Best beaches in the big island - Nantucket Island

While Nantucket may be best known for its pristine beaches and scenic landscapes, the island's nightlife scene offers a vibrant and eclectic mix of experiences that complement its status as home to some of the best beaches in the big island.

Events and Festivals

Nantucket Island is not only a haven for natural beauty and historical charm but also a vibrant destination known for its lively events and cultural festivals throughout the year. From annual traditions to celebrations of local arts and cuisine, there's always something exciting happening on the island for residents and visitors alike.

1- Annual Events Worth Attending

Nantucket hosts a variety of annual events that attract crowds from near and far, showcasing the island's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit. One such event is the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival, a renowned culinary extravaganza featuring world-class chefs, sommeliers, and tastings of exquisite wines and gourmet cuisine. Additionally, the Nantucket Film Festival draws film enthusiasts to the island each year, offering a curated selection of independent films, panel discussions, and celebrity sightings.

2- Cultural Festivals

Throughout the year, Nantucket celebrates its diverse cultural heritage with a range of festivals and cultural events that highlight the island's artistic talents, traditions, and local flavors. The Nantucket Daffodil Festival heralds the arrival of spring with a colorful display of daffodil blooms, accompanied by parades, garden tours, and festive street parties. For music lovers, the Nantucket Music Festival showcases a lineup of talented musicians performing against the backdrop of the island's stunning scenery.

Beaches

Nantucket Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, offering visitors a picturesque setting to relax, unwind, and indulge in a variety of water activities. With miles of coastline and stunning vistas, Nantucket's beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, attracting beachgoers and water enthusiasts from near and far.

1- Best Beaches on the Island

Nantucket boasts an array of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm and allure. One of the most popular beaches on the island is Jetties Beach, known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. Surfside Beach is another favorite among visitors, offering expansive sandy shores and excellent conditions for surfing and boogie boarding. For those seeking a more secluded escape, Madaket Beach provides a serene setting with breathtaking sunsets and rolling dunes.

2- Water Activities

Nantucket's crystal-clear waters and gentle tides create the perfect playground for a variety of water activities, from swimming and sunbathing to kayaking and paddleboarding. Explore the island's coastline by renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and embarking on a scenic adventure along the shoreline. Alternatively, join a guided tour for a chance to spot local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and seabirds while cruising the waters surrounding the island.

Photography Spots

Nantucket Island is a photographer's paradise, boasting an abundance of scenic viewpoints and Instagram-worthy locations that showcase the island's natural beauty and charm. From panoramic vistas of the coastline to charming cobblestone streets lined with historic homes, Nantucket offers countless opportunities to capture stunning images and create lasting memories.

1- Scenic Viewpoints

For breathtaking views of the island's coastline and surrounding waters, head to one of Nantucket's scenic viewpoints. Brant Point Lighthouse offers a classic Nantucket backdrop, with its iconic red-and-white structure overlooking the harbor entrance. Sankaty Head Light, located on the eastern tip of the island, provides sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and is especially picturesque at sunrise and sunset. Additionally, 'Sconset Bluff Walk offers a leisurely stroll along the bluff, offering stunning views of the ocean and neighboring Sankaty Head Light.

2- Instagram-Worthy Locations

Nantucket's charm extends beyond its natural landscapes to its quaint streets, historic architecture, and charming coastal scenes, making it the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. Explore the cobblestone streets of downtown Nantucket, where you'll find charming boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks ideal for capturing unique shots. Additionally, the island's beaches, including Surfside Beach and Madaket Beach, offer endless opportunities for stunning beachscapes and seaside selfies.

Day Trips from Nantucket

While Nantucket Island offers a wealth of attractions and activities to explore, venturing beyond its shores presents exciting opportunities for day trips to nearby islands and attractions. From scenic excursions to neighboring islands to outdoor adventures on the water, there are plenty of options for travelers seeking to expand their horizons and discover more of the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

1- Nearby Islands and Attractions

One popular day trip from Nantucket is a visit to Martha's Vineyard, a neighboring island known for its charming towns, pristine beaches, and rich maritime history. Ferries depart regularly from Nantucket to Martha's Vineyard, allowing visitors to explore iconic sites like Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and the Aquinnah Cliffs. Additionally, nearby islands such as Tuckernuck and Muskeget offer secluded beaches and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making them ideal destinations for nature enthusiasts.

2- Excursion Options

For those seeking outdoor adventures, there are plenty of excursion options available from Nantucket, ranging from sailing trips and fishing charters to wildlife cruises and kayaking tours. Explore the island's surrounding waters on a sailing excursion, where you can admire panoramic views of the coastline and perhaps even catch a glimpse of seals, dolphins, or whales. Alternatively, embark on a guided kayak tour to explore hidden coves, marshlands, and tidal creeks while learning about the island's ecology and marine life.