About Nantucket
Nantucket is an island in Massachusetts, United States, about 30 miles (48 km) south of the Cape Cod peninsula. Together with the small islands of Tuckernuck and Muskeget, it constitutes the Town and County of Nantucket, a combined county/town government. Nantucket is the southeasternmost town in Massachusetts. The name "Nantucket" is adapted from similar Algonquian names for the island.
Places to visit in Nantucket
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Nantucket Whaling Museum
MuseumHoused partly in an old candle factory, the museum tells the story of the island's whaling heyday with a full sperm whale skeleton, scrimshaw collections and a rooftop deck overlooking the harbor.
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Nantucket Town Historic District
HistoricCobblestone Main Street and lanes of gray-shingled captains' houses form one of the best-preserved early American townscapes, ideal for unhurried walking between galleries, shops and cafes.
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Brant Point Light
LandmarkA small white lighthouse at the harbor entrance that greets every arriving ferry; it is an easy walk from town and a favorite spot to watch boats come and go.
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Siasconset
Neighborhood · 7 mi from centreA tiny village on the island's eastern shore known for rose-covered cottages and narrow lanes, reachable by bike path, with the bluff walk offering ocean views beside private gardens.
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Sankaty Head Light
Viewpoint · 7 mi from centreA red and white striped lighthouse perched on a bluff near Siasconset, with dramatic Atlantic views and a striking setting beside rolling golf course greens.
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Jethro Coffin House
HistoricThe oldest house on the island still on its original site, a saltbox dwelling with a massive central chimney that shows how early English settlers lived.
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Great Point Light
Nature · 8 mi from centreAt the far tip of a long sandy spit inside a wildlife refuge, reached by over-sand vehicle or guided tour, where seals, shorebirds and empty beaches surround the lighthouse.
Best time to visit Nantucket
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Nantucket is July to September, when average daytime highs are around 67–71°F and rain falls on about 7 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Nantucket weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 53° 51° 59%
- Thu 22 Oct 56° 53° 59%
- Fri 23 Oct 55° 48° 18%
- Sat 24 Oct 56° 49° 12%
- Sun 25 Oct 57° 53° 3%
- Mon 26 Oct 58° 57° 3%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/New_YorkUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Nantucket
These are the airports closest to central Nantucket. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- ACK Nantucket Memorial Airport2 mi (4 km) from the city centre
Getting around Nantucket
A popular way to see the island is by bicycling on the two-way paved bike paths, which are located alongside every major road on the island. There are several bike shops located in or around town that either sell or rent out bikes to visitors and locals. All bike paths lead into town and out to Madaket, Surfside, Cliff road, and Sconset.
Nantucket travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Nantucket?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Nantucket is July to September, when average daytime highs are around 67–71°F and rain falls on about 7 days a month.
What is the weather like in Nantucket?
July is usually the warmest month in Nantucket, with average highs of 71°F (22°C). February is the coolest, with average lows of 33°F (0°C). The wettest month is typically October, with about 147 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Nantucket?
Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) is the closest airport, about 2 miles (4 km) from the centre of Nantucket.
What time zone is Nantucket in?
Nantucket uses the America/New_York time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Nantucket?
A popular way to see the island is by bicycling on the two-way paved bike paths, which are located alongside every major road on the island. There are several bike shops located in or around town that either sell or rent out bikes to visitors and locals.
What are the best places to visit in Nantucket?
Top sights in Nantucket include Nantucket Whaling Museum, Nantucket Town Historic District, Brant Point Light and Siasconset. Housed partly in an old candle factory, the museum tells the story of the island's whaling heyday with a full sperm whale skeleton, scrimshaw collections and a rooftop deck overlooking the harbor.
