With over 80 miles of shoreline, choosing a beach on Nantucket can be overwhelming. Here are our top picks for every type of beachgoer.
Jetties Beach
Best Overall
The complete package: calm water, full amenities, walkable from town, Friday night concerts. Perfect for families and first-time visitors. The Sandbar restaurant and equipment rentals make it easy to spend all day.
Madaket Beach
Best Sunsets
The island's legendary sunset spot. West-facing beach where the sky explodes with color every evening. Strong currents mean less swimming, but you're here for the view. Bring a blanket and arrive an hour early.
Cisco Beach
Best for Surfing
Nantucket's surf capital with consistent waves and a dedicated surf culture. Less crowded than Surfside, close to Cisco Brewers for post-surf drinks. No lifeguards - experienced swimmers only.
Children's Beach
Best for Toddlers
Protected harbor water, playground on the sand, steps from downtown. The calmest, shallowest beach on the island. Summer concerts and movies add to the family-friendly atmosphere.
Great Point
Best for Adventure
Remote, pristine, and wild. Requires 4WD or a guided tour, but rewards with solitude, seals, and the Great Point Lighthouse. The ultimate escape from summer crowds.
Dionis Beach
Best Calm Water
Beautiful dunes, warm water, and the calmest swimming on the island. Less crowded than Jetties but with similar family-friendly conditions. Small parking lot fills early.
Surfside Beach
Best Easy Access
The most accessible south shore beach. Flat bike path from town, large parking lot, lifeguards, and good waves. The go-to for visitors wanting Atlantic surf without the trek to Cisco.
Sconset Beach
Best Village Vibe
Charming beach at the island's east end with the picturesque Sconset village just steps away. Less crowded, beautiful bluff walk, and great lunch options nearby.
Beach Selection Tips
- With young kids: Children's Beach or Jetties
- For waves: Cisco or Surfside
- For sunsets: Madaket
- For solitude: Great Point or Dionis
- First time: Start at Jetties