Nantucket Travel Guide — by Courtney Brown

This time last year I boarded a ferry on the Massachusetts coast bound for Nantucket - one of a handful of US destinations patiently sitting on my bucket list, and having now experienced it firsthand, wish I would have crossed it off sooner. Twenty-five miles out to sea, Nantucket is a fabled island rich in history and character whose 18th century roots, lovingly preserved through generations, are on display down each cobblestone lane and the Greek Revival buildings that line them. And while classic New England charm and traditions are everywhere you look, there’s also a fresh, dynamic side to the island thanks to a new breed of stylish boutique hotels and contemporary restaurants… a combination I found more than alluring.

If you’re visiting Nantucket for the first time, there’s a few things worth noting. Being an island, you can either arrive via plane (check Cape Air or Tradewind schedules) or ferry out of Hyannis, Massachusetts. Opt for the passenger-only high-speed ferry which gets you there in under an hour since there’s no need to bring a car as the island is very walkable. Nantucket's historic downtown district, also referred to as Town or Brant Point, is where all the cute shops, restaurants and sea captains’ homes turned intimate hotels can be found. It’s also where the ferry docks. For any meals, beaches or sightseeing you want to do outside of this area, Ubers are available, as are bike rentals, the island’s preferred mode of transportation. Crowds are highest come July and August, same as the temperature, and locals will tell you the best time to visit is actually September. I visited late June and the island felt busy but not crowded, and the weather ranged from cool and rainy to hot and sunny over a span of 48 hours.

Below are my recommendations on where to stay, eat and explore on Nantucket. Spending only two days on this salty, sea-kissed island, I know I, sadly, missed out on so many highlights and establishments worth visiting, but I look forward to returning someday soon!

Where To Stay

**Greydon House** - As one of the fifteen properties that made my 2022 Must Stay Hotels list, I was thrilled to check-in to this well-appointed hotel just months later during my first visit to Nantucket. The hotel opened its doors in 2016 with the mission of immersing guests into the rich history of the island. Set in a “former sea captain’s house right off the wharf in town”, the owners “tapped into that rich history when conceiving of a narrative to guide the Greydon House interiors, imagining the life—and the dwelling—of a well-traveled whaling captain”. The result is a collection of memorable spaces thoughtfully outfitted in antiques and rich textiles. The property is quite small with just twenty rooms which has its pros (cozy and intimate) and cons (lack of amenities). We stayed in the Federal Suite which is perfect if traveling with children or as a small group, as there are two bedrooms, a living room and a private entrance, allowing you to truly feel like a local in your own home. I would recommend GH based off the hotel’s central location and alluring aesthetic alone.
**Faraway** - Spanning 6 historic buildings in the heart of downtown, Faraway is an excellent choice for those looking to be in walking distance to the island’s best shops and restaurants, as well as the ferry (similar to Greydon House in this regard). The vibe is fresh and cool, leaning into a modern Nantucket while remaining true to the island’s roots. One of the property’s biggest draws is its popular outdoor terrace and cocktail bar, Sister Ship, which, in line with the rest of the hotel, is design driven accented by vintage umbrellas, rattan furniture and lush potted plants. Whether you’re staying as a guest or not, be sure to book a table for a late night drink or stop by in the morning for a coffee and croissant, as we did.
**The Wauwinet** - Welcoming guests since 1875, The Wauwinet is a historic hotel boasting classic New England charm and seaside tranquility. Located on the northeastern side of Nantucket, the property is far removed from the crowds in town catering to travelers looking for a quiet getaway where days consist of scenic bike rides, strolls along the beach and sunset drinks on the oceanfront lawn.
**Blue Iris -** The island’s newest boutique hotel, which opened in July 2022, is the latest Life House property. With only 12 rooms, this intimate hotel is set within “an art collector’s Greek Revival vacation estate with a lush garden patio infused with Portuguese design elements”. Between its central location in town and beyond dreamy design, this is where I look forward to staying next time I visit Nantucket.

Nantucket Travel Guide: Where to stay, eat and explore.

Nantucket Travel Guide: Discover where to stay, eat and explore on the island. — Where To Eat

**bar Yoshi** (pictured right) - For sushi lovers, a meal at bar Yoshi is a must. The rolls are delicious and its waterfront location at Old South Wharf is hard to beat!
**Lemon Press** - An unexpected find! Stop by for a healthy breakfast of avocado toast and açaí bowls set against an airy, eclectic backdrop.
**Provisions Sandwiches** - Great option for an easy lunch at the wharf.
**Òran Mór Bistro** - In terms of ambiance, this cozy restaurant is exactly what I envisioned Nantucket to be and was a memorable meal for our first night on the island. Nestled in a historic home downtown, the intimate space is full of nautical decor and offers a solid menu featuring New England classics and seasonal dishes.
**Galley Beach** - Dinner at this chic beachside restaurant was a highlight of our trip! The food is delicious and the setting is stunning. Book a table on the open air dining room at sunset. (pictured at the bottom of this post)
**Claudette’s Sandwiches** - Open since 1968, Claudette’s is a seasonal sandwich shop in downtown ‘Sconset. The menu is limited but the quality is excellent. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring ‘Sconset or grabbing sandwiches to bring to the beach.
**Millie’s** - We didn’t make it to this island favorite out on Madaket Beach, but definitely will next time! The vibe is casual and the food is California-Baja inspired (think fish tacos and margaritas). First come, first serve.
**Sister Ship** - *The* place to go for cocktails. Enjoy on the buzzing outdoor courtyard in the heart of town. This is the closest thing to a nightlife scene on the island.
**The Juice Bar** - With over 40 homemade flavors, this is Nantucket’s most popular ice cream spot. With lines down the block every night, you’ll know when you see it.