Biking is the quintessential Nantucket experience. With over 30 miles of dedicated bike paths, relatively flat terrain, and a compact island, two wheels are often the best way to get around. Skip the parking hassles, enjoy the scenery, and cover more ground than you would on foot.
The Bike Paths
Nantucket has an excellent network of paved, dedicated bike paths separate from car traffic:
Surfside Bike Path
Distance: 3 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy - completely flat
Highlights: Beautiful moors, arrives at Surfside Beach
The most popular path. Start downtown and ride through conservation land to the south shore's most accessible beach. Great for all ages.
Madaket Bike Path
Distance: 6 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate - mostly flat with a few gentle hills
Highlights: Scenic ponds, conservation land, famous sunsets
Longer ride to the island's west end. Best tackled in the afternoon so you can watch the sunset at Madaket Beach.
Sconset Bike Path (Milestone Road)
Distance: 7 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy - flat, straight path
Highlights: Moorland views, charming Sconset village
The longest path leads to the picturesque village of Siasconset on the east end. Pack lunch and explore the rose-covered cottages.
Polpis Road Path
Distance: 6 miles one way
Difficulty: Moderate - some rolling hills
Highlights: Scenic harbor views, Sankaty Lighthouse access
A more challenging ride with better scenery. Can be combined with Milestone Road for a Sconset loop.
Where to Rent Bikes
Several shops downtown offer rentals:
- Young's Bicycle Shop - Steamboat Wharf, largest selection
- Nantucket Bike Shop - Broad Street
- Easy Riders - Near Steamboat Wharf
- Cook's Cycle Shop - Orange Street
Typical rates: $25-40/day for standard bikes, $50-80/day for e-bikes. Weekly rates available. Reservations recommended in peak summer.
E-Bikes
Electric bikes have become hugely popular on Nantucket, making longer rides accessible to everyone. They're particularly helpful for:
- The Madaket ride (longer distance)
- Riding with kids in tow
- Hot summer days
- Riders who want to cover more ground
Most rental shops now carry e-bikes. Book early - they go fast.
Biking Tips
- Reserve bikes in advance during July/August
- Start early to beat heat and crowds
- Bring water - there's nowhere to refill on most paths
- Sunscreen and a hat are essential
- Bike racks at all beaches - bring a lock
- Consider an e-bike for longer rides
- The Sconset route is best done as a full-day trip
- Watch for pedestrians on shared paths