NORTH SHORE LOCALISM EXPLAINED BY KOA AND MAKUA ROTHMAN! WHY ITS IMPORTANT

What is Localism? Why is it important? Get some insight to how localism works here on North Shore and around the world with the surfing world. ‪@NathanFlorence‬ ‪@makuakairothman‬
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[@tyler6147]

I lived on the North Shore during an era of 'change' when the old old school localism was frowned on by many locals themselves. IE just going straight away and beating people up etc. That said I made friends with everyone pretty much. One day though someone stole all of my stuff--and I was upset about it. One of the old school locals saw me and he asked what was wrong so I explained the situation. He proclaimed quite loudly so other people could hear..."We gonna get your stuff back. It's a SMALL island. We don't like to handle it the old way, but if we need to we will". The next day my backpack and all of my belongings were mysteriously found not far from where they were stolen a couple of days prior. In other words, at least in my experience the 'regulating' kind of went both ways. It's not always one sided against the haoles.

[@peacepuffz]

Dude your the real life Rick Kane, peace my amigo

[@theycallmekdawg]

From the sound of it, he and his local friends were probably the ones who stole it hahaha

[@williamsharpnack5534]

Wouldn't happen that way today, Lucky you were there awhile and made friends. I had to divertido from town to surf my days off, they stole stuff out of my car, had to defender myself a coupla times and I witnessed prejidice every day, after 5 years i had enuff, I had a local wife and a hotel unión job, but when I wasnt with her..

[@robertchiarizia9463]

That is still one of the rare nice things about Hawaii, the Kanaka are Light Warriors. They are Pono, they have Heart. The wickedness of Babylon has not turned their heart black and full of Fear yet. The Warrior’s Heart still lives in them. Stay Pono Kanaka Maoles 🤙🏻 Hawaii is the last bastion of the Heart of true warriors of the Light, of Aloha. 🌈

[@robertchiarizia9463]

@@williamsharpnack5534 I feel you Braddah. I lived Maui and had to fight a lot there. One guy like Maki me with one mini Taurus handgun, so I had to shoot him unfortunately. I did my time though in the Hawaii prison system. It’s ironic that I learned more about Hawaii and local people living with them in prison than I ever did just living free in Hawaii. Aloha Stay Pono 🤙🏻

[@sugewhitejacoby8654]

I was a lifeguard at Haleiwa Beach Park in the 80s. I graduated HS in town. Koas dad was the worst example of localizm. Him and his Boyz terrorized and anyone not local. I only had problems on kill Haole day in HS. But saw it all the time!

[@basetalk3306]

Philly boy thinks he’s Hawaiian 😂😂😂

[@minginify]

Scumbag Philly criminal he is.

[@joeblow1942]

Eddie has been selling meth to locals for years as well as extorting protection $ from front row homeowners. Can’t believe the locals didn’t kick him off the island decades ago.

[@briana6573]

Meth dealer and all around terrible human becomes "respected local fixture" on north shore. I was born and raised but da hui can suck my boto

[@Nothing-qq4hd]

Crybaby

[@calebmagan1866]

I think always respect the locals, always let some sets go when you paddle out, stay outve the way, be friendly, apologize if you make a mistake and wait your turn. But some locals can be assholes. They can be entitled, be rude, completely ignore your existence, and act like your presence is a personal offence. I find some of these videos have the dual energy of "hey look how beautiful Hawaii is! Come visit, omg I'm so lucky to live here and call this home, here's where to surf and when you come here check this out etc", and also "wtf there's so many people here, look at all these idiots, damn these people can't surf for shit I'm so much better, why are you all here".... Surfing is interesting like that. No localism in soccer or at skateparks lol

[@user1313]

no localism at skate parks?? idk about that!

[@calebmagan1866]

That's just been my experience

[@pman1chnlx]

Where the wrong football shirt in the wrong city can get ugly.

[@anthonyladell2033]

@@user1313 rude entitled people in skateparks but that’s not localism

[@sctim123]

@@anthonyladell2033 misguided clowns, but its easy to skate something else, or go back another time.

[@benjamineaston9623]

I think localism is good for keeping unqualified surfers out of more advanced spots where they're just a liability to everyone there. Like Koa said, it also keeps some order in the water in terms of taking turns and not going on someone else's wave. However, I don't like the idea of locals completely owning a spot. Just because you have the opportunity and resources to live in a certain spot doesn't mean you own parts of the ocean. Like I can't afford to live in an expensive beach town but I have just as much love for the waves and surfing as anybody else there. Obviously, I still need to be respectful of the lineup and pecking order, but when it's my turn I'm not gonna be very happy if someone burns me just because they live there and feel entitled. Some adults need to learn how to share.

[@philippemills6847]

Here in French Polynesia you can own the beach if its your slice of the island, and even own sections of coral.

[@dallasbolton]

This comment is it bruv

[@Pucksndeep6]

Great response!

