Coming to Nantucket without beach gear? No problem. Whether you forgot your umbrella, need to rent a kayak, or want to try stand-up paddleboarding, the island has you covered.
What to Bring
Beach Day Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)
- Beach towels
- Cooler with water and snacks
- Beach blanket or chairs
- Umbrella or beach tent (shade is scarce)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Cover-up for biking home
- Cash for parking meters and snacks
- Trash bag (leave no trace!)
Optional But Nice
- Boogie board
- Sand toys for kids
- Beach games (bocce, paddleball)
- Waterproof phone case
- Good book
Where to Buy Gear
Force 5 Watersports
The island's go-to for beach and water sports gear. Boogie boards, beach chairs, towels, sunscreen, and more. Also rents surfboards and kayaks.
Nantucket Bike Shop
Beyond bikes, carries beach cruiser baskets, bike trailers, and some beach accessories.
Stop & Shop / Island Market
Grocery stores with beach basics - sunscreen, coolers, snacks, and simple beach toys.
Marine Home Center
Hardware store with beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and more substantial gear.
Water Sports Rentals
At Jetties Beach
Jetties Beach Watersports offers on-beach rentals:
- Kayaks: $25-40/hour
- Stand-up paddleboards: $35-50/hour
- Sailboats (Sunfish): $40-60/hour
- Beach chairs and umbrellas available
Force 5 Watersports
- Surfboards: $40-60/day
- Boogie boards: $15-25/day
- Wetsuits: $15-25/day
- Kayaks and SUPs: By the day
Nantucket Island Surf School
Board rentals and lessons at Cisco and Surfside beaches. All equipment included with lessons.
Beach Chair & Umbrella Rentals
On-beach rentals are available at Jetties Beach during summer season. Other beaches don't have rental stands - bring your own or buy in town.
Some vacation rentals and hotels provide beach gear for guests - ask before you arrive.
Beach Gear Tips
- Jetties is the only beach with on-site rentals
- If biking, get a basket or trailer for gear
- Shade is precious - umbrellas are worth the hassle
- No glass containers allowed on beaches
- Pack out everything you bring in
- Morning beach trips need less gear (cooler temps)