Nantucket, Massachusetts, which was once known as the “whaling capital of the world” and today is among the leading summer vacation destinations, is a pretty small island. Still, there are some fantastic spots to visit, sights to see, and activities to experience while there.
For the best and most authentic feel during your trip to this charming New England island, you can rent one of the many available cottages, houses, and mansions around Nantucket.
The earlier you book, the better the price and choice you will get.
Here are seven spots to add to your vacation itinerary for your trip to Nantucket.
Photo by Andrew Wolff on Unsplash
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Sconset Bluff Walk
The Sconset Bluff Walk is one of the most Insta-worthy sites on the island. It is also a unique way to explore the historic rose-covered gray shingle-style cottages surrounded by perfectly trimmed gardens in the exclusive village of Siasconset.
The walkway was developed in 1892 by William Flagg and today remains completely free to explore for pedestrians.
Keep in mind that jogging or cycling is not allowed.
This one-mile-long walking path offers stunning views of the ocean, the buffs, and the postcard-like historic cottages, like no other walking trail in the country.
At the end of the walkway, you can reach Siasconset Beach on the east coast of Nantucket and visit the iconic Sankaty Lighthouse nearby.
Brant Point Light
This historic lighthouse is the first structure to greet all ferry passengers arriving in Nantucket.
Brant Point Lighthouse was originally built in 1746 and is the second oldest functioning lighthouse in the USA.
Today’s lighthouse is the ninth one rebuilt in place of the original and has been standing on Brant Point at the harbor since 1901.
If you arrive in Nantucket for the spring Daffodil Festival, you will have the chance to see the historic tower decorated with a beautiful daffodil wreath. This spring flower is the symbol of the end of the summer and the beginning of new life and hope in the spring.
During the 4th of July festivities, Brant Point Lighthouse is decorated with an American flag.
And if you prefer to attend the famous Christmas Stroll festivities, you can take some wonderful photos of the lighthouse adorned with a giant Christmas wreath.
Main Street
The cobblestone-paved Main Street passing through downtown Nantucket is another symbol of the island. It will leave you feeling like you have traveled back in time to the pre-civil war colonial times.
The street still is lit by gas lanterns and is home to some of the most iconic historic captain’s mansions and buildings. They were built back in the glorious whaling years that brought so much riches and history and were defining for Nantucket’s culture, lifestyle, and charm.
The grand buildings and mansions on Main Street are in Greek revival, mid-Victorian and Federal styles, and all are perfectly restored.
The street passing through the historic downtown is also home to some of the iconic stores of Nantucket. One of them, Murray’s Toggery Shop, offers the famous trademarked Nantucket Reds pants and other apparel. It has become a symbol of the northeastern coastal preppy style.
Cisco Brewers
Cisco Brewers is the place to go to experience the Nantucket party scene. And the venue to try the excellent local craft brews, wines, spirits, and crafted cocktails.
It encompasses the only local brewery, winery, and distillery all in one spot.
Cisco Brewers has a spacious beer garden with a stage for the daily free live music. In the summer, there are food trucks where you can order the best fresh seafood and other snacks and meals.
It is family-friendly, dog friendly, and is a preferred spot for locals and for tourists alike.
If you plan on visiting the venue before the official start of the summer season, don’t miss the opportunity to take part in the free Trivia. It takes place at 5:30 pm on Thursdays, and a chance to win up to $175 in prizes while having fun.
The Juice Bar
This is no ordinary juice bar. In fact, it is among the most popular spots for visitors and residents of the island. At The Juice Bar, you can enjoy the best homemade ice cream in Nantucket. You can also order frozen yogurt, sorbet, frappes, lemonades and juices, along with freshly baked goods on the island.
You can choose from over 40 different ice cream options, including healthy, vegan, diet and others in The Juice Bar. All of them are sold in the best homemade waffle cones.
Please, be prepared to wait in a long line in front of the Juice Bar, especially during the peak of the summer.
Whaling Museum
The best way to understand the history and the unique vibe of Nantucket and its people is to visit this one-of-a-kind museum located downtown.
The Whaling Museum is housed in what used to be a factory for the production of whale candles and oil, which were the main source of light not only in Nantucket but throughout the country back in the whaling years.
Among the thousands of exhibits and artifacts telling the stories of the brave captains and crews of the whaling ships and of their families who ran the local businesses then, you can see a real sperm whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling, as well as the first Fresnel lens used by the historic lighthouse in Nantucket.
You can also learn more about the ship and captain that inspired the writing of the great American novel “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville.
Jetties Beach
This is among the most popular beaches on the island. It is on the north shore on the coast of the Nantucket Sound and is within walking distance from the downtown.
Jetties Beach is preferred for its proximity to the town, the calm and warm waters, as well as the numerous amenities offered there.
In the summer, it is free to access, and there are lifeguards, a restaurant, a pavilion, a skate park, a playground for the kids, volleyball nets, a tennis court, and restrooms there.
