You had me at ferry. I don't know what it is, but there is something about having to take a boat to get somewhere that sparks my inner explorer like no other. As the Kennedy compound in Hyannis became a faded vision and Nantucket harbor with its sailboats and yachts and cedar shake buildings came into view, I knew this adventure was one for the books. I knew I would love it, I had no idea how much. I believe it is the most beautiful place in America and one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Nantucket is a storybook: gray-shingled cottages, hydrangeas spilling over fences, bicycles leaning against weathered storefronts and the salty breeze of the Atlantic always close by. But beneath its picture-perfect charm is an island full of personality, American history, some of the best food you've had in your life, and intention along every street and in every store, festivity, and adventure.
And the ability to have days full of wandering along the cobblestone streets - sipping coffee, shopping, finding a cafe to have lunch, shopping some more, tucking into a museum or gallery, people watching along the boat basin, riding your bike to beach, listening to live music with an ocean backdrop, eating freshly caught seafood for dinner, and then strolling with ice cream in hand as the night sky sets in, never once having to get in your car - this is what an American vacation should be.
Where To Stay
Set along Nantucket Harbor, The Cottages & Lofts at Boat Basin offer something many traditional hotels cannot, the feeling of having your own little island home. Accommodations range from one- to three-bedroom cottages and lofts, many with kitchens, living spaces and outdoor seating. Some offer harbor views, making a morning cup of coffee on the deck an experience in itself. Guests also have access to complimentary bicycles, Wi-Fi, concierge services and a beach bus, making it easy to explore without constantly getting in and out of a car.
Owned by the same hotel group as the iconic White Elephant, the location of the cottages is especially appealing for families and groups. Downtown Nantucket is essentially on your doorstep, with cobblestone streets, boutiques, galleries and restaurants just a short walk away. After a day at the beach, you can return to your cottage, shower, relax and enjoy the feeling of having a little more space than a traditional hotel room. The cottages are also pet-friendly, making them an appealing option for travelers who want to bring the whole family.
Our favorite perk - the kitchen. Being able to cook breakfast some mornings or have a lobster feast on the privacy of your own deck overlooking the harbor is quite spectacular.
Where to Eat
Nantucket’s dining scene is as varied as the island itself, ranging from polished waterfront dining to casual seafood and family-friendly favorites.
For the quintessential chic Nantucket experience, CRU offers harbor views, oysters, seafood towers, champagne and a lively waterfront atmosphere. It is the place to go when the setting is just as important as the meal.
For a lively meal built around sharing, The Nautilus is a favorite. Its small-plates menu blends New England seafood with Asian and global influences, making it particularly fun for a group of girlfriends or adventurous families. The atmosphere is energetic and the menu encourages everyone at the table to try something different.
For classic French-inspired dining, Le Languedoc Bistro offers a more intimate experience in a historic setting. The restaurant has been a Nantucket institution since 1976, with seasonal dishes and a menu rooted in classic French technique.
Located inside Faraway Nantucket, Sister Ship is one of the island’s most design-forward dining spots, with a lush, colorful atmosphere, Mediterranean-inspired food, creative cocktails and a lively bar scene. It is especially appealing for a girls’ trip or stylish date night.
Bar Yoshi is one of the island's most happening spots and the food is exceptional. This asian spot offers the best sushi and an array of other must try dishes like ceviche, crab rangoons, and dumplings. Plus their cocktail and mocktail list is perhaps the best on the island.
It is a must to visit White Elephant and a great way to do that is with reservations at Brant Point Grill the hotel's restaurant with sweeping views of the ocean and Children's Beach. A short bike ride from downtown Nantucket.
Tucked inside a historic home, The Proprietors has a sophisticated but lively feel and serves globally influenced, shareable dishes. It is a great choice for a memorable dinner with friends when you want something more creative than traditional New England seafood.
A longtime favorite for a more cosmopolitan Nantucket experience, Lola 41 combines sushi with globally inspired bistro dishes and a cocktail-forward atmosphere. It is a particularly good choice for a stylish night out with older teens or girlfriends.
The Lobster Trap is a down home staple, rustic is decor and serving up you guessed it - lobster along with traditional New England staples like clam chowder and steamed clams.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch or lunch, Lemon Press has a colorful, highly photogenic atmosphere and a menu that goes well beyond traditional island fare, with vibrant bowls, Persian-inspired dishes, waffles, salads, juices and creative cocktails.
