Hawaii is one of the best places in the whole wide world. The people are wonderful, the ocean is warm, the palms are swaying, and the waves are just about as perfect as perfect gets. But, like anywhere else, there are a few things to know before you go. Josh Pray, a comedian from Immokalee, Florida, has a few tips about the people, surfing, lava rocks, and perhaps most importantly, whistling after dark. Since he doesn’t explain the rules very well, we’ll break them down a little further for you.
Don’t Touch the Black Rocks
Oh sure, the black rocks are cool. But don’t take them with you. Pele, the fire godess, will not be happy with you. No one wants to be cursed by a fire goddess.
Everyone’s Not Your Personal Tour Guide
There’s nothing worse than a selfish tourist. Meandering slowly down sidewalks, stopping their rental in the middle of the road to look at a turtle, etc. So, like Josh says, “when you come down here, be mindful of the things that people gotta do.”
Don’t Whistle at Night
This one’s a little strange. Legend has it that whislting after dark will summon the Menehune, a mythological dwarf people who you don’t want to be captured by. Another variation of the legend is that you’ll summon the huakai po (night marchers), the ghosts of ancient Hawaiian warriors. Whatever the case may be, it might be better to be safe than sorry.
Surfing’s Not for Everyone
While Josh Pray has some serious thoughts on who should surf and who shouldn’t that we might not agree with, the sentiment is something we can get behind. If you’re going to surf, be aware that surfing is hard. If you’re not exactly experienced, make sure you’re not paddling out at maxing Pipeline.
Respect the Locals
Hawaiians are a proud people, and for good reason. “Hawaiians are the proudest people on earth,” says Pray. “They love each other. Everybody is uncle, everybody is auntie. Everybody is brother and sister… you’re coming in, thinking you’re going to be embracing their family and culture? NO. Come in with some respect and some dignity. Be nice.” That’s just good advice for anywhere you go.
See more from Josh Pray on Instagram.