[@bi0008]

What Koa said about the Tahitian locals saying they're going to go, that's the thing that I would like to see more of. If you're going to stuff me then just say you're going and I'll stop paddling. There's no reason to create a dangerous situation just because you don't think you should communicate because you're local. Just yell, "going!" And then guys who huck in from out on the shoulder when you're already on the wave so you have to straighten out and end up in a bad position. It's your spot, but be reasonable. The legendary lava reef on the Pacific coast of Panama is the worst for this. Zero fucks given.

[@dieselfeesul4928]

Koa and Makua, you could look into doing some kind of charity event for the local people, whether it is equipment for local kids or getting up some kind of scholarship (they are not all big) for local kids, groceries, ....whatever, doesn't even have to be surf based, and you can call it with the same font. 'THIS IS GIVIN'

[@billyneaves1707]

on my visit from Australia (Noosa) i was standing on Sunset beach watching some nice smallish wave's when a local guy came up and started a chat then took me up to his place (up a laneway out the front ) and pulled out a board for me and said have fun and just drop it off when you're done !crew out were talking nice stuff to me ! Blew me out 😎✌

[@maxpower8429]

…. He’s trying to bang you

[@JimmyFloridatube]

I am an old body board surfer living in Florida for the last 28 years. Florida is all the wave action I need on the body board. My favorite place is Butler Beach on Anastasia Island. I know how to avoid crowds and go on the off days. I have been to Hawaii four times, but I found Florida to be the best place for me. I lived in CA. for 13 years and hated the cold ocean water on the west coast, but Florida has nice, warm ocean water and 825 miles of lovely beaches.

[@HAMSTERKILLER666]

Only thing being a local grants you is easy access to a spot. It allows you to get have more sessions, get the good conditions, learn the spot and get more waves with that knowledge. You don't get more rights, you don't get to drop in on people, take waves from people. Respect the rules and the people, local or not.

[@topcat4199]

Well said

[@toddmcartor1855]

Just because your daddy grew up on pipe does not entitle you to be asholes or worse! Wave hogs! Kelly Slater home is Cocoa Beach and Destroys the competion in Pipeline! What does that tell you! That the locals are pricks with bad attitudes! An Outsider from Fl dominates tells you all!!

[@topcat4199]

@@toddmcartor1855 dude I think your missing his point. He is saying the same thing as you. Just far more eloquently, with far less rage.

[@tyler6147]

This is my experience as well.

[@jamesgarrison8666]

Exactly, and if someone is dropping in on me intentionally like Makua did in this video, I'll slap the dogshit out of them. Respect should be reciprocated, not expected.

[@AScottB]

Dude - you explained it really well and respectfully. It’s all about respecting the locals’ break.

[@eyeswideopen935]

my MOST FAVORITE set of N Shore brothers!! Both of you SO chill

[@mikehixson3246]

Late 80's Johnny Boy was the biggest deush-bag. He dropped in on everyone. If he was out, he'd be fighting someone. Loved my time living there with a lot of local friends. But there were a few local boys that just spewed hate. Waited my turn and it usually was a ton of fun. Sad, a few people can really change the whole vibe. Love the islands and the wonderful people I met.

[@pickleforknwiggles634]

JBG was always kind to me. Many epic sessions at logs with no problems.

[@dulichion]

Small dick energy, when you have to fight to prove youre a man. I tear that ass up in bed, no need to wrestle with men lmao!

[@brettmuller9556]

I know two guys one a brawler another just a mellow dad of 2 boys that stood up to him with np problem that’s how you deal with a bully

[@johhnmorgan8329]

Ozzy the Australian Hawaiian surfer grown up with johnny boy gnomes in hawaii johnny boy is a hard working man johnny boy is ok

[@AndrewCooperr]

I’ve lived in Hawaii for 9 months now and I’ve never had any issues with anyone on any part of the island surfing. Give the locals respect and let them get their waves. It’s really simple, give respect & you will get respect. If you put in time at a spot and you are respectful eventually they will start giving you good waves. I’ve learned a lot from being out in these line ups, it kinda makes me realize how terrible the etiquette is all over California. (Where I’m from)

[@surfininmy40s]

I was visiting few months ago and my respect for da locals was rewarded when they told me to go on a bomb 🤙🏾

[@outdoorzenb7799]

Took me a whole year at Hau Bush to get respect…patience & aloha 🤙🏻

[@joeblow1942]

I have zero respect for racists.

[@deathtrapgonzo7141]

I lived on Oahu almost 4 years and had to sit a long time to catch a wave. Then when I finally got one and they saw I wasn't gonna waste it I started getting more. Never surfed on the north shore though. East and south side.

[@weareyouthere]

There are spots in Cali that have good etiquette, they tend to be heavier though.

[@petevawser7310]

When travelling for surf, I always sit out the back and cheer the locals and compliment them on their last ride. A smile goes a long way. Very quickly I get accepted and can get my share of waves. Those that paddle out and try to get the first set that comes, deserve what they get from locals. If travelling, chill out. Your on holiday.

[@el_burritoslapper]

So much truth to this🙏🏽 it’s easy to gain respect when you show respect

[@raulsuarez5421]

that's so true.

[@xisotopex]

yep! speaking a few words of the language, and maybe buying them some beer when they are chilling on the beach can also help, in the right circumstance...

