Nantucket is the most idyllic, charming little island and we love it for so many reasons, other than the fact that running a high-speed ferry there year-round is our bread and butter. The architecture, the cobblestones, the beautiful landscapes, the community, and the serene atmosphere make Nantucket so special.
What should you do when you go to Nantucket? Well, that’s really up to you and how you like to spend your time. There are a LOT of options, and ideally something for everyone. Whether that be spending time on the water sailing or fishing, or walking around the multitude of fun boutiques, maybe eating your way around town and relaxing on the beach is more your speed, or you want to see every square inch of the island, so you rent a bike and explore every day. Regardless, we would like to tell you about the five things we think every single person must do when they are on Nantucket.
Treat Yourself to a Fancy Meal
Everybody’s got to eat right? Well, on Nantucket there are no shortage of amazing options for dining. Whether you want casual grab and go, outdoor dining, a quick tasty snack, a sweet treat, or a full on dining experience there are multiple choices for you. But – we want you to treat yourself. Nantucket is known for being fancy, right? A little high-end some would say. It’s no wonder that Nantucket boasts some amazing dining experiences, and it would totally be a shame to miss out on the culinary delights these restaurants have to offer. So, while you’re there budget for an all-out fancy meal, you won’t regret it!
Catch a Nantucket Sunset
Nantucket beaches are beautiful, natural wonderlands that yearn to be explored. Seriously, there is nothing like it! Add the orange-red (and sometimes pink) glow of a spectacular sunset, and it’s even more breathtaking. Maybe it’s because you’re on an island, or maybe it’s because you’ve already spent the day in a magical place, but sitting on the beach, drink of choice in hand, watching the sun go down will always be the best way to end the day. Pro-tip – even some of the dreariest days on the island have beautiful sunsets as the sun reaches below the clouds. Those days show some of the most spectacular colors!
Wear your Walking Shoes
Whenever someone asks us what the best way to see Nantucket is, we enthusiastically tell them on their own two feet! Nantucket is full to the brim with natural, historical, architectural beauty, and the best way to see it is by exploring on foot. You can’t get lost on this 11-mile island, so just go, and see where you end up! Anywhere you walk will eventually lead to something beautiful and exploring side-streets and discovering hidden treasures along the way is honestly just fun. Go for a walk and just see where it takes you!
Visit Cisco Brewers & Bartlett Farm
Perhaps two of the most iconic places on Nantucket, Cisco Brewers and Bartlett Farm are tucked away about 3 miles from the docks, and are absolutely a necessity during your trip to the island. Getting there is easy with a shuttle that leaves from downtown, or a bike path that is well-marked. Bartlett Farm is an amazing farm and market with amazing produce, delicious grab-and-go food options, a breathtaking garden center, and the friendliest people! Once you’ve gotten your fill, hit up Cisco Brewers for live music, beer tastings, amazing food trucks, and lots of fun! They’ve also added a winery and distillery if beer isn’t your thing. So grab some friends and head out, it’s going to be a blast.
Ensure you return!
One last thing you must do is actually on your ferry ride home. There is a time-honored Nantucket tradition of tossing a couple of coins off the side of the ferry as it pulls around Brant Point and departs for the mainland. Island lore has it that doing so helps ensure one’s safe return to the island. There is something comforting in leaving a piece of yourself behind on the island and knowing that it will be there waiting for you to come back. It’s also a great opportunity for a fun photo!
No matter why you’re coming to Nantucket, these five things should definitely be on everyone’s while they are there. This summer wonderland is chock full of splendor, elegance, and class, but sometimes the most fun things to do are the simplest. We hope you have a great time on Nantucket, and cannot wait to take you there!
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