The 20 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
The places, most named first
From the 8 guides that rank for "best beaches in nantucket"
Named by 6 of 81. Jetties BeachMassachusetts, United StatesOne of the most popular beaches on the island, on the north shore just outside town.Warm, gentle water and big sandbars suit families and anyone who wants to float.
Named by 4 of 82. Cisco BeachMassachusetts, United StatesHeavy surf and a lifeguard in season; popular with surfers and young adults.Rip currents can be strong, so swimmers need care.
Named by 3 of 83. Steps BeachMassachusetts, United StatesReached from Cliff Road, with no lifeguard, no facilities and very little parking.Many steep steps lead down to the beach and back up again.
Named by 3 of 8
4. Children's Beach
Massachusetts, United States
Has a bandstand with live music on select evenings and a lawn for picnics.
Walkable from town, a good place to watch boats come and go.
Named by 2 of 85. Brant Point BeachMassachusetts, United StatesNear Brant Point Lighthouse at the harbor entrance.Within walking distance of downtown.
Named by 2 of 86. Dionis BeachMassachusetts, United StatesA north shore beach with calmer water and views across Nantucket Sound.Has dunes and seasonal restrooms.
Named by 2 of 87. Ladies BeachMassachusetts, United StatesWaves and current on the south shore suit strong swimmers and surfers.Body surfing and boogie boarding at low tide.
Named by 2 of 88. Great PointMassachusetts, United StatesA full-day trip that needs four-wheel drive.Needs a 4x4 and a paid access sticker, with closures for nesting shorebirds at times.
Named by 2 of 89. Water Tower BeachMassachusetts, United StatesTide pools and few waves make it a good beach for children.Reached by a dune path with no stairs.
Named by 2 of 810. Madaket BeachMassachusetts, United StatesSits at the western tip of the island and is known for sunsets.Has parking and restrooms, like the other main south shore beaches.
Named by 2 of 811. Francis Street BeachMassachusetts, United StatesA small harbor beach with calm water, known as a launch point for kayaking.There is no parking at this beach.
Named by 2 of 812. Low BeachMassachusetts, United StatesOne of the quietest beaches on the island, good for picnics, fishing and bird watching.Seals are often seen, but surf is heavy and swimming is for experienced swimmers.
Named by 2 of 813. Madequecham BeachMassachusetts, United StatesA favorite among surfers and people avoiding crowds.Reached by a long, narrow dirt road; no restrooms or lifeguards.
14. Surfside BeachMassachusetts, United StatesA south shore beach with moderate waves.Has beach equipment rentals.
15. Sconset BeachMassachusetts, United StatesReached by heading 8 miles east of the hotel, and described as the beach for the island's historic charm.The area has cobblestone streets and rose-covered cottages.
16. WauwinetMassachusetts, United StatesBeaches face both Nantucket Sound and the Atlantic.Eastern shore beaches are generally quieter because they take effort to reach.
17. Pocomo BeachMassachusetts, United StatesA popular spot for kite surfing.A bit of a haul from town, so it pairs with a day on the east end.
18. Codfish ParkMassachusetts, United StatesReached from the village, with a lifeguard and nearby restrooms.One of two beaches close to Sconset.
19. Tom Nevers BeachMassachusetts, United StatesBeach size varies with erosion.One of the least popular beaches because it is remote and has no facilities.
20. Fisherman's BeachMassachusetts, United StatesA quieter south shore option between Nobadeer and Surfside, with dunes and surf.Steep steps lead down and parking is very limited, so biking or walking is advised.
Fares to Nantucket from your city
Live fares. Watch them and we alert you when they drop.
Finding fares from your airport…
When to go
Travel guides don't agree on one best time to visit Nantucket; its page has the weather and what's on, month by month.
Named by 6 of 81. Jetties BeachOne of the most popular beaches on the island, on the north shore just outside town.Warm, gentle water and big sandbars suit families and anyone who wants to float.
Named by 4 of 82. Cisco BeachHeavy surf and a lifeguard in season; popular with surfers and young adults.Rip currents can be strong, so swimmers need care.
Named by 3 of 83. Steps BeachReached from Cliff Road, with no lifeguard, no facilities and very little parking.Many steep steps lead down to the beach and back up again.
