Summer Bliss in Nantucket: Where to Stay, Eat & Explore
The Perfect Nantucket Getaway - One hour from NYC!
There’s something undeniably special about Nantucket. Maybe it’s the scent of salty air on a breeze, the weathered shingles of cottages tucked behind blooming hydrangeas, or the way time seems to slow the moment you step off the ferry (or hop off a quick one-hour flight from the Northeast).
White Elephant
We checked into the White Elephant, a Nantucket icon perched right on the harbor. Think spacious suites with water views, Adirondack chairs on the lawn, and a front-row seat to sunsets and sailboats. The vibe is classic yet fresh—perfect for a romantic escape, a girls’ getaway, or a stylish family vacation.
If you’re craving total tranquility, the White Elephant’s sister property, The Wauwinet, offers an adults-only retreat with private beach access, luxurious rooms, and its own award-winning restaurant—Topper’s. (More on that in a moment…)
Here’s a peek at the highlights from our trip—consider this your cheat sheet for a sun-soaked, seaside escape:
Beaches & Breezy Adventures
Start your island immersion with a beach hop: head to Jetties Beach for people-watching and easy access to town, then over to Steps Beach for soft sand and postcard-worthy views.
Later, unwind with drinks and fresh seafood at Sandbar—perfect for a casual lunch right on the beach.
A Sunset to Remember
Book dinner at Topper’s at The Wauwinet and take the complimentary boat from the White Elephant dock.
You’ll glide across the harbor with sunset views and a cocktail in hand—this is Nantucket magic at its best. After dinner, the boat brings you right back.
Explore the Island by Car (or Bike!)
Sconset
Head south to Surfside Beach, where the waves are bigger and the vibe is relaxed. Grab lunch at the Surfside Beach Shack—perfect for a casual bite.
Then make your way east to Sconset, one of Nantucket’s prettiest (and quietest) corners. Drive along Polpis Roadfor a scenic route.
Don’t miss the Sconset Bluff Walk, a hidden coastal trail that winds behind historic homes and offers sweeping ocean views.
Stop at Claudette’s for fresh sandwiches and hit the Sconset Market for homemade ice cream.
Evening Fun & Local Flavor
After a beachy day, head to Cisco Brewers—an open-air brewery, winery, and distillery with live music, food trucks, and a fun, festive atmosphere.
Want a night out? Check out Gaslight for live music or The Chicken Box if you're in the mood to dance.
Last-Minute Shopping & Local Bites
Spend your final hours strolling downtown—pop into Murray’s Toggery Shop for classic Nantucket Reds and explore boutiques and galleries along the cobblestone streets.
Craving one last seafood fix? Grab fried clams from Straight Wharf Fish Market, or build a perfect picnic with sandwiches from Something Natural.
A Few More Favorites to Bookmark
Walter’s: A local favorite for lobster rolls
Ship’s Inn: Elegant dining in a cozy, historic setting
Straight Wharf Restaurant: Upscale seafood with harbor views
Whether you’re craving a quick summer escape or planning a special celebration by the sea, Nantucket hits all the right notes: relaxed yet refined, scenic yet accessible. And the White Elephant makes it oh-so-easy to settle into the island rhythm.
Ready to plan your trip? I’d love to help you book your perfect Nantucket escape—including VIP perks and early access at these beloved properties.
