Historic Lightship on Nantucket dock. Image credit cdrin via Shutterstock.

Nantucket Island

Nantucket is a small, beautiful island that sits 30 miles south of the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The island forms part of the Town and County of Nantucket, alongside Muskeget Island and Tuckernuck Island. It was formed during the Wisconsin Glaciation, an estimated 19,000 years ago. Nantucket is a popular summer getaway spot and is visited by around 30,000 tourists annually.

Geography of Nantucket

The entrance of Nantucket, Massachusetts. — Entrance of Nantucket Island. Image credit TeBe Photographs via Shutterstock.

Nantucket Island stretches over 48 kilometers, and is around 40 kilometers wide. The Vineyard Sound connects the island to Martha’s Vineyard in the west. Tuckernuck lies to the west of Nantucket, and even further west lies Muskeget. Nantucket was once the whaling capital of the world because of its ideal location, and hundreds of ships departed its shores.

History of Nantucket Island

Early settler Thomas Macy's home is one of many historic houses lining the streets of Nantucket. — Early settler Thomas Macy's home. Image credit Carolyne Parent.

The island was first sighted in 1602, by Bartholomew Gosnold. It was only settled in 1659, however, when Thomas Macy and a group of Quakers established a settlement not far from Capaum. The island once belonged to New York but was eventually transferred to Massachusetts in 1692. Its name was changed from Sherburne to Nantucket in 1695, and from that point on, the island gained a reputation as a major whaling port. Today, the Whaling Museum, which dates to 1847, still holds relics of the times when whales were hunted off the waters of Nantucket.

The island also boasts a less violent claim to fame – the first American woman astronomer was born here in 1818. Maria Mitchell’s house has been converted into a museum as well.

Climate

Beach roses near Nantucket Island lighthouse — Overcast sky over Nantucket Island. Image credit Allan Wood Photography via Shutterstock.

Nantucket is known for its humid, windy summers. When winter rolls around, it gets very cold and even windier. It is partly cloudy throughout the year, and the best time to enjoy the island is between June and September.

Population and Economy

A street sign shows the way on Main St. in Nantucket, MA — Street sign on Main St. Nantucket. Image credit John Santoro via Shutterstock.

There are nearly 9,000 inhabitants on Nantucket, of which 90% are permanent U.S. citizens. Included in the number of citizens is a sizable population of military personnel who served in the Vietnam War.

The economy of Nantucket is sustained by 5,000 employed inhabitants, with the largest industries on the island being construction, health care, and administrative services. On Nantucket, public administration, wholesale trade, and the construction industries offer the highest salaries.

Biggest Attractions in Nantucket

Whaling Museum in Nantucket with tourists outside. — Whaling Museum, Nantucket. Image credit EQRoy via Shutterstock.

Some of the biggest tourist attractions in Nantucket include the Whaling Museum, Brant Point Lighthouse, the Nantucket Atheneum, the Old Mill, and the Jethro Coffin House. In addition to these, there are several more things to do and see on this famous island.

1. Nantucket Beaches

Madaket Beach. Image credit Peter Jackson Photography via Shutterstock. — Madeket Beach, Nantucket. Image credit Peter Jackson Photography via Shutterstock.

There are stunning beaches in Nantucket, and the must-visit ones are Madaket, Ladies Beach, and Miacomet Beach. Individuals may explore the fine sands and wild waters, especially on the north shore. Miacomet, in particular, is a great surfing beach, while Children Beach is more popular among families.

2. Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum

Female diver explores a shipwreck. Image credit Sven Hansche via Shutterstock.

Severe weather along the shores of Nantucket have claimed many ships–their wrecks still dot the ocean floor. The Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum is dedicated to the responders and volunteers who risked their own lives to save the sailors. There are several models of ships to admire as well as family-friendly films to enjoy.

3. Nantucket Atheneum

Nantucket Antheneum - Greek style architecture — Atheneum in Nantucket. Image credit Arthur Greenberg via Shutterstock.

In 1834, Nantucket’s two libraries merged to form the Nantucket Atheneum. The library held over 1,200 books before a fire in 1846 destroyed all but 150 of them. The atheneum was rebuilt and today holds an extensive literary collection that includes books and audio titles.

4. The Dreamland Theater

Nantucket's eclectic range of shops including high end galleries, clothes shops, souvenir stores, a bookshop and a liquor store. — Boutique-lined street in Nantucket. Image credit Mystic Stock Photography via Shutterstock.

After exploring all that nature has to offer in Nantucket, why not take in a movie or two at the aptly named Dreamland Theater? There are showings throughout the year as well as a popup drive-in when the weather is warm. You can also visit the excellent bookstores and charming coffee shops where many mementos and souvenirs can be purchased!

5. Pre-Civil War Architecture

Historic houses in Nantucket. — Historic houses on Nantucket. Image credit Danita Delimont via Shutterstock.

There are more than 800 pre-Civil War homes on Nantucket. They have been restored to retain a quaint look and the effect is simply gorgeous. For those passionate about different styles of architecture or are on the hunt for home decor inspo, Nantucket’s beautiful style is sure to deliver.

Conclusion

Nantucket is reminiscent of old New England and is one of the best places to visit for a relaxed day trip. For stays longer than a day, there are several great accommodation options available. In terms of dining, do not forget to enjoy freshly-prepared seafood by sunset at one of Nantucket’s charming eateries.

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Estelle Thurtle April 8 2023 in Places