Teenagers can be the hardest to please, but Nantucket offers more than they might expect. Give them bikes, beach, and a little freedom - they'll find the fun.
Surfside Beach
Best Teen Beach
Bigger waves, younger crowd, and the freedom to bike there independently. The social beach for the under-20 set.
Surfing Lessons
Best Activity
Cisco and Surfside offer rideable waves. Lessons available for beginners. Cool factor is high.
Bike Freedom
Best Independence
Safe bike paths let teens explore independently. To town, to the beach, to meet friends - bikes are freedom.
Cisco Brewers
Best Family Hangout
Lawn games, food trucks, live music, space to hang. Teens can chill while parents enjoy local drinks.
The Juice Bar
Social Scene
The line is where teens run into other teens. Ice cream is the reward. A summer social institution.
Downtown at Night
Safe Evening
Main Street after dinner is safe for wandering. Ice cream, window shopping, and people watching.
Kayak or SUP
Active Option
Rentals at Jetties Beach. Independent adventure on the water. Great for burning energy.
Teen Tips
- Rent bikes and give them range to explore
- Cell service works in most areas
- Surfside is the young person's beach
- The island is very safe for independent exploration
- Cash for ice cream and incidentals