HughWelcome to Nantucket
Nantucket Island is more than just a summer getaway — it is a living storybook of America’s maritime past, paired with natural beauty that continues to inspire visitors from around the world. For first-time guests, the sheer variety of experiences can be overwhelming. Should you spend the day exploring beaches, immersing yourself in history, or seeking out hidden lighthouses?
At Discover Nantucket Tours, we believe the best way to experience the island is through top-value tours that highlight its most iconic sites and secret gems. This guide shares the best tours and attractions in Nantucket — from cobblestone streets and historic homes to windswept dunes and panoramic lighthouse views.
1. Step Back in Time with Historic Walking Tours
For those who want to begin their visit with context and charm, a historic walking tour through downtown Nantucket is essential. The island’s Whaling Museum anchors this experience with its dramatic 46-foot sperm whale skeleton and immersive exhibits that reveal Nantucket’s whaling heyday.
As you stroll cobblestone streets lined with colonial homes, sea captains’ residences, and 18th-century architecture, you’ll see why Nantucket Town is a National Historic Landmark District.
Highlights:
- Nantucket Whaling Museum & Hadwen & Barney Oil & Candle Factory
- First Congregational Church tower for sweeping harbor views
- Insider stories of ship captains, whalers, and merchants who shaped the island
2. Follow the Beacons: Lighthouse & Coastal Tours
Nantucket’s lighthouses are not just functional—they are iconic symbols of the island’s resilience. Each one tells a story:
- Brant Point Light — the welcoming beacon seen by all who arrive by ferry
- Sankaty Head Lighthouse — perched dramatically above Siasconset Bluff
- Great Point Lighthouse — remote, wild, and unforgettable
Tour Options:
- Guided bike rides to Sankaty Head Lighthouse
- Scenic drives or boat tours to Great Point for seal spotting and coastal views
- Sunset cruises highlighting Brant Point Light
These lighthouse tours are a photographer’s dream and among the most searched “things to do in Nantucket.”
3. Discover Nantucket’s Beaches & Natural Refuges
While Nantucket is famous for its history, its natural beauty is equally compelling. From wide, family-friendly beaches to untouched stretches of coastline, the island offers something for every traveler.
Top Beaches to Visit:
- Surfside Beach — popular and family-friendly
- Madaket Beach — dramatic sunsets
- Siasconset (’Sconset) Beach — serene and scenic
- Jetties Beach — close to town and perfect for a quick dip
Pair your beach time with a guided nature walk through the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, where dunes, marshes, and coastal trails provide opportunities to see seabirds and seals in their natural habitat.
4. Taste, Shop & Immerse Yourself in Island Culture
No tour is complete without experiencing Nantucket’s unique culture. Include a stop at local eateries for lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fresh seafood, or browse boutiques and galleries that showcase Nantucket’s signature style.
Don’t miss:
- The craft of Nantucket Lightship Baskets
- Local art galleries and maritime antiques
- A sweet treat from one of the island’s bakeries
For history buffs, an optional detour to the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum offers dramatic accounts of maritime rescues and storms that shaped island life.
5. A Perfect One-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
If you only have one full day, here’s how to experience the best of Nantucket with Discover Nantucket Tours:
- Morning: Historic walking tour with Whaling Museum & downtown landmarks
- Midday: Fresh seafood lunch at a local favorite restaurant
- Afternoon: Lighthouse & coastal drive OR guided nature walk + beach stop
- Late Afternoon: ’Sconset Bluff Walk for sweeping Atlantic views
- Evening: Sunset harbor cruise past Brant Point Light
This combination balances history, scenery, and culture — while leaving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the island’s rhythm.
Why Choose Discover Nantucket Tours?
At Discover Nantucket Tours, we know the island better than anyone. Our tour guide doesn’t just show you the sights — he shares stories, context, and insider tips that turn a simple trip into a lifelong memory. Whether you’re planning your first visit to Nantucket or returning to uncover hidden corners, we offer tailored experiences that highlight what makes this island unlike anywhere else.
Conclusion
From historic walking tours and dramatic lighthouse excursions to beaches and wildlife refuges, Nantucket is a destination that rewards exploration at every turn. The island may be small, but it offers an abundance of experiences — best enjoyed with a knowledgeable guide.
Let Discover Nantucket Tours be your gateway to the island. Your journey through cobblestone streets, coastal bluffs, and timeless seascapes awaits.
