One of the reasons I enjoy eating out is the sheer pleasure of having to do zero preparation or cleanup. "Work smarter, not harder" is a phrase I love to say! But, this restaurant might be the one exception. Unless you live on Peaks Island, visiting Island Lobster Company isn't quite as easy as walking or hopping in the car. To get to this beauty, you'll need to hop on a boat! Before you decide that's more work than you're willing to put in, let us describe just how great this place is. A classic Maine seafood spot, It's sure to earn a spot in your heart faster than you can ask when the next boat leaves Portland.

Island Lobster Company is located on Peaks Island, the largest island off the coast of Maine. It sits in Casco Bay about 10 minutes from Portland. The best way to get there is by the Casco Bay Ferry service and while it might not be as easy as driving, the ride over is worth the slight inconvenience of needing to consult a schedule.

This place has such great seafood, you might even feel compelled to call Peaks just "lobster island Maine."

The ambiance is great. With a large lawn filled with picnic tables overlooking the water, this spot is as Maine as it gets. And it's certainly some of the best lobster near me.

The only way it could be more Maine is with a lobster roll. And, looks like they make some of the best! Just look at this meat.

It's no wonder that they serve the best lobster rolls. This place is owned by a commercial lobstering family and we love supporting them.

If you're not relaxed enough after the ferry right across Casco Bay, consider grabbing a drink and a seat outside to let the salty ocean air ease your mind.

In addition to fantastic seafood, they also offer sides like fries which are easy to enjoy while staring out at the water.

Things here are easy. Simply walk in, place your order and you'll get your food brought to you in no time.

And if you even like your side dishes to remind you that you're in Maine. Lobster poutine is the way to go!

Don't forget the strawberry shortcake for dessert.

And for something a little more special, head downstairs to their bar. The Skegg menu has some amazing Maine food, including a basket of island oysters, east meets west lobster roll, and a truffle lobster roll.

We love how casual this spot is. The food feels upscale but the people surrounding you will be as friendly as can be! So, take that ferry and enjoy an afternoon doing something new.

Island Lobster Company is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the season which runs from the spring through the fall. You can learn more about the restaurant and see a menu by visiting the Island Lobster Company website. You can also follow the Island Lobster Company on Facebook to keep up-to-date on weather closures and seasonal schedule changes.

To reach the restaurant, you'll need to take a boat and there's no easier option than planning a trip on the Casco Bay Ferry. Rides from Portland to Peaks Island vary by age and date of departure.

In addition to checking out Island Lobster Company, plan on spending as much time as you can on Peaks Island. You might consider heading over early to rent a golf cart to tour the island. Or, enjoy your lobster with time to spare to get ice cream at the dock before heading back on the boat. Or, if the idea of leaving is simply too much, stay the weekend with a vacation rental right on the island.