Things to Do In Nantucket

At the northern point of Nantucket, the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge is a pristine environment with over 390 acres of barrier island and beach that shelter Nantucket Harbor from the Sound. Explore this ruggedly beautiful coastal habitat with rolling dunes, cedar trees, a maritime oak forest, and the best beaches in Nantucket. Enjoy surf-fishing, hiking, touring the Great Point Lighthouse, and riding 16 miles of trails in a four-wheel drive vehicle. See deer, raptors, shorebirds, and harbor seals in this protected habitat. Take the three-hour 4x4 oversand tour for a Nantucket adventure.

Located at the northernmost point of Nantucket Island, within the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve, is the most powerful light in New England. Called the Nantucket Lighthouse, this 60-foot replica of the original 1816 tower at Great Point helps mariners navigate as it flashes every five seconds. You can access the lighthouse by walking along the 7-mile stretch of beach or by four-wheel-drive vehicle across the sand.

The Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum preserves the memory of Islanders who risked their lives to save shipwrecked mariners. The museum features permanent and rotating exhibitions devoted to the history of Nantucket lifesaving and famous shipwrecks and rescues. See over 5,000 artifacts, period surfboats, beach carts, vintage photographs, and a Fresnel lens from Brant Point Lighthouse and Great Point Lighthouse. Explore the scenic grounds at the edge of Folger's Marsh with one of the best natural views on the Island.

The Whaling Museum features permanent and rotating exhibitions in 9 history-rich galleries. Discover more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts, and treasures that tell fascinating stories of Nantucket and its whaling history over four centuries. See a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton found on Nantucket, and a massive Fresnel lens from the original Sankaty Head Lighthouse. Enjoy daily tours and programs, play in the Discovery Center, and enjoy stunning views of Nantucket Harbor from Tucker's Roofwalk.

Founded by the first woman astronomer, the Maria Mitchell Observatory near downtown Nantucket features three domed telescopes and a research center engaged in finding ways to understand and explore the universe. Astronomers at the observatory study a range of astronomical objects, including planets, stars, galaxies, interstellar clouds, and the expanding universe. The observatory offers guided tours, public education and research programs, and summer internships for undergraduate students in astronomy and astrophysics.

The best way to explore the island of Nantucket is by bike. This island offers 30 miles of scenic bike trails surrounded by long white beaches, untouched nature, historic lighthouses, and charming architecture. Ride along the southern shore on the Surfside Road Bicycle Path to Surfside Beach. . The Wauwinet offers complimentary bicycles so you can roam the bike paths and trails and soak up the island lifestyle.

• Take the Polpis Road Path to Sankaty Lighthouse.
• Head to the west side on the Madaket Road Bicycle Path to the beach for a spectacular sunset.
• Day trip on the ‘Sconset Bike Path to the charming village of Siasconset beautiful gardens and outstanding ocean views.

Nantucket boasts 82 miles of beautiful and pristine shoreline dotted with gorgeous sandy beaches. Whether you want to spend the day bodysurfing or crave a peaceful day of sand and surf, you'll find the perfect beach on this beautiful island. The Wauwinet features two private beaches on the Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Bay and we are within steps of the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge beaches.

For gentle surf, head to north shore beaches on the Nantucket Sound and Harbor like Jetties, Steps Beach, Dionis, and Brant Point Beach, which offers gorgeous views and a picturesque lighthouse. Discover the shimmering beaches of the south shore including Madequecham, Surfside Beach, Nobadeer, Cisco and Great Point, where you can swim and surf in the Atlantic Ocean.

With its historic coastal charm and low-key island vibe, Nantucket has its own style. The island is dotted with wonderful local shops, antique houses, art galleries, home décor and jewelry stores, and high-end fashion boutiques. Stroll down Main Street and the cobblestone streets of the downtown Nantucket Historic District to experience the island's best shopping surrounded by beautiful architecture and ocean views. Pick up a Nantucket Lightship Basket in town or browse our Gift Shop at The Wauwinet for that perfect memento.

Wander through the Nantucket Historic Districts that encompass the whole island, including the historic downtown core and the quaint village of Siasconset. Throughout the island, you will see beautiful architecture, stunning cottages and homes, historic landmarks, and picturesque lighthouses. Check out the Old Mill, a historic 50-foot-high windmill on Prospect Street. Built in 1746, it is the oldest functioning mill in the country. Explore Nantucket's essential historic sites, including Brant Point Lighthouse, Jethro Coffin House and Kitchen Garden, and The Wauwinet.