Aloha! My name is Casey Evans, content contributor and bikini enthusiast living on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Growing up in sunny San Diego, California, I've grown to love the beach lifestyle and about 14 years ago, I moved to Oahu to pursue paradise full time. From year-round beach days to rooftop hangs with the L*SPACE team, I absolutely love living here!
A look into my everyday life - I'm on IG at @itscaseyevans
North Shore is home to one of the biggest food truck cultures and the world's most famous beaches. Today I'm going to be taking you all around the island and sharing some of my favorite surf breaks, local food spots, and where to find the best tropical cocktail. Keep reading for a list of my go-to spots found all around the island!
GRINDS
ONO SEAFOOD - I don't know about you, but the first thing I'm craving when I land in Hawaii is some fresh poke. Ono Seafood on Kapahulu street in Honolulu has some of the best poke I've ever had. It's an easy menu with a few selections of ahi and salmon poke, and Japanese-style sides. I love their miso ahi poke and their spicy ahi is well, SPICY! Just the way I like it.
HALEIWA BOWLS - After a long, hot day at the beach I love to cool down with an Acai bowl. Haleiwa Bowls can found just after the historic Haleiwa Bridge, hidden behind a cluster of umbrellas. They have a rainbow selection of Acai bowls topped with tropical fruits like papaya and the sweetest local honey.
ARVO - Have yourself a cup of coffee in the afternoon at Arvo! In the heart of Kakaako, Arvo is home to the best community of friends, coffee, and avocado toast. They feature local chef favorites like ceviche and Japanese-style curry throughout the week.
SURF 'N' SALSA - This is the closest you can get to authentic Mexican-style carne asada on the island. If I'm ever homesick for a California-style burrito I like to come here. The portions are huge and a great option after working up an appetite surfing!
COCKTAILS
DUKE'S - I can't think of a more legendary cocktail than the Mai Tai. There's just something about a Mai Tai at Duke's during a weekend sunset that just hits different. From my experience as a Mai Tai fanatic, I think it might be the splash of guava juice they add to the their recipe that really makes it stand out.
BEACHES
WAIKIKI BEACH - Whether you're a beginner or ready to hang ten, Waikiki Beach has some of my favorite surf spots. During the summer when North Shore is flat, town swell lights up and everyone of all levels comes out to surf Queens, Canoes, and "Pops."
KAILUA - The beautiful Mok islands set the backdrop at Lanikai Beach. The sand is so fine and soft, and the water is crystal clean and usually swim-friendly all year round.
WAIMEA BAY - If you're lucky to come during a winter swell it is such a thrill to watch big wave surfers do their thing. The energy is buzzing during the winter on the North Shore, and in the summer Waimea Bay is home to dozens of dolphins. Do not forget your snorkel mask and fins!
STAY
ALOHILANI - Located in the heart of Waikiki, Alohilani is the perfect location, just walking distance to all the beaches and restaurants. The pool bar and lounge deck has such a fun vibe with live music or DJs - not to mention a stunning infinity pool that overlooks Waikiki Beach.
SHOP
BIKINI BIRD - If you are looking for a new bikini while on vacation, do not forget to stop by Bikini Bird boutique in Kailua. The bikini wall is like a dream come true. They have a gift for featuring local and up-and-coming designers, as well as iconic brands like L*SPACE, so you know you're getting the latest and greatest in swim!
I hope you get a chance to come visit this slice of paradise and enjoy some of my favorite places!
+ Follow Casey on Instagram here
+ Check out our recap of last year's Aloha Paradise event in Hawaii here