Crack a claw, slurp a salty oyster, and hit the road. This is Maryland’s Coast, where the seafood is local, the stories run deep, and the flavor is unforgettable.
Worcester County, Maryland, is known for its scenic shoreline and small-town charm, but it’s also a culinary destination for those chasing our region’s most iconic flavors. Places like Higgins, Bonfire, and Blu Crab House & Raw Bar have been serving up Maryland-style feasts for generations, drawing locals and vacationers back year after year. From back-bay crab houses to upscale oyster bars, the Oyster & Crab Trail leads you from the docks of working watermen to the kitchens of chefs who honor the Chesapeake with every plate.
Whether you're chasing a half-shell happy hour, stocking a cooler with takeout, or planning your next waterfront dinner, this self-guided trail delivers the tide-to-table experience Maryland is known for.
Here’s where to go, from 142nd Street in Ocean City, MD, to Pocomoke City on the edge of Worcester County, MD.
Ocean City, MD
Crab Cake Factory
Crab Cake Factory has built a reputation for its award-winning Maryland-style crab cakes, bold flavors, and laid-back dining. With locations uptown and bayside, it is a reliable stop for seafood lovers seeking quality and consistency.
Victoria’s Crab House
Serving Maryland blue crabs and fresh seafood, Victoria’s Crab House offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere with a focus on regional flavors. From steamed crabs to shrimp and corn, the menu leans into classic Maryland fare with heart.
“The Best Crabs” Seafood Company
Located on Coastal Highway, The Best Crabs Seafood Company specializes in locally sourced Maryland crabs, jumbo lump crab cakes, and take-home seafood by the pound. It is a favorite for both locals and vacationers looking to bring a true Maryland feast home.
The Hobbit
For upscale coastal dining with wide bay views, The Hobbit delivers a refined experience grounded in local sourcing. Expect crab and fish dishes that highlight the best of Maryland’s waters, with elegant seasonal presentations.
Hooked
Hooked brings a bold and creative approach to Maryland seafood with a focus on local sourcing and inventive plates. Known for its oyster selections, crab entrees, and beautifully plated small plates, it’s a must-stop for modern coastal cuisine.
The Hideaway at Seacrets
Inside the Seacrets complex, The Hideaway offers Caribbean-inspired coastal fare made fresh. Known for its crab cakes and seafood-forward entrees, it’s a beach-meets-bistro escape for laid-back luxury.
Marlin Moon
This raw bar inside the DoubleTree Hotel is sleek, modern, and oyster-forward. Look for Maryland-raised oysters on the half shell, crab-topped entrees, and seafood specials that rotate with the season.
Harrison’s Harbor Watch
Located at the southern end of the boardwalk with inlet views and a serious raw bar. Try the oyster shooters, creamy oyster chowder, or a plate of fresh-shucked half shells while watching the boats return from sea.
West Ocean City
The Shrimp Boat
It doesn’t get more boat-to-table than this. Located right on the commercial harbor, The Shrimp Boat hauls in daily catches from the dock out back. Expect oysters, crabs, clams, and whatever else is fresh. It’s a Worcester County seafood staple with a laid-back vibe.
Crab Alley
Waterfront, casual, and delicious, Crab Alley’s crab feasts and raw bar are worth the detour. With a full menu that includes soft shells, lump crab cakes, and seasonal oysters, this is a great stop to refuel and watch the harbor hustle.
Hooper’s Crab House
A large-scale crab deck offering Old Bay steam pots, orange crushes, and waterfront seating near the Route 50 bridge.
Ocean Pines & Bishopville
The Grove Market
An Eastern Shore institution with a fiercely loyal following, The Grove Market is BYOB, cash-only, and entirely unforgettable. Menus are handwritten nightly and feature locally caught seafood, including fresh oysters and blue crab when in season. Come hungry!
Pines Point Provisions
Tucked near the marina, this cozy seafood market and café offers an authentic tide-to-table experience. They carry crab and oysters sourced directly from Worcester County watermen, including selections from Archer Oyster Co. Call ahead to see what’s fresh — you can dine in or take it home.
Berlin, MD
Sterling Tavern
This neighborhood tavern is all charm and local pride. While the menu rotates, look for crab dip, fried oysters, and daily seafood features that reflect the region’s flavors. It’s an easy walk from Main Street shops, ideal for lunch after a day of exploring.
Assateague Crab House
Just outside Berlin and en route to Assateague Island, this casual joint serves up classic steamed crabs, fried oysters, and other Shore-style favorites. Great for groups or takeout to bring back to your campsite or rental.
Pocomoke City, MD
Dockside Restaurant
Located on the Pocomoke River, this casual spot serves Eastern Shore staples in a family-friendly setting. Their crab cakes, broiled seafood platters, and hush puppies make it a comforting end to your culinary road trip.
Don’s Seafood
For over 30 years, Don’s Seafood has been serving a wide selection of Eastern Shore favorites in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. From homemade crab cakes and fresh seafood to hand-cut steaks, fried chicken, and hearty soups, the menu is packed with local comfort food that keeps guests coming back year after year.
Where to Buy Oysters & Crabs to Take Home
- Crabs To Go (Berlin): Known for carrying locally harvested oysters from Archer Oyster Co.
- Berlin Farmers Market (Sundays): Features Skilligalee Seafood, a boat-to-plate vendor offering oysters and more.
- Skilligalee Seafood Pop-Ups (West OC): Follow them on Facebook for seasonal locations and fresh catch alerts.
- Baywater Seafood (Snow Hill): Specializes in oysters, clams, and Maryland’s only bay scallops. Call ahead for pickup or tour info.
Bonus Events for Seafood Lovers
- Shell Shocked at Fager’s Island (November): All-you-can-slurp oyster event with live music and local growers.
- Ocean City Seafood Festival (Labor Day Weekend): Family-friendly feast at Northside Park celebrating Delmarva seafood.
- Snow Hill Oyster Roast (Spring): Raw, steamed, and fried oysters take over the town — with craft beer and live music.
Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a curious traveler, or just someone who knows a good crab cake when you taste it, this trail invites you to explore Maryland’s Coast through its most iconic flavors.
Hungry yet? The tide is right.
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