If you love outdoor activities, Nantucket should be on your bucket list of must-visit places. There are several activities to engage in that will ensure you have a fulfilling and unforgettable holiday.
You can hike, cruise, surf, bike, and walk on various trails. There are plenty of picturesque spots on the island where you can engage in these activities.
After a long day of having fun, reserve a room in one of the numerous Nantucket vacation rentals. They allow you to unwind in a roomy corner with a comfortable king-size canopy bed, cotton linens, heated bathroom floors, and clear views of the cobblestone streets.
Here are a few ways to enjoy nature in Nantucket and get your adrenaline pumping.
A straightforward way to experience the enchanting Nantucket island is through a small ship tour. Both Blount Small Ship Adventures and American Cruise Lines take a significant portion of the year sailing in the offshore isles of New England.
Booking round-trip ferry or airplane tickets is challenging to secure in the busy season. Therefore, most Nantucket visitors arrive by small cruise ships, while others take the daytime ferry service, which takes nearly one hour.
The cruise will bring you to the island, where you can stroll around the stunning beaches, iconic lighthouses, and picturesque areas before going into town to shop in the fantastic stores.
Unlike the large cruise ships, these small ones are agile enough to fit into attractive yacht harbors, congested channels and land or anchor right in the middle of town.
They carry around 200 passengers or less and have cabins ranging from 200 to 450 square feet- balconies included!
The cruising season in New England runs from May to September. However, occasional storms and choppy seas might change schedules and make avoiding a stop necessary.
When sailing in Nantucket, keep an eye out for whales, e.g., minke, finback, humpback, and other species.
If you're searching for a distinctive approach to discovering the scenic island of Nantucket, consider paying for a guided walking tour.
From the bustling cobblestone streets and gas lamps of the downtown area to the opulent mansions of the island's illustrious past, there's a lot to discover.
These tours explore the island's ecology, architecture, and history. You can tour the following:
The tour offers insights into the region's history, a trek to some of its most significant landmarks, and a sense of the local way of life. A map and guidebook are available at the visitor center where the walk begins.
Stroll down Main Street and halt at numerous attractions to take some pictures. You'll see the ancient courthouse, the first bank, and the earliest settlement.
Additionally, you'll discover more about the town's influence on the Civil War and the development of the railway. The journey ends at the museum, where you can see the town's historical displays.
This organization has qualified tour guides who offer a selection of walking tours explaining the background information on the homes and buildings.
A walking tour of Nantucket is a memorable experience, whether you want to know about the maritime history of the island or desire to enjoy the architecture.
There're three major bike trails on the island. The 56 km bike paths connect to Surfside, Siasconset, and Madaket on the south, east, and west.
Biking is ideal for a day trip and a lengthy stay as it is budget-friendly and makes accessing the main attractions simple.
There are many places to rent bicycles in Nantucket, including Young's Bike Rental and Nantucket Bike Shop. Remember that there're no designated bike routes in the city center, so cyclists must stay on the road and obey traffic rules.
Anyone below 12 years needs to wear a protective helmet during cycling. However, for your safety, just put on a helmet!
The Surfside and Madaket have lovely dunes that meet the wide, white beaches where you can swim on a nice day. A bike ride gets you there from Downtown in about 30 minutes.
Even if you're in Nantucket for the day, go to Siasconset. You'll see the dark gray18th-century cottages encircled by charming miniature green gardens. The cabins are scattered throughout the village and connected by narrow, peaceful lanes.
A short, secret bicycle ride from here will take you to the Sankaty Head Lighthouse in around 20 minutes. It is the most suitable spot to catch the sunset in Nantucket.
Your trip is not over if you don't take a trek on the distinctive dunes and forested trails to appreciate the island's natural splendor. Explore these Nantucket walking trails:
Generally regarded as a straightforward route, it takes 1 hour and 48 minutes to complete. Although this track is well-loved for strolling and hiking, you can encounter some calm and tranquility during the idle times of the day.
The route is open to explore anytime and is accessible all year. Carry your dogs but ensure they have a leash.
This acreage was formerly a golf course. The owners (Sallie Grail and Oswald "Tup") donated it to protect the area's stunning scenery. The 1.4-mile trail passes through several of the island's most spectacular terrains. You'll spot numerous bird species along the way if you're a bird lover.
This lovely 2-mile walk runs along the coastline and provides dazzling ocean views. The trail is ideal for a stroll because it is designated and simple to follow. You'll see the Sconset Chapel along the way- a historical site worth visiting!
You will find most of New England's top surfing areas on Nantucket. The waters are transparent and clean, and the waves are large and consistent.
If you're a beginner, visit Nantucket Surf School to learn the basics of surfing. Once you're good, they can assist you with their gear to practice. Remember always to stay close to a lifeguard.
The waves at Cisco Beach are typically small and soft, making it an ideal area for beginners. Surfers Beach is a great place to catch a wave and ride it to the beachfront. Although the surf here is challenging, it is a lot of fun for experts.
Additionally, The South Shore provides miles of beach breaks to surf conveniently. However, people crowd the main surf spots, i.e., Madaket, Nobadeer, Cisco, and Madaquecham.
Alternatively, move a short distance from the well-known spots to avoid the multitude and locate your convenient place.
A trip to Nantucket is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The town is home to the most stunning beaches in the world, and the scenery is sensational.
Even in such a compact space, this quaint Nantucket island offers a glut of activities to keep you busy. You can explore the cruises and museums, take leisurely walks on the island, and participate in action-packed sports like biking and surfing.
Whether looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Nantucket is the ideal destination!