[@rakim126]

Yes until you sit within 10 feet of me in the line up.

[@jtrealfunny]

He say's "It's super important that we make sure that the local kids can get waves, especially with how many people come through here. It is important and it can get heavy because a lot of people that do come here are aggressive people, like a lot of...I'm not going to just start dropping nationalities..." Excellent piece. I've watched you some lately what impresses me is your ability to deal with difficult and real topics like localism or commercialism (the sticker lesson was essential) in a real person kind of way, less about tribes, or right or wrong, and more about what is happening around, too you, in surfing (localism, gentrification, culture clash, comercialization of something once cool). This is a lot more interesting to me than hearing guys who rip bro down. Thanks for making and sharing.

[@xisotopex]

LMFAO I bet he isnt talking about Brazilians

[@VeshThrob]

Respect is the main word out in any line up

[@katiegonzalez1542]

My home break is White Plains over on Ewa side and everyone says hi and makes eye contact and what not. Whenever I paddle out on the north shore beginner breaks nobody says hi or smiles or anything. Some of the older local guys say hi sometimes.. the vibe is different on north shore but makes sense I guess y’all have a lot more visitor surfers. Nobody but locals show up at White Plains 🤙

[@timmckeague7830]

Your comment about the Groms getting waves made me laugh. Early 2000s my wife and I went out to empty Monster Mash, off season while we were learning to surf stand up after a life of body boarding and windsurfing. Just after paddling out we are joined by John John and his friend. For the next hour those two 11-12 year olds didn't let us get one wave! Damn kids! LOL

[@rolloverrob902]

Grew up in Northern California surfing in the 1980s and 1990s. Kind of smoothly blended in for the few years I was in Hawaii mid 90s.

[@kara-patri-astral-maps]

so fun...you made sense...in the summer in Laguna Bech...it was difficult...the winters were easy..

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Makuakai has often told tourists off and has been seen on camera not only picking fights with non-locals, but he has also been filmed giving people dirty, DIRTY lickings. Makua's seems to have inherited desire for start beef from his old man, fast Eddie. Localism matters especially when KOOKS surf above their abilities but giving people solid poundings when their intents might not have been sinister, is just damn baaaad for business. Still have to give ALOHA, yeah? Always set the polite example that you want to see followed, by others. ALWAYS. YOU, who are famous and notorious (well-known) REPRESENT your state, and surfing. HOW YOU BEHAVE is how the rest will be judged, good, bad or ... different.

[@MrDanSpank]

Makua and fast Eddie are like 5'6, I don't know why anyone let either of them give them any shit. They must rely on their home boys to fight their fights.

[@sctim123]

ok so next time I see you or any of your friends or anyone I don't recognize out in california I'll just drop right in on you bc you have to respect me bc i live here

[@DeadSezSo]

Say you don't understand what he said without saying you don't understand what he said

[@GenX...MCMLXV]

@@DeadSezSo Groms are still dumb as rocks........ hopefully he'll grow out of it before someone pounds his dumba$$

[@nayru1855]

its almost like you pick and chose what to hear and didnt understand a single thing he said, but hey we cant all have comprehension skills huh?good luck chuggin through life with half a brain 🤙

[@ER_aka_RAM]

Nah… we’ll just drop in on you, because you’re a straight up Kook.

[@alienzordfalcon5162]

@@DeadSezSohe’s being sarcastic basically saying that they preach respect and aloha, but they won’t show any respect or aloha at all. It was clearly a joke. Relax. No wonder the water is so tense in Hawaii. You sound wound up tighter than an anxious chick who has to fart on a date.

[@Woods2TheWater]

Well said Koa! I couldnt agree more. You said this perfectly. The culture and pecking order is part of the history of surfing. We look out for one another. As a grom I grew up in hawaii and then we moved to florida and I was lucky to have a very protective local spot. We need Localism and respect everywhere. They go hand in hand. Well said man and great example of what we all need in the surf culture. Great word man. Keep it up!

[@michaela5311]

Makes a lot of sense to have some localism especially for safety and the groms. If people are travelling there are plenty of waves around to share with fellow travellers. Loving the channel especially the POV on the big screen via a VR headset. Cheers from Australia.

[@teamstrider6834]

Well put you guys had to go through it and most people don't understand what that's like. I grew up in Florida and not even trying to compare to you guys, but there was violence and similar issues. I am in no way advocating for violence in any form for today things are different. People show up drop-in laugh it off. A smile and respect goes a long way thanks for your videos, you the man

[@thefilthygringo9228]

Sebastian inlet was the worst

[@thefilthygringo9228]

Very well put.

[@benjaminadams4957]

Brotherly love good to see.🤙

[@frothymilksmiles]

It's complicated. Surfing steamer lane for 30 yrs. It takes a long time to get respect, but if you have respect and can surf decently and not dangerous, respect will come. When i travel, I always respect the locals and give them right of way esp if it's firing...most of the time, eventually you will get the nod here and there and that's just how it goes. Be smart, learn to find those golden little windows...smile and be stoked...Much aloha to all!

