Water Activities
Make the most of Nantucket's Atlantic waters and harbors
Surfing
Ride the waves at Cisco Beach and other surf spots. Learn about conditions, lessons, and gear rentals for all skill levels.
Explore surfing guide →Sailing & Boating
Charter a sailboat, rent a kayak, or join a sunset cruise. Discover the best ways to explore Nantucket by water.
Explore sailing guide →Fishing Charters
Book a deep-sea fishing adventure or try your luck surf casting. Striped bass, bluefish, and more await.
Explore fishing guide →Whale Watching
Witness humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life on guided excursions to Stellwagen Bank.
Explore whale watching →Land Activities
Explore Nantucket's natural beauty and outdoor recreation
Hiking & Nature Trails
Discover miles of conservation trails through moors, forests, and coastal paths. Perfect for birding and wildlife viewing.
Explore hiking guide →Golf & Tennis
Play at scenic island courses and courts. From the public Miacomet Golf Course to private club options.
Explore golf & tennis →Cisco Brewers
Visit Nantucket's famous brewery, winery, and distillery compound. Live music, craft drinks, and island vibes.
Explore Cisco Brewers →Tennis
Public courts, private clubs, and lessons for all skill levels on the island.
Explore tennis →Birdwatching
Nantucket is a birder's paradise with diverse habitats, migratory species, and protected conservation areas.
Explore birdwatching →Stargazing
Dark skies and minimal light pollution make Nantucket one of the best stargazing spots on the East Coast.
Explore stargazing →Photography Guide
The best locations, golden hour timing, and tips for capturing stunning island photos.
Explore photo spots →Ice Skating
Skate year-round at the Nantucket Ice Community Rink. Public skating, hockey, figure skating, curling, and family programs.
Explore ice skating →Culture & History
Immerse yourself in Nantucket's rich heritage and arts scene
Museums & Culture
Explore the Whaling Museum, Nantucket Historical Association sites, and local art galleries.
Explore museums →Historical Tours
Walk through centuries of history with guided tours of downtown, historic homes, and the African Meeting House.
Explore history tours →Lighthouses
Visit Brant Point, Sankaty Head, and Great Point lighthouses. Learn their stories and capture stunning photos.
Explore lighthouses →Nantucket on Screen
Discover how the island became a TV icon through Wings and other pop culture appearances.
Explore pop culture →African American History
Discover the African Meeting House, the island's Black heritage, and the powerful history of Nantucket's diverse community.
Explore heritage →Maritime History
Dive deep into Nantucket's seafaring legacy, from the whaling era to the island's role in American maritime history.
Explore maritime history →Architecture Tours
Explore Nantucket's remarkable historic buildings, from grand whaling captains' homes to iconic shingled cottages.
Explore architecture →Literary Nantucket
Writers, books, and stories set on the island - from Moby-Dick to modern bestsellers inspired by Nantucket.
Explore literary history →Shopping & Wellness
Indulge in retail therapy and island relaxation
Shopping
Browse boutiques on Main Street, find Nantucket lightship baskets, and discover unique island treasures.
Explore shopping guide →Spas & Wellness
Unwind with massage, yoga, and wellness treatments. Find your zen at Nantucket's top spas and studios.
Explore spas & wellness →Yoga & Wellness Retreats
Studios, outdoor classes, and wellness retreats for mind-body balance during your island stay.
Explore yoga →Family Fun
Activities and adventures the whole family will love
Planning Your Activities
Nantucket packs a surprising amount of activities into its 14-mile length. Most attractions are concentrated in and around town, making them easily accessible by foot, bike, or the seasonal NRTA shuttle buses. For beaches and more remote locations like Great Point Lighthouse, you'll want to arrange transportation in advance.
Peak season (June through August) brings the most options but also the biggest crowds. Many water activities and tours operate only during summer months, while museums and indoor attractions are available year-round. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer pleasant weather with fewer visitors.
Getting Around
- Rent bikes from town shops - the island is very bike-friendly
- Use the NRTA Wave shuttle buses for beach access
- Book 4x4 tours for Great Point and remote beaches
- Many downtown attractions are walkable from the ferry
- Consider a moped rental for exploring farther areas