Summer in Nantucket
An old whaling village, Nantucket is an All-American island where charm abounds. You'd be hard pressed to find a more picturesque place, and with the pace
set to "slow" you'll feel sufficiently refreshed after just a few days. Peak season is high Summer, but go in early Spring or Fall when rates drop, the weather is enjoyable,
and crowds have thinned...
WHERE TO STAY
The White Elephant is located within walking distance to the main area of shops and restaurants, but in a slightly more residential zone, The White Elephant is situated on the wharf overlooking a marina. Complimentary shuttle service to nearby beaches is available to guests.
Union Street Inn is a historic home turned boutique inn with just a handful of rooms. A hot breakfast is cooked to order each morning. Don't miss the homemade pastries and iced tea in the afternoon.
The Wauwinet offers privacy and seclusion away from the main town. Flanked on both sides by water, the sunsets on the main lawn are spectacular. Days are spent on the beach and stand up paddleboards and kayaks are available for guest use.
Summer House is a collection of small inns with jitney service offered to a private beach and pool club in Sconset
If you're looking for a bed and breakfast (of which there are plenty in Nantucket), both Seven Sea Street and Brass Lantern Inn are good options.
WHAT TO DO
You won't need a car in Nantucket if you're planning to stay in town; practically everything is walkable and parking is basically non-existent. Instead, rent a bike and explore on two wheels. Young's Bicycle Shop has a great location right by the Ferry terminal. It's quite a ride out to Sankaty Head Lighthouse, but it's iconic and quintessential New England.
If you don't rent a bike, there's a town shuttle to nearby beaches. Steps Beach is named for the iconic stairs built over the dunes and is located in a more residential area. Jettie's Beach is great for families and has a small snack bar with lunch options.
For all your preppy essentials, check out Murray's Toggery Shop to stock up on the original "Nantucket Reds". The Haul-Over has a great selection of outdoor gear for men, women and kids. Follain is a modern apothecary stocking only products made in the USA.
Get out on the water! Book a sunset sail on the beautifully maintained wooden sailboat, The Endeavor.
GOOD TO KNOW...
Flights to Nantucket are offered from New York seasonally. Fast and slow ferry service is also available from Hyannis.
WHERE TO EAT
Galley Beach is situated on the water between Steps Beach and Jetties Beach, giving guests the chance to dine with their toes in the sand. Order a bottle of rosé and settle in for the evening; there's no better place to watch the sunset.
Cru, a waterfront restaurant on Nantucket harbor offers an amazing raw bar selection (try the lobster cocktail), but save room for a lobster roll.
The Nautilus has an inventive menu of classic New England dishes with Asian and Latin flavors. Grab a cocktail at the bar and expect to wait (reservations are only available for the day of).
The Juice Bar has a long list of homemade ice creams, but the freshly made waffle cones (served warm!) take it to the next level.
Topper's at The Wauwinet is accessible to guests by boat. Don't miss brunch for an over the top Bloody Mary and killer chicken sandwich.
Sayle's Seafood is located a bit outside of town and is a local favorite. They churn out lobster rolls and plump, fried clam bellies and are the official on-island headquarters for all your Clambake essentials.
Black Eyed Susan's is a great treat for breakfast (order the pancakes heaped with blueberries), and super popular for dinner when it's BYOB.
Handlebar Coffee is the spot to refuel in the morning with a matcha latte.
The Straight Wharf is another waterfront option with a cozy, candlelit dining room. The Clambake is a splurge, but totally worth it. Next door, the bar menu is more casual with options like deviled eggs and taquitos.
For a day at the beach, head to Provisions for sandwiches to-go. Epernay Wine Shop has a great selection of beer and wine, including local brews from Cisco Brewers.
