Nantucket Island is one of Massachusetts’ greatest prides. Its gorgeous sandy shore, old residences, cliffs and captivating history are just some of the reasons why tourists are drawn to this town and island, located 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod. The island is small, measuring about 14 miles in length and 3.5 miles in width. It has become a favorite destination for American city dwellers who dream of a near yet amazing getaway.
Nantucket Island is a year round destination but it is the busiest during summer. If you desire quieter visit, then aim to travel here during off season. There is abundance of wildlife on the island, so it is not surprising that watching these animals in their natural habitat is a staple activity. You can easily arrange whale and seal watching tours. If you want to stay close to shore, then drop by the Maria Mitchell Aquarium. For a cheap admission fee, you will get to see the different local sea animals represented in this interesting aquarium.
You can reach Nantucket Island by boat or plane. From the mainland of Cape Cod, you can easily take a ferry over to the island. You have the choice to make Nantucket a day trip destination. However, if you do have the time, spend a couple of nights on the island, and you will not regret it. This is because a visit to Nantucket presents plenty of opportunities when it comes to outdoor and leisure activities for the entire family. Here, you can hike, bike, kayak, surf and indulge in various water sports. You can have picturesque cruises on boat charters or go for a satisfying fishing trip.
Aside from being a place of relaxation, the island also offers a variety of excellent dining options. Seafood cuisine is the specialty of many restaurants. It is widely known that a number of Nantucket hotels, lodges and resorts offer top class services. You can pamper yourself with various spa treatments and massages, or enjoy golfing at world-class courses.
A trip to Nantucket is not complete, without spending quality time on its lovely beaches. At the island’s North Atlantic side, you can find some of the best sandy stretches. But the most prominent ones are Children’s Beach and Surfside. These beaches boasts great sand and calm waters, perfect for families with small children. If you’re a fan of rough waves, make your way to Madaket Beach, which is also known for its wonderful sunsets. If you find lighthouses on beaches romantic, drop by Quidnet Beach, which offers beautiful views of the Sankaty Head lighthouse.
Aside from being a gorgeous natural attraction, the entire island is hailed as a National Historic District by the National Park Service because its long and glorious history. Some of the notable historic sites on the island are the First Congregational Church, the African Meeting House, the Nantucket Atheneum (local library), Brant Point Light and the Oldest House. Whaling was an important industry in Nantucket centuries ago. This part of the island’s history is well-depicted at the Whaling Museum found in town. All around the island, you will also find 19th century red brick homes, which were once whalers’ residences.
Put Nantucket Island on your must visit list, you will not be disappointed.
