HughHere at Discover Nantucket Tours, we want to make sure that you have the best vacation to Nantucket as possible. The time to book your travel and lodging and activities is now (right now, or before the end of February if possible). Again, although it is now mid-January 2023, the entire island books up completely – or almost completely – very early and quickly.
If you are new to the island, you are in for a real treat! From the moment you board the ferry boat, or touch down at the airport, your adventure begins. Whether you are coming to Nantucket for a romantic getaway, or bringing the whole family, there is an incredible array of things to do and see. And, of course taking a tour with us (click here) is one of the very best ways to learn all about this special island, 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod.
A few pieces of advice:
- If you are bringing a vehicle to the island – or renting one on Nantucket – there are some things to know:
- The roads within the township of Nantucket are all very narrow, originally built for horse and buggy.
- Some of these narrow streets are still cobblestone, and are rough
- We recommend doing the least amount of driving that you can, especially in the concentrated downtown region
- If or when you do drive around, it is okay – and recommended – that you drive up partially onto the sidewalks if you need to, when you can do it safely. This way cars going opposite directions can let each other get past.
- There are lots of bicycles, so go slow and never take your eyes off of the roads and surrounding areas
- During the height of the tourist season, the roadways will probably be packed with pedestrians…and they are not necessarily watching for cars
- The beaches tend to have limited or no parking
- Whenever your hotel has shuttle trips – like to the beaches or the brewery – take advantage of that!
- During the height of the season the small police force is augmented with special security officers. Please cooperate with them!
- On the beaches:
- Please do not litter. If we all refrain from dropping trash, the island stays beautiful
- You will find that the stores do not use plastic bags, in order to protect the beach areas and aquatic life
- The water may be chilly, especially as you go further out away from the shore area
- Watch for strange currents and tidal changes…the point is to be careful; there tends to be limited lifeguards or none at all.
- Watch your children carefully, please
- During the summer there are lots of beautiful, warm, sunny days!
- If you are boating, you must know the rules of the areas; there are sandbars and other obstacles…and lots of other crafts around
- As far as dining and restaurants:
- When you book your travel and activities, try to also book dining reservations at that early time. It can be very hard to find a popular place to dine that is not completely booked
- There are often waiting lists to take advantage of. Many of the hotels have a concierge service, so call the concierge at your hotel for help with this
- The food and service in many of the restaurants is world-class…another huge treat!
- Most tourists are aware that prices of everything are significantly higher on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Be prepared for that!
- The employees that you find throughout the island work hard to please everyone and they rely on tips. Please be generous to these excellent service people.
- Whenever you have booked transportation or other services, it is very smart to be early!
- The island swells with people into huge numbers during the summer months, If you do not like crowds, prepare yourself for that too.
- There are shops, galleries, attractions, museums…have lots of fun!
- Please drink alcohol responsibly in order for all to have a safe, fun time.
We at Discover Nantucket Tours are here for you and will be honored to have you join us for a bike tour, walking tour, or riding tour.
We hope to see you!
BOOK NOW!