Craving a quintessential New England escape? Head to Nantucket! This charming island offers cobblestone streets, lighthouses, scenic beaches, and nautical history. Whether you're looking to relax, bike along the coast, or savor fresh seafood, Nantucket is a seaside gem full of timeless appeal.
Nantucket, MA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Bike the island’s scenic trails – Cruise coastal routes past lighthouses, moors, and cranberry bogs.
- For History Buffs: Tour the Whaling Museum – Dive into Nantucket’s maritime past through captivating exhibits and rooftop views.
- For Shoppers: Browse boutiques in Nantucket Town – Discover upscale shops, artisan goods, and seaside charm.
- For Couples: Watch the sunset at Madaket Beach – Enjoy romantic sunsets over the ocean from the island’s western tip.
- For Families: Explore Children’s Beach – A safe, shallow beach near town with playgrounds, restrooms, and calm waters.
Best Time to Visit Nantucket, MA
The best time to visit Nantucket is from late May through September. Summer brings warm beach weather, ferry service, and lively seasonal events, while June and September offer fewer crowds and cooler breezes.
How to Get to Nantucket, MA
- If you are traveling by ferry: High-speed ferries run from Hyannis, New Bedford, and New York (seasonally). Steamship Authority offers car and passenger options.
- By Plane: Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) offers flights from Boston, NYC, DC, and more—especially during peak season.
- By Car: Drive to Hyannis or other ports and take the ferry. On-island car use is limited; biking and shuttles are popular alternatives.
Where to Stay in Nantucket, MA
- Recommended for Families: The Nantucket Hotel & Resort – Centrally located with family suites, pools, and kid-friendly activities.
- For Couples: White Elephant Hotel – Iconic luxury lodging with harbor views and a full-service spa near downtown.
- For a Historic Stay: Jared Coffin House – A charming inn in a restored 19th-century sea captain’s mansion.
Best Things to Do in Nantucket, MA
Where to Eat in Nantucket, MA
- Recommended for Families: The Brotherhood of Thieves – A family-friendly tavern with burgers, seafood, and a historic vibe.
- For Fine Dining: Galley Beach – Upscale beachfront restaurant with sunset views and contemporary coastal cuisine.
- For a Casual Meal: Sayle’s Seafood – Local favorite for fried clams, lobster rolls, and take-out beach picnics.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Literature Lovers: Nantucket Book Festival (June) – Author readings, signings, and literary celebrations in beautiful venues.
- For Wine Enthusiasts: Nantucket Wine & Food Festival (May) – Tastings, celebrity chefs, and waterfront soirées.
- For Family Fun: Nantucket Daffodil Festival (April) – Kick off spring with parades, picnics, and thousands of blooming daffodils.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Nantucket Town:
- For Beach Lovers: Cisco Beach (15–20 min) – Surf-friendly waves and a quieter atmosphere west of town.
- For Wine Lovers: Cisco Brewers (10–15 min) – Craft brewery, winery, and distillery with live music and a food truck scene.
- For Lighthouse Fans: Brant Point Lighthouse (5–10 min) – Iconic and easy to access, great for sunrise photos and coastal views.
- For Tranquility: Madaket (25–30 min) – Relaxed village with panoramic sunsets, harbor walks, and scenic serenity.
- For a Coastal Hike: Sanford Farm (20–25 min) – Open-space trails with ocean views, birdwatching, and rolling hills.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: Where is Nantucket located?
- A: Nantucket is a tiny, picture-perfect island about 16 miles from Cape Cod.
- Q: What is the population of Nantucket?
- A: With a permanent population of about 10,000 people, the island community grows to five times that number in the summer when part-time residents and tourists come to enjoy Nantucket’s magnificent beaches, lively art scene, unique places to stay, and great restaurants.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming hydrangeas.
The Nantucket Hotel & Resort – A luxurious stay with classic island charm.
Visit the Nantucket Daffodil Festival – Enjoy parades, vintage cars, and thousands of blooming daffodils.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm beach weather.
White Elephant – A waterfront resort with stunning harbor views.
Relax at Surfside Beach – Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachside picnics.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer crowds and crisp ocean air.
Brass Lantern Inn – A cozy and charming bed & breakfast in the historic district.
Explore the Whaling Museum – Learn about Nantucket’s maritime history and whaling legacy.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, with festive holiday charm.
Union Street Inn – A cozy boutique inn perfect for a winter retreat.
Experience Nantucket’s Christmas Stroll – Enjoy holiday lights, carolers, and festive shopping in December.
To reach Nantucket from Boston, drive 1 hour 45 minutes to Hyannis (71.1 miles via MA-3 S) and then take a ferry to the island. Make sure your car rental company will let you take the car on the ferry if you are renting a car in Boston.
The Steamship Authority offers two options to reach Nantucket from Hyannis: high-speed passenger ferry or the 2 hour and 15 minute ride on the traditional ferry. You can see the schedule here. You should definitely reserve tickets before you go, especially in the summer.
Here is what you need to know about fees and parking on Nantucket.
Plan Your Trip
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