[@xisotopex]

and when you get the nod, you better go! lol

[@eyeswideopen935]

@@xisotopex an important point ;o

[@elnino4643]

I don't mind people enforcing when it's necessary, but sometimes people get out of hand. When it's unnecessary, I usually think it's a bad look on the uncles out there. I got yelled at for taking a wave and one of his friends actually dropped in on ME, lol. He yelled at me for "taking all the waves", when the wave before that, his friend caught. Up to that point it was mostly his friend and I rotating, and we were in a section where the waves coming there, us 2 were the only ones who could catch them anyway. It seemed everything was cool until he started yelling. Even his friend told me it's all good no worries, but some uncles just seem to want to yell at people for the sake of it. In any case, didn't change anything, i kept surfing the way I was. I been surfing that break for 30+ years so I'm not getting run out by some uncle lol. Chances are if he wants his friends to beat me up, it's not happening cause I'm already friends with all those guys.

[@hawkmanization]

Being seventy & watching you young men just talk with clean language will give u many props. Setting that example should grab the young people who really matter in this enjoyment.

[@spikelconnor3216]

I'm from Florida....I was on North Shore back in 88 and 89. Localism definitely HEAVY. SEEN Johnny Boy and all the other HEAVYS dishing it out when needed.🤙🤙

[@ohhreally92]

Koa spitting facts about surfing, seems like a peaceful chill sport but its actually so selfish and brutal at times. Its hard sometimes when you turn up to a popular spot to know who is a local and who isnt if they arent well known. I just always try be respectful.

[@WiZoRD_C45]

Word

[@vznquest]

i just got back from my third trip to Hawaii and as usual felt more aloha in the water there than anywhere else i've surfed. sit wide, engage the locals, throw a smile/shaka, and take whatever you can get. "respect" is such an overused word in this sport but yes, it goes a long way. what's more important is to bring this attitude wherever you go/surf.

[@PaulOReilly712]

Ivan is John and Nathan fused into a quiet fierce charging Legend :D

[@CC-gg4oj]

Koa mentioned Snapper... I was a grom in the 80's n 90's before the super-bank killed all the great little spots, I miss surfing Lil Marly and the top of Greenie. All the little spots spread out the pack. Now its one wave from Snapper to Coolie and linking up to Kirra on a big day. Monster sweep included... It's like dodgems out there now. I've been injured about 10 years now and moved myself to quiet beachie cause i cant paddle like i did before. But I've got the fun back, and the quiet enjoyment of a sunrise.

[@craigphillips1321]

so if you're a local and stuff someone, and they in turn bail and hit the reef, and get injured, that is somehow in the name of safety? Maybe that person respectfully waited and other locals told them to go, and you weren't there to witness that. I surfed a lot in Santa Cruz, back in the 90's, when the locals were trying hard to be hard, acting like selfish asshats while tweaking and being totally unruly.. I understand the dynamics; but no explanation has ever made 100% sense to me. I also have gotten injured by locals dropping in on me. I've also learned a lot by watching the locals and learning where to sit, and gotten hooted into set waves, made it and earned the respect you mention, and sorta earned local status even though I am not local anywhere except Ocean Beach, SF. At OB there is plenty of room and only strong paddlers get out on big days anyway. my point is that these are all unwritten rules and important to understand; but there are times they don't apply. Awareness is key.

[@nikki_tay]

I like how you described that. It's important to know 'where you came from'. It plays into who you are.

[@colemanfraser2689]

I like the explanation, something I was definitely wondering about. Never surfed before so learning a little about how things work is always interesting to me. Little dog eat dog out there in the line up.

[@joemeeker5211]

Keep in mind respect must be earned!

[@arisaseremo7307]

I visited the North Shore and paddled out more than a few times. They know you, and leave you alone but they will observe your surfing manners. They are strict with rotation, and when the wave is heading to you, you better go for it becuase hesitating will upset the local guys in the lineup the most. Manners and ettiquete will get you places. Know the culture of the lineup, the ability of those in the lineup, and the right board you're using in the lineup.

[@bankroll974]

Bro that’s anywhere respect goes both waves this not a mystery 😂😂

[@whatitisbuddy9785]

Waikiki is the most dangerous. Tourists renting a board and never surfing in their life. I’m glad they are experiencing surfing but it is so dangerous, especially in summer

[@paulh.327]

Nope it is Siargao Island infested with them and their Small d...k surf guides

[@blogo1111]

Went there on our honeymoon and seemed like thousands out in the water by morning. My wife took a lesson with a giant board with a an instructor who said “who’s that?” When I paddled up. I surfed a little because I have been since 17. Besides the huge crowds there were just surf everywhere, though small

[@mdiat45485]

i love these little insights into the culture

[@newenglandsurftruck3865]

helpful!!

[@terriparker6199]

Since koa got his neck fixed and started working out more, his surfing has really improved …..keep up the hard work . 😊Great job🏄‍♂

[@cjgamer2140]

If it's 10 foot barreling pipe he charges and rips it. Anything less than that he is just average surfer.