The Juice Bar does in fact have juice, but it is coveted for its ice cream. Waiting in a line that wraps around the corner is the norm and most would argue well worth the standing in line for 30 minutes plus.
Jack and Charlie's is another must visit island staple offering delicious ice cream as well as drool worthy breakfast sandwiches and acai bowls.
An intimate option for wine lovers, Ethos Wine Bar and Bistro is tucked below street level and has the feel of a stylish local secret. It is ideal for a late-afternoon glass of wine, small plates or a more intimate evening.
A newer addition to the island’s dining scene, The Island Blend brings Mediterranean and Turkish flavors to Nantucket, along with pizza and sushi. It offers a fresh alternative to the island’s more traditional seafood restaurants.
And for cooking in your own place or getting steamed lobster to-go, Sayle's Seafood is the best fish market on the island and way to enjoy a meal in the comfort of your cottage.
Where To Shop
Nantucket is a dream for shoppers, especially anyone who loves a classic coastal wardrobe.
Women should make time for Hepburn, a long-standing boutique offering elevated clothing, accessories and personalized styling. Sara Campbell is another excellent stop, combining women’s fashion with accessories, gifts, beauty and lifestyle finds. For a more polished designer look, Julia Amory offers sophisticated clothing and accessories with a distinctly island-inspired vibe. Plus her store was outfitted by interior designer Mark Sikes and deserves a visit just to see the intention behind the interiors. Another designer must - JMcLaughlin. Although you can find this classic women's line in many cities, the style is on point with Nantucket living. The island store is one of very few bigger names allowed, and often does special pop ups and collaborations exclusive to Nantucket.
Murray's Toggery Shop is the home of the OG Nantucket Red, so stop in and acquire your classic shirt or pants in the lobster hue. Another must shop long-standing Nantucket retailer, Erica Wilson. Here you can find gorgeous sweaters, Nantucket Red, and signature needlepoint canvases.
For feminine, vacation-ready style, Hill House Home is a natural stop, particularly for its signature dresses and easy pieces that transition from beach afternoons to dinner. Salt Boutique is another stylish option for contemporary clothing and accessories, including Nantucket-themed pieces that make excellent souvenirs.
Teen shoppers will enjoy On A Whim, a downtown boutique specializing in youth clothing and vacation-ready styles. For classic island souvenirs, Annie & the Tees is a go-to for Nantucket sweatshirts and tees for the entire family. Stand in line just to get in Dairy Boy, a line that has created a cult following based on simple basics and curated sweaters. Faherty Nantucket is another excellent choice for casual coastal clothing for women, men and kids.
The Beaches to Visit
For the easiest beach day from the Boat Basin, head to Jetties Beach, which is about a mile away and accessible by walking, biking or the property’s beach bus. It is a convenient choice for families and offers a classic Nantucket beach experience.
Steps Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful and scenic choices. Reached by a long staircase from the bluff, it offers calm water and a more secluded, postcard-like atmosphere. It is perfect for a quieter morning or afternoon.
For wide-open ocean views and more active surf, visit Surfside Beach. It is a popular south-shore destination with plenty of room for a full beach day. Cisco Beach is another favorite for its energetic waves and spectacular sunsets.
Finally, make the trip to Madaket Beach in the late afternoon. Located on Nantucket’s western edge, it is famous for dramatic sunsets and a more rugged, open-ocean feel. Pack a sweater, bring a camera and stay until the sun disappears below the horizon. And if you get a chance visit Millie's, the beach's well-known eatery and bar.
The beauty of Nantucket is that no single day has to look the same. One morning might begin with coffee on the harbor, followed by bicycles into town for shopping. The afternoon can be spent barefoot on the beach, and the evening might end with fresh seafood and a walk along the docks. With The Cottages at Boat Basin as your home base, the best of Nantucket is not only within reach—it is part of the experience from the moment you arrive.
The Cottages At Nantucket Boat Basin
24 Old South Wharf
Nantucket, Massachusetts 02554
cottagesnantukcet.com
Phone: 866.838.9253
Email: reservations@cottagesnantukcet.com
The ability to have days full of wandering along cobblestone streets.
You had me at ferry. I don't know what it is, but there is something about having to take a boat to get somewhere that sparks my inner explorer like no other.