Drain the coconut water by piercing one of the soft eyes with a clean screwdriver or knife tip
Hold the coconut firmly on a stable surface
Wrap the coconut in a towel if needed for grip and safety
Strike around the middle seam with a hammer or heavy knife back, rotating the coconut as you go
Continue tapping until the shell cracks open
Pry the halves apart with a knife or your hands
Remove the coconut meat with a spoon or knife