Nantucket, MA, is an island that feels like no other. Its isolated location and picturesque destination spots make for a unique getaway.

Did you know it’s only 30 minutes by ferry from the Wharf in Boston? If you plan your trip to Nantucket accordingly, you can spend a fun day exploring this charming, historic island.

Here are some tips for a fantastic day trip in Nantucket.

What To Know Before Planning A Day Trip To Nantucket

Cost: Nantucket can be expensive when many people visit in the summer. To take advantage of the traffic, most business entities surge their prices. So, knowing when to make your trip is vital.

Parking: If you are planning to drive on the island, we suggest finding parking in advance. There is limited parking on the island, but you can park your car at the Wharf and take the ferry.

Weather: It is partially cloudy all year round, with warm, humid, and windy summers and cold, wet, and severely windy winters. The average yearly temperature varies from 26 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and rarely falls below 14 or go above 81.

Activities for kids: Kids will love the beautiful beaches and the charming downtown area with shops and restaurants. They can also visit museums and other attractions geared toward children.

When to go: Nantucket is lovely year-round, but there are crowds during the summer. If you want to make the best of your trip, go during the off-season months of March, April, September, and October. The island is less packed, and the charges are more reasonable.

Where To Explore

There are many places you can go in Nantucket, including:

• The Cobblestone Streets

Exploring the historic downtown area is a must-do during any trip to Nantucket. It’s an eclectic and charming place that feels old-fashioned and quaint. You can trek up and down the neighborhood and admire the old buildings. You can also visit the many stores or halt at a cafe for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

• The Beaches

Nantucket’s beaches are its main attraction during summer. While most beaches in the US are crowded and chaotic, Nantucket’s beaches are much more serene and peaceful.

• The Wharf Area

The area is lively and has plenty of restaurants, shops, and other attractions. You can walk along the pier and watch the boats come in and out of the harbor. You can also tour the port in a boat or take an excursion to a nearby island.

• The Museums

There are several museums on Nantucket that are worth visiting. We suggest visiting the Nantucket Whaling Museum, the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum, and the Maria Mitchell Association.

• The Shops And Boutiques

Like most New England towns, the shops on Nantucket are quaint, unique, and full of treasures. You can find various things such as clothing, books, gifts, and souvenirs.

• The Cemeteries

If you’re interested in history, you can stroll through the Prospect Hill Cemetery and learn more about the people who have been on Nantucket for generations.

Where To Eat

As you walk around the charming cobblestone streets of downtown Nantucket, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes. You can head to the Wharf if you want to eat traditional New England seafood and more upscale food.

If you wish for more off-the-beaten-path places to eat, you can explore the side streets away from the main boulevard. You’ll find plenty of well-hidden gems that not only offer delicious meals but are also budget-friendly.

Last Minute Tips

If you’re planning to visit Nantucket during the summer, rent a vacation home near Wharf. It’s near the harbor and other major attractions and activities in this area.

The Steamship Authority has an auto ferry that travels roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes from Hyannis to Nantucket harbor. However, prepare to pay an eye-popping $400 R/T, excluding passenger fees, to get your car to the island.

Plan Your Perfect Weekend Getaway Today!

Oh, and one more thing. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars because there are so many worthy places to explore on Nantucket. The island is full of hidden areas worth touring.

We hope our guide to the perfect day trip to Nantucket was helpful. Nantucket is a unique and wonderful place to visit, and we hope you can make it there soon!