I feel like my IG feed is mostly Nantucket trips this summer. With good reason … Nantucket is ALL it’s cracked up to be. I knew I’d love it, but I didn’t realize just how special it is until I arrived. It is all the things I love – flowers, beaches, history, shopping, great food, the most beautiful architecture. If you get the chance, you’ve got to go.
Molly and I worked with White Elephants PR firm for some social images with their team of photographers and social media gurus. Then Alisia came, and we all hemmed and hawed over every detail Nantucket has to offer. All of the photos you see in this post are taken by Alisia. Didn’t they turn out dreamy?
I wanted to share a note about timing. We went in early June. Before many of the flowers are in bloom, but on their way. July is peak timing to go. But we didn’t have terrible crowds when we were there. The older I get, the more I’m not a huge fan of crowds. I love a good shoulder season when traveling! We still got to enjoy everything, and shops and restaurants were open. So if your July/August peak dates aren’t available, don’t be afraid to try late May or June.
WHERE TO STAY
There are SO many great spots to stay on Nantucket. The above picture is of the Wauwinet. We just went there for dinner at Toppers, but it would be a lovely spot to stay for a romantic weekend away. It’s adults-only too, so if you’re looking for a quiet escape, this could be it. Something to note: It is on the other side of the island. So you’re a bit secluded and further away from town.
We stayed at The White Elephant, which we loved. It’s centrally located to town, bikes available, a restaurant on property, and we loved winning the raffle for the BMW to scoot around town.
We had the shoot at a couple of the cottages of Nantucket boat basin, which was so neat. I think this spot would be perfect with my boys, as they could just fish right off the cottage. Beautifully appointed, and right in the heart of town too.
Greydon house is such a stylish historic inn. We didn’t stay here, but we ate at Via Mare, which is its restaurant, and loved the decor.
Of course, there are plenty of homes to rent as well. After visiting, I dream of taking the boys to Sconset for a week! That area is the cutest.
WHAT TO DO
Now that you’ve found your spot to stay on Island. You can plan out your itinerary!
- Steps Beach, as pictured above, is a beautiful spot to visit. For a walk, a dip in the ocean, or to set up for the day.
- Rent a jeep (or win a raffle at White Elephant) and drive around. Visit lighthouses, go to Sconset, visit a farm… truly there’s so much to see on the island.
- Rent bikes and explore via bike.
- Brant Point Lighthouse
- The Whaling Museum
- get ice cream at The Juice Bar
- Shop – and I’ll get into the details below. TLDR: It’s some of the best!
WHere to EAT
We were there five nights. It was supposed to be four, but our flight got canceled home! Nantucket has so many great spots. I feel like I didn’t have a bad bite while I was there!
Here’s everywhere we ate while on Island:
- The Nautilus: Hard to get reservations. So stand in line, and you can get a spot at the bar. Delicious seafood!
- Cru: I think I had the best lobster roll of my life here! Vibe is fun too.
- Via Mare: This was so good! Loved the decor too.
- Lola 41: Had a great burger here.
- Provisions: You’ve got to get some sandwiches here for lunch. Amazing!
- Bar Yoshi: If you’re in the mood for sushi, this is such a great spot. It’s a cozy little spot on the dock.
- Claudettes: We grabbed yummy sandwiches + an iced tea when we were in Sconset. Hit the spot!
- The Juice Bar: Get ice cream here!
- Millies: It was rainy and we were chilled, and their clam chowder was the perfect lunch.
- Topper’s: You’ve got to go here at Sunset. Fun fine dining experience.
- Lemon Press: whether you’re going for breakfast, lunch, or a little pick me up. This spot is adorable and tasty.
WHERE TO SHOP
Simply some of the best our country has to offer. I loved popping intoAlice Walk, Asha, Erica Wilson,Barnaby’s Toy Store, Staud, Doen , Veronica Beard, and all of the antique shops… I could go on and on. You just have to get lost popping in and out of shops. Oh and you cannot miss Flower’s! All of the shops do an amazing job with window boxes, some have a small garden, and the interiors are drool worthy.
