Nantucket Car Rentals

Do You Really Need a Car?

For most visitors, the honest answer is no. Nantucket is only 14 miles long and 3.5 miles wide. The downtown area, where ferries dock and most restaurants, shops, and hotels are located, is entirely walkable. Bikes are the preferred mode of transportation for locals and visitors alike, and the NRTA shuttle system connects town to major beaches and Sconset.

Renting a car adds significant expense and hassle: parking downtown is extremely limited, summer traffic can be frustrating, and you'll spend a surprising amount of time looking for parking spots at popular destinations. Most visitors who rent cars end up wishing they hadn't.

When a Car Makes Sense

That said, there are legitimate reasons to rent a car on Nantucket:

• Families with young kids: If you're traveling with toddlers, car seats, strollers, and beach gear, a car can make logistics much easier
• Mobility limitations: If walking and biking aren't options, a car provides necessary independence
• Staying far from town: If your rental is in Madaket, Sconset, or another outlying area without good shuttle access
• Beach driving plans: If you want to drive on Great Point or Smith's Point beaches, you'll need a 4WD vehicle and permit
• Bad weather days: Rain or cold can make biking unpleasant; a car provides flexibility
• Heavy grocery runs: If you're cooking at a rental house and need to stock up
• Multiple beach trips: If you want to explore different beaches throughout your stay

Rental Companies on Nantucket

Unlike the mainland, rental car options on Nantucket are limited. Here are your main choices:

Types of Vehicles

Standard Cars

Sedans and compact cars are fine for getting around paved roads, running errands, and reaching most destinations on the island. However, they cannot access the over-sand beaches at Great Point or Smith's Point.

Jeeps and 4WD Vehicles

If beach driving is on your agenda, you'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Jeep Wranglers are the island classic. These are required for over-sand driving and give you access to remote beaches that most visitors never see. Note that you'll also need a separate over-sand vehicle permit.

SUVs

A good middle ground for families - more space than a car, and some SUVs with 4WD can handle beach driving. Check with the rental company about beach access capability.

Rental Costs

Be prepared: car rentals on Nantucket are expensive compared to mainland rates. The limited supply and high demand during peak season drive prices up significantly.

• Standard cars: $100-200 per day
• SUVs: $125-225 per day
• Jeeps/4WD: $150-250+ per day
• Peak summer: Add 20-40% to these rates
• Weekly rates: Often better value; ask about discounts

Prices are highest during July and August, Daffodil Festival weekend, and holiday weekends. Off-season rates (October-May) can be significantly lower.

Important Things to Know

Book Well in Advance

This cannot be overstated: if you're visiting during summer, book your rental car months ahead. Inventory is extremely limited, and cars sell out early. July 4th week and August can book up by March or April for popular vehicles like Jeeps.

Gas Stations Are Limited

There are only a few gas stations on the island, mostly near town. Don't let your tank get too low, especially on weekends when lines can form. Most rental cars should be returned with a full tank.

Parking Is a Challenge

Downtown parking is extremely limited. Most streets have 1-2 hour limits, and spots fill up quickly in summer. Plan to walk, bike, or shuttle into town even if you have a rental car. Beach parking is also limited at popular spots.

Beach Driving Permits Are Separate

Having a 4WD vehicle doesn't automatically give you beach access. You need an Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV) permit from the town, currently $180 for the season. Permits sell out, and there are daily limits on how many vehicles can access certain areas. See our Beach Driving Guide for details.

Island Speed Limits

Speed limits on Nantucket are low - typically 25-35 mph - and strictly enforced. The island's narrow roads, bike traffic, and pedestrians warrant careful driving.