A coconut being splashed by water at a tropical island destination. Picture: Unsplash
World Coconut Day, celebrated on September 2, is an international day established by the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC), which is an intergovernmental organisation of coconut producing countries aiming to recognise the importance of coconut.
It is celebrated by the farmers of coconut producing countries like India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Kenya and Vietnam and the stakeholders in the coconut growing business.
Coconuts offer a wide array of uses from agriculture, energy, construction to medicine. Though research on the fruit is still in its infancy, the versatile palm has been sustaining communities for thousands of years.
For instance, coconut milk, a by-product form coconuts, is an extremely healthy alternative as it contains high levels of potassium, vitamin c and magnesium whilst on remote islands around the world, residents who do not have access to water sources often rely on coconut water instead to quench their thirst.
In paying homage to the fruit with many benefits, here are some destinations and experiences inspired by it.
Coconut Bay: Mozambique
The name says it all. Coconut Bay is set amongst groves of coconut palms and lined with coral white beaches and crystal clear waters making it a true tropical paradise.
The tropical destination, is 25km from Inhambane City and accessed by a sandy road. Coconut Bay caters for every traveller and accommodation ranges from back-packing lodges, camping and self catering to luxury accommodation.
There are lots of activities within close proximity to Coconut Bay making it the perfect base point from which to explore the surrounding areas.
This resort area offers many restaurants and bars and as is typical in Mozambique you will find the local fishermen selling their freshly caught fish, prawns and crayfish.
Coconut Island: Thailand
Koh Maphrao or Coconut Island is only a 600m boat ride from the Laem Hin Pier area of Phuket. The small unspoiled island, with mangrove forests and palm-fringed sandy beaches is makes for an ideal secluded getaway.
It currently has only two resorts built on it and a small local population. Between Phuket and Koh Maphrao are floating restaurants, which are worth a lunchtime visit.
If you don’t want to stay at the resorts here, it is perfect for a full day or half day trip away from the main island of Phuket. Coconut Island is also great for kayaking, especially around the mangroves.
Coconut treats: Jamaica
For a foodie experience with coconuts as the star of the treat, then consider Jamaica. Coconuts were introduced by Spanish settlers in the 16th century on the island and they are used in multiple ways – both in their raw, natural state and for derivative products.
The raw coconut produces coconut water on the inside, as well as soft, inner layer known as the “coconut jelly”.
The jelly, or meat, of matured coconuts are used to make coconut milk and coconut oil. Some of the most popular uses of these are in meal preparation, or as an ingredient in hair and beauty products.
Coconut Plantation: The Philippines
To learn about the fruit and how its grown, consider this experience in the Philippines. Spend the day at Villa Escudero Resort, a historic plantation tucked away amid breathtaking natural surroundings.
On the coconut plantation, you can ride a buffalo cart to the human-made Labasin Falls for lunch, set at bamboo tables at the foot of the waterfall while the water laps your feet.
You can also enjoy a post-meal rinse and visit an on-site family museum of artefacts and antique collections.