
Luxury Travel Guide:
Nantucket
Nantucket
Nantucket, an island off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, seamlessly combines historical charm with natural beauty. Its cobblestone streets, weathered cedar-shingled buildings, and abundant hydrangeas evoke a sense of timelessness. The island features white sand beaches, quaint villages, and picturesque lighthouses, creating an idyllic retreat for visitors. Renowned for its rich whaling heritage, Nantucket also offers a vibrant arts scene, exquisite dining, and upscale boutiques, making it a captivating destination.
The island's aesthetic extends beyond its landscapes to its interiors, where homes and businesses often embrace an airy, clean, nautical charm. This design ethos, characterized by light, natural colors, crisp lines, and subtle maritime touches, creates a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance that reflects Nantucket’s coastal setting without veering into the realm of cliché.
Dining
From casual beachside eateries to elegant fine dining establishments, Nantucket offers a rich blend of culinary options. Fresh, locally sourced seafood is a highlight, with many restaurants featuring the day's catch, including lobster, scallops, and clam chowder.
For a more refined experience, Nantucket boasts several upscale dining venues where chefs craft innovative dishes that showcase both local ingredients and global influences. In addition to seafood, Nantucket's dining scene includes cozy bistros, vibrant cafés, and charming bakeries, each adding its own flavor to the island's gastronomic landscape.
There is no shortage of cute spots to walk and grab a coffee or a quick breakfast in town. Below are a few of our favorites!
Handlebar Café: A popular spot for coffee lovers, Handlebar Café offers expertly brewed coffee and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing or working.
Roastd General Store: Known for its house-made nut milks and whipped lattes stop in for some of the best coffee drinks on the island!
Jack + Charlie's Ice Cream: Some of the best ice cream on the island!
Lemon Press: A trendy café offering a variety of healthy, organic dishes and beverages, including delicious acai bowls and inventive lattes.
Hosting a lunch or dinner party? Need to pick up a sandwich or find delicious grab-and-go options? Nantucket's markets and farms are your go-to for quality ingredients and quick bites!
Meat & Fish Market: A top destination for high-quality meats and fresh seafood (with the option to purchase in one of their famous marinades—perfect for cookouts), sandwiches, sushi, and various grab-and-go options.
Pip & Anchor: A local favorite, Pip & Anchor offers a curated selection of artisanal foods, pantry staples, and fresh produce.
Moors End Farm: This family-owned farm provides fresh, locally grown produce, plants, and flowers.
Bartlett's Farm: A well-loved local farm offering a wide range of fresh produce, sandwiches and other prepared foods, and seasonal items.
167 Raw: A seafood market renowned for offering some of the best lobster rolls on the island, along with a variety of other fresh seafood.
Everyone loves a good sandwich shop.
Provisions: A popular sandwich shop known for its delicious, made-to-order sandwiches—be sure to order ahead to skip the wait.
Claudette's Sandwich Shop: Across the island in Sconset, you’ll find another local favorite, offering a variety of tasty, freshly made sandwiches.
Perfect for a casual lunch that bleeds into an afternoon with friends.
Cisco Brewers: Enjoy an afternoon of live music and casual beers in a laid-back picnic table setting at this popular brewery.
Sandbar at Jetties: Perfect for a casual lunch and afternoon drinks on the beach, Jetties offers a lively bar scene and numerous dining options right on the sand.
With so many great options, here are a few of our go-to spots!
Cru: Located at the end of the pier, Cru is a hot spot in Nantucket's dining scene. Known for its fresh seafood, with oysters being a highlight, Cru offers all-day dining for lunch, appetizers, drinks, or dinner.
The Pearl: With its elegant setting and refined menu, The Pearl offers a blend of seafood and contemporary cuisine. Its sophisticated ambiance and exceptional service make it a top choice for a special dining experience.
Sistership: This newer, modern eatery features an exciting, globally inspired menu served in a stylish, nautical-themed setting. Their outdoor lounge area is first-come, first-serve and a beautiful spot to grab a pre-dinner cocktail.
Lola 41: Lola 41 serves a mix of delicious global flavors alongside its sushi bar. Whether seated on the outdoor porch or inside the lively restaurant, it’s a popular spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
The Nautilus: This stylish eatery combines a relaxed atmosphere with inventive, seasonal dishes. The Nautilus is celebrated for its fresh seafood and unique small plates, perfect for sharing with friends.
Via Mare: Located inside the Greydon House boutique hotel, Via Mare serves delicious Italian cuisine with a focus on classic dishes and fresh ingredients. Feel right at home in warm spaces like the Bohemian living room bar and the intimate dining room overlooking Broad Street.
The Proprietors Bar & Table: A consistent local favorite, The Proprietors Bar & Table features family-style, farm-to-table fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. The cozy, inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
The Gaslight: Downtown Nantucket’s live music destination features local, regional, and national touring bands. Don’t overlook the fresh cuisine inspired by Japanese influence; it's perfect for a relaxed dining experience, especially at a table outside.
Galley Beach: Located right on the sand, Galley Beach provides stunning ocean views and a menu focused on fresh seafood and local produce.
TOPPER'S: Situated at The Wauwinet Hotel, TOPPER'S offers a sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant’s picturesque location and refined atmosphere enhance the dining experience.
After Dinner Trouble…
The Gaslight: Downtown Nantucket’s live music destination, perfect for a night out—arrive early to avoid long lines.
The Club Car: A unique bar reimagined in an old club car, often featuring piano singalongs for post-dinner fun.
