First, watch. Sit wide and observe the pecking order, the take-off spots, and how folks are rotating. Don’t just paddle straight to the peak. Give respect to get it—a nod, a simple “howzit?“ Go for waves that others aren’t, and definitely don’t drop in. It’s about sharing the stoke, not dominating it. Show you understand the vibe, and you’ll often find the locals become your best guides to the spot.