General Safety

Nantucket enjoys an exceptionally low crime rate, making it one of the safest vacation spots you'll find. The island's year-round population of about 14,000 residents creates a close community where everyone looks out for one another.

  • Very low crime rate: Nantucket consistently ranks among the safest communities in Massachusetts. Violent crime is extremely rare, and property crime is well below national averages.
  • Safe to walk at night: Downtown Nantucket and most residential areas are safe for evening strolls. Streets are well-lit in town, and locals regularly walk after dark.
  • Lock valuables in your car or rental: While theft is uncommon, it's still wise to secure valuables out of sight, especially during busy summer months when the island population swells.
  • Secure your accommodations: Lock doors and windows when leaving your rental or hotel room, particularly in shared accommodations.
  • Watch your belongings at the beach: Don't leave valuables unattended on the beach. Bring only what you need and consider a waterproof pouch for essentials.

Beach Safety

Nantucket's beaches are stunning, but ocean swimming requires respect for the water. Understanding conditions and knowing your limits will keep your beach days safe and fun.

  • Rip currents are possible: Rip currents can occur at any beach, particularly on the south shore (Surfside, Cisco, Madaket). If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until free, then swim back at an angle.
  • Most beaches have no lifeguards: Only a few beaches (like Jetties and Children's Beach) have seasonal lifeguards. Swim at your own risk at unguarded beaches and never swim alone.
  • Check conditions before swimming: Look for posted flags and signs. Ask locals about current conditions, and observe the water before entering.
  • Sharks - rare but be aware: Great white sharks have been spotted in waters around Nantucket, particularly near seal colonies. While attacks are extremely rare, avoid swimming near seals, in murky water, or at dawn/dusk. Heed any shark warnings.
  • Watch for drop-offs: Some beaches have sudden depth changes. Enter the water gradually, especially with children.
  • Respect wave conditions: South shore beaches can have significant surf. Don't overestimate your swimming abilities in rough conditions.

Biking Safety

Biking is one of the best ways to explore Nantucket, but the mix of bikes, cars, and pedestrians requires attention. Follow these guidelines for safe cycling.

  • Helmet recommended: While not legally required for adults, wearing a helmet is strongly advised. Many rental shops include helmets with bike rentals.
  • Watch for cars on roads: Share the road carefully, especially on routes without dedicated bike paths. Cars may not always see you, particularly at intersections.
  • Bike paths are safer: Nantucket has excellent paved bike paths to Surfside, Madaket, Sconset, and other destinations. Use these whenever possible instead of riding on roads.
  • Lights required at night: Massachusetts law requires a front white light and rear red reflector when cycling after dark. Many rental bikes come equipped with lights.
  • Watch for pedestrians: Bike paths are shared with walkers and joggers. Call out or use a bell when passing, and keep speeds reasonable.
  • Cobblestones downtown: The historic cobblestone streets in downtown Nantucket can be tricky on a bike. Walk your bike on cobblestones or ride slowly and carefully.
  • Secure your bike: Use a lock when parking your bike, even briefly. Bike theft does occur during peak season.

Sun and Heat Safety

Nantucket's coastal location means strong sun exposure, especially during summer months. Protecting yourself from the sun and heat is essential for an enjoyable visit.

  • Strong sun - wear sunscreen: The sun reflecting off sand and water intensifies UV exposure. Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water to the beach and on bike rides. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially when you're having fun in the sun.
  • Take breaks from the heat: Seek shade during peak sun hours (10am-4pm). Take lunch breaks indoors or under an umbrella.
  • Wear protective clothing: Consider rash guards for extended water activities, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses.
  • Watch for heat exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and dizziness. Move to a cool area, hydrate, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen: Help protect Nantucket's marine ecosystem by choosing sunscreens without oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Tick Awareness

Ticks are present on Nantucket, particularly in grassy and wooded areas. Taking precautions against tick bites is important for preventing Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.

  • Ticks present in grassy areas: Deer ticks (the type that can carry Lyme disease) thrive in tall grass, brush, and wooded areas. They're most active from April through October.
  • Check yourself after hiking: Perform a full-body tick check after spending time outdoors, especially in moors, nature trails, and conservation areas. Check children and pets too.
  • Lyme disease precautions: Wear long pants tucked into socks when hiking through tall grass. Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
  • Shower after outdoor activities: Showering within two hours of being outdoors can help wash off unattached ticks and provides an opportunity to do a tick check.
  • Know proper tick removal: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward with steady pressure. Clean the area and your hands afterward.
  • Watch for symptoms: If you develop a rash (especially a "bull's-eye" pattern), fever, fatigue, or joint pain within weeks of a tick bite, seek medical attention promptly.

Most Important Safety Tips

  • Never swim alone at unguarded beaches
  • Apply sunscreen every two hours and stay hydrated
  • Wear a helmet when biking and use bike paths when possible
  • Check for ticks after hiking or spending time in grassy areas
  • Know the signs of rip currents and how to escape them
  • Keep valuables secured and out of sight
  • Save emergency numbers in your phone before your trip
  • Tell someone your plans when exploring remote areas