Pet-Friendly Lodging

Pet-Friendly Hotels and Inns

While many traditional Nantucket inns do not accept pets, there are several excellent options that welcome dogs and other pets. Here are your best bets for pet-friendly lodging on the island.

The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin

The top choice for traveling with pets on Nantucket. These waterfront cottages on Old South Wharf offer a rare combination of luxury and pet-friendliness. Each cottage provides a home-like atmosphere with full kitchens, living areas, and private decks overlooking the harbor. Dogs are welcome in select cottages with advance notice. The location is ideal - right in town with easy access to shops, restaurants, and walking paths along the waterfront.

• Pet fee applies (typically $75-150 per stay)
• Size restrictions may apply - call ahead
• Walking distance to downtown and harbor
• Private outdoor space for your pet

Vacation Rentals

Your best option for pet-friendly stays on Nantucket is often a vacation rental. Many homeowners welcome well-behaved pets, especially for longer stays. When booking through VRBO, Airbnb, or local rental agencies, filter for pet-friendly properties. You'll find everything from cozy cottages to spacious family homes that accommodate dogs.

• VRBO and Airbnb - Filter by "pets allowed" to find options island-wide
• Local rental agencies - Call directly to discuss pet policies; many are flexible
• Rental homes - Often more pet-friendly than hotels, with yards and outdoor space
• Long-term rentals - Weekly or monthly stays tend to be more pet-friendly

Properties with Pet Fees and Deposits

Most pet-friendly accommodations on Nantucket charge additional fees. These typically include:

• Non-refundable pet fee: $50-200 per stay
• Refundable pet deposit: $200-500 (returned if no damage)
• Per-night pet fee: $25-50 per night at some properties
• Cleaning fee: May be higher for pet stays

Pet Policies: Questions to Ask

Before booking any accommodation with your pet, make sure to clarify these important details with the property:

Size and Breed Restrictions

Many properties have weight limits (commonly 25-50 lbs) or breed restrictions. Some exclude certain breeds entirely while others welcome dogs of all sizes. Always disclose your pet's breed and weight when booking to avoid surprises at check-in.

Pet Fees and Deposits

Understand the full cost before booking. Ask whether fees are refundable, per stay or per night, and what the deposit covers. Get any pet-related fees in writing as part of your reservation confirmation.

Where Pets Are Allowed

Some properties restrict pets to certain areas - perhaps first-floor rooms only, specific cottages, or limited common areas. Ask about outdoor space, whether pets can be left unattended in the room, and any areas that are off-limits.

Number of Pets

If you're traveling with multiple pets, confirm the maximum allowed. Many properties limit guests to one or two pets, and additional fees may apply for each animal.

Dog-Friendly Activities on Nantucket

Once you've settled into your pet-friendly accommodation, there's plenty to explore with your four-legged friend.

Beaches (Seasonal Access)

Many Nantucket beaches welcome dogs, though rules vary by season. From Labor Day through April, dogs enjoy more freedom at most beaches. During summer months (typically May through Labor Day), dogs are often restricted to early morning and evening hours, or banned entirely from swimming beaches. Always check current regulations and bring bags to clean up after your pet.

Cisco Brewers

This beloved outdoor brewery and distillery complex is famously dog-friendly. Enjoy craft beer, wine, or spirits in the open-air setting while your pup lounges beside you. There's often live music on weekends, and the casual atmosphere is perfect for pet owners. Water bowls are usually available, and dogs are welcome throughout the outdoor areas.

Downtown Walks

Nantucket's historic downtown is wonderfully walkable with a dog. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Main Street, explore the waterfront wharves, and window-shop along Centre Street. Many outdoor cafe patios welcome well-behaved dogs, and you'll likely meet fellow pet owners along the way. Keep your dog leashed and be mindful of crowded sidewalks during peak season.

Hiking Trails

The Nantucket Conservation Foundation maintains miles of trails that welcome leashed dogs. Popular options include:

• Sanford Farm - Easy trails through meadows to the ocean
• Tupancy Links - Scenic coastal paths near Cliff Beach
• Windswept Bog - Quiet trails through cranberry bogs
• Miacomet Links - Walking paths near Miacomet Pond

Always keep dogs leashed on conservation lands to protect wildlife and nesting birds.

Beach Rules for Dogs

Understanding beach regulations is essential for pet owners visiting Nantucket. Rules change seasonally and enforcement can result in fines.

Summer Season (May - Labor Day)

During peak season, most public beaches have significant restrictions:

• Dogs prohibited during lifeguard hours at many beaches
• Some beaches allow dogs before 9 AM and after 6 PM only
• Certain beaches ban dogs entirely during summer
• Leashes required on most beaches year-round

Off-Season (Labor Day - May)

Dogs have much more freedom during the off-season:

• Most beaches allow dogs throughout the day
• Some beaches permit off-leash play (verify current rules)
• Fewer crowds mean more space for your pup to explore
• Still required to clean up after your pet

Dog-Friendly Beach Options

• Dionis Beach - Often allows dogs with seasonal restrictions
• Madaket Beach - More relaxed rules at this remote western beach
• Smith's Point - Popular for off-season dog walks
• Surfside Beach (off-season) - Great for long walks when summer crowds are gone