Nantucket map: top 10, museums, instagrammable, walking tour, where to eat, viewpoints, nature, free things to do, rainy day

10 places on the map

Top 10

1
Whaling history in a former candle factory with a hanging whale skeleton
3 tips
- Gallery talks run through the day
- Buy a combined pass for historic sites
- Roof deck has harbor views
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2
Cobblestone street lined with historic captains' houses and shops
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Wear flat shoes for the cobblestones
- Look up for widow's walks
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3
Tiny lighthouse at the harbor entrance, one of the oldest in the US
3 tips
- Tradition says to toss a coin when leaving the island
- Best at sunrise
- Short walk from Children's Beach
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4
Red-banded lighthouse moved back from the eroding bluff
3 tips
- Visit near sunrise
- View from the adjacent road and golf club edge
- Pair with Siasconset
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5
Charming village of rose-covered cottages on the eastern shore
3 tips
- Get coffee at the village market
- Walk the Bluff Walk
- Rent a bike for the path from town
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6
Remote lighthouse on the island's northern tip
3 tips
- Needs a permit or a guided tour for four-wheel-drive access
- Bring water and a tide chart
- Seals are common offshore
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7
Family-friendly harbor beach near town
3 tips
- Calm water, lifeguards in season
- Close to restaurants
- Walk from downtown in 15 minutes
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8
Wide south shore surf beach with soft sand
3 tips
- Good for surfing
- Bring sun protection
- Take the shuttle if available
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9
1746 windmill still grinding corn
3 tips
- Open on summer days
- Climb inside for a demonstration
- Short walk from the Oldest House
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10
1686 Jethro Coffin House, the island's oldest dwelling
3 tips
- Guided tours in season
- Pair with the Old Mill
- Small interior, 30 minutes
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Before you go: Nantucket tips

Transportation

Take the ferry or fly: Ferries run from Hyannis, and flights connect to Boston and other cities.
Bike the island: Bike paths connect town with Madaket, Surfside and Siasconset.
Use the WAVE shuttle: The seasonal shuttle bus connects town with beaches and villages.

Security

Mind cobblestones: Streets are uneven; wear comfortable shoes and walk carefully.
Watch tides and currents: Check beach conditions and swim where lifeguards are present.
Protect against ticks: Ticks are common; use repellent and check after walks.

Saving

Visit in shoulder season: Spring and fall offer lower prices and fewer crowds.
Pack picnics: Grocery picnics on the beach save money compared to restaurants.
Bring your bike: Bringing a bike on the ferry can save on rental costs.

Weather/Clothing

Mild summers: Summers are pleasant; bring layers for cool evenings.
Foggy and windy: Fog and wind are common; bring a windbreaker.
Cold winters: Winters are cold; pack warm clothes if visiting off-season.

Cultural

Learn whaling history: Visit the Whaling Museum to understand the island's heritage.
Try local seafood: Enjoy lobster rolls, clam chowder and local oysters.
Respect island pace: Life is slower; be patient and friendly with locals.

Local Hacks

Visit Daffodil Festival: Spring festival celebrates with antique cars and flowers.
Go to Madaket for sunsets: The west end is famous for sunsets.
Book early in summer: Accommodation and ferries fill up quickly in peak season.

Nantucket

Top 10

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Before you go: Nantucket tips

Transportation

Security

Saving

Weather/Clothing

Cultural

Local Hacks

1-day itineraries in Nantucket

Brant Point Light and around

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