Nantucket is a small island in Cape Cod that is removed from the rest of the city, and is widely known to be an off-beat summer holiday destination. The population of this place is relatively small as well and ranges to around ten thousand people.
However, with the onset of tourists during summers the population of the place multiplies by five times. The splendid beaches and gorgeous houses in Nantucket are the eye-catcher. People travel for miles in summer to witness its beauty. This place is also well-known for its breathtaking art and an array of food joints which serves different types of cuisines.
This place is frequently visited by the big socialites since it has got a huge number of things that are worth splurging on. Even if you are a lazy soul, you can sleep in throughout the day in the boutique hotels or laze around by the beach while you enjoy a sumptuous brunch with a view.
Here is a list of things that you must enjoy if you are planning your next summer vacation to Nantucket:
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Spend quality time by the beaches
The fine sand beaches in Nantucket contribute to the glory of the place. The beaches that are located in the Northern shore have comparatively lesser surf and waves.
However, when the northerly winds, known as the Nantucket Sound, hits the Northern shore, an immediate effect is seen in the weather as it produces humongous waves while the beaches located in the South shore become quiet, for a change. Offering one of the best sunsets that is appreciated by people all around the world, it makes a favorite activity for the tourists to be by the beach.
The beaches also offer cruises which often offer some light snacks and offer a beautiful tour of the scenic beauty of this island.
Bikes are available on rental to explore the island
Take all the time to explore and admire the beautiful architecture of this small island by renting a bike. There are several companies within this island which offer bike rental services. The beautiful bikes come with a basket attached where you can easily carry your bag of beach essentials and other necessities.
The island has a separate paved path for the bikers, which run parallel to the streets. Stay as long as you want in a particular place, there is no rush, but be sure to explore the wetlands as well as the dunes of Nantucket.
Whaling Museum
One of the main attractions of this place is the Nantucket Whaling Museum where a candle factory has been fully restored. This museum is run by the Nantucket Historical Association.
The museum is an abode to a whale skeleton which is over 46 feet long which has been attracting a lot of footfalls to the museum. There are over a thousand artworks and artifacts in this place and it is available on display for the tourists.
The museum also hosts exhibitions on a rotational basis in the 9 premium art galleries. This museum offers to the tourists the fascinating story of the island over four centuries and opens a window to the past.
Observe the architectural beauty
This small island is appreciated by the tourists because of its architectural planning. The homes in this place have been carefully constructed by the developers who had the motive of creating a controlled town. Therefore, many of the ancient homes in this town provide the same look and vibes.
This place houses more than 800 houses that had been constructed before the civil war and had been restored thereafter. The cozy cottages and Federal houses are spread across the island.
Explore Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum
The extremities of the weather led to a havoc where many lives were lost in the Nantucket Island to shipwrecks. This museum pays homage to those brave souls who risked their own lives to save the lives of the mariners. The hallways in this museum are decorated with attractive paintings which bring out the severity of the sea, its dangerous tides and models of several ships which now find their place in the ocean floor, have been constructed. This museum also hosts a number of programs which are family-friendly.
The Old Mill is steeped in history
The Old Mill had been constructed around 1700’s and is the only surviving mill which has weathered the test of time to stand tall in Nantucket. This mill had been in working condition till the 1800s after which it has been carefully restored and it now forms a part of the Nantucket Historical Association. You can take a self-guided tour around the Old Mill or combine it with other historical site visits like Greater Light and Old Gaol.
Go for a booze-tasting session at Cisco Brewers
Cisco Brewers offers daily tours for visitors who get to see the laborious process of making wine, beer or other kinds of spirits. The tour also offers a special insight into the local specialties of the area. This is the kind of place where you will be able to enjoy a low-key evening with your friends and family without burning a hole in your pocket.
Children’s Beach is a must-visit place if you are on a family vacation
This place has earned its name as the summer paradise for children. This beach is around two minutes walking distance from Elephant Beach and offers a lot of activities that you can enjoy with your family.
This place also features a playground where you can have a good feast with your family. Special arrangements are available for picnics at the Northern side of the Steamboat wharf. Being a complete family-friendly place, you can go for a swim or a gentle stroll with your kids.
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Conclusion
Whether you are an adventurous person or a calm, relaxed and lazed out person, Nantucket will have something or the other in store for you. With the picturesque settings of the town, you are sure to thoroughly enjoy your stay on this beautiful island.