The Chicken Box: A classic dive bar with live music and games, popular on weekends with a younger crowd.
Stubbys: The go-to spot for satisfying late-night cravings.
Things to Do
What I love about Nantucket is that there's no shortage of things to do. The island's casual, laid-back nature lets you explore at your own pace. Relax by the beach or pool, pack a picnic, explore town, or set up an activity. Be as active (or inactive) as you and your family or guests like, and enjoy the beautiful island!
Sconset Bluff Walk - This footpath brings you on a short walk with scenic sea & heathland views and uniquely runs through backyards of homes along the bluff.
Charter a Boat: Explore Nantucket’s coastline and surrounding waters with a private yacht charter for a day of luxury and relaxation or enjoy a private sunset cruise around the island, complete with champagne and hors d'oeuvres.
Fishing Charter: Book a private fishing charter for a day of sport fishing with expert guides.
Golf: With multiple courses to choose from, both public and private, you easily can set up a round or hit some balls.
Helicopter Tour: Take a scenic helicopter tour of Nantucket and its surrounding islands for breathtaking aerial views.
Private History Tour: Take a private tour of Nantucket’s historic sites and landmarks, with an expert guide providing in-depth insights into the island’s rich history.
Nantucket is home to several stunning beaches, each offering its own unique charm:
Jetties Beach: A family-friendly beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming.
Surfside Beach: Known for its strong waves, Surfside Beach is perfect for those seeking an adventurous day of surfing or boogie boarding.
Madaket Beach: Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, Madaket Beach offers a serene and picturesque escape on the island's western end.
Sconset Beach: Located near the quaint village of Sconset, this beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful rose-covered cottages.
Cisco Beach: A favorite among surfers, Cisco Beach offers strong waves and is close to the popular Cisco Brewers for post-beach refreshments.
Where to Stay?
Depending on the nature of your trip, Nantucket offers a variety of excellent boutique hotels and vacation rentals. For a shorter stay, choosing accommodations in town provides convenient access to dining and shopping. If you prefer more room and more privacy, the quieter areas of Sconset, Wauwinet, and Madaket offer the island's beauty without the crowds. Inquire for a more detailed list.
White Elephant
The White Elephant is one of Nantucket's most iconic and luxurious waterfront hotels, known for its elegant accommodations and exceptional service. Situated along the harbor, it offers stunning views, beautifully appointed rooms and suites, and a serene, sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a spa, fine dining at the on-site restaurant, and access to a private beach club. The hotel additionally reserves a few select spots for guests interested in chartering a boat.
The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin
The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin offer charming waterfront accommodations that provide a quintessential Nantucket experience. Nestled along the harbor, these cozy cottages and lofts feature nautical-inspired décor, modern amenities, and stunning views of the marina. Guests enjoy the convenience of being steps away from the island’s top dining, shopping, and attractions, while also having access to complimentary bikes and a pre-arrival grocery delivery service. The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin blend the comforts of home with the luxury of a premium vacation retreat.
The Nantucket Hotel & Resort
The Nantucket Hotel & Resort is a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Located just a short walk from downtown Nantucket, this hotel offers spacious accommodations, ranging from cozy rooms to expansive suites and cottages, all designed with coastal-inspired decor. Unique features of the resort include its year-round heated outdoor pool, on-site fitness center, and The Breeze Restaurant, which serves delicious local cuisine in a relaxed, inviting setting. The resort offers complimentary shuttle service to popular island destinations as well as children’s programs and activities.
21 Broad
21 Broad is a chic and contemporary boutique hotel located in the heart of Nantucket. Housed in a meticulously restored 1876 mansion, this stylish retreat combines historic charm with modern design elements. The hotel features 27 thoughtfully designed rooms that boast a fresh, vibrant aesthetic, complete with luxurious linens, rain showers, and a soothing color palette. Guests can enjoy amenities like a relaxing steam room and an inviting outdoor courtyard with a fire pit.
Faraway Nantucket
Faraway Nantucket is housed in a series of 19th-century buildings that have been thoughtfully restored and reimagined, creating a chic and eclectic atmosphere. The rooms and suites feature a mix of vintage and modern decor, with comfortable furnishings, vibrant colors, and unique artistic touches. The hotel’s public spaces include lush gardens, cozy lounges, and an inviting courtyard that encourages relaxation and socializing. On the bottom floor, you’ll find one of Nantucket’s buzziest restaurants and cocktail clubs, Sister Ship, offering elevated cocktails alongside seafood-forward, Mediterranean dishes.
Logistics
When to Visit
The best time to visit Nantucket depends on what you want to do:
Summer (June to August): Warm weather, lively events, and full activities. Busy, but perfect for beach and outdoor activities.
Fall (September to October): Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colors. Great for a quieter visit and exploring local arts and food.
Spring (April to May): Mild weather and blooming flowers. Less crowded and peaceful, but many restaurants and attractions might have limited hours or not be open for season quite yet.
Winter (November to March): Cold and quiet. Many businesses may be closed, but it’s a perfect time for a cozy escape.
How to Get Around
Much of Nantucket's dining and shopping scene is concentrated around the main marina, which is easily walkable.
Visitors can also rent bicycles or electric bikes to explore the island’s bike paths, scenic routes, and more remote beaches.
Car rentals are available, but driving can be challenging due to limited parking, depending on where you’re staying and your plans.
Taxis and rideshare services are also an option, but with a limited number of drivers, it's wise to plan ahead.
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