Ohana means Family
In Florida, summer isn’t just June through August. It’s more like March through October, and being close to the ocean means beach walks hunting for shells and shark teeth, lots of sunscreen, and daily surf sessions. Having grown up in Jacksonville Beach, this was my life, surrounded by family and friends that felt like family, and we always gathered at our local surf break. I didn’t realize it then, but something that was always missing was the after beach snack. Something that would tied you over until dinner, and allow us to linger in that laid back beach feel for a little while longer.
Well, I discovered that perfect oasis the last time I visited Florida.
Located in Atlantic Beach in Jacksonville, Florida, Ohana Hawaiian Shaved Ice is a must when visiting the area. This family owned and operated “surf shack” snack shop doesn’t just stop at shaved ice either. They offer delicious crab cake sandwiches, daily homemade soups and a friendly, laid back atmosphere that is perfect pre-or-post beach day. With warm temperatures year around, I can’t think of a better place to cool off than at Ohana.
The only thing that makes this place even better is that the owners are our “friends that feel like family” and watching their dream of owning a shop come to life is all the more exciting. If you happen to be in Jacksonville and need a great snack (try the crab cakes- you will not be disappointed), make sure to stop in Ohana. And tell Cindy that I said Hi!
i’m imagining an extremely hot, sweaty ride in the non-airconditioned chinook heading to my dad’s in west palm beach as i make my way on my everyone-i-know tour and stopping at this awesome mom & pop for a tasty shaved ice to cool off! love spotlighting awesome local places jade!
You should definitely stop here! You will love it!
I love Ohana! Cindy and her family are always so nice and you aren’t kidding about those crab cakes. I like them served as a sandwich but my wife gets them on lettuce. Delicious.
That’s great, Toby! I have dreams about the crab cakes!!
That sounds so perfect! I love beach days and a tasty treat just makes it that much better! Who knows when I’ll be in Florida next but I’d definitely like to try it!
Shaved ice sounds great about right now, but I’m Bangkok, and not too sure if I trust the ice here…
I’m with you- I don’t know if I would trust it either!
Why do you have to make me even more homesick than I already am?? This is a place where I could ‘linger’ quite a while and the first picture is just so lovely. Ok, another 4 months to go.
I would love this place. 64 flavors? Nice!
Other than visiting with family who lives there, Florida just isn’t a special place for me. Miserably hot in the summer, lots of concrete, and fire ants. But this places sounds pretty great. Thanks for sharing your special find!
Sounds like my kind of place, I love crab cake sandwiches.
Dog shaved ice treats? Wow! What a great episode. Not much shaved ice shops over here in Europe, maybe Cindy wants to expand her business some day?