Nantucket
Massachusetts

Nantucket

Destination Overview

30 miles out to sea, Nantucket Island is an idyllic New England honeymooners paradise. Cobblestone roads, incredible beaches, vibrant history and a fantastic food and shopping scene that offers something for outdoorsy newlyweds bound for Nantucket Island. In the summer months honeymooning couples will find blooming hydrangea, wide open beaches, independent boutiques and a lively food scene.

There’s plenty for honeymooners to do on the island. Most obviously, the beaches make for a great way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. Surfboard, kayak and paddleboard rentals can be found throughout the island as well. Hiking and bicycling trails abound and are a popular way to explore offshore. Fishing charters for the adventurous honeymooners and sunset cocktail charters are also a popular way to get out on the water. Inland, independent boutique shopping, fine cuisine, and local history are a great way to fill your day.

Nantucket offers many activities, not just during the summer, but also in the off-season due to its close knit year-round community. In December, the Christmas Stroll brings the downtown to life with carolers, holiday shopping and other festivities. In April, the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce holds their annual Daffodil Festival – a weekend of events to celebrate springtime awakening on Nantucket Island. The celebrated festival includes art shows, tours, parades (including the antique car parade and tailgate picnic), exhibitions, contests, lectures, and, of course, the annual Nantucket Daffodil Flower Show. And on Memorial Day, the Figawi or Figawi Race Weekend marks the beginning of the summer season in an annual charity event and regatta from Hyannis to Nantucket on the Memorial Day weekend hosted by Figawi, Inc.

A visit to Cisco Brewery is a must. Open year-round the brewery (also a winery and distillery) is a great spot to unwind, enjoy live music and sample local food from food trucks. However, the most romantic dining spot on the island is undoubtedly Galley Beach. At Galley Beach, couples can dine in the open air next to the calm, sheltered waters of Nantucket Sound. The menu is iconically summery and foodie couples can sample everything from salmon tartare with crème fraîche and caviar to or crab tortellini with fennel cream and ginger vinaigrette.

You don’t necessarily need a car to enjoy all that Nantucket has to offer. The Wave bus provides regular and cheap transportation from downtown to the local beaches. However, the island is lined with bike paths that make for a scenic way to explore the island on your own time.

About Nantucket

At a Glance

  • Local author, Elin Hildebrand, has penned over 20 bestselling books about the island. Pick one up for a local beach read.
  • Don’t miss a visit to Siasconset (‘Sconset to locals), a tiny town on the “other end” of the island. In June, the rose bushes in ‘Sconset bloom and cover many of the small cottages–a photographer’s haven.
  • Don’t miss treating your sweetheart to a sweet treat at Juice Bar, downtown. The ice cream stand is famous for its freshly made waffle cones and ice cream. FYI it’s cash only.
  • If you’re looking for nightlife, many of the restaurants downtown have a thriving bar-scene. Cru, Straight Wharf and The Club Car won’t disappoint. If you want to dance and enjoy live music, don’t miss The Chicken Box.
  • On a rainy day, a visit to the Whaling Museum is a must. The Museum tells the Island’s fascinating stories over 4 centuries. The museum is home to a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton, a massive Fresnel lens, a restored 1847 candle factory and a relaxing, fully-accessible rooftop deck offers stunning views of Nantucket harbor.

Honeymoon Hints

  • Nantucket Airport (ACK) is reachable year-round from airports in Boston, Hyannis, Martha’s Vineyard and Westchester/White Plains. Jet Blue, Delta, American and United Airlines operate seasonally from JFK, LaGuardia, Newark and Washington, DC.
  • A ferryboat out of Hyannis is the traditional way to reach the island. Traditional ferries from Hyannis reach the island in 2.5 hours. High-speed ferries reach the island in 1 hour.
  • Nantucket is a small island and extremely popular during high-season (June to August). Be sure to book at least 6 months in advance for best availability.