Nantucket

One need not be a millionaire to visit Nantucket, but it couldn't hurt. This compact island, 30 miles south of Cape Cod, grew rich from whaling in the 19th century. In recent decades it's experienced a rebirth as a summer getaway for CEOs, society types and other well-heeled visitors from Boston and New York.

It's easy to see why. Nantucket is New England at its most rose-covered, cobblestoned, picture-postcard perfect. Nantucket town is the biggest draw for its fine dining, lively bars and one-of-a-kind history you can experience on just about every street. Elsewhere on the island outdoor activities abound. Even in summer you'll be able to find uncrowded stretches of sandy beach. All on an island that is close enough to reach without much hassle, but still feels deliciously remote.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Nantucket.

  • Museum

    Nantucket Whaling Museum

    One of the island's highlights, this evocative museum occupies an 1847 spermaceti (whale oil) candle factory and the excellent exhibits relive Nantucket's 19th-century heyday as the whaling center of the world. There's a worthwhile, albeit long (54 minutes), documentary on the island, incredible scrimshaw exhibits (engravings and carvings done by sailors on ivory, whalebone or baleen) and a 46ft sperm-whale skeleton rising above it all. Be sure to head to the rooftop deck for lovely views.

  • Lighthouse

    Sankaty Head Light

    About 1.5 miles north of the village, the 1850 Sankaty Head Light stands photogenically in its new position since 2007, having been relocated due to erosion. It is still operating. A couple of times a year, the lighthouse is open for visitors and offers free tours to the top; see the ’Sconset Trust's website for dates.

  • Historic Site

    Nantucket Atheneum

    More than just the public library, this stately Greek Revival edifice is a sight in itself. The 2nd-floor Great Hall has hosted such notables as Ralph Waldo Emerson and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Nationally known opinion makers still speak here today; ask about the summer lecture series, and look out for classes and concerts (there's a useful calendar online).

  • Beach

    Madaket Beach

    There's not a lot to see at Nantucket's western outpost, but this beach, at the end of its namesake bike path, is the island's ace place to watch sunsets. The strong currents and heavy surf make it less than ideal for swimming, but there's some attractive beach walking to be done.

  • Lighthouse

    Brant Point Light

    Welcoming ferries into Nantucket Harbor, this lighthouse was established in 1746 and is still in operation. It's quite tiny (only 26ft), but impossibly photogenic – you may see many wedding parties using it as a backdrop. It's well worth the walk or cycle.

  • Church

    First Congregational Church

    Everyone comes to this church, which traces its roots to the early 1700s, for the eagle-eye view from the top of the steeple. It's well worth the 94-step climb! You can also attend services at 10am on Sundays.

  • Historic Building

    Jethro Coffin House

    Built in 1686, the Jethro Coffin House is the town’s oldest building still on its original foundation. It’s in a traditional ‘salt box’ style, with south-facing windows to catch the winter sun and a long, sloping roof to protect the home from harsh north winds. It's a half-mile northwest of the town center via W Chester St.

  • Historic Building

    Hadwen House

    A walk through the Nantucket Historical Association’s Hadwen House, a Greek Revival home built in 1845 by a whaling merchant, provides testimony to just how lucrative the whaling industry was in its heyday. The house also hosts rotating exhibits on various topics relating to Nantucket's history.

  • Beach

    ’Sconset Beach

    Take a short walk from 'downtown' Siasconset to this pleasant beach with a popular nearby playground. Parking is free, but very limited.