If you’re craving a charming coastal escape, I can tell you—Nantucket completely stole my heart. When I visited, I found myself wandering along beaches lined with windswept dunes and breathing in that crisp Atlantic air. There’s something about the island’s historic charm that makes you slow down, and I think you’ll feel it too. Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand with your partner or just savoring the quiet, Nantucket’s beaches wrap you in a kind of peaceful New England romance that stays with you. I’d go back in a heartbeat, and I think once you’re there, you’ll know exactly why.

Highlights:

  • Walk hand-in-hand along the serene shores of Madaket Beach.
  • Relax on the soft sands of Surfside Beach with ocean views.
  • Swim in the calm waters of Children’s Beach near the harbor.
  • Watch the sunset from the quiet stretch of Dionis Beach.
  • Explore scenic dunes and surf at Siasconset Beach.

Recommended Nantucket Beaches:

Children's Beach, Nantucket

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Children's Beach, Nantucket - Play on calm Nantucket shores and enjoy kids-friendly amenities near downtown Nantucket.                                    

Nobadeer

CurtisCPhotos/stock.adobe.com

Nobadeer - Watch planes land and ride waves on this exciting south shore stretch.                                    

Siasconset

Faina Gurevich/stock.adobe.com

Siasconset - Walk along bluff paths and admire charming cottages on a romantic coastal stroll.                                    

Jetties Beach

Mariia/stock.adobe.com

Jetties Beach - Swim in gentle surf and enjoy family picnics with nearby food and rentals.                                    

Great Point

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Great Point - Drive on sand and see the lighthouse during a remote trip north.                                    

Surfside

Stephen/stock.adobe.com

Surfside - Catch waves or walk the shore on a sunny summer day.                                    

Cathcart Beach

New Africa/stock.adobe.com

Cathcart Beach - Relax in solitude and enjoy this unusual, less-traveled Nantucket escape.                                    

Cisco Beach, Nantucket (Plus a Map of Nearby Beaches)

Svitlana/stock.adobe.com

Cisco Beach, Nantucket (Plus a Map of Nearby Beaches) - Go surfing or watch the sunset at this weekend favorite.                                    

Dionis Beach

Christopher Seufert/stock.adobe.com

Dionis Beach - Visit calm waters and look at dunes on an easy beach outing.                                    

Smith’s Point

Christopher Seufert/stock.adobe.com

Smith’s Point - Cross the sandbar and explore attractions on the island’s western edge.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)