One of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture is to sample its cuisine. Certain places worldwide are primarily known for their delicious and often exotic seafood experiences. From local to international destinations for seafood lovers.
These spots offer delightful dining adventures for people who crave sea-to-table delights. Discover your next stop in this list.
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Destinations for Seafood Lovers
1. Hokkaido, Japan
While Hokkaido is most famous for Niseko’s ski fields, tourists also visit for seafood. Its most famous offering is the red king crab with its spiky shell and long legs. Aside from this tasty treat, there are other crab species and local meals you’ll enjoy.
As of August 2024, Japan has 387 Michelin-star restaurants, making it an ideal destination for food lovers. You can visit famous cities like Tokyo and Osaka if you have extra time.
Must-try: Notsuke Peninsula scallops, red king crabs, horsehair crabs, oysters and sea urchins
Best months to visit: May, September and October
Where to try: Hakodate Morning Market, Wakkanai and Nijo Market in Sapporo
2. New Brunswick, Canada
Canada’s east coast boasts nature’s beauty and fresh seafood, making it an ideal destination for outdoors and food lovers. You can enjoy traditional offerings, such as lobster rolls, chowder and fried clams, anywhere in New Brunswick.
Visit national parks, go city tours, enjoy hiking, and explore local restaurants. You’ll have fun ranking all the seafood chowders you try.
Must-try: Oysters, Atlantic salmon, lobsters, snow crabs and clams
Best months to visit: Late July, August and September
Where to try: The Caves Restaurant and Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar
3. Sicily, Italy
There’s something about the island of Sicily that ticks all the boxes. Its rich history, natural treasures and bountiful marine products have enticed international tourists.
Here, you can hike Mount Etna, explore the Valley of the Temples and indulge in Sicilian seafood dishes, such as Sarde a beccafico and Involtini di pesce spada. The best part is you can enjoy these selections in budget-friendly restaurants and fine dining establishments.
Must-try: Sardines, swordfish, sea urchins and anchovies
Best months to visit: April to June and September to October
Where to try: Tischi Toschi, Isgrò and Osteria Mercede
4. Maine, U.S.
When you hear Maine, chances are you immediately think about lobsters. The state prides itself on its longtime fishing heritage — Maine fishermen use century-old techniques to catch high-quality seafood.
It’s also here where you can try Dungeness crab, which boasts a 65-70% meat-to-shell ratio, considerably higher than other crab varieties. You’ll enjoy exploring restaurants and getting your fill of delicious crab meat.
Must-try: Lobster, Dungeness crab, oysters, scallops, halibut and cod
Best months to visit: September to November
Where to try: The Lobster Shack, Thurston’s Lobster Pound and The Porthole Restaurant & Pub
5. Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island is located off the southern tip of South Korea’s mainland. It’s a popular destination for many locals because of its pristine beaches, hiking activities and delicious seafood.
Meet “haenyo,” female divers who collect octopus, oysters, seaweed, urchins and other delicacies from the sea.
Must-try: Cutlassfish, octopus, abalones and tilefish
Best months to visit: March to June
Where to try: Myeongjin Jeonbok Abalone Restaurant and Halal Daewonga Seafood Restaurant
6. Louisiana, U.S.
Louisiana is the largest harvester of crawfish in the country. Visit in March, April and May and enjoy the smell of cooked seafood in the streets.
People gather for a delicious crawfish boil — a dish boiled in Cajun-seasoned water with corn, potatoes, garlic, Andouille sausage and vegetables. This state also offers a unique experience where you ride a boat, catch crawfish and cook your own boil.
Must-try: Crawfish, alligator meat, gulf shrimp and oysters
Best months to visit: January until July
Where to try: Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant, Kingfish American Bistro & Wine Bar and Seafood Palace
7. Sydney, Australia
The waters surrounding Sydney are home to the finest seafood in the country. It’s also where you can find Sydney Seafood School and enrol in culinary courses.
Locals and tourists love freshly shucked oysters, lobster noodles and grilled octopus. When you visit, expect to spend around 15 to 20 AUD on an average Australian meal.
Must-try: Yellowtail kingfish, king prawn, crabs, mahi mahi, Australian salmon and octopus
Best months to visit: June to August
Where to try: North Bondi Fish, Sean’s Bondi and Cirrus
Indulge in Seafood Bliss
Discover your new seafood obsession in any of these destinations. The world is filled with culinary hotspots that cater to your cravings, so start your exploration today.
