The Nantucket, MA Travel Guide
July 18th, 2024
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop on Nantucket, according to Tuckernuck.
Hit up Cisco Brewery
Enjoy live music, food trucks, and drinks (We love the Madaket Mule.)
Go for a Ride
Bike to Sconset Beach and do the iconic Bluff Walk to Sankaty Lighthouse. Get the crumb cake at the market!
Enjoy a Beach Day
Pack lunch from Something Natural (don’t skip the herb bread). Stay until sunset!
Shop Local Boutiques
Then treat yourself to a Green Monster ice cream cone at The Juice Bar.
Get Your Steps In
Walk or run the nature preserve at Tupancy Links or Sanford Farm. Off-road at Great Point!
The Nantucket Look
Originally a whaling town, Nantucket has a hearty, worn-in, laid-back style which its natives love and embrace. Choose a blue and white color palette with subtle pops of red—very Americana cool. The weather is unpredictable, so a sweater is an absolute must, and the cobblestone streets mean espadrilles and elevated sandals are key (no heels!).
Getting There
By boat or by plane, Nantucket is easier to get to than you think. Ferries from Hyannis (via Steamship Authority or Hy-Line) offer both breezy traditional rides and faster hour-long options. Prefer to fly? Direct flights from Boston, NYC, DC, and beyond make a quick getaway a reality. Once you arrive, the island is easily explored by bike, car, or on foot.
Where to Stay
The White Elephant
An island landmark just steps from the town, the iconic White Elephant has been named among the finest luxury hotels on Nantucket for decades.
The Wauwinet
A blend of charm and sophistication, The Wauwinet is complete with breathtaking views, historic architecture, and luxury amenities.
Greydon House
With a convenient in-town location, Greydon House weaves the warmth and comfort of a historic village inn with eclectic, worldly touches.
Faraway
With six properties in town, including a bustling patio cocktail scene, Faraway feels like your classic New England home away from home.
Where to Eat
Breakfast
Island Kitchen
A casual mid-island spot serving up all the breakfast faves (including some yummy brunch cocktails!) with outdoor patio seating.
Black-Eyed Susans
A charming café in town with great omelettes, pancakes, and classic breakfast options. Expect long lines on the weekend!
Born & Bread
Our go-to spot for freshly baked pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Great for a pre-ferry bite!
Lemon Press
Start your day off right with healthy eats and a cup of coffee or matcha. We especially love the energizing smoothies. Get the TB12!
Lunch
Provisions
A mainstay since 1973, this is the spot for delicious sandwiches reminiscent of seaside summers. Bonus: they have gluten-free bread!
The Green Market
Your one-stop shop for a wide range of easy and healthy takeout options. It’s also a good spot for a working lunch (if you have to work on island!).
Bartlett's
The island’s oldest and largest family-owned farm, Bartlett’s sells fresh locally grown veggies, groceries, and flowers. We love their chicken and lobster salads.
The Soda Fountain
This old-school 1929 soda fountain serves the best grilled cheese, bringing you right back to your favorite childhood days.
Cru Oyster Bar
Right on the dock, Cru has great oysters, seafood towers, drinks, and ambiance. Spend a day shopping and end up here, then come back for the nightlife scene.
Something Natural
A bakery and deli, this is our favorite place to pick up sandwiches made on their addictive herb bread baked daily in house.
Bar Yoshi
For awesome sushi and poke bowls, put your name down here and shop around while you wait for your table or your takeout.
Claudette's Sandwich Shop
This Sconset sandwich shop makes a special sauce we can't resist. Stop for lunch and walk the bluff after biking out via the Polpis path.
Dinner
Galley Beach
Quintessential Nantucket, Galley Beach offers an exceptional (although expensive!) American menu, surrounded by open air and stunning ocean views.
American Seasons
Focusing on seasonal, local ingredients, the menu is always changing and incredibly tasty. Enjoy dinner in a charming yet rustic farm decor setting.
Chanticleer
Originally opened as a small tea house at the turn of the century, The Chanticleer is now one of the premier restaurants on Nantucket.
Oran Mor
Located upstairs inside a historic house with several small rooms, Oran Mor is an intimate dining experience with outstanding seasonal food.
Topper's at The Wauwinet
Nestled at the end of a scenic drive, Topper’s serves up coastal elegance with unbeatable views of the bay. The perfect sunset dinner.
Straight Wharf
The island’s best harbor-side dining since the 1970s. We love coming here for classic coastal dishes with a water view.
Le Languedoc Bistro
Always inviting anytime of year, this French-influenced spot has both a changing menu and classic staples. Get a delicious burger at a good price!
Dune
Modern chic meets casual comfort. Classic, fresh, and charming, Dune is in the heart of historic Nantucket. Order the swordfish!
Lola41
A chic hotspot with a menu of sushi, cocktails, and gourmet burgers. Get the tuna burger and truffle fries if you aren't into sushi.
