most pristine marine parks in the country. From exploring what makes the island tick to diving into unusual experiences that are off the beaten path, here are some ways to uncover the real Koh Samui like a local.

 1. Marvel at the Khun Si Waterfall

As one of the lesser-known natural attributes on the island, travellers must take the time to witness the majesty of this breathtaking waterfall. Those who are venturing down throughout the palm forests that are found on the way from the entrance to Mae Naam will come across signs leading to this scenic waterfall. Easily reachable via a brief hike, one need not climb up a slope but climb down one to reach this captivating waterfall that is divided into several rapids and features a pool at its base. Visitors should also stop by the little bar in the area where one can not only enjoy a refreshing drink but also learn about the eco-friendly farming techniques used by the bar's owners to cultivate fruits and veggies. Those based at the Avani+ Samui Resort or any similar luxury pool villa in Koh Samui can book a tour of the falls via their hotel.

 2. Go Kiteboarding

While surfing and scuba diving are among the most popular and touted activities accessible to visitors in Koh Samui, only a few are aware of the joys of picking up kiteboarding. Those with a flair for water-bound activities can learn how to kiteboard from venues such as Kiteboarding Asia and other water sports schools on the island as one or two lessons will suffice to gain a reasonable understanding of the mechanics of the sport. Keep in mind that one must travel to Koh Samui between November and March to sign up for kiteboarding classes in the East of Lamai while May through August is when Bang Rak is ideal for the activity.

Image by Christo Anestev from Pixabay 

 3. Dip into Local Tipple

Although the splendour of Koh Samui's authentic cuisine is well-known, not many tourists take the time to enjoy craft beers that are unique to the island, or in fact, Thailand. A trip to Koh Samui is the perfect excuse to forgo your usual beer brands and opt for locally produced vintages by Tiger, Singha, Chang and Leo. The best place to sample local tipple in Koh Samui is at Chaweng's Beer Masons, which stocks an impressive collection of Asian wines and beers.

4. Visit the Magic Buddha Garden

Occupying pride of place in the hills of Samui, the Magic Buddha Garden is not so much a religious attraction as it is a local fruit farmer's life's work. Having erected countless sculptures of Thai gods and goddesses along with statues of the Buddha and other mythical beings, the farmer only stopped working on his magical garden when he died at the age of 91.

 5. Give Back

One of the best ways to spend your time during a Koh Samui getaway is to join hands with a local group the likes of Trash Hero to clean up the beaches around the island and give back to the destination that has offered you a little piece of paradise for a few days or a couple of weeks. The clean-u- programmes are not only fun but also include free meals and refreshments as well as a yoga session at sunset for all participants.