[@kingofdeath5600]

More of Makua!!

[@adambane1719]

Nope ! He's a total Douche !

[@punanitsunami2786]

Love the moment with you and your brother. Reminds me of mines, but im makua lol

[@supersoniq3506]

That Malibu video you posted was nuts. I used to live near Dana Point. I never would have considered going up there to surf.

[@Chakirisan]

This is a really interesting discussion, and I’m not sure it is as straight forward as Koa presents it, though I get his meaning and know he is humble and respectful. I think old school localism had its issues, violence being top of the list. In most sports you lead by example and surfers with elite abilities can set the tone via their surfing, personal behavior and by talking to people directly. Social media can help as well, with local blogs and podcasts spreading the message. Be humble when surfing new spots, stay away from huge groups initially, watch how others behave, if it’s a mess maybe just sit that session out…. It is absolutely not worth fighting if localism is that kind of toxic.

[@quasarkneepro7758]

Did you hear what he said? It regulates the line up . Dispite what you think, it has its purpose

[@waynehearst317]

and by "regulate" you mean the locals get their waves of choice and the scraps for the rest. He "never" looks back is all you need to know. @@quasarkneepro7758

[@realkanakamaoli]

About 23 years ago I was surfing V-Land and a young Makua Rothman was surfing with some of his dad's friends, including the infamous Perry Dane. They were coaching him and making sure he got any wave he wanted.

[@jimbali60]

I'll bet everybody was behaving themselves with Perry out there

[@pullitupjamie810]

This was well said, and people need to empathise both ways.

[@jeffreymoscardelli8428]

That new bord with the purple is sick

[@jasonpacific5661]

Stellar interview. Koa explains smart localism perfectly !! 🥇

[@makoadealmeida6734]

Makua out in the water and in the parking lot of Ehukai is such a pain. Born and raised in Hawaii and this guys will ask for your parking spot and then yell at you to pack up faster. Entitled…

[@jimboharris3246]

I lived in Hawaii for 23yrs and respect my Aina. Makua used to come visit us at Aulani!! Your braddah Jimbo!! I feel that we have to share our land with everyone. It's not OUR beaches. We are blessed to be raised in paradise and sharing Aloha also means not spreading LOCALISM. Either you share or you dont!! What side of the board do you represent??

[@MrPatrickslovell]

Bro, I totally hear you! Well said.

[@bonefishboards]

Respect is everything. Give waves, get waves. And don't get in the way.

[@tommathews3964]

Unfortunately, I've never surfed Hawaii. Oddly enough, the worst case of "localism" I ever experienced was at Sebastian Inlet Florida, south of Cocoa Beach. This was mid seventies, so times were different! While you could surf all along the beach, the real screamer was a wedge coming off of the jetty rocks and wall that was strictly a right. This meant EVERYBODY was piled up in the takeoff zone and it was crowded! This is the spot where Slater and Tom Curren, among others, cut their teeth. Hostile crowd, for sure! Second worse I ever experienced was "Trestles" and Huntington Beach Pier in California.

[@justinpowell3644]

FACTS

[@tommathews3964]

@@justinpowell3644 Only thing that save me on my first trip there was that I was with Yancy Spencer, rest his soul!

[@digitaldyslexia7589]

Trestles is the worst. Salt Creek is also pretty bad. Luckily the vibe is completely different a little south of trestles at sano, there's a few guys who will dominate the place but generally everyone is there to have fun and not take things too serious

[@ChickenJoe-tq6xd]

Lol Sebastian isn’t even bad like that

[@williammartin2842]

Tom Curren is from California. Sebastian Inlet in the 1970's was an incredibly amazing wave. Back then every wave at first peak had a local absolutely shredding. They had that place dialed in finely. Remember Jeff Crawford side slipping and floating like a leaf down vertical faces into that perfect hollow barrel. The entire local crew there had the best wave in the entire East coast.

[@hewonyew]

Koa: "When I go to say...California...I mind the locals..." ****Koa goes to Malibu and Newport and snakes locals.****

[@briana6573]

Thats the funny thing about every "local enforcer". They have no problem going somewhere else to surf but think they get to yell at anyone who paddles out at "their wave". Every time they have some public facing interview it's all about "maintaining respect" when really they yell at you in the parking lot before you even paddle out.

[@hewonyew]

@@briana6573 It's like when the Hells Angels do teddy bear drives to look nice. What a crock of shit.

[@ThePerpetualStudent]

Yeah I saw that video. Pissed me off. It is hard for me to respect Koa after that. However, Nathan Florence is my favorite on the planet. It is a packaged deal.

[@tyler6147]

Think of it like golf. It doesn't matter where you are playing. The basic rules are the same. If a 'local' is out at a spot but acting totally reckless, and even dangerous then kook rules apply.

[@ronaldbronson1285]

It's not about respect or safety and it never was

[@JohnDoe-lc9yj]

I once heard someone say the three most important words to know in prison are "please" and "thank you". Respect is universal and humility will open doors that nothing else will.

