Nantucket is surrounded by 110 miles of beaches and offers a variety of charming neighborhoods. Each area has something for everyone’s taste and caters to different lifestyles. When deciding where to rent or own a home on the island, a good starting point is to think about your daily routines and family dynamics.
Are you traveling with young children or only adults? Are your children good swimmers/surfers or do you prefer calmer waters? Will you be bringing a vehicle to the island and don’t mind a few minute car rides? Would you rather trade-in walking to town for more space and privacy and the ability to have your own boat slip?
Here's a breakdown of some Nantucket areas and the lifestyles they may cater to:
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Brant Point, Cliff, Town - These areas are great if you love being in the heart of the action. Being close to town, you can always witness bustling activity, historic cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops. Ideal for those who enjoy the convenience of walking downtown and being part of a vibrant community.
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Cisco, Surfside - Known for their laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities. Perfect for those who enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, biking, and exploring nature. The Cisco Brewery and nearby Bartlett's Farm are popular destinations for locals and visitors.
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Mid - Island - A combination of mostly year-round and some summer residents, this area is a short bike ride away from town. Close to mid-island beaches, local restaurants and amenities.
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Madaket - Situated on the western end of the island, Madaket offers a relaxed vibe and some of the best sunsets on Nantucket! Ideal for beach lovers, with its expansive beaches and great surf waves. Smith’s Point is another favorite for fishing and watching wildlife.
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Monomoy, Shimmo, Shawkemo, Polpis, Wauwinet, Squam, Quidnet - These areas stretching on the northeast side of the island are similar in the way of offering serenity and privacy. Ideal for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, paddleboarding or surfcasting. The serene Polpis or Monomoy harbors are great for boating and yachting enthusiasts.
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Tom Nevers is known for its expansive beaches and peaceful surroundings. This area is perfect for those who appreciate tranquility, privacy and wide-open spaces and enjoy long, uninterrupted beach walks with your dog.
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Sconset is a quaint village on the eastern end of the island known for its rose-covered cottages and stunning ocean views. It is ideal for those seeking a serene atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of town, with easy access to beautiful beaches and scenic walking trails. Chanticleer, Summer House, Claudette’s and the Sconset Café are the dining classics. The Sconset Casino in the old historic district is a private tennis club and a beautiful building to walk by. The Sconset Market is the only convenience store in Sconset village.
Ultimately, the Nantucket neighborhood that best fits your needs will depend on your preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are drawn to the energy of the town, the tranquility of the beaches, or the country charm of some of the island's areas, Nantucket won’t disappoint! The good news is, the island is only 14 miles long and about 3.5 miles wide, so if you like to explore something different, you can drive to a different part of the island in just minutes!
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