There is nothing more all-American than a summer in New England and one of the most iconic destinations is Nantucket. Just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, you feel a world away in a little slice of paradise! Check out my 4-day travel guide to Nantucket to enjoy all the highlights but also take time to relax.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Welcome to Nantucket! Depending on what time your ferry or flight gets in, I would get settled and take it slow.
Downtown Stroll: Explore the charming cobblestone streets of downtown Nantucket. Visit local boutiques, art galleries, and bookstores. Don’t miss Nantucket Bookworks and Mitchell’s Book Corner - pick up a book to read throughout the trip!
Whaling Museum: Dive into Nantucket's rich history at the Whaling Museum. It's a fascinating place to learn about the island's past and its role in the whaling industry.
Have time for lunch? Bar Yoshi is the best sushi spot on the island with some of the freshest fish you can have and unique pairings you wish you had at home!
Evening:
Island Kitchen: Head to Island Kitchen for dinner - you’ll find a menu filled with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make it a local favorite and perfect for a calmer first night! I personally had the seafood pasta. Island Kitchen also has an incredible, homemade ice cream shop you cannot miss out on for dessert.
Depending on your vibe for the night, Island Kitchen is right next to the grocery store Stop & Shop and the famous, Chicken Box. In my coastal grandma era, I stopped at the grocery store for a few things I needed for the rest of the trip. However, if you’re ready to get a little wild night one, pop into Chicken Box for drinks and live music!
Day 2: Siasconset
Sconset is a must see in Nantucket.
Morning:
Sconset Bluff Walk: Start your day with the scenic Sconset Bluff Walk. This public walking path takes you through the backyards of some of the most picture-perfect homes in Sconset and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The walk takes you all the way to Sankaty Lighthouse. Not to be dramatic… but I almost cried twice with how beautiful it is there.
If you are a golfer…
Sconset Golf Course: Founded in 1899, Sconset Golf Course is one of the oldest courses in the United States and a perfect 9-holes to play. I just rented clubs to make travel easier!
Afternoon:
Depending on how you're feeling, I have two different lunch options over in Sconset.
The Summer House Beachside Bistro: A beachside casual restaurant, this is perfect if you want a more relaxed lunch. I feel like everyone’s opinions of their favorite lobster roll is different, but I have to say, I was impressed. It was one of my favorites I had the entire vacation. The drinks were also super refreshing to cool off after a hot morning golfing!
The Chanticleer: A little more upscale, the garden setting and refined menu make it a special place to dine and a favorite on the island.
After lunch, head back to town to refresh before taking on the evening!
Evening:
You can't go to Nantucket without eating at Cru. When you hear people say the lobster roll is the best on the island, they are not lying. I also reccomend getting oysters here! They have a perfect selection.
Day 3: Beach Day
Morning:
Grab your morning coffee at Lemon Press or some breakfast sandwiches at Provisions before renting a bike for the day!
Jettie’s Beach: Pack up and ride your bike over to Jettie’s Beach. I recommend you go in the morning. As it got closer to noon, the beach packed up quickly as it’s the closest public beach to town. Depending on the time of year your visiting, bring bug spray!
Afternoon:
Being over at Jettie’s, I recommend you grab lunch or a light snack and drink at Sandbar before riding your bikes back to town!
Evening:
Keep it casual! Check out the Gazzibo or Slip 14 for drinks. Grab a pizza at Pizzeria Gemelle and head back to the beach to watch the sunset. If youre staying at a house, grab some local seafood and do a boil. There is tons to do in Nantucket, but I think one of the best things to do is to enjoy the slower pace of the island and take in the environment.
Day 4: End With a Bang
Shopping and Last-Minute Exploration: Head back to town for some last-minute shopping. Pick up souvenirs, visit any galleries you may have missed, or simply enjoy a final stroll through the streets of Nantucket. Highly recommend shopping after a few drinks at Cisco, makes decision making so much easier.
Cisco Brewers: Cisco Brewers is so much fun. This popular spot offers a great selection of beer, wine, and spirits. It’s a fun place to relax with live music and food trucks. Try the Blueberry Lemonade cocktail – it was my favorite. They have quite a few food options including a Millie’s food truck – make sure you get the lobster quesadilla. Unreal!!
Evening:
Sunset Dinner at Galley Beach: Right on the beach and perfectly positioned for sunset, Galley Beach not only has an amazing ambiance, but the food and service is to die for. They offer a prix-fixe for dinner with multiple add-ons to make your experience unique. I cannot wait to go back one day!
Commentaires