New England in the summertime is known for its clam bakes. Tourists and locals love this warm season and open their towns and beaches with welcoming arms. Seaside ports and quaint family-owned businesses are waiting for the summer to begin and the vacationers to arrive. One of the many good times to be had on the beaches is traditional clam bakes, which usually consist of lobster, mussels, soft clams, hard clams and crabs. Once a pit is dug and the fire is started, large round stones, seaweed and seawater are gathered. The stones are heated and the fresh seaweed is used to help keep the heat of the fire and stones at the perfect temperature. The baking is really a steaming process. Embellishing this seafood is a variety of potatoes, Andouille sausage, onions, carrots and corn on the cob. Clam bakes are usually prepared for most festive occasions along the coast of New England and up the Atlantic seaboard.
Here is a lovely photograph of a typical clam bake. 
New England is also know for their famous clam chowders.
Some people like to call their beach fare a crab pot.
What an original way to present bacon-wrapped sardines.
Summertime by the seashore is a fabulous place for sunbathing, relaxing and cooking. If you are in an area where cooking is not permitted, there are usually caterers who can provide you and family and friends with an elaborate clam bake buffet. Either way … sink your toes into the cool sand and enjoy your summer feast!
