Nantucket is a wonderful place for children. Between beaches, bike rides, ice cream, and unique attractions, kids of all ages will find plenty to keep them happy and engaged.
Must-Do Activities
Maria Mitchell Aquarium
Small but delightful aquarium with local marine life. Touch tanks let kids handle hermit crabs, sea stars, and other creatures. Great for ages 3-12.
- Location: 28 Washington Street
- Hours: 10am-4pm (summer)
- Cost: $8 adults, $6 children
The Juice Bar
The famous ice cream shop with a line down the street. Waiting is part of the experience, and the homemade ice cream is worth it. A Nantucket institution.
Children's Beach
The perfect beach for young kids with calm harbor waters, playground, bandstand with summer concerts, and grassy areas. Walking distance from downtown.
Bike Rides
Rent bikes (including kids sizes and bike seats) and explore the flat, safe bike paths. The ride to Surfside or Jetties is manageable for most kids.
Educational Fun
Whaling Museum
The massive sperm whale skeleton is jaw-dropping for kids. Interactive exhibits, scavenger hunts, and a rooftop observation deck. Good for ages 6 and up.
Maria Mitchell Association
Beyond the aquarium, offers star-gazing programs, nature walks, and science discovery programs for children. Check their summer schedule.
Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum
Stories of dramatic rescues and shipwrecks that fascinate kids. Real lifesaving equipment on display. Located near Surfside.
Active Adventures
Surfing Lessons
Kids as young as 5-6 can try surfing lessons at Surfside Beach. Patient instructors and soft boards make it safe and fun.
Kayaking at Jetties
Calm waters make Jetties Beach ideal for kayak and SUP rentals. Tandem kayaks work well for parent-child paddling.
Seal Cruises
Great Point seal cruises are a hit with kids of all ages. Seeing seals up close is memorable. Book in advance during summer.
Family Tips
- Hit the Juice Bar early to avoid the longest lines
- Bike rental shops have kids' bikes, trailers, and baby seats
- Children's Beach has bathrooms and is close to downtown food
- The ferry ride itself is an adventure for kids
- Pack sand toys - beach days are the foundation of a Nantucket trip
- Teens prefer Surfside Beach for its social scene