JUST A HOP, SKIP AND FERRY RIDE AWAY

Located 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Nantucket is a swanky summertime getaway defined by its endless historical architecture, sandy beaches, cobblestone roads, gardens exploding with hydrangeas, and aesthetically pleasing everything that will make you fill your camera instantly. Despite the blatant preppiness that draws so many Ralph Lauren and Lily Pulitizer lovers to this island, Nantucket is filled with so much humble beauty. Whether you’re looking to “see and be seen” or just revel in the history and nature of the island, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

Nantucket MA 02554 House
NANTUCKET TRAVEL GUIDE
WHAT TO SEE & DO: 
  • Rent bikes! ⇢ Biking is the best way to explore and get around Nantucket. There are a number of bike rental shops near the ferry terminal, but I rented my bike from Young’s Bicycle Shop. You can also rent a Vespa if you’re feeling adventurous!
  • Explore the plethora of boutiques and shops on the island ⇢ My favorites include Milly & Grace and Centre Pointe.
  • Check out Brant Point Lighthouse • Most accessible lighthouse on the island (~3 min. bike ride from downtown). 
  • Explore Nantucket from the ocean on one of the many charter boats through Shearwater Excursions, or splurge on on a 90-minute sailing cruise through Endeavor Sailing.
  • Sconset Bluff Walk • Two-mile, scenic footpath that runs from Siasconset village to Sankaty Head Lighthouse. The path starts at 21 Front St (~45 min. bike ride) and goes behind many charming homes along the bluff. 
  • Relax on the beach ⇢ There are a number of beaches on the island but the below are my favorites:
    • Madaket Beach • Best beach to watch the sunset (~33 min. bike ride).
    • Step Beach • Picturesque beach close to town with steps that go down to the water (~8 min. bike ride).
    • Quidnet Beach • Serene and isolated beach with no crowds (~45 min. bike ride but closer to the Sconset Bluff Walk). 
WHERE TO EAT:

⇢ Note: Downtown // Off The Beaten Path

Nantucket MA 02554 Hadwen House
Nantucket MA 02554 The Hub Of Nantucket Breakfast Books
WHERE TO DRINK:
  • Cisco Brewers (~15 min. bike ride from downtown) • An absolute must do whether it’s your 1st or 50th time to Nantucket. Features a raw bar, food trucks, live music, and Cisco’s brews, wines and cocktails. Make sure to arrive within an hour of opening to snag a table!
  • Rose & Crown Pub • Lively sports bar located in the center of town with decent pub grub and cocktails. 
  • Ventuno’s Back Bar • Located on the back patio of Ventuno Restaurant, this place is perfect for catching up with old friends or meeting new ones on a warm summer night. 
  • The Tree Bar • Situated downtown next to Town and Queequeg’s, this outdoor courtyard bar offers fun cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • The Chicken Box (~7 min. bike ride) • Total dive bar with darts, pool, and live concerts every weekend.
Nantucket MA 02554 Cisco Brewers Opening
Nantucket MA 02554-Cisco Brewers Bar
Nantucket MA 02554 Cisco Brewers Field
TRANSPORTATION:

There are only two ways to get to Nantucket: by air or by sea. Taking a plane is usually far more expensive than driving down to the Cape and taking a ferry; however, if you are traveling from somewhere other than southern New England, flying into Nantucket’s airport (ACK) is definitely something to consider. See below for ferry options:

  • Fast Ferry from Hyannis • 1 hour ride through the Steamship Authority or Hy-Line Cruises. Tickets cost approximately $75-90 round-trip per person.
    • If you’re coming from Boston, you can take a 2 hour train or bus ride to Hyannis (great option if you don’t want to drive and leave your car in the ferry terminal parking lot).
  • Slow Ferry from Hyannis • 2 hour and 15 minute ride (allows you to take your car with you to Nantucket)
  • Ferry from New York City • 8 hour ride through Seastreak Ferries. Tickets cost between $260-330 round-trip per person (personally, I would rather fly at this point). 
Nantucket MA 02554 Old Mill