This tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod has been my beloved oasis ever since I have lived in the Northeast. There is something about this pristine place that makes me feel at home although I am 2,000 miles away. All the shingle homes are perfectly aligned with adorable widow walks, delicious lobster shacks along the miniature streets, the local shops with surprisingly beautiful jewelry and the fresh sea-to-table cuisine are a few of the things that makes me fall in love with this place over and over again.
1:00pm- Check-in to The White Elephant Hotel or at the White Elephant Cottages and Residences for a more intimate feel. The cottages and residences are the perfect place to stay if you want to feel at home on the island, the location is unbeatable.
If you want something less expensive, try the oldest Inn in Massachusetts, The Jared Coffin House. The interiors have been completely redone turning it into a typical New England charming Inn with modern amenities.
And since I like to save the best for last, The Wauwinet is hands-down my favorite place to stay in while in Nantucket (for our full article, click here). This home-y yet elegant Inn has is 10 minutes away from tall the hussle and bussle, so perfect for a romantic getaway , and a home run if you want to impress your date.
2:00pm- Take a stroll around the quiet, but upbeat, little town of Nantucket. The cobble-stoned streets and quaint mom-n-pop shops will have you swooning in delight.
3:00pm- Take out a Sunfish, or small sail-boat for the non-sailors, and sail around the small harbor of Nantucket.
8:00pm– Dinner at my favorite restaurant, Topper’s. It is located at The Wauwinet Hotel, so if you are not staying there, the 10-minute drive might make you think twice about dining there… well don’t think about it, trust me and just go. The food is self-indulgent and the service is the best in town. Insiders tip: Order the Diver Scallop Ceviche, the Hand Rolled Ricotta Cavatelli and the Butter Poached Lobster.
10:00pm- Grab a drink at Cisco Brewers. Drop in after a long day at the beach for their local wine and flagship microbrew, Whale’s Tale Pale Ale.
10:00am- Breakfast at Black Eyed Susan. Insiders tip: Order the Portuguese scramble eggs, the spicy sausage gives it a nice kick.
11:30am- Rent a bike at Young’s Bicycle Shop, right next to the main port. If you have time and you are up for a beautiful yet challenging ride, bike to Sconset (about 19 miles round trip) and stop by the Wauwinet located along the way, for a cold glass of Rosé.
1:00pm- Have a well deserved lunch at The Nantucket Lobster Trap. It is a traditional and casual shack serving the biggest and most delicious lobsters I have ever had.
2:00pm- Whatever you do, do not miss The Juice Bar. Just around the corner from The Lobster trap, you will find the most famous ice creams parlor in town.
4:00pm- Usually after a big workout and big lunch, my day is practically over (until dinner). If you still have energy left, I suggest you walk around town and do some damage to your card. My favorite jewelry store is called Patina, a few steps away from Black Eyed Susan.
8:00pm– Dinner at the Company of the Cauldron. I don’t feel I am in Nantucket until dine at this superb restaurant. With an unassuming and cozy environment, this true Nantucket restaurant takes local cuisine to a gourmet level. Keep in mind that the menu is a set menu.
10:00pm- Everything tastes better on the beach, including cocktails. Galley Beach is a great bar that spills onto the sand where everyone applauds the sunset.
10:00am-Brunch at Fog Island Cafe. Don’t expect bottomless mimosas, this eatery is more about the coffee and banana pancakes.
11:00am- Explore Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge where you’ll be sure to see deer, shorebirds, and seals playing. There are also 16 miles of sand and trails for the inner-explorer in you.
1:00pm- Grab yourself a sandwich at Something Natural and have a picnic at Brant Point Lighthouse.
3:00pm- Relax at one of Nantucket’s famed beaches! Head to Nobadeer for an exciting party-atmosphere, Children’s Beach if you’e traveling with young children, and Siasconset for a private experience.
8:00pm- Treat yourself to some fine-dining at Figs at 29 Fair by Todd English. The fare is peasant Mediterranean, with a country-side chic interior.
10:00pm- Drink like a local at The Chicken Box. Everyone hits up this fun spot on Saturdays, so don’t be the only one missing out on the party.
10:00am- Have your last breakfast at Boarding House, located on the south end of Nantucket. Insider Tip: Go sweet on pillowy house-made brioche doughnuts and soufflé pancakes, and don’t miss out on the house Bloody Mary.
12:00pm- Rent a fishing pole from the concierge at White Elephant, and head out the docks for a little impromptu fishing.
2:00pm- One last meal at Brant Point Grill overlooking the harbor, lighthouse, and town. You wont find a better view. Insider Tip: Opt for the Nantucket Lunch Box, you get the best of both worlds.
