Nantucket: A Beginner's Guide

The location is an exemplification of old with a perfect blend of its natural splendor and historic charm. Today, Nantucket is a popular resort town for those who want a peaceful and serene getaway, out of which it was previously a whaling center of the world. The cobblestone streets, pristine beaches, and iconic lighthouses add up to a pleasant mix of relaxation and adventure. Wander the historic downtown, enjoy freshly caught seafood, or immerse yourself in the island's cultural and natural attractions—Nantucket won't let you down.

Where to Stay

For a stay you'll never forget, consider one of the lovely properties at The White Elephant. Open to reservations since a multi-million-dollar renovation at the hands of local designer Audrey Sterk, this summer is your chance to be one of the first guests at The Cottages at the Boat Basin. Stepping onto the historic whaling wharves at the bottom of town, these quaint cottages offer an experience much like being on a boat. Guests wake up to the soothing sounds of waves lapping at the docks and the fishermen preparing for their day.

The interior is renovated to pay homage to Nantucket's glorious maritime past and its Quaker heritage, full of nautical interiors, with caged lighting, woven fixtures, and brass barometers. Even the name of each of the 29 cottages was inspired by famous whaling ships from the 1700s, with a mural to celebrate "First Nantucket Settlers," all to bring tribute to the storied past of this island. This mural tradition, a Nantucket tradition since the 1800s when whaling ship owners commissioned art for their homes, continues to be an element of cultural pride. All cottages have full kitchens for summer gatherings and many of them also feature private decks with water views.

The Cottages are suited to a young family or girls' trip, with more space than is usual in a hotel room. For the feel of an inn, the White Elephant itself is lovely: elegant, even from nautical touches. Its library and some suites have fireplaces, so this inn is both a cozy choice for summer and shoulder seasons. Beautifully manicured grounds full of hydrangeas, as well as lawn and pool, add to the charm.

Next door, the White Elephant boasts fantastic English-style cottages for families that need a little more elbow room. Another new addition is The Loft, right next to The Cottages at the Boat Basin. A sleek, minimalist apartment, it evokes a Tribeca New York City vibe that makes tremendous space for friends gathering together or growing families.

On the northeast end of the island, The Wauwinet is an intimate, peaceful escape for honeymoons, featuring a historic property with a romantic waterfront venue featuring glorious bay and dunes vistas.

Things to Do in Nantucket

Nantucket is that magical combination of history, scenery, and local flavor. Think about beginning your day with a lazy amble up to Brant Point Lighthouse, which happens to be within walking distance of downtown. As a showpiece for the island's rich maritime history, this landmark is also a great place to take a memorable shot against the harbor backdrop.

All visitors, old and young, will enjoy visiting the Whaling Museum, giving an interesting glimpse into the island's deep maritime heritage, particularly its whaling history. It has a gallery dedicated to the Essex, the Nantucket whaleship that inspired Herman Melville's Moby-Dick. But before coming in the first place, reserve a guided walking tour through the museum's website, to really get into an in-depth report of Nantucket's history and lore.

For a quintessential island experience, plan to spend a day lazing on stunning beaches like Jetties Beach, great for family outings and spectacular sunsets. Those with a sense of adventure will like cycling the coast road up to Siasconset—locals affectionately shorten this to Sconset. The bike ride culminates in the Sconset Bluff Walk—the aptly named coastal walk with breathtaking views across the ocean as well as glimpses of the smallest cottages. You might enjoy lunch at Sconset Market, then just take a leisurely walk over to Sconset Beach. Surfside Beach is always great for swimming and surfing, and there is an abundance of snack bars and restrooms available on site in the afternoon.

Late Afternoon / Early Evening If interested check out Cisco Brewers for a real taste of the lively Nantucket Craft Beer scene. Live music and food trucks in a casual outdoor setting.

