I've just made plans to go back to Oahu in June to do what I do every year -- surf. I am at the beginning of the end of my surfing life. I grew up surfing in the 60s when everyone seemed to get along with each other. That was when da country (North Shore) was truly da country. Today it's nothing compared to back then. There are simply too many people on Oahu. You can walk across the boards and not get wet. Most problems arise because the tourist is ignorant, entitled, or can't read the room. I try to tell people who want to surf Oahu: be cool, don't burn anybody, and don't hog waves. I am so grateful I grew up at a time when surf etiquette and respect dominated surfing. We all looked after each other. Hawaii taught me many valuable lessons, mostly about to not be influenced by all the negativity in this world. It's still a place I love to visit. Somedays Waikiki can be the most mystical perfect place to surf. If you're sitting in the right spot you can a get a lot of great waves. Just be aware: Queens has some really nice waves but the "No Vacancy" sign is out. Tourists can still surf Canoes, however!