I Hit The Backroads of New Jersey To Try 12 Hidden Seafood Shacks (And 7 Were Surprisingly Incredible)
New Jersey’s coastline hides some of the most authentic seafood spots you’ll ever find, tucked away from the tourist traps and Instagram crowds.
I spent weeks driving the backroads, following hand-painted signs and local tips to uncover twelve seafood shacks that don’t advertise much and, in season, serve up ocean-fresh seafood in no-frills settings.
Seven of these places absolutely blew my mind with their quality, flavor, and that unmistakable charm only a true hidden gem can deliver.
1. Keyport Fishery – Keyport
Walking into Keyport Fishery feels like stepping back to when seafood joints cared more about freshness than fancy decor.
This no-frills spot at 150 W Front St, Keyport, NJ 07735 has been serving the community for decades, and locals guard it like a precious secret.
The lobster rolls here are stuffed so generously that you’ll need extra napkins and possibly a bib.
The seafood is known for its freshness, with much of it sourced through local and regional suppliers that serve the Jersey Shore.
The fried clams have a perfect golden crunch that gives way to tender, sweet meat inside.
You’ll spot regulars lined up at the counter, chatting with staff who remember their usual orders by heart.
The tartar sauce is homemade with a tangy kick that complements everything on the menu.
Prices remain shockingly reasonable considering the portion sizes and quality you’re getting.
This place earned its spot among the seven incredible finds without breaking a sweat.
2. Bahrs Landing – Highlands
Perched right on the water at 2 Bay Ave, Highlands, NJ 07732, Bahrs Landing has watched generations of families gather for seafood feasts.
The panoramic bay views alone make this spot worth the drive, but the food seals the deal.
Their clam chowder arrives steaming hot, loaded with chunks of tender clams and potatoes in a creamy broth that tastes like comfort in a bowl.
Seagulls circle overhead as you dig into platters of steamed mussels that practically fall out of their shells.
The crab cakes here contain actual crab meat instead of filler, which seems rare these days.
Sunset dining on their deck transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.
Staff members are known for friendly, old-school service that makes first-timers feel like regulars.
The casual atmosphere means you can show up in your beach clothes without getting side-eye from anyone.
Definitely one of the seven standouts that exceeded every expectation I had.
3. Moby’s Lobster Deck – Highlands
Right next door to Bahrs at 2 South Bay Ave, Highlands, NJ 07732, Moby’s takes a more laid-back approach to waterfront dining.
This seasonal, open-air lobster deck operates during the warmer months and is completely outdoors, embracing a classic summer-only seafood shack feel.
Their steamed lobster comes out bright red and perfectly cooked, with sweet meat that pulls away from the shell easily.
Corn on the cob and potatoes accompany your lobster, all seasoned with just enough butter and spices to enhance without overpowering.
Kids love the casual atmosphere where dropping shells and getting messy is not just accepted but expected.
The shrimp cocktail features jumbo specimens served ice-cold with a zippy cocktail sauce.
Prices reflect the quality and freshness, though you’re definitely getting your money’s worth with every order.
Watching boats cruise by while cracking into fresh lobster creates memories that stick with you long after the meal ends.
This spot narrowly missed my top seven, but still delivers a solid seafood experience.
4. Polly’s Dock & Clamhouse – Beach Haven
Tucked at 112 N West Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008, Polly’s embodies everything a Shore seafood shack should be.
This dockside favorite operates seasonally, typically opening during the late spring and summer months on Long Beach Island.
Steamers arrive in huge portions, swimming in drawn butter that drips down your chin with every bite.
Their raw bar offerings showcase oysters and clams so fresh they taste like the ocean itself.
The staff clearly takes pride in their work, explaining different preparations and making sure first-timers know how to properly enjoy each dish.
Sunset views from the dock area provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely seafood dinner.
The fried flounder sandwich comes on a soft roll with crispy fish that flakes apart at the touch of your fork.
Regulars swear by the clam strips, which are tender inside with a satisfying crunch outside.
This gem absolutely earned its place among the seven incredible discoveries on my seafood journey.
5. Dock & Claw Clam Bar – Beach Haven
Located at 506 Centre St, Beach Haven, NJ 08008, this spot brings serious seafood game to Long Beach Island.
The name says it all—clams and crabs dominate the menu, prepared in ways that highlight their natural flavors.
Maryland-style crab cakes here are enormous, packed with jumbo lump crab meat and minimal breading.
Their New England clam chowder competes with the best I’ve tasted anywhere along the coast.
The casual bar atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick bite or a longer meal with friends.
Fried calamari arrives hot and crispy, seasoned with just enough garlic and herbs to make it addictive.
The staff knows their seafood inside and out, offering helpful suggestions based on your preferences.
Portions are generous enough that you might need to-go containers, which is never a bad problem to have.
While solid overall, this one didn’t quite crack my top seven, though it came close with its consistent quality.
6. Bayshore Crab House (The Bull on the Barn) – Newport
Finding this place at 100 Back Rd, Newport, NJ 08345 requires some serious backroad navigation, but the journey pays off big time.
This South Jersey crab house operates seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall.
Blue crabs here are steamed to perfection, seasoned with Old Bay that’s neither too heavy nor too light.
Sitting at communal tables covered in brown paper, you’ll crack crabs alongside locals who’ve been coming here for years.
The marsh views surrounding the property create an authentic Chesapeake Bay vibe right here in Jersey.
Their crab bisque is rich and creamy, with chunks of sweet crab meat in every spoonful.
