Kelly Slater and those island vibes

Eight-time world champion Kelly Slater is the greatest competitive surfer of all time. What many don’t know is that he’s also a pro-level golfer, a musician and the voice of a surfing penguin in the animated film “Surf’s Up” (opens June 8). Born in Florida, Slater, 35, has spent most of his life chasing waves around the world, which has led him to the sport’s mecca: Hawaii. Here are secrets he’s gleaned in more than two decades of calling the islands almost home.

Which Hawaiian reef have you left the most skin on?

Pipeline [North Shore of Oahu], for sure. I’ve spent the most of my time in the water there, and it’s probably the place you’re most likely to hit when you fall. Also Velzyland [also North Shore], which is probably the sharpest reef on the coast.

Describe the perfect way to catch the sunset in Hawaii.

Try to find a beach where, depending on the time of the year, the sun will set right on Kaena Point [Oahu] to the west. At the winter solstice, it’s somewhere just toward Pipeline, or west, from Sunset Beach. From Pipeline it’s behind the mountain range; watch for the green flash.

What song do you play on your ukulele that always makes you miss Hawaii?

“Tiny Bubbles” ... Just kidding. I don’t know that one. Anything, really, because it ... reminds you of Hawaii.

Name one personal item you never forget to take to Hawaii.

Golf clubs.

What’s the most danger you’ve ever confronted on the islands?

Getting the wrong person mad. I’m sure it could have been worse, but everyone knows everyone in Hawaii, so stay on the good side of people.

Where’s the best view in all of Hawaii?

Probably on top of Mauna Kea on the Big Island, looking into space above the clouds through a telescope.

Your favorite item off the North Shore shrimp truck?

Garlic shrimp and rice.

Where can you find the most challenging game of golf on the islands?

Koolau Golf Club on Oahu’s east side. The slope rating is off the charts. You lose balls in the fairway because it’s so wet, but it’s a fun challenge.

What’s the best way to celebrate a world title victory in Hawaii?

Big dinner with friends at Haleiwa Joe’s [in Haleiwa] or Lei Lei’s Bar & Grill [Turtle Bay Resort].

Where’s the best place in Hawaii to recover from a world title victory party?

On the beach having a bodysurf at Ehukai Beach Park [Oahu].

What place makes you feel humble?

Taking off on the peak on a big day at Waimea. What hidden spot would you take the girl of your dreams

to?

Hiking the northeast valleys of the Big Island.What guilty pleasures do you associate with being in Hawaii? Sleeping late, taking good surf for granted and just playing golf and surfing every day.

What’s the perfect soundtrack for a drive around the islands?

John Cruz’s “Acoustic Soul” and anything by Jack Johnson.

What attitude in the water ensures good surfing vibes in Hawaii?

Keeping quiet — and not getting visibly upset if anyone drops in or snakes you for a wave. Also, if you have a cute sister to introduce to local guys. Being a surf celebrity, how do you manage on the islands?I just do my thing every day and seem to disappear, for the most part.

What’s the biggest life lesson visiting Hawaii taught you?

Taking care of the environment and giving back to the community.

One word you’d use to describe surfing by moonlight in Hawaii?

Empty.

What does “aloha” mean to you?

Kindness.