For decades, the charming neighborhood of Sconset on Nantucket Island has been catching the attention of avid and casual vacationers from far and wide, thanks to its dreamy photos. Blossoming pink roses usually cover this tiny town’s magnificent shingled houses and fences in summer. The fresh smell of the blooming roses and the cool breeze from the Atlantic make Sconset feel like a scene from a fairy tale.
You can be sure that almost every breathtaking photo you have seen of Nantucket shows Sconset Village. If you plan a vacation trip to this picturesque neighborhood, here are recommendations to help you have the most fabulous time. Remember to bring your family, friends, or loved ones on this trip to share the time of your lives and make memories.
Where to Stay
You should be ready to stay more than a few days in Sconset to explore its incredibleness fully. There is a lot to do, and you will need a place to stay when you are here. At Sconset, the most desirable accommodations can be found in the many fairytale-like houses up for rent. You can rent one of the many tranquil homes for as long as you wish.
The rent price for each home will depend on its amenities and the number of people it can host. Most homes for rent in the area can host between 5 and 16 people. Renting a Sconset home is the best way to experience what everyday life for residents is like.
Where to Eat
There are several fantastic restaurants you can try out in this scenic village. The Chanticleer on 9 New Street stands out for its romantic atmosphere and eclectic take on American, French, and international cuisines. You can also enjoy vegan, vegetarian-friendly, and gluten-free diet options here.
If you want a quick bite for breakfast or lunch while exploring Sconset, make sure you pop into Claudette’s Sandwich Shop on 10 Main Street. This uber-casual restaurant specializes in American cuisine with vegan and vegetarian-friendly diet options. You can take your meal on the outside picnic tables while watching the happenings of this mesmerizing village.
For a more exotic experience, check in to The Summer House Beachside Bistro on 16 Ocean Avenue to enjoy beachside meals and beverages. This restaurant serves American and seafood cuisine and is an excellent place for dinner thanks to its cherry mood and casual elegance, fueled by the nightly music from the grand piano.
If you want to make some of your meals at home, head to Sconset Market on 4 Main Street for grocery shopping. While here, try one of the legendary bakery treats or ice cream offerings.
Where to Shop
Although this town is tiny, shopping here can be a blast. The best shopping location for fashion and apparel is CJ Liang on 10 Main Street. This chic boutique offers a broad collection of caftans in envelope-pushing styles. Try to get the signature CJ Liang ikat coat, made of fine cotton silk, in your favorite color.
Pop into the Sconset Liquor Store, two doors down, for some more shopping. Many shoppers consider this establishment one of the cutest liquor stores in the country. You will find not only liquor but also cozy knit sweaters, memorabilia, chic barware, beach blankets, straw bags, and a lot more.
What to Do
If you want to do the most in Sconset during your vacation, consider hiring a bicycle from one of the five bicycle rental shops to get to most destinations much faster. Follow road rules and stay on designated bike paths as much as possible. Always pack a lunch and water before leaving your rental home.
Start by visiting the expansive Sconset Beach to enjoy the unbeatable scenery. Go down Elbow Lane and across the rustic bridge to get to the beach. The massive beach is perfect for playing wiffle ball, hacky sack, frisbee, and other games. You can also enjoy boogie boarding and bodysurfing or relax and have lunch on the beach, as this is a prime picnic location.
As you have fun on the beach, remember to wear sunscreen and stay safe. Because of the frequent, powerful waves, this beach is not suitable for children to swim.
If you feel like stretching your legs, you can stroll on the Sconset Bluff Walk, which begins in town at Front Street and ends near the famous Sankaty Head Lighthouse. This walk cuts in front of people’s lawns, and it’s the best way to get a close view of the outstanding combination of gorgeous shingled homes, superb pink climbing roses, stunning blue hydrangeas, and vast ocean views that make Sconset a marvel of nature.
While on this walk, go up to Sankaty Head Lighthouse to experience Sconset through time. The lighthouse was built with distinctive bricks in 1850 and sits 90 feet above sea level on a bluff. Altar Rock is another historic walking area in this tiny, scenic town. The walk here is mainly on flat ground, and you will enjoy a stellar panoramic view of the region.
A stroll to the nearby Milestone Bog will allow you to experience the unique natural ecosystem of Sconset and the shorebirds that call it home. Besides having dinner in restaurants, you can spend some time and catch a movie at the historic Sconset Casino.