Over the last several years, I have had the chance to explore the most amazing and breathtaking island that is Nantucket, so here is a guide of my top places to visit! Whether you’re there for a week, or a short couple-day trip, you’ll definitely be able to get a good sense of the historic New England island. There are endless things to do including dining, nightlife, walking/hiking, museums, shopping, boating, and going to the beach! The food scene is really next level, so come with an empty stomach, especially if you love seafood and sandwiches- every meal will be just as good as the last. I hope this list of top places to visit on Nantucket helps you navigate the island whether it’s your first time or not!
Sightseeing and Shopping
Sconset Bluff Walk – such a beautiful walk along the cliffs/ocean. You quite literally walk in people’s backyards! Great to do at sunrise if you can, then go to the Sconset market!
Madaket Beach – the spot for sunset! Go before or after eating at Millie’s (get the chocolate shake).
Great Point – awesome spot if you can take a 4 wheel drive and off road! Will need a pass.
Brant Point Light House – beautiful lighthouse at the entrance to Nantucket Harbour. Established in 1746 and still in operation
Whaling Museum – great for a rainy day activity. Holds the skeleton of a 46-foot sperm whale! Also very kid-friendly, there is even a kid’s playroom off the side of the museum.
Retail Shops
3 Girls and a Dog (merch)
University of Nantucket (merch)
Annie and the Tee’s (merch)
Cativo, Millie and Grace, Hepburn (adorable boutiques, must check out!)
Force 5 (fun surf shop)
Nantucket Surf Club (surf shop)
Bro Denim (customizable clothing shop)
Levitate (surf shop)
Nantucket Hospital Thrift (thrift)
Cafes/ Restaurants
Handlebar Coffee – super cute and delicious. Right in town. Great outside patio 🙂 Loved their lattes but loveddd their special – an iced lavender matcha lemonade!
Roasted Coffee – another cute coffee shop. Right next to the Island Kitchen (breakfast) if you wanted to stop here before 🙂
The Juice Bar – a classic Delicious ice cream + homemade waffle cones. Get the waffle cup 🙂 and don’t let the line scare you away!
Millie’s – a must-visit and eat! Super relaxed indoor/outdoor Nantucket classic, can go for lunch + dinner. They also have a snack shack next door that has delicious chocolate shakes, or you can order these at the main tables. Live music- check schedules or call
Cisco Brewery – a must-visit, another top classic! The drinks (both beer and cocktails) are delicious, but also make sure to grab some food!! 167 raw is there! Oysters and shrimp were so freaking good. Amazing live music, just a great time all around! Very kid and pet friendly.
Something Natural – delicious sandwiches. I loved their tuna sandwich. Make sure to grab Portuguese bread too and cookies. Cute picnic tables to sit at also if you’d like. Recommend calling ahead as the wait time could be long.
Provisions – another great sandwich spot located in town off the marina!
Bartlett’s Farm – a must go! Such a pretty farm to drive through, then the market/ grocery is amazing. Their breakfast sandwiches were 10/10 and lunch sandwiches too. Loved building my own bfast + for lunch loved their turkey club.
Lemon Press – right in town. Delicious selection of healthier options + juices and smoothies. We got the burrito bowl and it was SOO GOOD!
Island Kitchen – such a good indoor/outdoor brunch spot.I loved my Huevos rancheros!
Sandbar Jetties Beach Club – a very lowkey, casual beach bar/ restaurant right on the beach. Great for families too. Lobster roll was delish. Live music!nan
Cru – a higher end place, but delicious and a must try (if possible). Right along the marina. Lobster roll, oysters, and salad were delicious
Lola 41 – another higher end spot. You must call at exactly 4:00 for reservations (it’s a bit crazy) or walk in and eat at the bar. Yummy mix of sushi + American.
Galley Beach – incredible spot for lunch or dinner with tables directly on the beach/sand. Upscale restaurant and have to call exactly 2 weeks out at 10 AM when reservations open to reserve a spot! Absolutely recommend if you’re looking to have a special lunch or dinner.
For other travel guides on the blog – find here!
What to Wear In Nantucket