The Nautilus
A buzzy, small-plate spot where coastal flavors meet Asian flair—ideal for sharing everything and ordering one too many cocktails.
Sister Ship
Sister Ship has a lively bar, private dining rooms, and great seafood dishes. We love sitting outside for cocktails or dinner in the courtyard.
Sconset Cafe
This quaint shingle restaurant is available for dining in and taking out, and is a perfect casual option for classic summer dishes.
Family-Friendly Spots
Millie's
Located in Madaket, Millie's is super casual for families and ideal for spotting Tuckernuck Island. Get the tacos or salmon salad!
Sandbar Jetties Beach
The Sandbar is a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand joint where you can sip rosé, enjoy a lobster roll, and watch the sun dip into the sea.
167 Raw
A post-beach spot to sit outside with fish tacos, fried oysters, or lobster rolls. You can also buy wine and fresh fish to grill at home!
Steamboat Pizza
Takeout only, so grab pies here and have a picnic on the beach. We recommend Children's Beach, which often has concerts!
Where to Go Out
Bar Hop on The Wharf
Our top spots: Cru, Gazebo, Slip 14, and The Lobster Trap.
The Chicken Box
A must when visiting the island with friends—the Box is a classic, unfussy roadhouse with regular live music and games in the back.
Club Car
The Club Car blends vintage charm with a modern menu, serving up creative bites and live piano tunes in a retrofitted railcar.
Back Bar at Ventuno
Tucked behind Ventuno restaurant, the Back Bar is a cozy garden hideaway where you can sip Negronis under the twinkle lights.
Where to Shop
Our Must-Visits
Murray's Toggery
The most iconic shop on the island, Murray's is home to the original Nantucket Reds and many exclusive designs with Nantucket icons.
Nantucket Looms
A dreamy, sunlit shop filled with handwoven textiles, coastal-inspired home goods, and the kind of gifts you’ll want to keep for yourself.
Nantucket Bookworks
An island institution since 1972, this is a charming, colorful nook of a bookstore where you can browse everything from beach reads to cookbooks.
Atlantic
Atlantic carries art, antiques, accessories, clothes and jewelry. With an attention to artistry and craftsmanship, the owner Colleen is an exceptional curator.
Our Fashion Friends
Milly & Grace
A quaint, upscale boutique spotlighting brands like Rebecca Taylor and Joie, Milly & Grace is owned by two sisters who are absolutely lovely.
The Skinny Dip
A cool-girl collective of emerging brands, here you’ll find effortless summer staples, cheeky accessories, and a glass of rosé while you shop.
Eye of the Needle
This boutique has been around for more than 40 years, and remains a go-to for fun and seasonal clothing.
Serenella 44
A high-fashion haven, Serenella stocks designer pieces with a polished edge—perfect for when your sundress needs a runway-worthy upgrade.
Gypsy
At this breezy, boho-chic boutique, flowy dresses, beachy jewels, and effortless vibes reign supreme.
Clorinda Antinori
A hidden gem of Italian elegance, their pieces are equal parts timeless, tailored, and transportive. Treat yourself to a pair of beautifully handmade Italian shoes.
Current Vintage
A quirky-cool mashup of wine shop and vintage boutique—perfect for picking up an interesting bottle and a one-of-a-kind find.
Erica Wilson
A cheerful, classic-meets-whimsical shop filled with colorful knits, charming needlepoint, and gifts that scream Nantucket nostalgia.
Home Away from Home
Centre Point
Centre Street’s high-end home décor boutique specializes in everything from art and tabletop to lavish board games that make great gifts.
Nomad
This global curation of textiles and home goods was born out of a love of travel. If you're looking for something truly unique, this is where to go.
Bodega
A serene, sun-drenched space filled with coastal-cool decor, artisan accents, and everything you need to channel Nantucket calm at home.
Rafael Osana Auctions
A treasure trove of island charm and global finds, at Rafael Osona you can score everything from nautical antiques to fine art with a story.
Tots and Toys
Force5 Water Sports
Your one-stop shop for all your beach needs. From surfboards to swimsuits, Force 5 is a favorite of adults and kiddos alike.
Sunken Ship
A beloved local shop packed with everything little adventurers need. Go here for your yearly restock of beach toys.
Assemble
Curated for newborns and toddlers (and something for mom as well!), Assemble carries the best clothing for your kiddos and the planet.
Pinwheels
A bright and cheerful toy shop that sparks imagination with its collection of games, puzzles, and unique gifts for littles of all ages.
More Must-Dos
Island exploring and family adventuring, with a side of sweet treats.
1. Get Out on the Water. Try Shearwater Excursions for a cocktail cruise or a morning Critter Cruise with your kids.
2. Visit Altar Rock. Walk or drive there for 360-degree views of Nantucket!
3. Go to The Whaling Museum. Kids and adults love exploring on a rainy day.