Staff members are friendly and patient, especially with first-timers who need crab-picking lessons.
The casual, down-home atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome regardless of seafood expertise.
This hidden treasure absolutely deserves recognition as one of the seven incredible spots I discovered.
7. Hooked Up Seafood (Dockside Kitchen & Marketplace) – Wildwood
At 1044 W Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260, this spot combines a fish market with a casual eatery in brilliant fashion.
This location operates on a seasonal schedule, with hours and menu offerings varying throughout the year.
The grilled mahi-mahi tacos feature perfectly seasoned fish topped with fresh slaw and a tangy sauce.
Everything tastes incredibly fresh because it literally goes from the market case to your plate within minutes.
The marketplace side offers an impressive selection of fish, shellfish, and prepared items to take home.
Their lobster mac and cheese is pure indulgence, combining tender lobster with creamy, cheesy pasta.
Staff members provide cooking tips and recipe suggestions if you’re purchasing seafood to prepare yourself.
The modern, clean atmosphere differs from traditional shacks but maintains that casual, approachable vibe.
While impressive, this one fell just outside my top seven, though it’s definitely worth visiting for the dual market-restaurant concept.
8. Rick’s Seafood House – North Wildwood
Rick’s sits at 435 W Spruce Ave, North Wildwood, NJ 08260, serving up consistent quality that keeps families returning year after year.
The stuffed flounder here is a showstopper, filled with crabmeat stuffing that complements rather than overwhelms the delicate fish.
Their seafood platters offer a bit of everything, perfect for indecisive diners who want to sample multiple preparations.
The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes kids without sacrificing the quality that seafood lovers demand.
Coconut shrimp arrives hot and crispy with a sweet dipping sauce that balances the savory coating.
Service is attentive and friendly, with staff checking in regularly without being intrusive.
The portions are substantial enough that even hungry beach-goers leave satisfied.
Their approach to seafood emphasizes freshness and proper preparation over trendy gimmicks.
Rick’s earned its spot among the seven incredible finds with reliable excellence across the entire menu.
9. Jake’s Crab House – Point Pleasant Beach
Right on the boardwalk at 312 Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, Jake’s combines prime location with seriously good seafood.
The ocean breeze and boardwalk energy create an atmosphere that screams summer vacation.
Snow crab legs here are served by the pound, already cracked for easy eating, which is a thoughtful touch.
Their seafood boil buckets arrive loaded with shrimp, clams, mussels, corn, and potatoes in a flavorful broth.
Jake’s operates with seasonal hours, so checking ahead before visiting is a smart move.
The casual boardwalk setting means you can pop in wearing flip-flops and beach cover-ups without feeling underdressed.
People-watching opportunities are endless as beachgoers stroll past your table throughout the meal.
The location makes it convenient for a quick lunch between beach sessions or a dinner after sunset.
Jake’s definitely ranks among the seven incredible spots, delivering both quality food and unbeatable atmosphere.
10. Atlantic Offshore Fishery – Point Pleasant Beach
Situated at 212 Channel Dr, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, this place operates as both a working fishery and a casual eatery.
Located directly on the channel, the restaurant sits alongside a working marina, adding to its dockside authenticity.
Their fish and chips feature whatever white fish came in freshest that day, battered and fried to golden perfection.
You’ll watch fishermen working nearby while enjoying seafood that was swimming in the ocean just hours earlier.
The no-frills approach means paper plates and plastic utensils, but the quality speaks for itself.
Clam strips are meaty and tender, avoiding that rubbery texture you sometimes get at lesser establishments.
Prices remain reasonable because you’re cutting out all the middlemen between ocean and plate.
The market side offers fresh seafood to take home, with staff happy to clean and prepare it however you prefer.
This authentic gem secured its place in my top seven with honest, fresh seafood served without pretension.
11. Point Lobster Company – Point Pleasant Beach
At 1 St Louis Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, this specialized spot focuses on what they do best—lobster.
This counter-service seafood market is especially well known for its lobster rolls and prepared lobster dishes.
The traditional steamed lobster dinner includes all the fixings, served with melted butter and lemon wedges.
Their lobster bisque is velvety smooth, rich with lobster flavor that coats your palate beautifully.
The counter-service setup keeps things casual and quick, perfect for grabbing takeout to enjoy elsewhere.
Lobster rolls come in both hot butter and cold mayo versions, letting you choose your preferred style.
Staff members know everything about lobster preparation and happily share cooking tips with customers.
While excellent at what they do, Point Lobster narrowly missed my top seven, though lobster enthusiasts will absolutely love this specialized spot.
12. The Clam Bar (Smitty’s) – Somers Point
Located at 910 Bay Ave, Somers Point, NJ 08244, Smitty’s has been a local institution longer than most residents can remember.
This beloved clam bar operates seasonally, typically opening around Mother’s Day and closing shortly after Labor Day, and is cash-only and BYOB.
Fried clams are the signature dish, served in generous portions that could easily feed two hungry people.
Their clam chowder recipe hasn’t changed in decades because regulars would riot if they messed with perfection.
The counter service keeps things moving efficiently, even during peak summer rushes when lines stretch out the door.
Scallops are sweet and tender, lightly breaded and fried just until golden brown.
Old photographs covering the walls tell the story of this place’s deep roots in the community.
The straightforward menu focuses on doing classic seafood dishes exceptionally well rather than chasing trends.
Smitty’s absolutely earned its spot among the seven incredible finds, proving that sometimes the old ways are still the best ways.