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Nantucket Island - 30 Miles South of Cape Cod, Massachusetts Nantucket is known as a summer destination spot for many people throughout the world. Pristine white sand beaches, comfortable summer climate, and relaxing atmosphere all equate to the perfect get-away. During the summer months, Nantucket abounds with gourmet restaurants, chic boutiques, art galleries, theater, and music. To all this add an air of historical elegance and you have the perfect summer retreat. Situated 30 miles at sea, Nantucket can only be reached by plane or ferry (see transportation information). Although flying to the island is quicker, it is magical in watching the "mainland" melt onto the horizon as you sail across the clear blue ocean to Nantucket's picture perfect harbor. Many people are first struck by Nantucket's architectural charm when they arrive. Cobblestone streets, brick mansions and shingle or clapboard homes. Age old fountains are filled with flowers and old lamp posts illuminate the streets and intricate brick sidewalks. Its as if you are taking a step back into history. Staying in one of the historical guest houses (bed & breakfasts) or inns can give you a true flavor for the colonial styling of these majestic homes. Most of these historic buildings were constructed during the early to mid-1800's and are restored and decorated in period furniture and antiques. There are as many things to do on Nantucket as you have time for. Nantucket offers a plethora of historical sights, from nostalgic lighthouses, to the old "gaol" (jail), many museums and the oldest house. Exploring the small island by bicycle is one of the more pleasurable pursuits and Nantucket provides bike paths from downtown to Siasconset, along Cliff Road, Madaket, Surfside, etc. Bikes are the easiest form of transportation, as cars congest the downtown area and parking is extremely difficult during the tourist season. In season the Island provides a great shuttle bus system that provides inexpensive and convenient transportation to beaches, areas of town and to both ends of the island. Mopeds, car rentals and taxies are also readily available. So, give your car a vacation too and leave it on the mainland. Beaches are everywhere you look - after all, Nantucket is an island. The most frequented beaches are on the harbor side of the island, and those such as Jetties offer calmer waters, playgrounds, bathrooms and food service. The harbor beaches are close to downtown and can be reached by walking or biking. Surf beaches can be reached by bicycle or taking one of the local beach buses. Sightseeing, fishing, tennis, golf, sailing, windsurfing and walking through unspoiled nature preserves are among some of the activities offered on the island. So, you can be as active or inactive as you choose . Restaurants are bountiful and delicious. I think some people visit Nantucket just for the cuisine and with the enormous selection available, it's no wonder. Restaurant choices range from classic French to traditional American, and fresh seafood is abundant. Restaurant atmosphere ranges from casual to very elegant (pack a jacket and tie, just in case). Most are located within easy walking distance from downtown or a few minutes taxi ride outside the downtown area. Shopping on Nantucket is unequalled. The downtown area offers the most concentrated area of shops, boutiques and art galleries. You can start along the wharf where the shops are literally within a few feet of glorious yachts and sailboats. From there, stroll towards Main street and nearby cobblestone side streets, stopping to admire the artisanship of the local lightship basket weavers and painters. Visit quaint shops full of specialty clothing, antique linens, books, perfumes, hand-woven items (Nantucket Looms), homemade famous fudge (Aunt Leah's Fudge Shop) and fine jewelry. Nantucket even has its own winery and brewery. There is definitely something for everyone! Nantucket is not just an oasis for city weary people in the summertime. It is a wonderful place to visit any time of year. Come celebrate the special events (Daffodil weekend, Wine-Tasting Weekend, Film Festival Week, Cranberry Festival and Christmas Stroll to name a few) or come just to savor the peace and quiet of the off season. Nantucket offers the tranquility and beauty of a world long forgotten. It is a place, where if you're lucky enough to be a resident, you can know your neighbors, enjoy your surroundings and be at peace with yourself. We hope you will visit Nantucket soon and will enjoy the island we have called home for three generations. There is a poem by Rachel Field that states "..once you have slept on a island, you'll never be quite the same..", we would have to agree. There is such magic here if you take the time to find it. It is a place you will be sure to come back to over and over again. --The Ross Family |
