Want to Know the Best Lobster Shacks in Maine?

Nothing says the Northeast quite like a lobster roll. The mingling of cold, fresh lobster meat, mayo, and a perfectly toasted hot dog bun combine to create a mouth-watering combination! You can find lobster rolls all over the Northeast, so why is Maine’s distinctly delicious? The secret is fresh lobster meat. The waters off the coast of Maine are home to 80 percent of the lobster that’s served in the U.S. Our favorite lobster shacks in Maine get their meat straight from the lobster boats! These iconic sandwiches are a must-try during your next trip to Maine. Read on to discover our favorite place for lobster rolls near Camden!  

When you’re ready to plan your Tour de Maine Lobster Rolls, access our Camden Travel Guide. This complimentary resource is filled with innkeeper-selected recommendations on what to do, see, eat, and more during your next trip to Midcoast Maine! 

Access Your Camden Travel Guide 

Top 4 Lobster Shacks in Maine 

By far, the question our guests ask us most is, “Where can I go for the best lobster roll?” It’s a popular question, so we thought we’d give you local insight on the best lobster shacks to visit during your Midcoast Maine getaway 

What Is a Lobster Shack? 

If you’re not from the Northeast, you may not be familiar with lobster shacks. A lobster shack is typically a small, stand-alone building with a walkup window to order and picnic tables for dining. They are usually located right on the water and have wonderful views of the ocean and the lobster fishing boats. Lobster shacks, in addition to selling whole lobsters and lobster rolls, usually also offer crab rollsclam chowder, and homemade desserts. If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, perhaps for a date night, consider these waterfront restaurants in Camden, ME. 

It’s important to note that these shacks are open seasonally in the summer and early fall, and close for the winter months.  

1. McLoons Lobster Shack 

McLoons Lobster Shack is without a doubt our favorite place to go for a fresh lobster dinner. This waterside eatery on Spruce Head Island in South Thomaston, about a 25-minute drive from the Inn, boasts beautiful views and a great atmosphere. McLoons offers outdoor seating with picnic tables just a stone’s throw away from the harbor. Customize your roll with either butter or mayo. Each sandwich is served with coleslaw, potato chips, and a pickle spear to leave you feeling happy and full. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! McLoons has an amazing Whoopie Pie that’s made in-house by an employee’s grandmother.  

2. Miller’s Lobster Co.  

Miller’s Lobster Co. s another great option for lobster rolls on Spruce Head Island. This lobster shack specializes in fresh lobsters and clams. Stop in one afternoon of your visit to enjoy a lobster roll with outdoor seating and views of Wheeler’s Bay. You can also order a slice of homemade pie to complete your meal! 

3. Young’s Lobster Pound 

Young Lobster’s Pound breaks the mold of what it means to be a lobster shack. Structurally, it’s a two-story building located on the harbor in Belfast, which is about a 30-minute drive from the Inn. The ground floor of the building is full of tanks of live lobsters, crabs, and clams. The second floor has many picnic tables inside and a deck with a great view for dining. Outdoor seating is also available! 

4. Claws 

Want a lobster roll on the go? While the ambiance of lobster shacks is part of the full experience, we understand that you have other items on your itinerary! That’s why we suggest visiting Claws for a quick and delicious bite to eat. Claws is located in Rockland on Route 1 and is an excellent choice for those who don’t have the time or inclination to drive out-of-town.

Stay at the Camden Maine Stay Inn 

Tierney Room View

Be sure to plan an afternoon visit to these lobster shacks in Maine! Then, come back and relax at the Camden Maine Stay Inn. Our Inn is nearby all the best lobster shacks in the area, which means you can try more than one, or all, of them during your visit.  

Consider a stay in the Tierney Room. This spacious accommodation has a king-size bed, private bathroom, and original wide-plank wood floors. Enjoy views of the historic houses along High Street and lush greenery.  

A stay in any of our charming guest rooms includes access to daily breakfast, premier amenities, a park-like garden, and more. 

Check our availability to start planning your trip to Midcoast Maine!