Girls Trip: Nantucket
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Hey there, ladies! Looking for a perfect getaway with your BFFs? Look no further – Nantucket has got you covered! We’re approaching this a little differently. We know that the fact that you’re getting together is spectacular enough… here are some ideas to enhance that girls getaway whether it’s for the day or an extended stay on-island! If you are thinking about an extended stay, we highly encourage you to look into the lodging and ferry reservations at least 3 months in advance. Especially if you’re coming in July or August. Keep in mind that a lot of lodging options require a 2 or 3-night minimum stay.
First things first. Inside scoop. You will be ON Nantucket not in Nantucket. You’re welcome.
Second thing. Elin Hilderbrand. World-famous, beloved author of the beach read with 27 books set ON Nantucket. Pack one or pick one up at Nantucket Bookworks or Mitchell’s Book Corner when you get there. For you Elin superfans, check out the new Nantucket Island Tours’ Blue Book Tour.
Let’s get right to the point. No girls trip is a girls trip without a little shopping. There are numerous, charming local shops and boutiques in the downtown area. From fine retail shops to art galleries to jewelers, the Nantucket shopping experience does not disappoint. A must-stop on your shopping adventure is Murray’s Toggery. Family owned since 1945, Murray’s is the Home of the original Nantucket Reds ™ This iconic canvas has come to identify the island’s charming culture. More favorite, one-of-a-kind shops include Pinwheels, Milly & Grace, Ellsworth + Ivy, Four Winds Gifts, Nantucket Looms, Blue Beetle, Haul Over, and Aunt Leah’s Fudge. Please give Aunt Leah our best when you pop in!
Do you know what else is a critical piece of your girls trip? FOOD. Here are some downtown hot spots we hear people talking about:
Cru – waterfront location on Straight Wharf, this is the island’s premier oyster bar. This is a great choice for the raw bar menu and cocktails.
Straight Wharf Restaurant – on Straight Wharf behind our ticket office, this is Nantucket’s newest and only clam shack. Also, strangely enough, it is one of the few waterfront dining options on the island. From fresh salads, to fish tacos, to steamers, and impossible burgers, they have something for every girl in your group.
The Gazebo at The Nantucket Tavern – also located on Straight Wharf as you walk off of the ferry up towards Main Street, this is the happening place to get the best drinks in town. Survey Says: Gazebo Mudslide.
Or, the Whale – this bistro, bar and patio on Main Street is exceptional. Serving lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, Or, the Whale attracts a younger, trendy crowd looking for a progressive menu and a great wine list.
Rose & Crown – this laid-back pub on South Water Street is simply straight up good for lunch or dinner any day. This friendly eatery serves up a little bit of everything in a historic setting; the building once served as a livery stable for horses and carriages in the 1800s.
The Juice Bar – on Broad Street, you will find an outstanding selection of homemade ice cream. Do not let the crowds deter you; they are there for a reason.
While this is only a small sampling of good choices for food and bevvies, the Nantucket foodie and culinary scene will not disappoint.
If you are on an extended stay, you might be interested in getting out of the busy downtown area for some time focused on self-care, for your health and wellness. Lavender Farm Wellness offers multiple services such as massage therapy, body work, yoga, meditation, and infrared sauna. They even offer a Wellness Retreat Package which is definitely worth checking out. Another out-of-town, option can be found at RJ Miller Salon & Spa. This is the oldest (since 1970) and largest full-service salon on island for your hair, nails, facial, tanning, makeup needs and more. Day of beauty!
On the topic of getting out of the downtown area, we have some very exciting transportation news! Courtesy of a DOT grant, the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority’s “Wave” buses are fare free from April through September. This includes all fixed routes and demand-response services. This is one great reason to leave the island driving to someone else!
For an out-of-town adventure, walk on up to Federal Street and hop on the red passenger van emblazoned with the Cisco logo (it’s a free ride) and make your way from the downtown area to the ever-popular Cisco Brewers. In some circles, it has been called the happiest place on earth. Cisco, for many, is the destination of their Nantucket trip – the main attraction. With a brewery, winery and distillery on property, Cisco is located out of town next to Bartlett’s Farm. The vibe is chill and friendly. Everyone hangs out, enjoys the laid-back farm atmosphere with their families, brings their dog, plays games like cornhole, enjoys live music and amazing food truck eats. It really doesn’t get better than a day at Cisco!
We highly encourage you to get all glammed up to experience the ultimate Nantucket nightlife vibes at The Chicken Box! This legendary hotspot is where the party never stops, and the good times will roll all night long. The roadhouse-like atmosphere sets the stage for a good time: pool, ping pong, darts, live music (including some national touring acts!) and lots and lots of dancing. Grab your squad, let the delicious drinks flow, hit the dance floor, and make unforgettable memories at this iconic venue. Named Best Bar on Nantucket in 2023, don’t miss out on this iconic venue and the hottest spot in town!
We hope that one or more if these ideas are helpful to you in planning your girls trip to Nantucket! We’d like to take a moment to call special attention to Brant Point Lighthouse, which you see cruising into and out of Nantucket Harbor. Many visitors love to take photos of the lighthouse from our boat, or you might choose to walk to this lighthouse which a very short distance from our ferry terminal. You know, they say when you leave Nantucket and ‘round Brant Point, throw a penny in the water and it will guarantee your return!
We sure hope to see you ladies again.
The opinions expressed here belong solely to the author, a Cape Cod girl.
