- Japan's coastal regions are renowned for crab, sea urchin, and scallops dishes.
- Maldives offers tuna curries and reef fish grilled with coconut and spices.
- Indonesia's seafood includes grilled fish with sambal and banana leaf-steamed fish.
When you think of island nations, images of pristine beaches, lush green landscapes and breathtaking sunsets come to mind. But beyond their scenic beauty, these islands are also home to some of the world's most incredible seafood traditions. Surrounded by the ocean, many island countries have built their culinary identities around the bounty of the sea. From delicately spiced curries to smoky grilled fish, their dishes are fresh, flavourful and deeply tied to local culture. If you're a food enthusiast seeking genuine coastal tastes or looking for your next food adventure, these places are a must-visit. Here are some island nations that are truly a seafood lover's paradise.
Also Read: 6 Hidden Indian Islands Where You Can Holiday Under Rs 10,000
Here Are 7 Island Nations Known For Their Seafood Specialities:
1. Japan
Japan's cuisine is a masterclass in celebrating the ocean's gifts. From sushi and sashimi to grilled mackerel and miso-marinated cod, seafood plays a central role in nearly every meal. The country's coastal regions, like Hokkaido and Kyushu, are particularly famous for their crab, sea urchin and scallops.
- Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) for mild weather and festivals like cherry blossom season.
- Activities: Visit Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, take a sushi-making class, or explore Hokkaido's scenic coastal towns like Otaru.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
2. Maldives
In the Maldives, seafood is not just food, it's a way of life. With the Indian Ocean at its doorstep, the island nation serves up everything from tuna curries to grilled reef fish seasoned with coconut and spices. Many luxury resorts even host beachside seafood barbecues where guests can dine under the stars.
- Best time to visit: December to April for dry weather and calm seas.
- Activities: Snorkel or dive with manta rays, relax at a luxury resort, or take a fishing trip with locals.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
3. Indonesia
Indonesia's vast archipelago ensures that seafood takes centre stage in its cuisine. Dishes like ikan bakar (grilled fish with sambal) and pepese ikan (banana leaf-steamed fish) showcase the perfect balance of heat, flavour and freshness. Each island adds its own twist, reflecting local ingredients and culture.
- Best time to visit: May to September for dry weather, or December for cultural festivals.
- Activities: Explore Bali's seafood markets, visit a traditional fishing village in Lombok, or take a cooking class to learn local recipes.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
4. Mauritius
Mauritian seafood dishes are a blend of Indian, Creole, Chinese and French influences. From octopus curry to fish vindaye, the island's coastal cuisine is bursting with spice and tang. Street stalls and seaside shacks serve freshly caught fish that's cooked right in front of you.
- Best time to visit: April to December for pleasant weather.
- Activities: Visit the coastal town of Flic en Flac, go snorkeling in Blue Bay, or take a food tour to sample local seafood.
5. Iceland
Iceland, surrounded by cold North Atlantic waters, produces some of the freshest seafood in the world. Dishes like plokkfiskur (fish stew) and grilled Arctic char are staples, while smoked haddock and fermented shark reflect the country's age-old preservation techniques.
- Best time to visit: Summer (June to August) for longer days and festivals.
- Activities: Explore Reykjavik's seafood restaurants, take a whale-watching tour, or visit the Icelandic Fishing Museum.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
6. The Philippines
With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a seafood haven. Grilled milkfish (bangus), shrimp sinigang, and spicy crab dishes are just a few local favourites. Filipino coastal cuisine strikes a balance between tangy, salty, and sweet, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
- Best time to visit: December to May for dry weather.
- Activities: Island-hop in El Nido, take a food tour in Manila, or relax on the beaches of Boracay.
Also Read: Palm Jebel Ali: Dubai's New Mega Island Is Twice The Size Of Palm Jumeirah
Photo Credit: Unsplash
7. Sri Lanka
Further south, Sri Lanka's seafood curries are world-famous for their rich use of coconut milk, curry leaves and fiery spices. From crab curry to spicy cuttlefish, every coastal region has its own recipe passed down through generations, showcasing the island's incredible culinary diversity.
- Best time to visit: December to April for dry weather.
- Activities: Visit Galle's old town and seafood markets, take a cooking class to learn local curry recipes, or relax on the beaches of Mirissa.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking for your next travel fix, these destinations promise unforgettable flavours and memories.
