Once the thriving hub of the world’s largest fishing fleet, Nantucket is now best known for its beautiful historic buildings and immense appeal as a Massachusetts holiday destination. If you’re dreaming of a charming heritage town with chic bars and eateries, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and dazzling seas just off the coast of Cape Cod — look no further. Accommodation options are plentiful, ranging from simple B&Bs to expansive luxury hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Nantucket are clustered close to the harbour, but we do have one more remote favourite, for those in search of seclusion.

The entirety of Nantucket Town is a National Historic Landmark, so it’s fantastic for keen culture buffs to explore on foot. Join a walking tour, visit the Nantucket Whaling Museum, or pop into myriad galleries, boutiques and antique shops. You’ll find a number of gourmet eateries — many specialising in seafood — as well as hip bars in the town centre, too. This is a hugely popular place for trendy travellers from the mainland to come for long weekends, so you can expect a well-heeled crowd.

Beyond the lovely town, you’ll discover pristine landscapes of sand dunes, marshes, meadows and hardwood forests. One third of the island is protected by a conservation foundation, and these habitats are fabulous for bird watching, walking and cycling. Out on the water, you can try sailing, kayaking, whale watching and fishing, whilst the island’s beaches are ideal for lazy days of sunbathing and building sandcastles or enjoying ice cream. Don’t miss the Brant Point Lighthouse, or taking the little ones to the Maria Mitchell Association Aquarium.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, a tranquil couple or a lively group of friends, the best places to stay in Nantucket promise something very special.

The Best Places to Stay in Nantucket

For an Intimate B&B

• Cliff Lodge has a wonderful home-away-from-home feel, with mismatched antique furniture, pastel-hued walls and cosy rugs in 12 guestrooms. The English country garden is charming and the location very relaxing. For a laid-back holiday.
• 76 Main is an intimate B&B choice on Main Street, with modern interiors set within a two hundred year old house. The central courtyard firepit is a natural gathering point in the evenings, and there's a simple onsite café for home baked goods and hot drinks.
• Chapman House has just 11 bedrooms, all of which feature bold pops of blue-green and coral. Each room comes with an iPad for guests to plot their trips, and the feel is fresh, airy and friendly. Kick back on the patio after days of exploring.
• The Veranda House was built in the 1860s, and now has modern rooms set across three levels, with lovely wrap-around porches overlooking the harbour and gardens. A relaxing, 18-room B&B hideaway fusing historic charm and contemporary luxuries.

For Superb Sea Views

• White Elephant sits in a prime seafront location, and is well-suited to couples or families looking to admire striking views, unwind at the onsite spa, feast at the restaurant and enjoy sailing, kayaking and swimming. Expect a chic, old-fashioned New England feel.
• The Wauwinet is a top spot if you're keen to unwind further from town. Boasting a quiet Atlantic Ocean setting, with expansive sea views, a private beach, spa, tennis court and boats, this is a brilliant choice for outdoorsy guests of all ages. A classic seaside hotel in a secluded location.

For Old School Charm

• Jared Coffin House is a red brick building with old-fashioned interiors featuring carved wooden beds, floral wallpaper and impressive rugs. Relax in the library, pick a perch in the private gardens or explore Nantucket Town. For history buffs.
• Anchor Inn dates back to the 18th Century. The house has an elegant feel, with pared-back guestrooms dominated by four poster beds and calm, light shades. Enjoy the library, pretty patio and quiet, laid-back feel. Breakfasts are served in leafy surroundings.
• Seven Sea Street Inn is a quaint property with ceilings of exposed wooden beams, rocking chairs, floral quilts and lace detailing. A charming B&B with lots of character, for those eager to experience historic Nantucket.

For Romance

• Union Street Inn is an award-winning property with a classic Nantucket feel. Think antique four poster beds, blue and white details and a fantastic location. The concierge will work their magic to open doors all over the island. A real treat for couples.
• Life House Nantucket has a hip, mid-century feel, with opulent interiors reflecting the Federal mansion's rich history, as well as top of the range speakers, and indulgent rain showers in grown up bathrooms. Sip drinks on the sunlit terrace or in the gorgeous lounge. For sophisticated couples.
• Greydon House is a sea captain's home turned luxury boutique hotel. A treasure trove of antique furniture, Portuguese tiles and a variety of curiosities, this is a wonderfully romantic choice for holidaying as a couple. The excellent restaurant is the talk of the town and the cocktails are fabulous.

For Families

• The Cottages & Lofts are right on the harbour, ensuring glorious views and easy access to myriad activities out on the water. Multi-room cottages are ideal for families or groups, who will appreciate the living rooms, well-equipped kitchens and private decks. Cool and contemporary.
• Harborview Nantucket offers a collection of beachfront suites, apartments and cottages, with direct access to a large manicured lawn and wonderful sandy beach. Pick this place for a fun family or group trip — cottages have up to four bedrooms — or a relaxed stay as a couple. The sea views are spectacular.
• The Nantucket Hotel has a classic New England feel, with a cedar shingle exterior and soothing, nautically inspired interiors. Featuring two swimming pools, a kids club and terrace dining, this is a fun, friendly family choice. The beach and harbour are a short walk away. Lovely.

For a Playful Boutique Pad

• Faraway promises a whimsical Nantucket escape, with beautifully appointed rooms and suites set around a charming central couryard and garden, in the heart of town. Ideal for fun groups trips or romantic couples' holidays, the hotel has a lively eatery, cocktail bar and terrace for alfresco dining. A gorgeous bolthole for design lovers. The friendly, sociable feel is great for groups of friends.
• 21 Broad is a playfully renovated Victorian hotel in the lively Broad Street neighbourhood, well-suited to couples or friends. A welcoming B&B with a stylish vibe, including nods to the area's nautical past, bold spalshes of colour and local artwork. Kick back by the fire on wintry evenings, or hit the BYOB evening mixer bar on the back deck in the summer. Very lively.
• Hotel Pippa promises a trendy B&B experience, with a sleek, contemporary vibe — think metal four posters and geometric rugs. A funky, adults only choice for couples or friends. The excellent concierge will point you towards all the top spots in town.

For Great Value

• Regatta Inn offers just eight guestrooms in a Federal-style house with a small patio garden. Simple yet chic, the B&B also provides beach chairs, towels and umbrellas for lovely days on the sand. Within easy reach of the town centre and the harbour. Excellent value.
• Brass Lantern Inn is a family-friendly spot in the heart of town. This pretty Greek Revival property houses confortable rooms with soothing green, grey and light blue colour schemes. Cosy up in the library, take complimentary afternoon tea on the patio and head out to explore. The two-bedroom suite is ideal for families and guests of all ages are welcome. Also great value.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Boston's Logan International Airport, and catch a short flight to Nantucket's Memorial Airport from there. Alternatively, journey to Hyannis by road or rail, and take the ferry across to Nantucket Island.
• Massachusetts is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals. Expect very cold winters!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Martha's Vineyard.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Massachusetts.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nantucket