Nantucket Day Trip

Whether you’re venturing out to the cape during summer or the off-season, Nantucket makes for the perfect day trip location. A change in scenery, a healthy dose of Vitamin D from the sun, and fresh air are all good for the soul!

If you’re considering a day trip outing to Nantucket, here are some spots to visit:

Nantucket On Foot

Brant Point Light

Our #1 choice of most Instagrammable spots in our onboard magazine! Completed in 1759, this is the lighthouse our ferries pass as they come into Nantucket Harbor and you can walk there within minutes, from where we dock on Straight Wharf. Brant Point is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the area. It is a great background to take a selfie, capture a kiss, or even take pictures of your kids playing on the very calm surrounding waters.  Legend has it that when you leave Nantucket and ‘round Brant Point, if you throw a penny in the water it will guarantee your return!

Downtown Nantucket

Once you step off the ferry onto Straight Wharf, it’s like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets and architecture oftentimes create a feeling of elation and an affinity for the whaling history culture. Due to the island’s ban on national chain stores, it is nothing less than authentic. On a leisurely stroll you will find boutiques, retail shops, restaurants, antique shops and more!

Walk the Wharves

Straight Wharf, Old South Wharf, Nantucket Boat Basin, and Steamboat Wharf are perfect for a different kind of sightseeing. You will be amazed at the sheer number of people who visit the island onboard their own vessel. From sailboats to cabin cruisers to mega-yachts (we’ve even seen some with helicopter landing pads), be prepared for a first-hand look at an on-the-water maritime museum of its very own.

Lily Pond Park

Less than 1-mile from where we dock, this peaceful park is a wetland with boardwalks and benches for exploration. This is also a great choice if you bring your pup for the day.

Secret Spot

We affectionately refer to this as the ‘Secret Spot’ because it doesn’t actually have a name. Owned by the Nantucket Land Bank, you will find it if you walk up Main Street to the corner of 67 Main Street and Fair Street. It’s a quiet place to stop and rest, surrounded by beautiful trees, flowers and shrubs. You just have to see it for yourself.

Nantucket Beach Day

Children’s Beach

This is our top pick for family-friendly beaches on the island! It’s a small beach with calm waters and is within walking distance from where we dock on Straight Wharf.

Getting Around during the Day

The Wave

Operated by NRTA (Nantucket Regional Transit Authority), The Wave provides convenient fixed route bus service year-round, throughout the island. You can pick up The Wave at The Greenhound Building on Washington Street, a short walk from Straight Wharf. They also have a handy-dandy “Where’s My Bus” app for real-time bus locations. Ride The Wave!

Nantucket Bike Shop

Offering bicycle rentals for all ages and abilities, Nantucket Bike Shop currently has one location open on Broad Street however they are also offering no-contact delivery and free curbside pickup.

The Nosh

Rose & Crown
South Water Street
Pub-style food with apps, salads, burgers, entrees, full bar
Outdoor patio seating or limited indoor seating

Breeze at The Nantucket Hotel
Easton Street
Soup, salad, sandwiches, steak, seafood, full bar
Take out for lunch and dinner, or full-service dinner on the front porch

Aunt Leah’s Fudge
Straight Wharf
Multiple homemade fudge selection and chocolate covered cranberries
Order online, call ahead or front door pick up

The Juice Bar
Broad Street
50+ flavors of homemade, award-winning ice cream
Take out or order larger quantities ahead

We encourage cooperation with guidelines in place at all of these locations for the safety and well-being of everyone!