It’s not uncommon for hungry people to think of seafood when thinking of Maine. We have some of the very best of it in the country, and lucky for you, we know where to find the best seafood in Maine! One of the best things about Maine seafood restaurants is the varied fare. From fried to broiled to cooked in hot coals under the sand for hours, there’s a seafood and method of preparation for everyone. As for us, we’re not especially picky when it comes to seafood restaurants in Maine, so long as the views are good and the conversation is nice. So, what are you waiting for? Gather some friends and head to these spots on the coast to indulge on the tastiest seafood in Maine.

1. Thurston's Lobster Pound, Bernard

What started as a wholesale provider in 1946 overlooking Bass Harbor has become one of the best seafood restaurants in Maine. It's been owned by the same family for five generations, which we like to think equates to consistently amazing food.

2. Warren's Lobster House, Kittery

This favorite southern Maine spot has been around since 1940, which makes it unsurprising that the food is so great. It's open year-round, which is a benefit for those who live in Maine, and the cozy décor makes it lovely in the winter. But, of course, it's the food we go for and whether you order a fresh fish entrée or a platter of something fried you can't go wrong. Don't forget to check out their famous salad bar, too! When it comes to Maine seafood restaurants, it's truly one of the best.

3. The Ramp Bar & Grill, Kennebunkport

The Ramp is the more casual relative of Pier 77, which is just upstairs. Keeping things casual means lots of nautical decor outside and a menu that's just as fantastic as you'd expect this close to the water. Serving up some of the tastiest seafood in Maine, the menu is brimming with options. Not sure what to order? Order the seafood stew for a little bit of everything.

4. Dolphin Marina & Restaurant, Harpswell

Sure there's more to seafood in Maine than just lobster, but with so many different ways to enjoy it, it's hard to pass up. This lobster stew is a great option and one of the best is at this spot, which overlooks Casco Bay in Harpswell.

5. Clambake Restaurant, Scarborough

The Clambake Restaurant isn't entirely ON the coast, but you could certainly walk there from here! This place at Pine Point Beach is huge with a capacity of more than 700, which means there's a good chance you'll be able to get a table without a wait. The menu is large, but uncomplicated so you can be sure there will be something for everyone, making this one of the most popular of all Maine seafood restaurants.

6. McLoons Lobster Shack, South Thomaston

When it comes to seafood restaurants in Maine, this place is a favorite among many for a lot of reasons. The food is simple and casual, first. Second, enjoying it means sitting on the picnic tables overlooking the waters of the mid-coast.

7. Beal's Lobster Pier, Southwest Harbor

Serving Maine seafood since 1932, this Downeast spot is one of the best in the region. From lobster to scallops to everything in between it's not uncommon to visit more than once in a weekend. It's without a doubt one of the best of all Maine seafood restaurants.

8. Young's Lobster Pound, Belfast

No list of seafood restaurants in Maine would be complete without Young's Lobster Pound. This beloved lobster spot in the mid-coast is the go-to for some of the best lobster in the state. But, in Maine, isn't all the lobster the best? Think about the answer to that question while you wait for your dinner for two to arrive. It includes two hard shell lobsters, clams, mussels, corn on the cob, shrimp, oysters, butter, cocktail sauce, and lemon.

9. Crown Jewel, Great Diamond Island

Okay, Crown Jewel might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of seafood restaurants in Maine; however, it's just too good not to mention. While not entirely a seafood restaurant, we couldn't help including this spot located on an actual island. (Yes, that's right; an island!) It takes the coastal concept just one step further. You can get there on the Casco Bay Ferry Lines and it's worth the trip!

Have you been to any of these coastal spots? Do you agree? Do they serve the best seafood in Maine? Know of any other must-visit seafood restaurants in Maine? Let us know your favorite seafood dish. And, if we’ve left anything off the list, be sure to let us know so we can check it out and possibly feature it in the future.

Lucky for us Maine seafood restaurants aren’t just abundant on the coast. They can be found further inland too. You can actually grab some seafood and rent a kayak at this unique restaurant in Maine.