Nantucket is also filled with its share of summer festivals. In April, Nantucket pays homage to its love of daffodils at the Nantucket Daffodil Festival. Learn and see more about American culture and design through the Nantucket By Design fundraiser from July 15-18. Nature enthusiasts will have fun at the Nantucket Garden Festival on July 23-25, while sailing buffs will have a blast at Nantucket Race Week on August 14-18, observing excellent regattas and exciting community events.

Where to Eat in Nantucket

New & Noteworthy This summer, foodies will be excited to enjoy a handful of new restaurants led by notable local chefs. Snackle, the quick-service offshoot near the Hyline Ferry, brings its salads, sandwiches, and gourmet hot dogs ashore for marina forays or al fresco picnics. Millie's is opening a new outpost at the Milestone Rotary in Madaket, following the same path toward pleasing fare and the famous Madaket Mystery rum punch.

At 111 South Water Street, The Beet has morphed into Misogi Noodle Bar, offering a sophisticated rendering of the aesthetic found in Japanese izakayas, with a menu of pan-Asian delights. Also hotly anticipated is 11:11 Market & Bistro by Chef Sean Durnin, who emerges from the über-popular Sushi Sean 11:11 food truck, offering a sophisticated rendering of poke bowls, ramen, sushi, and shareable plates, such as steamed dumplings and house rolls.

Brunch

Lemon Press offers an abundance of coffees, juices, and organic options making this a tremendous eatery for all food preferences. With its adorable ambiance, guests can either eat in or take their goodies to go for the beach or a bike ride. Black-Eyed Susan's is famous for hearty breakfasts, while Brant Point Grill at The White Elephant offers harborside dining and a must-try lobster eggs benedict.

For Cocktails

For a Cozy Cocktail Experience: Ethos opened last year, and you'll want to spend hours here enjoying their oysters, local littlenecks, and grilled cheese over exposed beams with a friendly bartender.

For Dining with a View

Topper's at The Wauwinet isn't a place you can come and go; it's a special place to be. Stop in for the best sunsets. Have them present you with one of those lovely fresh lobsters or halibut prepared alfresco, where again you enjoy the wonderful view over the sound. Not quite making the dinner hour? Too busy, or didn't get a reservation? Just stop by and have a spritz at the bar. Plunk your behind in that chair, and wait for the majestic colors of sunset to hypnotize you.

For Dinner

For fancy New England cooking, The Nautilus offers creative small plates in a lively atmosphere. At CRU, one eats stunning views of the waterfront with fabulous seafood, including outstanding oysters and lobster rolls.

On a more laid-back but no less enjoyable note, check out Millie's, whose relaxed attitude just serves with platters of tacos and seafood. There is Brother's Brother, a favorite among locals for cozy warmth and American comfort food. Impressively, Dune achieves an elegant fusion of local ingredients with flavors from the world, and a place to be for a classic dinner for couples is Galley Beach: fine dining right on the sand, where customers can savor exquisite dishes during a lovely sunset on the ocean.

Tips for Visiting Nantucket for the First Time

Plan in Advance: No problem if you are spontaneous, but most often it is costly. Make sure to book your flights and ferries in advance. JetBlue offers daily service to and from LaGuardia, which is very convenient for New Yorkers. Cape Air runs daily flights from Boston, and ferries run from Hyannis, Harwich Port, and New Bedford. It will also be the first year direct flights come from Charlotte, Washington D.C., and Chicago.

Reservations: The island's best restaurants are booked quickly during the peak season. Do your planning well in advance.

Dress for All Occasions: You won't require formal wear, but Nantucket is stylish. You will want layered clothing for a stop at Cisco Brewery but something dressier for dinner or sunset cocktails at Topper's. Watch out for the cool evenings; on July 1st, highs were into the low '70s and lower still at night, so bring a blazer or light jacket. Also bring a raincoat.

Get Around Easily: Navigating the island is a bit easier with the "fare-free" pilot program of the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority on the "Wave" buses, set to expire in September. This program makes visitors