[@MM5150LA]

I’ve been in many different prisons in California and I’ve never heard any convict say PLEASE

[@JohnDoe-lc9yj]

@@MM5150LA pretty sure that's why you have been so many "prisons in California." Maybe you are the problem, huh?

[@MM5150LA]

Yup

[@heatherm8261]

Virginia Beach only has a couple of surf only areas so it gets crazy insane! In one roughly 100 yard area I counted more than 120 people and that included two surf schools that were scary to be near. I’m not a local there but I try to respect others and not block people and let people catch waves. There also can’t be a true lineup because the waves break inconsistently in a couple spots. Giant free for all.

[@xisotopex]

is most of the beach blocked off and illegal to surf? thats stupid, surfers probably make more water rescues than lifeguards...

[@user-st3vd5bf6g]

What’s really crazy is that VA Beach has no surf. I know this because I am on the Outer Banks and they are always down here running in packs. I’m not into localism, but they make it hard. They pull up to spots because they see vehicles, run over the dunes, jump on their phones and call all their boys to the spot. Then on top of that, most of them paddle for waves they really don’t want a part of, and end up missing the wave. After a while, we would see their weak attempts at catching the wave and just assume they were going to blow it and take off.

[@babahash]

Surfing is such a zen sport, it's a pity the people are the most un-zen. I grew up surfing the Sydney northshore but can't handle the anger anymore. That's not the environment I want to spend my free time

[@TheSharp2500]

i live in laie and i surf almost every day but i hardly go to north shore just because of the crowds

[@VisionEmerald]

Let’s go 🙌

[@jorgegutierrezbrenosa6263]

Totally agree Koa, I would also would like to add one more thing. That respect should come first from the Surf Schools. They should explain all of this on the first day people start to surf.

[@shafts2447]

When they push beginners, “ like it’s my 1st day out” into head high sets makes for an eventful session.

[@Ejazzle]

“I’m not gonna name drop any nationalities **cough** brazzos **cough**” is basically what Koa said 😂

[@bcooper7618]

Haha if u know u know

[@youthgonewild]

''Brazzos'' - is that an ethnic slur?

[@bcooper7618]

@@youthgonewild Is calling Australians "Aussies" an ethnic slur?

[@bcooper7618]

@@youthgonewild I know many Brazilians who call themselves Brazzos just like Australians call themselves Aussies. It's not that deep.. stop trying to make an issue out of nothing.

[@youthgonewild]

@@bcooper7618 that’s what I wanted to know. just a question, brah

[@scottburrow8717]

That board is sick!!

[@MarkBaldone]

I’m lucky to live in Japan and surf at a spot that we found and no local or other people outside of my friend group surf. It’s honestly helped me surf faster but at the same time I think it’s going to be detrimental to my development bc I don’t know how a normal surf lineup works :/

[@MH_347]

The best analogy I’ve heard in regards to localism is that you wouldn’t rock up to a basketball ball court in Harlem NY 7 o’clock at night and expect to waltz straight into the court with the local boys games already in progress and start shooting hoops and taking over. Somehow I don’t think it would end well. Surfing shouldn’t be any different

[@maxpower8429]

Is there a reason you picked Harlem 😂

[@erikhancock3186]

​@@maxpower8429Ruckers Park is located in Harlem. The worlds most famous street court. The Pipe of Basketball.

[@grantwelch9255]

Dude, I grew up in Kailua in the 90s and we were often afraid to surf certain spots on North Shore. 45 min away, but not our spot. Gotta respect

[@laniakea777]

Kailua?????? Yeah, you shouldn't come over the Pali or around the Corner Laiea

[@wynnbardaglio4381]

Could you do a run of white “this is livin” transfer stickers??

[@jaycee571]

COMMENTS FOR THIS VIDEO HAVE BEEN TURNED OFF Nah well said Koa, you Nate, JOB, Mason have a great platform to educate a lot of newer people to surfing bout respect and localism. Nice work

[@theambiguoustruth8167]

Order in the water keeps things safe! There needs to be respect or things get dangerous and people get hurt! Respect is earned!

[@mattcorley4622]

Every beach has localism. Surfing is territorial, aggressive and your spot is earned. I had no issues in Hawaii surfing all over Maui, but I came with respect. I introduced myself, showed up everyday and waited my turn. I always got waves, I never dropped in on anyone and deferred to anyone in the lineup. I'll do that in Hawaii, Florida and basically any break that isn't mine. Respect gets you far and will get you far more waves than without.

[@xisotopex]

thats the way it should be! you dont get the best waves just because you think its "your" turn... you get the best waves because you have a great amount of spot, and ocean knowledge... and you have to know your place in the pecking order... its not really like that anymore, but thats how I grew up. it can be a malignant culture, but not always... being able to surf well, and being respectful, friendly and polite to the locals can be the difference between getting your car window smashed in or not... and even when localism IS a full on malignant culture, I still understand it, even if I dont necessarily agree with it...

[@josephcurran9924]

I have a better feeling towards localism now. Especially after Nate explained how he sits back of lineup to locals, but if a wave is heavy and no one is going, he will go.

