Curator’s statement
To some, Nantucket is THE see-and-be-seen hot spot during the summer months, but your time on this idyllic island can be as busy or as agenda-free as you like. Nantucket is the definition of picturesque. It is the perfect getaway for those looking to do just that — get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the magic of a beautiful island while staying stateside.
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Things to do in Nantucket
Views from the ferry of Brandt Point Lighthouse
While late June through mid-August is Nantucket's peak season, my favorite times to visit are a warm May day or late August/early September, when most others have headed back to school. Christmas Stroll, which takes place the first weekend of December, is also an experience not to miss. Here is how I would spend 36 hours here, sans car, regardless of the season:
Friday: Hop on the high-speed ferry out of Hyannis, arriving in time for an al fresco lunch at Tree Bar, outside of Queequeg's. Stroll the cobblestone streets for some post-lunch shopping. My favorites include Mitchell's Book Shop, The Skinny Dip and Blue Beetle. Hop on the Cisco Brewery shuttle and grab a cold drink while enjoying live music, followed by dinner at Ventuno. Squeeze in for a nightcap (and optional sing-a-long) at Club Car.
Saturday: Begin your day with a stop at The Lemon Press for breakfast and coffee, and then spend the morning at the beach—either by walking to Jetties Beach or taking the shuttle to Surfside Beach if you need a bit more waves. In the afternoon, rent bikes and trek out to Madaket to get a sense of the quieter side of the island. The fish tacos at Millie's are memorable! Optimize your people-watching with dinner at Lola 41 and after-dinner drinks along the water at Cru.
Sunday: Grab a pastry from Born & Bread and take your bikes out to 'Sconset. Still sore from yesterday? Go with the town shuttle. Meander through this village, enjoying the bright florals brushed against the Nantucket grey exterior of the seaside cottages. Enjoy a sandwich from Sconset Market on the beach before heading back into town. Savor your mudslide from The Gazebo before heading to catch your ferry.
Places to eat & drink in Nantucket
Cisco Brewery, located inland and offering beer, wine, and spirits
Lemon Press - Cold brew, avocado toast, healthier fare
Black Eyed Susans - Heartier breakfast options located right in town
Tree Bar at Queequegs - Lobster rolls, fish & chips, al fresco dining
Cisco Brewery - Local beers and rotating food trucks
Millie's - Cold beers, fresh seafood, and front-row seating to the Atlantic Ocean
The Nautilus - Highly regarded dinner option but tough to grab a table—plan ahead!
Cru - A hot spot in town facing one amazing yacht after the next. Great for lunch or dinner.
Ventuno - Lively Italian restaurant centrally located in town
The Juice Bar - Homemade ice cream and waffle cones. Need I say more?
Need to know
Nantucket's pristine landscape and quaint ambiance are essential to enjoying a quintessential New England summer. In addition to the recommended properties noted above, home rentals through Fora are also available—please reach out to learn more! While summer is going to give you the best chance for all the outdoor excursions, it is also the busiest. Consider the shoulder months or the holidays as well for your Nantucket travels.
Travel Advisor
Kathryn Brennan
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Nantucket page.