When you think of islands in New England, most likely you think of Long Island or maybe even Manhattan. But the paradise we describe here is none other than Nantucket, just 30 miles away from Cape Cod —the perfect New England island life. You can get to Nantucket by boat or plane.
Nantucket Island isn’t a tropical paradise, though. Instead, think vineyards and Gatsby, mansions and shutters, coastline and postcards on less than 50 square miles. Nantucket perfectly represents summertime in New England. Aside from its roughly 14,000 year-round residents, Nantucket closes up shop during the winter months.
The island is home to the most homes built prior to the Civil War in the entire country.
Nantucket hotels are charming and dining options are five-star. It’s no secret the beaches come alive in the summertime, and the island’s outdoor dining establishments outnumber the indoor. Whether you look forward to strolling the sand as the sun sets or biking to get a cup of coffee, summertime is the “it” season on the island. Every year from May till September, having lobster rolls down and champagne by the water is a staple activity. In the shoulder seasons you can avoid the crowds flocking in from Boston.
But there are plenty of festivals throughout the warm weather months, all of which draw in the crowds and all of which are perfect times to schedule a visit, such as the Daffodil Festival every April. Visitors enjoy spending time in downtown Nantucket and in the Sconset neighborhood to the east. There are several historic spots around Nantucket, including Whaling Museum, Hadwen House, and more, all managed by Nantucket’s Historical Association since 1854.
Bikes are the most popular mode of travel on the island and there are three, well-maintained trails snaking over Nantucket connecting Madaket, Surfside, and Sconset.
The perfect New England island life is in Nantucket. We look forward to welcoming you.