Travel Snapshot: Nantucket — A Year-Round Magical Escape

Known for its coastal beauty and historic charm, Nantucket is more than a popular summer tourist destination.

Here, a year-round Nantucket insider shares some of the best places to stay, eat, shop, beach and visit on the storied New England island.

Why Nantucket Is Magical All Year

Nantucket is truly a special place — full of natural beauty, great food and endless things to do all year round. From the iconic cobblestone streets and historic New England charm to the scenic coastline, beautiful beaches and boating life, every visit feels like a little escape.

I’ve been coming to Nantucket for 10 years, going back and forth from Bellport, Long Island. My husband, Steve, has a home on the island, and we chose to get married there last September at the First Congregational Church (which has the highest panoramic perspective of the town, harbor and area. It is beautiful).

To us, there is no “off-season” on Nantucket.

Since we have two large Goldendoodles, we take the ferry from Orient Point (Long Island) to New London, drive to Hyannis and catch the ferry to Nantucket — though you can also fly, with plenty of direct flights in peak summer.

Nantucket holds several cultural events throughout the year, including the Daffodil Festival (last weekend in April); the Nantucket Film Festival (scheduled for June 17–22, 2026); and the Christmas Stroll — this year on Dec. 5 (yes, I did dress as Mrs. Claus last year. More on that later).

The Perfect Day in Nantucket

Here’s what my perfect day on the island would look like:

I’d start by getting up early and heading downtown to Born and Bread for a delicious coffee and a fresh blueberry scone — the perfect way to ease into the morning.

From there, I’d take a walk to the docks and the wharf, just to breathe in that ocean air and soak up the incredible scenery. There’s nothing like the peaceful early morning of the boats coming and going to remind you why Nantucket is such a magical place.

Of course, there are way more people and boats during the summer, but there is something extraordinary about the off-season — it feels like you have the whole island to yourself.

After that, I’d head over to the Nantucket Hotel to sneak in a quick workout before the day really gets going. The hotel offers annual gym memberships and features a heated pool, year-round hot tub and sauna. Gotta work off that scone 🙂

Once I’m done with my workout, I’d swing by The Lemon Press for a healthy juice or a light snack — something fresh and energizing to keep me moving.

Best Shops for Fashion, Home and Gifts

Next up: one of my favorite things to do — a slow walk around town on the cobblestones to visit my go-to shops. I’d stop into Eye of the Needle (clothing and accessories), Nantucket Looms (home goods) and Centre Pointe (lifestyle store with a curated collection of home décor, clothing, jewelry and gifts),

Then I’d head over to Ladybird Lingerie (if it’s good enough for Jill Biden — who was recently photographed shopping here — it’s good enough for me) and The Dress Code (unique, eclectic clothing and accessories).

Don’t forget to head down to the charming shop Space, housed in an old fisherman’s shack along Old South Wharf. It’s full of hidden gems and vintage finds.

I love how every corner of Nantucket has its own personality — the perfect mix of coastal chic and small-town warmth.

Cocktail Hour in Nantucket

As evening rolls in, I’d meet up with friends for an early cocktail — maybe at The Pearl (creative cocktails, Asian-inspired seafood), The Brotherhood (legendary casual local hangout and pub with a full menu), The Club Car (a lively spot close to the ferry with the restaurant housed in a landmark 19th-century train car, featuring seasonal coastal-inspired food) or the new hotspot Billie’s (steakhouse and coastal-inspired fare with a great atmosphere).

Where to Eat: Top Restaurants You’ll Love

No matter where you go, you can always count on good vibes, great food and even better company. There are so many amazing restaurants across the island that it’s hard to pick just one. Some of my favorites are Ventuno (delicious, creative Italian food in a cozy, inviting atmosphere), Nautilus (vibrant, seafood with lively Asian/Latin influences and creative cocktails) and American Seasons (imaginative, seasonal and regional cuisines; currently closed for season, re-opens in April) .

Where to Stay: Inns, Hotels and Hidden Luxe Spots

In town, there are many charming old inns and iconic hotels, such as the White Elephant and The Greydon House. For something more secluded and luxurious, drive to the other side of the island to Sconset and stay at The Wauwinet — or pop by The Summer House, which has a lively vibe and a classic beach-resort feel.

Best Beaches and Scenic Walks

There are so many amazing beaches on the island. If you want calm waters and a great spot to listen to music and have a drink, head to Jetties. Otherwise, I love Cisco, Madaket (the famous eatery Millie’s is right there) and Steps Beach.

The best way to explore Nantucket? Hop on a bike, cruise by car or wander on foot — each lets you see the island in a completely different way.

The Sconset Bluff Walk is Nantucket’s most scenic stroll, with ocean views, charming cottages and blooming gardens everywhere. It’s breathtaking.

Nantucket’s Iconic Christmas Stroll

Now about that Christmas Stroll … Nantucket’s famous Christmas Stroll (Dec. 5) is the first weekend in December. It’s a three-day event that kicks off the holiday season with Santa’s arrival, carolers and holiday markets.

Cobblestone streets are packed with Santas, Mrs. Clauses, elves and reindeer — all laughing, shopping and spreading cheer. Carolers pop up on every corner, shop windows look like they’re straight out of a Christmas movie, and the whole island feels sprinkled with festive spirit.

What started as a small local shopping event has turned into a can’t-miss weekend where everyone comes together to eat, shop and celebrate. I even joined in the fun, dressing up as Mrs. Claus — complete with a red velvet dress and festive hat — with none other than Santa by my side (wink wink).

Enjoy this island — it’s pure magic.

Leslie Peirez

Leslie Peirez is an Emmy-nominated TV producer and showrunner with more than 20 years of experience in broadcast television and digital programming. She has worked at the Today show, Oprah, Martha Stewart, Amazon, Yahoo and Warner Bros.