In the Wampanoag language of the Algonquins, Nantucket might have meant “far away land.” But at a mere 30 miles from Cape Cod and easily accessible, this Waterway Guide Preferred Destination offers a snug harbor, a historic whaling community, the taste of Portuguese cooking and “Seas of Daffodils” to celebrate spring. The historic Brant Point Light Station welcomes visitors as the ideal spot for the quintessential Nantucket selfie both as you cruise into the harbor and from shore.

Where to Dock or Drop the Hook

Nantucket Boat Basin is a full-service marina in historic Nantucket Harbor where guests enjoy luxury amenities, pet-friendly docks and concierge service. This destination offers 240 boat slips and accommodates a variety of vessels. 

Nantucket Boat Basin is within walking distance of the island's many beaches, bike paths, cobblestone streets, town shops, and lighthouses. If you’d like to discuss reservations or have inquiries on accommodations for your vessel, click here or call (844)213-6500.

With more than 80 miles of oceanfront, a dozen bike trails, and countless hiking corridors Nantucket is an exercise sanctuary. 

There are a number of great bike shops, among them Young’s Bicycle Shop for the family-run attention to detail and service. The shop was founded in 1931 by current owner Harvey Young’s grandfather. They also offer a small fleet of cars.

A Taste of the Good Life

Whether you swam, cycled, or strolled your way through the morning or sat on the dock with a good book it’s always time for a sweet reward at a favorite indulgence, The Nantucket Bake Shop.

This decades-old island tradition was relocated in 2012 from its landmark location on Orange Street to a larger space on Old South Road. Longtime owners Magee and Jay Detmer keep wowing visitors with their homemade cookies, scones, tarts, whoopie pies, and famous, hearty Portuguese bread. (Get there early in the day for the best doughnut selection!)

The 45 Surfside Bakery and Café located next to the bike path leading to Surfside Beach is also exceptional. Their award-winning pastry chef whips up muffins, croissants and cinnamon buns as well as a lineup of gourmet sandwiches and salads.

"Seas of Daffodils": The 46th Annual Daffodil Festival

After a long winter nothing refreshes the spirit like the 46th Annual Nantucket Daffodil Show. The Nantucket Garden Club oversees the event. This year the flower show portion of events will be held in the greenhouses at Bartlett’s Farm with the theme “Seas of Daffodils.” Children’s events will take place at Children’s Beach. April 27-30, 2023.

The island offers many beaches such as Jetties (great for families) and Surfside (great for watersports). Surfside Beach is the busiest beach on Nantucket. Located on the southern shore, it lives up to its name as a great spot for catching a wave. This amenity-rich stretch of sand has public rentals, showers and food kiosks, with lifeguards available during the peak beach season. 

Children’s Beach is located in Nantucket town and is adjacent to a grassy picnic area with a playground.

Hope to see you there!