Nothing says summer on Long Island like a paper plate piled high with clams. The salty breeze, the sound of waves crashing nearby, and the taste of seafood so fresh it could have been plucked from the water moments ago—it’s the pure essence of coastal living. Clam shacks here aren’t fancy, and that’s the beauty of them. They’re weathered little havens where butter drips down your fingers, picnic tables wobble in the sand, and nobody cares because the food is just that good.
These 11 clam shacks prove you don’t need white tablecloths or polished silverware to savor seafood. Just sunshine, sea spray, and a basket of clams done right.
The Clam Bar at Napeague — Amagansett
The Clam Bar at Napeague, an East End staple since the 1980s, is a quintessential Hamptons roadside shack with picnic-table seating and a menu laden with fried clams and lobster rolls.
Locals flock here as a late-summer tradition, leaving sandy and satisfied. Set on Montauk Highway between Amagansett and Montauk, it’s perfect post-beach day at Napeague or Gin Beach. The service is delightfully old-school, and the fare is fresh and simple, highlighting locally sourced shellfish. Open seasonally, so check months ahead.
LUNCH — The Lobster Roll
Known fondly as ‘LUNCH,’ The Lobster Roll in Amagansett is an East End icon, offering more than just lobster. Set amidst dunes and beach traffic, it draws crowds for its lobster rolls, fried clams, and chowder.
With a nostalgic Americana vibe, complete with red-white-blue awnings and picnic seating, it’s a summer staple. Stop by for a tray, sit back, and watch the light play over the pasture and marsh before sunset. Perfect for those last warm days, this spot is a must-visit.
Shinnecock Lobster Factory
Near Southampton and the Shinnecock Reservation, Shinnecock Lobster Factory is beloved for elevating shack dining with lobster-centric dishes and excellent clam options. Locals adore its fast, crave-worthy seafood—lobster rolls, steamers, fried clams—and its catering services.
It’s a smart last-day stop after an East End drive: quick service, ample portions, and fresh shellfish sourced from local waters. The factory is a favorite for its combination of speed, quality, and portion size, making it a great choice for a seafood feast.
HOOKED
HOOKED in Montauk is a newer, locally run seafood haven centered on fresh catches like oysters, clams, steamers, and lobster rolls. This relaxed takeout/raw-bar spot suits those who crave quality without the fuss. Montauk’s late-summer crowds gather here for steamers and fried clams post-surf.
The menu also showcases Montauk Pearl oysters and local clams. With Montauk’s weather winding down after Labor Day, HOOKED is perfect for a ‘last warm day’ outing: savor meals outside with harbor or town views.
Southold Fish Market
On the tranquil North Fork, Southold Fish Market offers a mix of fish-market energy and a kitchen that delivers top-notch fried clams, chowder, oyster platters, and seafood sandwiches. It’s a place of substance, less about show. Locals often visit post-winery crawl or after a Sound morning.
The outdoor seating and dockside ambiance are perfect for lingering over steamers and cold beers as the day fades. It’s a North Fork gem, combining fresh seafood with a relaxed, authentic setting.
Peter’s Clam Bar
Peter’s Clam Bar in Island Park is a beloved dockside spot, where generations have enjoyed steamed and fried whole-belly clams. Originally on the docks, it still serves boaters who can pull up for pick-up, while families delight in the classic clam fare.
For those savoring the last warm days, Peter’s blends fresh shellfish, heritage menus, and easy Long Beach Road access. It’s a perfect stop between beaches and evening plans, offering both nostalgia and quality in every bite.
Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams
Bigelow’s brings the New England fried-clam tradition to Long Island, delivering crisp whole-belly clams, thick chowder, and hearty sandwiches. This Rockville Centre counter-style spot is a neighborhood cornerstone, offering excellent fried clams in an unfussy environment. It’s perfect for end-of-summer gatherings and quick shore-side stops.
The menu focuses on classic fry-house staples, with a convenient location on North Long Beach Road, making it a strategic jump-off for South Shore adventures.
DJ’s Clam Shack
DJ’s Clam Shack, with locations across Long Island, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and hearty seafood baskets. Popular for fried clams, chowders, and generous portions, DJ’s has featured on regional food shows. For those squeezing in a last warm day, it’s a reliable pick throughout its locations.
Grab a platter, find waterfront seating if possible, and enjoy a no-frills seafood experience. DJ’s offers both comfort and consistency, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
PJ Lobster House
PJ Lobster House in Port Jefferson serves as both fish market and restaurant, offering raw clams, clam platters, steamers, and live market choices. Set right on the harbor, it’s the ideal spot for leisurely meals with water views. Locals often pair their warm evening visit with a harbor stroll or ferry ride.
The market-fresh shellfish and waterfront setting make PJ a top choice for savoring the last of summer’s warmth, combining culinary delight with scenic enjoyment.
Catch Oyster Bar
Catch in Patchogue is a modern oyster bar that excels in Long Island clam offerings: steamed littlenecks, fried baskets, and chowder. It’s favored by locals for an elevated, yet casual seafood experience.
Ideal for early-evening gatherings on warm days, Patchogue’s walkable downtown and events enhance its appeal. Enjoy your meal near the water, then take a walk toward the marina for sunset. Catch combines atmosphere with seafood excellence, creating memorable late-summer outings for all ages.
The Shack
In Centerport, The Shack offers a relaxed, community-centered dining experience with classic clambake-style options and fried clams.
Locals treasure it for the blend of approachable seafood, friendly service, and proximity to North Shore harbors—ideal for experiencing late summer sunsets without Hamptons prices. It’s the kind of place where you enjoy steamers and a cold beer, sharing stories with neighbors as boats drift into the inlet. The Shack is a local favorite, balancing charm and quality.