Nantucket is an island off Cape Cod, in Massachusetts, on the east coast of the United States. It is a place to visit for its streets, its houses and its shoreline, and for the sense that its past has been kept in view rather than cleared away.
A former whaling capital
The island was once a whaling capital, and that history still shapes the town. Cobblestone streets run between gray-shingled cottages and the larger mansions built for whaling captains. Strict preservation rules have helped the 19th-century character of the place endure, so walking through town feels like stepping into an earlier era. In summer, hydrangeas bloom along the lanes and gardens, adding color to the grey of the shingles.
Beaches and the sea
Beyond the town, the island's beaches are a main draw. The surrounding water also makes sailing a natural part of a visit, and the island is known among sailors for it.
Shopping and dining
Luxury boutiques and fine restaurants line the centre of town, giving Nantucket a polished, sophisticated feel alongside its older character. A visit can mix an afternoon of browsing with a long dinner, then an early walk along the quiet streets.
Planning a visit
- Allow time to wander the historic town on foot, since its streets are the heart of the island.
- Set aside a day for the beaches and, if you sail or wish to learn, the water.
- Plan dining and lodging ahead, as the island's sophisticated offerings suit a relaxed, unhurried stay.
