Top Ten Things to Do in Nantucket in the Summer

Author: gatelesis

Having trouble deciding on things to do in Nantucket? You’ve come to the right place!

Located just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Nantucket is the ideal summer vacation spot. With beautiful beaches, a charming town, and an adventure around every corner, the small island is filled with fun things to do. If you’re looking for a travel guide to what to do in Nantucket, look no further. Check out this list of the top ten things to do in Nantucket.

1. Maria Mitchell Observatory –Nantucket’s isolated location makes it the perfect travel spot for stargazing. At the observatory, astronomers and their research teams teach visitors about the wonders of the universe, while guests wait to gaze through one of the observatory’s two massive telescopes to observe the Moon, Saturn, star clusters, and more.
2. 40th Pole Beach – Located on the northwestern end of Nantucket, 40th Pole is the perfect place for a treasure hunt. The specific ocean currents make this beach one of the best places on the island to find sea glass and other treasures. Be sure to head here after a big storm, because no one knows what could wash up onshore.
3. Cisco Brewery – Rain or shine, this rustic brewery is always bustling with friendly locals and tourists alike. With live entertainment, delicious food, and, of course, the brewery’s own beer, it isn’t surprising that Cisco Brewery would be one of the top things to do in Nantucket!
4. Whaling Museum – Nantucket’s Whaling Museum shares the fascinating history of the island, which was once the whaling capital of the world. Filled with interesting facts, the museum is an excellent place for history buffs and children alike. Stop by the arts & crafts class to indulge your creative side, and maybe even create your own sailors’ valentines.
5. Nantucket Island Surf School – Kids and adults of all ages who have always wanted to learn to surf, here’s your chance! Excellent instructors, wetsuits, surfboards, and quality lessons are provided – all you need to bring is yourself, a bathing suit, and some sunscreen.
6. Sustainable Nantucket Farmers and Artisans Market – When deciding what to do in Nantucket, stopping by the Farmers’ Market is a must. Find gifts and food from locals each Saturday morning in the summer. All items sold at the market are made on the island, and all vendors are year-round or seasonal residents.
7. Critter Cruise –Nantucket has plenty of premier fishing charters for those looking to spend some time at sea. A fun twist on Nantucket’s fishing industry; however, is the Critter Cruise, a fishing charter catered to young children. Customers get the opportunity to do some fishing of their own, while the Captain hauls some lobsters and other creatures onboard for kids (and parents!) to touch and observe.
8. Frisbee Golf – Found off the beaten path in the woods of Nantucket, this family-friendly activity is certainly worth a try! Great for all levels of experience, this disc golf course is loads of fun and the perfect activity for an afternoon adventure. For those who feel Frisbee Golf is a little too adventurous for their taste, you can enjoy regular golf at any one of Nantucket’s three gorgeous golf courses.
9. Shopping in Town – Walking up and down the quaint cobblestone streets of Nantucket, you can find plenty of boutiques and stores to shop. Nantucket is known for having few large brand-name retailers on the island, so all stores and shops are unique. However, the town of Nantucket has more to offer than just clothing boutiques – be sure to check out Sweet Inspirations for a sweet treat, the Toy Boat or Sunken Ship for gifts and toys, the Hub for a quick coffee, and other island favorites!
10. The Beach (Any Beach) – When thinking about where to go in Nantucket, the first place your mind goes is the beach – likely because the TOP thing to do in Nantucket is to spend a day at any one of the island’s numerous beaches. Each beach on the island has a different feel, so whichever you pick depends on how you like to spend your beach time – whether that be surfing at Cisco, a family day at Jetties, or watching the sunset at Madaket.

Now you know the top things to do in Nantucket, so make sure to check these places out on your next summer trip to the island!

Safe & happy travels friends,

Emma Braden – People Operations Intern