[@braddoughty8528]

RESPECT + LOOK AROUND IN THE 🌊

[@kawikadee9670]

Just have to show respect, when I go to the North Shore I show you guys respect and when you come on the west side you show us respect, you know how it is. Never disrespect when you go from Nanakuli to Keawaula Beach, Aloha.

[@DJ-nn6vg]

Makua gives off the Dad vibe around Koa.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

14:00 -- TV's killer! Love it. Care to give us a home, room tour?

[@peruramosbasarte3163]

Wow! Makua’s take was so on point

[@tomw2687]

Great topic on localism Koa. There is a need for order. When you have waves at Malibu and Snapper where there is no localism or order, you get total chaos. You and your brother Crack me up on dropping in on someone. Make showed his brotherly love in a funny way. Classic! Glad you have the new This Is Livin stickers. I'm on it. Aloha, Tommy! 👍 🏄‍♂️ 🌊

[@ThePerpetualStudent]

Same for San Clemente. Brazilians came on a fucked it all up. They snake each other.

[@jimmyoconnor6569]

Pretty well explained, I have been out of the loop for many years now but being a Florida surfer in the late 70s ,80s and most of the 90s until life couldn’t be avoided. I have seen some crazy shit along the way , fights in the water fights out of the water, just out of control stuff. I never really had a “local” problem because I identified real quick who was who and approached them respectfully and never worried about it. Hell i had “locals” look,out for me on a few instances. My point , if your in a new area A. Don’t be a dick B. Have awareness to the people around you

[@jb-es5zj]

B Shoiuld be every one every day

[@gnarlydewd]

I wouldn't want people from all over the world on my reef break either....

[@thedarwinsnatchers6745]

also does it matter how much u surf a spot or does it matter if ur actually born and raised

[@TheDailyWipeout]

1:28 double drop in 😆

[@twsd]

It’s easy to forget you guys are world class athletes.

[@a1b9c2]

Very good surfers...yeah. World class athletecism is a stretch though. These guys would get killed in tests of athletecism against NBA, UFC or NFL players just to name a few.

[@aitutaki50]

It's so funny to hear Koa explain localism, when he's just so naturally mild-mannered & good-natured...he's the last guy on the planet that's ever going to give someone a beating, even though they may very well deserve one...that's not to say however that he's not going to get every single wave he wants out there, & he wants plenty...when I started visiting the Hawaiian Islands to surf from the East Coast many moons ago, I fell in love with the Hawaiian people, & their waves...I eventually married a Native Hawaiian wahine who came from an Ali'i line of very well-known surfers...I one time asked her what she would do if anyone ever messed with me when I was out surfing--she told me she would pickup a rock & smash their head...she said it without hesitation & very mater-of-factly, & I knew she meant it--&, that's why I never told her about any minor altercation I may have had while out surfing--because I didn't care to see someone's skull split wide open when they paddled in...still, after all my years of surfing all the Hawaiian Islands, as a Haole from the Mainland, I can count the number of truly negative interactions I had on one hand-which is a whole hell of alot less than I ever had on the East Coast...it's like one time I was hiking in the High Peaks Region of The Adirondacks, & I had just seen a very large Black Bear...there was a local guy up ahead sitting on top of a very large rock right in the middle of the trail, & he was sharpening the blade of a very large knife...I asked him if there was anything to be worried about regarding the local black bears--he replied, "Nah---just don't f*** with them, & they won't f*** with you." I always remembered that advice when it came time to dealing with Hawaiians.

[@stevebelzer4758]

Wonderful retelling

[@mr.enigma9326]

Would love to see some videos of you and the guys surfing over in Kaui's North Shore. Cannons, Tunnels, Hideaways, etc can all really turn on this time of year and are definitely waves of serious consequence when the conditions are right.

[@WILLGRAYY]

They’re also way, way less crowded. I had a great time at hideaways BY MYSELF the last time I was in Kauai. Could hardly believe it. Wasn’t huge or anything but a solid chest high day without any interference.

[@JMH33SD]

Good to see Nate back in the water....

[@davidfosleitner9055]

I like Koa and his videos and I understand where he's coming from in terms of localism. However, it's still a weird concept to me. Why do people feel like just because they grew up in a certain place, they are superior to those who didn't? Also, in your definition you say "as in any other sport" and this is something I don't agree on. I literally can't think of a single sport besides surfing where the concept of localism even exists. As someone who grew up skiing in Austria, I can understand that it sucks that there are more and more (foreign) people surfing "your" spots. But it's not like there's a law saying they can't or that somebody owns parts of the ocean. Our slopes are flooded with tourists from the UK, the US or the East. Do we like it? No. Do we think we have any more rights or privileges on the slope than they do? No. As the population keeps growing, the number of surfers will keep growing accordingly, meaning there'll be more surfers in the water, unfortunately. It ultimately comes down to being respectful and nice. This is true for surfing as it is true for any other situation in life. It's also true for locals as it is true for anybody else on this planet. Finally, for me it's important that respect goes both ways. I always respect locals, but I find it very weird when they demand respect and don't show any respect themselves. That being said, keep up the good work and keep those sick videos coming!

