Year-round residents experience a different Nantucket. Here are the spots and tips that locals love - the places they go when they want to avoid the summer crowds.
Sayle's Seafood
Local's Lunch
Skip the fancy lobster rolls downtown. The fish market's takeout window has better quality at better prices. Cash only, local approved.
Eel Point
Secret Beach
Remote beach that requires a walk through conservation land. Locals come here when other beaches are packed. Bird watching is excellent.
The Downyflake
Local Breakfast
Cash only, no frills, excellent donuts. Where islanders eat before work. Tourist crowds don't know about it.
Off-Season Visit
Best Tip
September and October are magic - perfect weather, no crowds, lower prices. Locals' favorite time of year.
Early Morning Beach
Timing Secret
Any beach before 9am is a different world. Locals walk dogs, swim laps, have it to themselves. Even Surfside is peaceful.
Tupancy Links
Sunset Alternative
Walk from downtown for sunset views without the Madaket trek. Locals' quick escape for golden hour.
Nantucket Bake Shop
Local Bakery
While tourists wait at Juice Bar, locals get baked goods and ice cream here. Excellent quality, no line.
The Gaslight
Local Bar
Where island workers drink after their shifts. No scene, no pretense, just a neighborhood bar.
Local Secrets
- Bike everywhere - locals rarely drive in summer
- Morning hours are the secret to avoiding crowds
- Bay scallop season (Oct-March) is worth timing a trip for
- The best food doesn't have the longest lines
- Conservation lands are rarely crowded