Things to Do On Nantucket, MA | Coastal Weekend Getaways

Throughout New England’s long nautical history, the former whaling community of Nantucket has played an unrivaled role. Today, however, the island is best known for being one of the region’s top destinations for vacationers — its resident population more than quadrupling in the summer months. With deliciously fresh seafood, quaint cobblestone streets, and luxurious seaside hotels, Nantucket is a weekend getaway well worth its (sea)salt.

SEE MORE: Coastal Weekend Getaways in New England | Your Perfect Weekend

Things to Do On Nantucket, MA

‘Sconset Bluff Walk

For more than a century in Nantucket, Massachusetts, visitors and residents alike have been able to enjoy one-of-a-kind access to the stunning ocean views at the island’s easternmost tip via the ’Sconset Bluff Walk. Thanks to civic-minded developer William J. Flagg, this traditional path has remained open to the public even as the shoreline filled in with private homes. Stroll the bluff walk today, and you’ll thread your way past the manicured lawns and gardens of stately houses as you drink in a vista of ocean and sky.

The ’Sconset Bluff Walk is located in the village of Siasconset, on the east side of Nantucket. The walk begins off of Bank Street and cuts between two houses to reach the water’s edge. Look for signs and stones marked “Public Way.”

SEE MORE: Walks Worth Their Salt | New England Ocean Walks

Nantucket Whaling Museum

Nantucket was the Houston of its day, back when whale oil lit the lamps and greased the wheels of industry. From the majestic skeleton of a sperm whale to delicate scrimshaw, this museum tells of the historical hunt for leviathans and our modern quest to save them. Don’t miss the skeleton of the 46-foot-long sperm whale that washed onto Nantucket in 1998.

Artists Association of Nantucket

More than 240 active artists belong to the AAN, which mounts changing exhibitions of their work in the two-level Cecelia Joyce and Seward Johnson Gallery. Many of these artists focus on island scenes, so it’s a great opportunity to take a fresh look at Nantucket’s beaches, marshes, and weathered buildings. Bonus: During the year, a handful of special shows are held at the AAN’s Visual Arts Center, located on Amelia Drive.

Cisco Brewers/Nantucket Vineyard/Triple Eight Distillery

This independent business first put down roots as a winery in 1981. Since then, it has flourished, and now includes a brewery and distillery. It welcomes guests year-round to stop in for a view of the facilities and to sample top-notch wines, beers, and spirits.

Nantucket Restaurants

Straight Wharf Fish

After a nationally publicized two-year legal fight with prominent billionaires who own wharf houses nearby, this stylish, laid-back clam shack finally opened in 2024. The food is simple but fantastic (no surprise—it’s overseen by Gabriel Frasca, chef-owner of the renowned Straight Wharf Restaurant next door). Pair the clam roll with pickled lettuce and tartar sauce with hand-cut onion rings and a crisp organic white wine from Crete. Harbor views and a warm white-oak interior make the scene more chic than shack.

The Proprietors

Those Quaker whalers who made the first Nantucket fortunes picked up a taste for the exotic as they chased their quarry around the globe. Honoring that tradition, this contemporary American restaurant borrows techniques and spices from Asia and Europe to make the most of New England meat and fish. A crispy chicken roll, for instance, might be served with kimchi mayo and sweet chili sauce, while fried oysters get some heat from Tabasco remoulade. Open seasonally.

The Downyflake (temporarily closed)

This classic diner has been contributing to Nantucket’s charm and tradition for more than 80 years. On your way to the bluff walk, stop by for a freshly made doughnut or tuck into a delicious breakfast or lunch. Specials served daily.

The Brotherhood of Thieves

Its motto is “good food, good drink, good company” — and with a name like the Brotherhood of Thieves, how could anyone resist checking this place out? Expect a wide selection of typical American dishes and New England seafood favorites, served in either the cozy basement tavern, the light-filled main dining room, or the delightful beer garden. Open seasonally.

Nantucket Hotels & Inns

The Wauwinet

Let’s face it, this place ain’t cheap. Three other things are also certain: the unparalleled location (straddling a narrow spit of land between bay and ocean), impeccable service, and scads of amenities. And did we mention the food? Topper’s Restaurant was recently honored as a AAA Five Diamond award winner.

The Barnacle Inn

Here’s an old-fashioned B&B tucked into a garden landscape in the historic district, about two blocks from the commercial hubbub. The 15 rooms, all named for whaling vessels, vary in size but share a folksy feel, with handmade quilts on the beds. A few rooms have hall baths. Open seasonally.

76 Main

Sensitive restoration has maintained the Nantucket authenticity of this former sea captain’s home while making way for the comforts and technology that 21st-century guests expect on the toniest of Massachusetts islands. A courtyard with fire pits has a BYOB cocktail mixer bar, and an on-site café can steam lattes and cappuccinos to order. Open seasonally.

Jared Coffin House

Situated in the center of Nantucket’s historic district, the Jared Coffin House is within easy walking distance of everything you need: boutique shops, fine dining, and water views. And even though it’s one of the oldest hotels on the island and overflowing with historic touches, it’s also outfitted with the requisite modern conveniences, including flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.

What are your favorite things to do in Nantucket, MA? Let us know in the comments!

This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated. 

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