- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Nantucket
Nantucket's history is preserved in its cobblestone streets and over 800 pre-1850s structures. The island's iconic Quaker-influenced architecture features unpainted cedar shingles that weather to a signature grey. This unique historic preservation is what is Nantucket famous for, a direct result of a mid-20th-century economic slump that prevented modernization. Grand homes on Main Street were built by whaling captains.
With over 80 miles of beaches, the island offers diverse coastal experiences. Surf at Cisco Beach or find calmer waters at Jetties Beach. For a unique view, bike the 2.5-mile Sconset Bluff Walk, a public path that winds through private oceanfront properties. In late spring, the moors are covered in blooming Scotch heather, a non-native plant that now thrives here, creating a vibrant landscape for visitors to explore.
The island's culinary scene centers on fresh seafood. Enjoy famous Nantucket Bay scallops, uniquely sweet and available only from November to March. Locals favor clam bakes on the beach, a tradition dating back centuries. For a true island drink, try the "Madaket Mystery" at Millie's, a cocktail whose recipe remains a closely guarded secret. It's a taste of authentic island life.
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- NantucketUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot & busy
- Wintercold, occasional snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #BeachTowel
- #LightJacket
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 with beaches & day trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #NantucketLighthouses
- #BrantPointLight
- #WhalingMuseum
- #SconsetBluffWalk
- #JettiesBeach
- #TownHistoricDistrict
- Visit Nantucket Whaling Museum
- Stroll through historic downtown
- Relax on Jetties Beach
- Bike along the island trails
- Try fresh seafood at a local restaurant
Things to do in Nantucket
Discover
Exploring Nantucket reveals iconic sights like Brant Point Light and the Whaling Museum. Discover historic streets, dramatic cliffs at Sankaty Head Light, and pristine nature at Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge.
Experience
Bike the island's many paths, sail the harbor, or surf at Cisco Beach. Experience seasonal events like the Daffodil Festival or Christmas Stroll, and find local crafts at the Sustainable Farmers & Artisans Market.
Whaling Museum
Museum detailing the island's 19th-century whaling past.
Brant Point Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the harbor.
'Sconset Bluff Walk
Public footpath with views of cottages and the ocean.
Jetties Beach
Calm family-friendly beach with a playground and amenities.
Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge
Barrier beach habitat for birdwatching and off-roading.
Nantucket Bike Paths
Over 30 miles of paved trails connecting island spots.
Nantucket Daffodil Festival
Annual spring event with parades and flower shows.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Knowing how to get to Nantucket is key. Fly into Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) or take a ferry from Hyannis (Hy-Line Cruises, Steamship Authority). High-speed ferries take an hour. There's no direct train to Nantucket; take a bus from Boston.
Getting Around
Explore the island with ease. The WAVE Nantucket shuttle bus is the main public transport in Nantucket, connecting town to beaches. Bike and scooter rentals are widely available. Car rental in Nantucket is an option, but walking is best for downtown.
Local Essentials
For Nantucket travel tips for first-timers: book ferries and lodging months ahead for summer. Driving in Nantucket involves narrow, cobblestone streets. Biking is popular, but be aware of sand on paths. Many businesses are cash-only or have card minimums.
Where to Stay in Nantucket
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Nantucket, a scene centered on the sea. Taste fresh Nantucket Bay scallops and buttery lobster rolls. The dining habit is relaxed elegance, where you can eat fresh seafood in casual, wharf-side settings.
Enjoy
For the best restaurants in Nantucket, visit Cru for its chic wharf scene; book ahead. Grab a drink at Brotherhood of Thieves' historic pub; go early. The Juice Bar offers amazing homemade ice cream; expect lines.
Cru
Chic waterfront dining with fresh seafood and a raw bar.
The Nautilus
Globally inspired seafood and small plates. Arrive early.
Dune
Upscale American fare in an elegant, refined setting.
Galley Beach
Toes-in-the-sand fine dining with stunning sunset views.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Nantucket's heritage through events celebrating its whaling past and island traditions. The annual Christmas Stroll transforms downtown into a festive wonderland. Must-see spring Daffodil Festival features an antique car parade.
Enjoy
Discover Nantucket's creative pulse at contemporary events. Enjoy world-class cinema at the Nantucket Film Festival or laugh with top comedians at the Nantucket Comedy Festival. These are must-see things to do in Nantucket.
Nantucket Daffodil Festival
A spring welcome with an antique car parade and flower shows.
Nantucket Film Festival
A summer focus on screenwriting with screenings and discussions.
Nantucket Comedy Festival
July event with top stand-up comedians and performances.
Boston Pops on Nantucket
A beloved summer beach concert supporting Nantucket Hospital.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll
December weekend with carolers, markets, and Santa's arrival.
Nantucket Book Festival
June gathering for readers and writers with author talks.
Nantucket Wine & Food Festival
May event featuring renowned chefs, vintners, and tastings.
A Perfect Getaway
Nantucket is such a special place, it felt like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets on Main Street are amazing to walk on. Everything is so well-preserved and clean. It's quiet and relaxing, a perfect escape from city noise.
Wonderfully Peaceful Island
The beaches here are stunning, even in the cooler weather. We had long walks along Surfside Beach almost every day. It's so easy to unwind here. Loved the fresh seafood at the restaurants in town, too. What a wonderfully peaceful island.
Lots To Do Outdoors
Nantucket has so much to do outdoors. We rented bikes and rode everywhere; the paths are great. Heading over to Cisco Brewers in the afternoon was a highlight. Good drinks, good food trucks, and a fun crowd. A really cool spot to hang out.
Incredible Scenery
The island's landscape is just incredible. So much open space and beautiful views. Seeing Brant Point Light against the winter sky was perfect. It's a very photogenic place. It's quiet in the off-season, which was exactly what we wanted.
Great Walkable Town
A wonderful, walkable town center. The shops and boutiques around the Straight Wharf area are lovely, with lots of unique finds. It's fun to just browse. The historical architecture is everywhere you look. It feels very classic and put-together.
Great for a Slow-Paced Trip
This island is fantastic for just slowing down. We loved exploring the different areas and the kids couldn't get enough of the ice cream from The Juice Bar. It's a safe and very pleasant place to just be. A great trip with the family.