The Ultimate Whale Blog Guide from DiscoverNantucketTours.com
There’s a reason Nantucket Island is considered one of the East Coast’s most iconic destinations. With its cobblestone streets, pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and a timeless charm that whispers of its whaling heritage, Nantucket offers more than just a seaside escape—it offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to relive old memories, these twelve must-do activities will help you make the most of your island stay.
1. Explore Nantucket by Foot, Bike, or Carriage with Discover Nantucket Tours
The best way to begin your adventure? See the island the way locals do—up close and personal. Discover Nantucket Tours offers expertly guided walking, biking, and carriage (driving) tours through the heart of the island’s historic charm. Learn how Nantucket became the whaling capital of the world. Wander hidden lanes, hear tales of shipwrecks, or ride past 18th-century homes still standing proudly. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s time travel.
2. Visit the Whaling Museum and Step into the Past
Dive deep into Nantucket’s legendary maritime history with a visit to the Nantucket Whaling Museum. Operated by the Nantucket Historical Association, this world-class museum houses a dramatic 46-foot sperm whale skeleton, artifacts from the island’s golden age of whaling, scrimshaw art, and rotating exhibitions. Don’t miss the rooftop observation deck for panoramic views of the harbor and downtown rooftops—an ideal photo spot.
3. Wander the Cobblestone Streets of Historic Downtown
Strolling Nantucket’s downtown feels like stepping into a preserved New England postcard. The cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and flower-boxed storefronts invite you to slow down and savor every detail. Browse the one-of-a-kind shops, local galleries, and nautical boutiques. Favorite stops include Murray’s Toggery Shop (home of the iconic Nantucket Reds), Mitchell’s Book Corner, and the handwoven treasures at Nantucket Looms.
4. Bike the Island’s Extensive Trail System
With more than 30 miles of paved bike paths, Nantucket is a cyclist’s paradise. Rent a beach cruiser and head toward Surfside, Cisco, or Madaket beaches. You’ll pass cranberry bogs, windswept dunes, and coastal meadows. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just out for a leisurely ride, the flat terrain and stunning scenery make biking one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the island.
5. Experience a Nantucket Beach Day
From sunrise to sunset, Nantucket’s beaches are a top-tier experience. For families, Surfside Beach is ideal with lifeguards, snack shacks, and easy access. Jetties Beach near town is equally accessible and great for swimming. Madaket Beach, on the island’s west end, is where you’ll find the most breathtaking sunsets. Prefer serenity? Head to Great Point for a secluded escape (4WD vehicle and permit required). Bring a picnic, your camera, and let the Atlantic winds set your spirit free.
6. Discover the Enchantment of Sconset Village
Located on the island’s eastern edge, Siasconset—or “Sconset”—is pure Nantucket magic. Wander narrow lanes where rose-covered cottages create a real-life fairytale. Walk the famed Sconset Bluff Walk, a public footpath that weaves between historic homes and opens to sweeping ocean views. Be sure to stop at Sconset Market for a homemade muffin or cold lemonade.
7. Climb the Steps of Sankaty Head Lighthouse
Just beyond Sconset Village stands the iconic Sankaty Head Lighthouse, painted in bold red and white. Built in 1850 and relocated inland in 2007 to avoid erosion, this lighthouse is a proud sentinel of the sea. Though the interior is not always open, the grounds are accessible and offer stunning photo opportunities and peaceful contemplation of the Atlantic horizon.
8. Catch a Sunset Dinner at a Waterfront Restaurant
Dining in Nantucket is more than a meal—it’s a memory. Reserve a table at Galley Beach, Cru, or Brant Point Grill for a full-sensory experience: ocean breeze, golden sunsets, and exquisitely fresh seafood. From butter-poached lobster to locally grown greens, the menu is as divine as the view. Craft cocktails and Nantucket-brewed beers round out the experience.
9. Visit Brant Point Lighthouse and Start a Tradition
Before you leave, take a walk to Brant Point Lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in the U.S. and the most photographed spot on the island. Located just a short stroll from downtown, it marks the entrance to Nantucket Harbor. Tradition says if you toss a coin into the water as you pass by on the ferry, it guarantees your return to the island. Whether you believe the folklore or not, it’s a ritual well worth keeping.
10. Step into Nantucket’s Rescue History at the Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum
Tucked away on the shore of Polpis Harbor, the Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum is a tribute to the brave souls who risked their lives to save others. Learn about the more than 700 shipwrecks that occurred off the island’s coast and how the U.S. Life-Saving Service (a precursor to the Coast Guard) played a crucial role in Nantucket’s legacy. It’s a humbling and heroic side of the island that few visitors expect—and everyone should see.
11. Sample Island-Made Spirits and Brews
Nantucket’s artisanal beverage scene is booming. Stop by Cisco Brewers, home to Cisco beer, Triple Eight Distillery, and Nantucket Vineyards, all located on the same laid-back campus. Enjoy tastings of locally crafted IPAs, vodkas, rums, and wines. Live music, food trucks, and picnic tables make this a perfect afternoon hangout. It’s family-friendly, pet-friendly, and island-approved.
12. Attend a Seasonal Festival or Event
Nantucket is alive with activity throughout the year. Time your visit to coincide with one of the island’s signature festivals:
- Daffodil Festival (April): Antique cars, yellow-themed parades, and flower crowns.
- Wine & Food Festival (May): A gourmand’s dream with tastings, dinners, and celebrity chefs.
- Nantucket Film Festival (June): A showcase of screenwriting and storytelling brilliance.
- Christmas Stroll (December): Cobblestone streets lined with carolers, lights, and hot cocoa—a holiday wonderland.
No matter the season, there’s always a reason to celebrate on Nantucket.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Moment Count on Nantucket
From whaling tales to sandy toes, from lighthouse views to hidden coastal paths, Nantucket is not just a destination—it’s a love affair waiting to happen. These twelve must-do items capture the spirit of the island: its past, its beauty, its people, and its pulse. Whether you have two days or two weeks, Nantucket has the power to surprise you, calm you, and connect you to something timeless.
Start your experience with Discover Nantucket Tours, where every step is guided by passion and every turn reveals a new story. We’ll help you uncover the rich layers of this beautiful island—because the best way to discover Nantucket… is to let it reveal itself to you.
Book your next unforgettable adventure today at DiscoverNantucketTours.com