Nantucket, Massachusetts, is a stunning island getaway known for its historic cobblestone streets, lighthouses, and serene beaches. Whether you're visiting for a summer retreat, exploring the island’s maritime history, or enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront, Nantucket offers an unforgettable experience. Accommodations range from classic seaside cottages and luxurious beachfront homes to cozy vacation rentals in the heart of town. With its mix of relaxation, outdoor beauty, and New England charm, Nantucket is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a peaceful coastal escape.
Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Nantucket
Nantucket blends timeless charm with modern luxury, making it the perfect retreat for all types of visitors. Beach lovers can soak up the sun at Surfside Beach, while history enthusiasts can visit the Nantucket Whaling Museum. The island’s renowned dining scene, featuring locally caught seafood and waterfront views, adds to its appeal. Whether you're biking along scenic trails, shopping in historic downtown, or watching the sunset at Madaket Beach, Nantucket delivers an unforgettable coastal experience.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Nantucket
Downtown Nantucket
For visitors who want to be in the heart of the island, Downtown Nantucket is the perfect place to stay. This area is home to charming boutiques, historic sites, and top-rated restaurants. Airbnbs here include classic Nantucket-style homes, luxury condos, and quaint cottages. Staying downtown ensures a lively yet picturesque experience with easy access to the island’s top attractions.
Sconset (Siasconset)
A charming and peaceful village, Sconset is known for its rose-covered cottages, stunning ocean views, and quiet atmosphere. Visitors staying in an Airbnb here can enjoy a relaxing escape with access to beautiful walking paths and scenic lighthouses. The area’s historic charm and breathtaking coastal setting make it a perfect retreat for couples and families. With its peaceful ambiance and stunning landscapes, Sconset offers an idyllic stay away from the bustle of town.
Madaket
For those seeking a serene coastal experience, Madaket offers stunning sunsets and peaceful beaches. This area is known for its relaxed vibe and picturesque waterfront homes. Vacation rentals here provide direct beach access and a secluded feel while still being a short drive from town. Its natural beauty and breathtaking ocean views make it an excellent choice for travelers looking to unwind by the shore.
Surfside
A favorite for beach lovers, Surfside is one of the most popular areas to stay in Nantucket. Visitors can enjoy soft sandy beaches, gentle waves, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Airbnbs in Surfside range from charming bungalows to spacious beachfront homes. The combination of ocean access and laid-back island vibes makes Surfside an ideal choice for travelers.
Brant Point
For those who love harbor views and easy access to ferries, Brant Point is a fantastic choice. This area offers some of the best waterfront accommodations on the island. Visitors can walk to Brant Point Lighthouse, enjoy fresh seafood at nearby restaurants, or take a short bike ride into town. Its prime location and stunning scenery make Brant Point an excellent choice for a luxurious island experience.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Nantucket
Nantucket Whaling Museum
A must-visit for history lovers, the Nantucket Whaling Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the island’s maritime heritage. Visitors can explore artifacts, historic photographs, and a restored 19th-century whale oil beam press. The museum provides insight into Nantucket’s role in the whaling industry. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in the island’s seafaring past and cultural legacy.
Surfside Beach
One of the island’s most popular beaches, Surfside Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach features soft sand, gentle waves, and convenient amenities like food trucks and bike rentals. Visitors can spend a relaxing day by the water while enjoying Nantucket’s stunning coastal scenery. Its accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great spot for beachgoers of all ages.
Brant Point Lighthouse
One of Nantucket’s most iconic landmarks, Brant Point Lighthouse offers breathtaking harbor views and great photo opportunities. Visitors can walk along the sandy shoreline, watch boats sail in and out, and enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere. The lighthouse is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset, providing stunning natural scenery. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the island’s picturesque coastline.
Cisco Brewers
For a fun and lively experience, Cisco Brewers is the island’s top spot for craft beer, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can sample locally brewed beers, enjoy fresh seafood, and listen to live bands. The brewery also offers tastings of Nantucket’s own spirits and wines, adding to its appeal. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a great social spot, Cisco Brewers is a must-visit.
Sconset Bluff Walk
For a scenic and leisurely stroll, the Sconset Bluff Walk offers stunning coastal views and charming historic homes. Visitors can walk along the cliffside path, admire the ocean scenery, and take in the beauty of Sconset’s famous cottages. The walk is peaceful and picturesque, making it a favorite activity for visitors and locals alike. Its serene atmosphere makes it one of the best ways to experience Nantucket’s coastal charm.
Where to find a vacation rental near Nantucket
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Just a ferry ride away, Martha’s Vineyard is another classic New England island with beautiful beaches and charming small towns. Visitors can explore Oak Bluffs, relax in Edgartown, or bike along scenic coastal trails. Staying in an airbnb in Martha’s Vineyard offers a similar island getaway experience with its own unique charm. With its rich history and natural beauty, Martha’s Vineyard is a great alternative to Nantucket.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
For those looking to stay on the mainland, Cape Cod offers stunning coastal scenery and classic New England charm. Visitors can explore historic towns like Chatham, Provincetown, and Hyannis. A vacation rental in Cape Cod provides easy access to Nantucket via ferry while offering its own seaside attractions. Its charming villages and scenic beaches make it a fantastic base for an extended coastal getaway.
Hyannis, Massachusetts
Located on Cape Cod, Hyannis is a major ferry hub for visitors traveling to Nantucket. The town is known for its beautiful harbor, maritime museums, and excellent seafood restaurants. Staying in an airbnb in Hyannis provides convenient access to Nantucket while allowing visitors to explore Cape Cod’s vibrant coastal scene. It’s a great option for those looking to combine island exploration with mainland attractions.
Newport, Rhode Island
For a luxurious coastal retreat, Newport is a fantastic destination with grand mansions, historic sites, and beautiful oceanfront scenery. Visitors can tour the famous Gilded Age mansions, sail along the coast, or enjoy world-class dining. A vacation rental in Newport offers a blend of history, luxury, and seaside relaxation. Its elegant atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a refined getaway.
Boston, Massachusetts
For those who prefer a city experience, Boston provides easy access to Nantucket via ferry or flight. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, shop at Quincy Market, and take in waterfront views along the Charles River. Staying in an airbnb in Boston allows travelers to enjoy a mix of urban attractions and island escapes. Its cultural vibrancy and historic significance make it a great option for a well-rounded New England adventure.
Explore captivating island escapes and marvel at nature's breathtaking retreats
Nantucket, renowned for its charming lighthouses and cobblestone streets, finds affinity with other idyllic island destinations. Discover the resplendent beaches and verdant landscapes by booking one of the airbnbs on Vashon, where Washington state's tranquility embraces you. Enjoy the serene sands and welcoming New England charm by staying at an airbnb on Block Island, a haven for relaxation. Alternatively, the vineyard-clad hills and maritime legacy of holiday homes in Martha's Vineyard promise unforgettable views and history.
For enthusiasts of nature's splendor, the picturesque scenery offers an ideal starting point to explore further wonders. Experience the rugged beauty of Cascade, ID, by reserving an airbnb Cascade, ID, where outdoor adventures await amidst Idaho's majestic landscapes. Relish the gentle lapping of Lake Michigan during a stay in Benton Harbor, surrounded by charming wineries and coastal pleasures. Traverse the breathtaking cliffs and quaint artistry through vacation rentals Mendocino, or delight in the vibrant culture and scenic parks by exploring holiday homes in Kalamazoo, each destination offering its unique allure and connection to the natural world.