Curator’s statement
Nantucket’s cobblestone streets, historic charm, and natural beauty provide me with an immediate sense of peace. There’s a carefree feeling on the island that makes it easy to unplug, which is why I’ve been going every summer for the past 15 years (with the same group of friends for the most part). The highlights are the diverse beach options and the restaurant scene, which ranges from lively energy downtown to the relaxed atmosphere of Sconset and Wauwinet. It’s the ultimate place to slow down and connect with my favorite people!
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Things to do in Nantucket
Sunset views at The Wauwinet / Topper's Restaurant
Rent a Jeep & drive to Great Point Beach
Rent a Jeep Wrangler through Turo or Affordable Rentals and take a rugged ride out to the scenic Great Point Beach (on the northern tip of the island). There’s a station to take the air out of your tires in order to drive through the dunes to the beach—confident drivers only! On recent visits, I’ve seen seals and dolphins while sunbathing, listening to music, and enjoying sandwiches and cookies from Something Natural.
Cisco Brewery
Laid-back, iconic island hang frequented by locals and tourists alike. The live music and local brews can’t be beat—I love the Blue-Haired Lady (Grey Lady wheat beer with a blueberry vodka floater), the cold lobster roll from the Lobster Trap food truck, and the ceviche from 167 Raw.
Lunch at Cru & shopping
Savor fresh seafood with harbor views at Cru, followed by boutique shopping downtown. I always stop into Murray’s, Erica Wilson, For Now, and Centre Point.
Sunset sail on the Endeavor
Set sail aboard the Endeavor for a breathtaking sunset over the Nantucket Sound. One of my favorite Nantucket memories is when we chartered the whole boat for my group.
'Sconset Cliff Walk
Stroll along the charming oceanfront path lined with rose-covered cottages and stunning coastal views.
Places to eat & drink in Nantucket
Cru: Must-do! Upbeat vibe, located on a pier in the marina. Get the Crucomber, shrimp cocktail, and lobster roll (you can choose warm with butter or cold with mayo—highly recommend the warm!).
Nautilus: Seafood-centric small plates and great cocktail list. If you can’t make a reservation and are in a small group, the bar is reserved for walk-ins.
Ventuno: Coastal Italian in a multi-level house. They have a lively back patio for drinks after.
The Pearl: Modern Japanese coastal food—the wok-fried lobster is a must-order!
Galley Beach: Right on the beach—I would recommend going for lunch or cocktails during sunset. You can request a table directly on the sand.
Topper’s: Great option if you are in the mood to have a quiet, more upscale dinner. It’s located in the gorgeous Wauwinet hotel that’s roughly a 20 minute drive from town, but in peak season there’s a boat that leaves from The White Elephant’s harbor and takes you to the restaurant (they even serve cocktails on your journey!).
Lola 41: Sushi/Asian fusion, perfect for a night out!
The Chanticleer: I love sitting in the garden at this restaurant located in Sconset.
Millie’s: Casual Mexican spot located right off Madaket beach. Highly recommend the white queso and Steps Beach lobster quesadilla. Stop in the general store for merchandise and ice cream afterward. The Wave (public bus transportation) leaves from the center of town and drops you off right in front of the restaurant.
Black-Eyed Susan’s: A favorite for brunch or dinner, especially the huevos rancheros.
Need to know
Some of my other favorites include:
Steps Beach: If you don’t mind the stairs (there’s a reason it’s called Steps), this is a beautiful island beach. Ideal for photo ops and watching the sunset.
The Juice Bar: Best ice cream! I personally love the Green Monster (green mint ice cream with homemade chocolate chip cookie dough) in a waffle cone.
Sandbar: Low-key beach bar on Jetties Beach (Children's Beach) with live music in the afternoons.
Boutique fitness classes: Both Studio (barre/sculpt, in town) and 1111 (heated yoga, Mid-Island) have excellent instructors!
Popular weekends to visit Nantucket include:
Daffodil Festival (April): Includes the Garden Club’s annual Nantucket Daffodil Flower Show, an antique car parade, art shows, contests, and other activities for all ages!
Figawi (Memorial Day): An annual Memorial Day weekend tradition featuring a spirited sailboat race from Hyannis to Nantucket, drawing hundreds of boats and spectators.
Boston Pops Concert (August): A beloved summer concert and fundraiser benefiting Nantucket Cottage Hospital, right on Jetties Beach.
Christmas Stroll (December): Nantucket transforms into a winter wonderland during this magical weekend featuring a visit by Santa Claus, Santa’s Village Marketplace, live entertainment, craft shows, and hundreds of lit trees.
Travel Advisor
Lauren Lockett
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