Most clam shacks close in November and reopen in the spring. To beat the peakseason lines, order ahead and snag your fix from the takeout window.
Clam Box of Ipswich 246 High St., Ipswich; 978/3569707; clams for two $38.
Essex Seafood 143R Eastern Ave., Essex; 978/7687233; clams for two $30.
J.T. Farnham’s 88 Eastern Ave., Essex; 978/7686643; clams for two $27.
Woodman’s of Essex 121 Main St.; 978/7682559; chowder for two $3.
The Inn at Castle Hill Beautifully renovated, historic 10room inn on 165 acres of protected land. 280 Argilla Rd., Ipswich; 978/4122555; theinnatcastlehill.com; doubles from $175.
Copyright © 2008, American Express Publishing. All rights reserved.