There is no shortage of scenic getaways along the New England coast, whether you’re on the hunt for delicious seafood and drinks or yearning for some relaxation along the beach. But one spot that can’t be missed is Nantucket, a quaint island nestled close to Cape Cod and the southernmost point in the state of Massachusetts.
Once a whaling town, Nantucket has become a premier destination for summer tourism, thanks to its generous mix of shopping options, restaurants, and seaside activities. The National Park Service designated the district a historic landmark in 1966, and its streets are clearly lined with history, from the clusters of wooden adobes to the three lighthouses that dot its shores.
Recently, I got to experience the bountiful pleasures this island has to offer, just a short flight away from New York City. Here, I offer a complete guide to the charming New England escape that is Nantucket.
On the island of Nantucket, the streets are dotted with quaker gray shingle-style homes and Nantucket blue hydrangeas. Faraway Hotel is no exception. Its stunning property houses six buildings and a restaurant courtyard, and is in the heart of the downtown district. Not to mention, it’s within walking distance of the beach and convenient to great restaurants and shopping.
Lemon Press
For the freshest and probably best avocado toast you will ever have, start your day at Lemon Press, right on Main Street. Its breakfast items and coffee are an island staple. Alternately, if you’re in the mood for classic breakfast options—eggs, pancakes and the like—Black Eyed Susan’s is an institution.
Cru Oyster Bar
View of the harbor.
Cru makes the best lobster roll on the island, hands down. Stop in for lunch and enjoy the view of the harbor right from your dining table. At night it becomes a lively bar, making it a great spot for a nightcap.
For an upscale dining experience with a breathtaking view of the Nantucket bay, Topper’s at the Wauwinet was one of my favorites. The Chanticleer also tops the list, with lush gardens that produce organic and seasonal vegetables for the restaurant.
Sunset at Topper’s
The Chanticleer
Looking for a sweet treat? Head down to the Juice Bar for the creamiest ice cream, in an assortment of flavors.
The Juice Bar
For a chill afternoon of music and drinks, Cisco Brewers is your best bet, or the Nautilus, which boasts an extensive list of cocktails, wines, and food options. For live music, the Club Car has a performer every night!
Murray’s Toggery Shop
The most iconic shop on the island is Murray’s Toggery Shop. Home of the original Nantucket Reds, this is definitely the place to buy something to remember your visit.
If you’re looking to fill your suitcase ahead of time, and hoping to match the New England aesthetic, visit Tuckernuck. There, you will find a variety of styles, with new products hitting the site daily.
For cool classics, head to Veronica Beard. And for casual clothes inspired by Martha’s Vineyard, there’s Vineyard Vines. Looking for a keepsake to remember your time in Nantucket? Four Winds is Nantucket’s oldest gift shop. I walked away with the cutest basket earrings, which I’ll be wearing all summer long.
Outfit and accessories from Tuckernuck
While the historic downtown area is walkable, hop on a bike to visit the island’s beaches and famous lighthouses. Coast to the eastern end and stop at Siasconset Village. There, take a hike on Bluff Walk or visit Sankaty Head Lighthouse.
If you’re looking for a dip in the ocean, there are no shortage of pristine white sandy beaches—such as Surfside Beach, Jettie’s Beach, Ladies Beach, and Children’s Beach, to name a few. Then, walk the nature preserve at Tupancy Links or go off-roading at Great Point.
Of course, no trip to Nantucket is complete without a boat ride, and a variety of cruises, excursions, and fishing trips are offered on the island. I highly recommend the sunset cruise from the White Elephant Hotel to Topper’s.
Children’s Beach
Jennifer Algoo is the Visuals Director at Harper’s BAZAAR. She is a graduate of the School of Visual Arts and has previously worked at Patrick McMullan Co. as well as completing internships at Martha Stewart Weddings, Vogue and CosmoGirl! Magazine. Jennifer covers royal, celeb and art content as well as overseeing all visual assets on BAZAAR.com. When she’s not obsessing over the royals you can find her attempting to solve cold cases as an armchair detective, traveling and experimenting with new recipes.