ATMs, Banking & Money Tips

ATM Locations on Nantucket

Finding an ATM on Nantucket is relatively easy, especially in the downtown area. Most ATMs are concentrated in the town center, though you will find a few options scattered throughout the island. Here are the primary locations where you can withdraw cash.

Downtown Nantucket ATMs

The majority of ATMs are located within walking distance of Main Street, making it convenient to grab cash while exploring the shops and restaurants.

• Nantucket Bank (Main Street): Multiple ATMs at their main branch, accessible 24/7 in the vestibule
• Bank of America (Federal Street): Full-service ATM with deposit capabilities
• Cape Cod 5 (Orange Street): ATM available during and after banking hours
• Rockland Trust (Main Street): Walk-up ATM accessible anytime
• Stop & Shop (Pleasant Street): ATM inside the grocery store, available during store hours

Other ATM Locations

• Nantucket Memorial Airport: ATM near the terminal entrance
• Steamship Authority Terminal: ATM available for ferry passengers
• Marine Home Center (Lower Orange Street): ATM inside the hardware store
• Various hotels: Some larger hotels have ATMs in their lobbies

ATM Fees and Considerations

Be prepared for ATM fees, especially if you are using an out-of-network machine. Most ATMs on Nantucket charge between $2.50 and $3.50 per transaction, plus any fees your own bank may charge for out-of-network withdrawals. To minimize fees, consider these strategies.

• Withdraw larger amounts: Take out enough cash for several days to reduce the number of transactions
• Use your bank's ATM: If your bank has a branch on island, use their ATM for fee-free access
• Check for partnerships: Some banks participate in surcharge-free networks
• Get cash back: Request cash back at grocery stores or pharmacies to avoid ATM fees entirely

Bank Branches on Nantucket

Nantucket has several full-service bank branches if you need more than just an ATM. Whether you need to deposit a check, wire money, or handle other banking matters, these institutions can help.

Local Banks

• Nantucket Bank: The island's community bank with the most branches and ATMs. Full-service banking with local expertise.
• Cape Cod 5: Regional bank with a Nantucket branch offering personal and business banking services.

National Banks

• Bank of America: Full-service branch on Federal Street with all standard banking services.
• Rockland Trust: Regional bank with a downtown location offering comprehensive banking services.

Typical Bank Hours

Island bank hours may be slightly different from what you are used to on the mainland. Most banks operate on a modified schedule.

• Monday through Thursday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (some locations stay open until 6:00 PM)
• Saturday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (select branches only)
• Sunday: Closed

Summer hours may extend slightly during peak tourist season, but do not count on evening or weekend availability. Plan your banking needs accordingly, especially if you need to speak with a banker in person.

Credit Card Acceptance

The good news for visitors is that Nantucket is very card-friendly. The vast majority of businesses accept major credit and debit cards, making it possible to visit the island with minimal cash.

Where Cards Are Widely Accepted

• Restaurants and bars: All restaurants accept cards, including casual spots and fine dining
• Retail shops: Boutiques, galleries, and souvenir shops all take cards
• Hotels and accommodations: Cards are the preferred payment method
• Transportation: Taxis, Ubers, and rental companies all accept cards
• Tours and activities: Whale watches, fishing charters, and tour companies take cards
• Grocery stores: Stop & Shop and other markets accept all major cards

Cash-Preferred and Cash-Only Spots

While most businesses accept cards, there are a few situations where cash is preferred or required.

• Farmers markets: Some vendors are cash-only, though many now accept Venmo or cards
• Beach vendors: Ice cream trucks and some beach concessions may prefer cash
• Small tips: Cash tips for housekeeping, bellhops, and valet are customary
• Street performers and buskers: Cash only for these talented locals
• Parking meters: Some older meters require coins, though many now accept cards or apps
• Laundromats: Coin-operated machines at self-service laundries

Card Tips for Visitors

• Notify your bank: Let your bank know you are traveling to avoid fraud alerts blocking your card
• Bring a backup card: Having a second card from a different network (Visa and Mastercard) ensures you are never stuck
• Mobile payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are accepted at many businesses
• Contactless payment: Tap-to-pay is widely available and convenient

Tipping Guide for Nantucket

Tipping customs on Nantucket follow standard American practices, though the island's resort atmosphere and premium pricing means that service staff rely heavily on gratuities. Here is a comprehensive guide to who to tip and how much.

Restaurant Tipping

• Sit-down restaurants: 18-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard; 20-25% for exceptional service
• Fine dining: 20% minimum is expected at upscale establishments
• Bartenders: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the bar tab
• Takeout: Tipping is appreciated but not required; 10-15% if you want to show appreciation
• Coffee shops: $1-2 per order or tip jar contribution

Accommodation Tipping

• Housekeeping: $3-5 per night left daily (not just at checkout)
• Bellhops: $2-3 per bag
• Valet: $3-5 when your car is returned
• Concierge: $5-20 depending on the service (restaurant reservations, special requests)
• Room service: 18-20% if gratuity is not already included

Transportation and Services

• Taxi drivers: 15-20% of the fare
• Uber/Lyft: 15-20% through the app
• Tour guides: $10-20 per person for half-day tours; $20-30 for full-day
• Fishing charter captains: 15-20% of the charter cost, split among crew
• Sailing instructors: $20-50 depending on length of lesson
• Spa services: 18-20% of the service cost
• Bike delivery/pickup: $5-10 per delivery

Foreign Exchange

International visitors should be aware that currency exchange options on Nantucket are extremely limited. There are no dedicated currency exchange bureaus on the island.

Options for International Visitors

• Exchange before arrival: Convert your currency to US dollars before traveling to Nantucket. Boston Logan Airport, Hyannis banks, or your home country will offer better rates.
• Bank exchanges: Some Nantucket banks may exchange currency for their customers, but this is not guaranteed and rates may be unfavorable.
• ATM withdrawals: Using your debit card at a Nantucket ATM may be your best option. Check with your bank about international withdrawal fees and exchange rates.
• Credit cards: Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees is often the most economical option for international visitors.

Tips for International Visitors

• Get a no-fee card: Many credit cards now offer no foreign transaction fees
• Notify your bank: Alert your bank to your US travel plans to avoid card blocks
• Carry some USD: Have at least $100-200 in cash upon arrival for immediate expenses
• Know your PIN: US ATMs require a 4-digit PIN; know yours before you arrive

Practical Money Tips

A few additional tips will help ensure you never find yourself in a bind when it comes to money matters on Nantucket.

Before You Arrive

• Bring enough cash: Start your trip with $100-300 in cash for tips, small purchases, and emergencies
• Check your bank app: Download your bank's mobile app to find ATMs, transfer money, and monitor accounts
• Know your daily limits: Be aware of your ATM withdrawal limits, especially if you are paying for rentals or activities in cash
• Set up travel alerts: Notify your bank of your travel dates and destination

While on Island

• Keep cash secure: Use hotel safes for extra cash; do not leave large amounts in rental cars
• Split your money: Keep cash in multiple locations in case of loss or theft
• Save receipts: Especially for large purchases, for expense tracking and potential returns
• Budget for island prices: Everything costs more on Nantucket due to shipping costs; budget 20-30% more than mainland prices

Emergency Situations

• Lost or stolen cards: Know your bank's emergency number to report and replace cards quickly
• Cash emergencies: Western Union services are available through some local businesses
• Wire transfers: Bank branches can arrange wire transfers if needed