As a little girl, my family and I spent countless summers soaking in the sun and sand during long beach days on Nantucket Island. We'd wake up early to catch the first ferry and leave the real world behind. Some of my fondest memories are of fishing with my dad and trying to lure turtles with chicken thighs in the pond. 

Since then, I've shared this special place with friends and family, and my husband has fallen in love with the island, too. Over the years, some places have changed, but the essence of Nantucket remains the same. Here are 10 highlights to check out on your next visit (with more to come in a part 2!):

Restaurants & Food Spots

1. The Juice Bar – The line is totally worth it! Indulge in a freshly made waffle cone and savor some of the best ice cream on the island. It’s a staple for our family every time we visit.

2. Brotherhood of Thieves – This historic pub is perfect for group gatherings, offering a cozy atmosphere with delicious food and drinks. We love hanging out downstairs in the pub or relaxing on the patio.

3. Cisco Brewers – This iconic spot is a must for craft beer lovers. Hop on the shuttle from town or drive over to enjoy live music, food trucks, and a vibrant atmosphere.

4. Bartlett’s Farm – Need the perfect beach snack? Grab fresh, homemade sandwiches, dips, spreads, and more from the farm. Plus, stock up on fresh produce, wine, beer, and garden supplies.

5. Claudette’s Sandwich Shop – If you’re staying in ‘Sconset, Claudette’s is a must for quick and delicious breakfast and lunches. Don’t forget to grab one of their  cookies – so good!

6. Kitty Murtagh’s – For a classic, Irish meal, head to Kitty Murtagh’s. Play a round of pool and unwind with a cold beer in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

7. Millie’s – As soon as we step off the ferry, we head straight to Millie’s for tacos and margaritas. It’s the perfect place to kick off any Nantucket adventure.

Things to Do

8. Visit the Lighthouses – Nantucket’s iconic lighthouses are a photographer’s dream. Spend some time exploring and capturing these historic coastal landmarks. In order to visit Great Point, you'll need to rent a 4WD vehicle or grab a permit for your own and make the scenic drive out to Great Point. Don't forget to air down your tires! It’s the perfect escape for fishing, beachcombing, and soaking in the natural beauty away from the crowds.

    

    

9. Loines Observatory – Experience the magic of stargazing at the Loines Observatory. There’s nothing quite like seeing shooting stars over the ocean – it’s truly breathtaking.

10. Soak in the sun at the beach or in town – Looking for a way to unwind? Check out the fantastic shopping in town or visit Nantucket's beautiful beaches. We all have our favorites and depending on your needs, your best choice will vary.

Whether it’s your first time visiting Nantucket or you’re a longtime fan, these 10 spots are some of our favorites we make sure to never miss. Stay tuned for more coming soon!