[@xisotopex]

you dont automatically get respect. you earn it by being respectful, by surfing at a high level, and by being persistent, in other words, paying your dues...

[@saudigold50]

One word: money.

[@TruthIsNot4Sale]

Makua was all about dropping in on ppl like it was a fun challenge! 😂😂😂😂😂😂 Hilarious. Koa like 😊I’m not gonna drop in on anyone …..😂😂

[@jojosuar]

Nate summed up the respect and order sought in one great sentence at 14:34.

[@miketausig4205]

I’m sooooo glad Koa showed us how to install a sticker.

[@bbwvelvet]

I feel like you were going to say Brazilians? Could be wrong. That was a cool chat about localism but my question was how do you know who is local? Thanks Koa and Jack!

[@nickp393]

If you dont know youll learn real quick

[@WILLGRAYY]

@@nickp393 if they’re sitting in the lineup like a buoy, not catching anything but yelling louder than anyone, they’re probably a local. Other signs are shitty tattoos and dyed hair. This applies everywhere, not just Hawaii.

[@EweCantHandletheTruth]

If you gotta ask who the locals are, you’re not a local. It’s a very very small community, especially the surfing community. You’re bound to run into one another on a regular basis, even if you don’t know each other personally.

[@sebastiannai4381]

you know because they congregate at the primest spot of the break, all know each other and when you paddle into that place everybody turns and looks at like you like "who the F is this guy".

[@tyler6147]

It's a really small island. And an even smaller community. As one famous comedian once put it, "we lived in a town of 500 people. Let's say we've met".

[@Moto_Junkie]

I thought Koa was a good surfer until I started watching some others that actually do competitions. Makes sense why he doesn’t compete!

[@UncleT0ny]

boys movin' mad

[@freshislandart]

Best session, Set loose DaRegulators 🤙🏽

[@Martin-fy7ic]

I don't know man. In my local break, nobody's call himself a "local". Except sharks. The vibe is cool, everyone is cheering each other. You say hi to everybody when you enter the water. We wait for our turn to get a wave, there is no priority rules (otherwise ppl keep going more inside and you are behind the section, it's a reef break). With respect, smiles, and cheering, surfing can be way more enjoyable. F*ck the guys trying hard to be hard over a damn water sport.

[@wishbone5785]

Everybody who blows in on the West Coast of South Australia calls himself a local so he can tell everyone else to F+++ off! I bet Kelly Slater was told to F off from Cactus.

[@rhidiandavies1991]

I think those are fair points on localism. I guess my one comment would be, for guys like you, it’s perfectly normal to go to pretty much any other spot in the world and, although you give respect, you don’t have to stress over people hassling you. You get the best of both worlds, arguably the world’s best breaks which are much less crowded than they would be without the intimidation, yet you can still go to any other spot you want and not think twice about adding to crowds because you’re a fairly high profile guy. I guess what I’m trying to say is that I’d have more respect for what you were saying if you didn’t go on surf trips to other world class spots several times a year.

[@reganstephens6177]

Aloha Koa! I started watching your series a couple weeks ago, and I'm hooked!!!!! I'm watching all the videos in order; it's pretty amazing to see your surfing throughout the years :D

[@Sam_Miller]

I didn't have a problem with localism when I went there. The guys out at sunset even told me where to sit to catch the wave. A fun wave

[@Joel-McConnell]

So, some guy saves up and then spends maybe his life savings to finally one day get to surf in Hawaii for maybe an hour or two out of his entire life and all the locals who have surfed those breaks thousands of times take all the waves from him? Cool. 🤙I lived in Hawaii in 83' to 86' and surfed Rockies all the time it was my favorite break on the North Shore because it was actually usually less crowed than some of the other breaks back then. I am 6' - 4", 285lbs. now, maybe 230lbs then and would scrap with anyone any place any time (still will at age 57! lol!) so locals were not really a problem for me. They tried to be though even back then.....

[@WILLGRAYY]

Most surfers can’t fight for shit so you don’t even have to be big. There are some water polo guys who will try to drown you but if you can hold them off long enough to tell them to take it in to the beach they’ll leave it alone real quick. Localism is dumb as hell but there are idiots everywhere so you learn to deal with it. Sounds like you knew how to handle it.

[@Kwedeekhapo]

Bullshit

[@Joel-McConnell]

@@WILLGRAYY Yea, these people are so lucky, (spoiled!), to be born and live right there but they get greedy and think they own it all! lol! These beaches are public last time I checked, and they have no right to be "policing" them? Those waves are infinite not some endangered resource and have been rolling in for millions of years and will continue for millions of years after we are all long gone, nobody owns them! As a poorer white person, I had to leave Hawaii because it was the most expensive, f'ed up racist place I ever lived.....Not a fan of Hawaiians at all but do still have many fond memories of when I was there as well as the bad ones. I think that is why I even watch this channel and others like it to reconnect to my past somehow, but this post reminded me of the darker side of my past in Hawaii. I guess something never change and this sort of biased is passed on to each new generation to keep that bullshit going! lol!