Welcome to Nantucket
Explore what’s waiting for you on this picturesque island.
A charming community, Nantucket is located off the coast of Massachusetts. Every year, vacationers flock to this quaint New England town, but year-round the population hovers around approximately 10,000 residents. The town was incorporated in 1687 and quickly gained a reputation for its whaling industry, where the island was homeport to more than 125 whaling ships. Since its early days, the town has become known for its local charm and world-acclaimed beaches.
Those who are wanting to learn more about the fascinating history of the island can do so at the Nantucket Historical Association, which has been a staple of the community since its first opening in 1894. The historical society seeks to preserve and interpret the history of Nantucket through its exhibitions, lectures, and community events. One of the most popular parts of the NHA is the Whaling Museum, which first opened in 1930 and attracts over 90,000 visitors each year.
What to Love
- A rich and fascinating history dating back to the 1600s
- 82 miles of coastline and 8,900 acres of stunning conservation
- Shopping and dining in Nantucket Historic District
Local Lifestyle
While Nantucket might be a popular destination for tourists in the summer, local residents enjoy a quiet and laid-back lifestyle throughout the year. Plus, locals can look forward to experiencing all the mental and health benefits that come from living in close proximity to nature. Spanning from retirees looking for a quiet place to settle down to families looking for a family-friendly community to raise their children, Nantucket appeals to individuals from all walks of life.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
A stroll around the island will be sure to impress you with its historic charm and small-town ambiance. The authentic cobblestone streets and historic buildings delight all those who get an opportunity to visit or live on an island that was once the world’s leading whaling port. When it comes to dining, seafood in Nantucket is an experience that you don’t want to look past. Straight Wharf Restaurant is famous for its elevated seafood dishes, paired with wine, and served on a rustic waterfront porch. For an upscale dining experience, book a reservation at Lola 41 Nantucket. This sophisticated eatery is known for its diverse menu featuring flavors from across the globe, specializing in sushi, gourmet burgers, and cocktails. After dinner, grab a drink at Cisco Brewers, a staple of the community for the past 25 years.
Stroll through Nantucket Historic District, an idyllic downtown lined with the island’s best shops and restaurants. Revamp your wardrobe with a trip to D Dream & Poeta, a refined boutique that offers exclusive, high-quality apparel, shoes, and accessories. Spruce up your home by shopping at 12 Trees Nantucket, which specializes in home furnishings, artwork, vintage books, and gifts.
Things to Do
With 82 miles of coastline, Nantucket is the perfect place for beach-goers. The island boasts some of the most beautiful and pristine shorelines in the world. For a gentle surf, head to Brant Point, which is located on the north shore of the island. Here you’ll find Brant Point Lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in the United States. Some of the other most popular Nantucket beaches include Jetties, Steps Beach, Surfside Beach, and Cisco.
While Nantucket might be considered a small town, life here is anything but boring. On the contrary, the town features a wide array of festivals that take place throughout the ear. The city’s annual Nantucket Film Festival takes place in June and promises a star-studded weekend full of screening events.
Schools
Nantucket is served by the Nantucket Public School District and is proud to offer its students access to a number of explementary educational institutions, including:
Nantucket Intermediate School, 3-5
Cyrus Peirce, 6-8
Nantucket High School, 9-12
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