An idyllic setting for your post-wedding vacation is closer than you think. A Nantucket honeymoon boasts New England aesthetics, the best beaches, and a fantastic culinary experience with a spotlight on seafood.
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Is Nantucket a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Nantucket is for newlyweds who wish to enjoy an island-style vacation without leaving the US. From cobblestone streets that witnessed the island’s historical past to white-sand beaches where you can soak up the sun — it has all the ideal elements of a unique romantic getaway. Nantucket also has a great dining scene and lively nightlife, making it one of the best honeymoon destinations for US couples.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon on Nantucket?
Nantucket is only 14 miles long, but it doesn’t mean you and your new spouse won’t have many things to do. Here are some activities to fill your itinerary:
- Swim or kayak on pristine beaches. The island has beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing. If you want more ways to enjoy the waters, try kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or kitesurfing.
- Explore the Whaling Museum. Nantucket was once the whaling capital of the world. In this museum, you’ll learn about it and the island’s history, which spans over four centuries.
- Visit Cisco Brewery. While the main attraction here is a tour of the distillery and brewery, you can unwind in any of its bars and treat yourself to good live music.
- Shop around and enjoy the great nightlife. During the day, you can stroll around the island and shop at the independent and cosmopolitan boutiques in the area. Head to Downtown Nantucket at night to enjoy the island’s vibrant night scene with your significant other.
- Indulge in their culinary scene. Straight Wharf, Cru, and Galley Beach Restaurant are prominent restaurants where you can taste the best seafood. Apart from dishes that spotlight creatures from the sea, Nantucket also boasts a colorful ice cream scene, with Juice Bar, Stars, and Jack + Charlie’s as the most sought-after shops.
- Attend the Daffodil Festival. If you’re visiting Nantucket in April, this festival is a must. Apart from tours and parades, you’ll enjoy attending art shows, exhibitions, and the crowd-favorite Nantucket Daffodil Flower Show.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Nantucket?
Nantucket offers the best weather during the summer, from June to August. However, it’s also the island’s high season. Consider visiting during the off-season in late August and September.
Is a Honeymoon on Nantucket Expensive?
A Nantucket honeymoon costs about $4,500 per couple, but it can quickly go up to $6,000+ if you want a high-end experience.
How To Plan a Budget Nantucket Honeymoon
- Visit the island during the abovementioned off-season. Apart from deflated prices, you will enjoy a thinner crowd.
- Stay at guest houses. They have various amenities (e.g., pools, hot tubs) and are close to shops, dining hubs, and other tourist attractions.
- Explore free and low-budget recreational spots and events. Many museums and botanical gardens offer free or budget-friendly admission.
- Dine at affordable restaurants and take advantage of included meals or kitchens in your accommodation.
5 Best Areas to Stay On Nantucket Island
Siasconset
Locally known as Sconset, this fishing village is tucked on Nantucket’s eastern side. Since the 1700s, it’s been known as a vacation destination.
Head to Sconset Beach for seal watching and stroll along the Sconset Bluff Walk until you reach the 1850-built Sankaty Head Lighthouse. Complement your sweet escape with ice cream at the Sconset Market.
Downtown
The vibrant downtown attracts crowds of tourists for many great reasons. It has stellar restaurants, wide-ranging shops, and the aforementioned Whaling Museum.
It’s also where you can wander around and travel back in time as your traverse its cobblestone streets. When you’re here, also visit the historic Brant Point Lighthouse.
Madaket
The western side of Nantucket offers this area famed for sandy Atlantic beaches. Since it’s near downtown, you and your spouse will have easy and quick access to major tourist attractions.
It also has beach walks and bike paths where you can leisurely spend your time. Come sunset, Madaket will also give you picture-perfect views and an ideal background for a casual honeymoon photoshoot.
Surfside
Nantucket’s southern top is the best place for surfing, hence the name Surfside. Think of it like Madaket: It has powdery beaches with stronger and bigger waves.
Apart from the beaches, visit the Nantucket Ice Community Rink for some fun and laughter in a different setting.
Tom Nevers
Adventure-loving couples will have the time of their life at Tom Nevers. You can swim, sunbathe, kite surf, and surf. If you want to get closer to wildlife, visit the Serengeti Nantucket Nature Preserve.
Each lot in this area is 3 acres minimum, making this area feel spacious. It’s also home to the Nantucket Harvest Fair, a landmark event that combines the Nantucket Island Fair and Cranberry Festival.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Nantucket?
The most convenient way to go to Nantucket is to fly into Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK). You can take a ferry from closer locations, like Hyannis, Boston, and Martha’s Vineyards.
Traveling Within Nantucket
Once on the island, you can ride the public transit shuttle to multiple destinations. This is a cheaper choice than hailing taxis. Auto rentals are also available. You can rent a bike if you want to exercise while exploring Nantucket.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available on Nantucket Island?
There are many honeymoon accommodation options for those visiting Nantucket. The Wauwinet or the elegant Nantucket Harbor are great options if you want an adults-only Nantucket hotel. There are many other luxury accommodations, such as White Elephant.
You can also book your stay at cottage rentals (Harborview offers posh cottages for rent), boutique hotels, and guest houses.
What Type of Food Should You Try on Nantucket?
A romantic getaway to Nantucket Island won’t be as great if you don’t try their world-class seafood dishes. Here are a few must-try dishes:
- Grilled lobster fettuccine. Lobster is a star ingredient in many Nantucket recipes, including the famous lobster rolls and this pasta dish. This dish, in particular, uses grilled lobster, which offers a more pronounced meat flavor.
- Quahog chowder. Quahog in New England refers to hard-shell clams. This rich and thick soup makes excellent use of these clams.
- Nantucket bouillabaisse. This is the island’s take on the classic French fish soup.
What to Pack For a Nantucket Honeymoon
You should pack sun dresses and button-down shirts to blend with Nantucket’s semi-casual vibes. Also, don’t forget to bring something slightly more formal for dinner and nighttime activities. Bring a light scarf or layers, as the evening weather is cooler.
Don’t forget swimwear, coverups, water shoes, and sun-protection gear (e.g., sunscreen, hats, sunglasses).
Is Nantucket Safe to Visit?
A Nantucket honeymoon takes couples to a beautiful and safe destination. However, there are still certain precautions that you must exercise.
- Only swim in guarded areas. When on a boat, always wear a life jacket.
- After an outdoor adventure, always check your body for ticks.
- If you’re riding a bike, always keep to the right. Beware of traffic conditions.