GETTING THERE
All of that said , one of the island ’ s most iconic landmarks is Siasconset Beach , known locally as “ Sconset .” This picturesque stretch of coastline is dotted with historic , rose-covered cottages and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean . Though located on the east end of the island , approximately seven miles from Town , the trip is well worth it , not only for the beach but also to experience the postcardperfect former fishing village of Siasconset that borders it along with notable landmarks like the Sankaty Lighthouse , the Sconset Pump , and the bluff side Cliff Walk .
Best of all , it ’ s not difficult to make the trip to Siasconset with or without a car . Some buses make the 30-minute trip to Sconset from Town every hour , and there are 10 – 12 mile bike paths — Milestone Rotary or Polpis Road — offering an ideal opportunity to experience both the pictorial landscape of Nantucket and the remarkable ecology and wildlife that inhabit it .
On the subject of nature and wildlife , the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge , a scenic double-fingered peninsula jutting northward between the Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Sounds , is comprised of hundreds of acres of rolling maritime dunes , miles of unspoiled beachfront , a mature maritime oak forest ( Coskata Woods ), the famed Great Point Lighthouse , walking trails , and 16 miles of over-sand vehicle routes , making it is one of the best places to experience the ecological splendor of Nantucket up close and in person . Likewise , the 5.7-mile Madaket Road Path stretches from the sandy dunes of Madaket Beach to the lush forests of Sanford Farm and is considered among the longest and most scenic side paths on Nantucket .
Meanwhile , back in Town , a different type of adventure awaits . The island ’ s historic district — a cornucopia of 18th and early 19thcentury architectural treasures — showcases beautifully preserved captain ’ s homes , quaint shops , and cobblestone lanes , all begging to be explored . Main Street is spectacularly framed by glimpses of the waterfront , church spires , and columned , tree-shaded Greek Revival mansions , like Hadwen House , now a museum , showcasing period furnishings and decorative arts .
The marvels of the historic district are a testament to how deeply intertwined Nantucket ’ s history is with the whaling industry , which propelled the island to prosperity in the 18th and 19th centuries . This fact , along with the town ’ s fascinating past , is celebrated and explored at the Nantucket Whaling Museum , home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the island ’ s whaling heritage and its impact on the global economy .
Interwoven with all the history is a shopper ’ s paradise . Charming streets are lined with a veritable bonanza of boutiques and specialty shops hawking everything from handmade jewelry and home decor to locally crafted textiles and more . Against a centuries-old backdrop , high-end designer brands mingle with local artisans whose work showcases the island ’ s unique spirit .
Speaking of local artisans , the island also boasts a vibrant art scene . Several galleries showcase the works of talented local artists whose vibrant canvases and sculptures capture the essence of Nantucket ’ s landscape and culture .
Lastly , no visit to Nantucket would be complete without a word about the exciting local culinary scene , encompassing an eclectic collection of restaurants , cozy cafes , and inviting seafood shacks . For a sample of local flavors , Cru is a popular eatery offering fresh seafood , including the island ’ s famous clam chowder and lobster rolls , as well as mouthwatering new favorites like duck fat potatoes with Petrossian caviar ( optional ). Nearby , Straight Wharf Restaurant is a waterside , finedining affair showcasing an innovative menu that elevates and redefines New England favorites while celebrating local ingredients .
Other local favorites include The Proprietors Bar & Table , renowned for its global fusion cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients ; the Nantucket Bake Shop , known for its crave-able pastries , cakes , and cookies ; and the award-winning Aunt Leah ’ s Fudge , which , in addition , is a local favorite . Suffice it to say , from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors , Nantucket ’ s foodie scene , like the island itself , is a nirvana of sorts .
So , to recap , Nantucket is an unparalleled destination endowed with extraordinary natural beauty , remarkable white sand beaches , first-rate accommodations , centuries of history , and a buzzing food scene . What ’ s not to love ? If Nantucket were a novel , it would almost certainly be a masterpiece , albeit an unfinished one , as the town is still writing new chapters in its ever-evolving tale . And aren ’ t we all the luckier for that ?
GETTING THERE
American Airlines offers nonstop seasonal routes from Reagan National Airport ( DCA ) to Martha ’ s Vineyard Airport ( MVY ) and Nantucket Memorial Airport ( ACK ) from June 1 - Sept . 3 , 2024 .
Brant Point Lighthouse , Nantucket
Credit : Grant Reig
SUMMER 2024
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