The traditional "Beach Boys" of Waikiki Beach have been protesting this week because they argue that their jobs are in danger, several Hawaiian media reported; the municipality granted a private company, Dive Oahu, the exclusive rights to exploit the work that the folkloric character has been doing for 125 years.

According to the report, all activities related to board rentals, diving equipment and classes will now be exclusive to Dive Oahu.

This sparked strong anger in the community and among the classic beach boys who argue that this company is not capable of carrying out the task. The always controversial Eddie "Fast Eddie" Rothman told Beachgrit: "Our government is full of idiots, they hate Hawaiians."

His son, Makua, explained with less insults: "They are trampling on the tradition of surfing, trampling on modern surfing, the beach boys are the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku."

Meanwhile, Star Beachboys' Aaron Rutledge said: "If they come to the beach, the beach boy tradition will be over."

The company has opened vacancies for beach boys who would be out of work, but many deny working there in uniform and "looking like a Disneyland employee." "This is not a job, it's a lifestyle," said beach boy Kevin Okimoto.