If you’re thinking of taking a day trip to Nantucket, I’m very excited because it’s one of my all-time favorite destinations and beach towns in New England to visit. You may be wondering, is a day trip to Nantucket worth it for me? Good news! This guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip, and give you all the details on the very best things to do in a day on Nantucket to make it unforgettable.
I’ve taken quite a few days trip to Nantucket over the last 15+ years, as well as stayed on the island for a few getaways, and I’m thrilled to share with you all my tips for planning the perfect day trip on your next vacation.

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
Is A Day Trip To Nantucket Worth It?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s one of the easier day trips available when visiting the Cape Cod region, and it makes my list of the best places to see in New England. While it’s further out to sea, and a slightly longer ferry ride than Martha’s Vineyard, a day trip to Nantucket is worth it because the main town of Nantucket is very concentrated, which allows you to see and do a lot without straying very far from the ferry dock.

Once you arrive at the ferry dock, you’ll be right in the middle of downtown, and within walking distance to the main wharf, shops, restaurants, Brant Point Lighthouse and some of the most beautiful and historic side streets. You’ll even be able to walk to a few beaches.

Because of all this, you’re able to pack a lot in with minimal effort once you arrive. And of course, there will be plenty of options to get outside of the main town area to explore other parts of the island if you’re feeling up for it. This can easily be done in a day trip, too.
6 Best Things To Do On Nantucket During A Day Trip
There are way more things to do on Nantucket than what I’m outlining below, but with a day trip, you don’t want to pack too much in, and you really should have time to enjoy all the things you choose to see to make your day trip to Nantucket worth it.
For that reason, I’m narrowing down the 6 best things to see and do during a day trip, especially if it’s your first time visiting the island. These 6 options will allow you plenty of time to really experience the atmosphere, while seeing some of the best and most beautiful parts of the island.
1. Walk Around The Main Town

Once you disembark the ferry, you’ll walk down a little street along the wharf, and then have the whole town right in front of you. And there’s actually a lot to see in town, making your day trip to Nantucket completely worth it already!
Nantucket’s main town is home to all the best boutiques, and shopping on the island is amazing. It’ll be expensive since Nantucket is a bit of an affluent area, but the stores are very inspiring to stroll through, and you’ll still find some affordable souvenir shops, too. You could probably spend your whole afternoon just browsing the shops, honestly.
For some of the most famous views from downtown, be sure to walk down Easy Street and Old North Wharf, and also also allow yourself to get lost on the cobblestone side streets to see some of the most historic and beautiful homes on the island.
For a really beautiful photo location, you’ll want to meander over to Old North Wharf, which has such amazing hydrangeas in the summer, and the cutest waterfront cottages.

2. Visit Brant Point Lighthouse

A short walk from downtown is Brant Point Lighthouse, and I always suggest visiting because this is the lighthouse you’ll see as you’re pulling into Nantucket on the ferry. And it’s also one of the more iconic landmarks on the island. It’s so iconic, in fact, a replica of it was built, and is now showcased at the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut. But visiting the original is always better.
The lighthouse sits at Brant Point, which is a little beach that’s pretty serene, and a great place to watch the ferries and sailboats go by while also admiring the lighthouse.
3. Take In The Views From Step’s Beach
The view from the top of the staircase that leads down to Step’s Beach is one that’s featured in a lot of Nantucket stock images, and for good reason. You’ll get sweeping views of the ocean, sand dunes, and the cutest little beach shack that sits in the dunes.

While Step’s Beach isn’t my favorite for swimming, if you do go for the view, I suggest walking down the steps and taking a quick walk on the shoreline since you’re already there. This beach is about a 20-minute walk from town, but a portion of the walk is along Cliff Road, which has some really beautiful houses, so it makes for a scenic walk. Part of the walk is on an incline going toward the beach, but it will be downhill coming back to town.
4. Explore Siasconset & Sankaty Lighthouse
If you’re looking to see a different part of the island, which I highly suggest you consider, Siasconset, or ‘Sconset as the locals call it, is a really great option. To help you decide if this excursion is right for your day trip, I’ve created a separate section below, so be sure to continue reading!

5. Visit Madaket Beach & Millie’s Restaurant
Madaket is a small town that’s home to Madaket Beach, which is one of my favorite beaches on Nantucket. There isn’t as much to do in Madaket, but the beach is beautiful enough that it warrants a visit, and the nearby restaurant is also amazing. Read below for my thoughts on choosing between ‘Sconset and Madaket as a side excursion for your day trip.

6. Get A Waffle Cone at The Juice Bar
So guys, my favorite ice cream and waffle cones of all time (yes, ALL time) are at Juice Bar on Nantucket. For me, a day trip to Nantucket is worth it just to come get my ice cream and waffle cone here, which I know is a bold claim, but hopefully I’ve at least piqued your interest 🙂
All the ice cream here is homemade (including the waffle cones!), and they come up with fun seasonal flavors, and also have great classics. A lot of people go for the “Crantucket” for obvious reasons. My personal favorite at Juice Bar is the Strawberry Dark Chocolate Chip. Other fan favorites are Cookie Monster (if they happen to have it), and Brownie A La Mode.
There’s usually a line to get in, but it’s worth the wait!
Should I Visit Madaket or ‘Sconset On My Day Trip?
You can’t go wrong with either choice for a day trip, as they’re both pretty much the same distance from town, and equally beautiful in their own ways. To visit either town, you’ll need to either rent a bike or moped, get an Uber, or take the Wave Shuttle. See below on “How To Get Around Nantucket” for detailed information on these options.
I think Madaket is one of the prettiest beaches in all of Nantucket (and also has the most amazing sunset). Besides the beach, there’s an awesome restaurant right by the beach called Millie’s, which has really awesome cocktails, and a seafood/Mexican inspired menu. This is one of my favorite places to eat on the island, and their lobster quesadillas are fantastic.
Besides the beach and Millie’s restaurants, there isn’t much else out there to do. This option is worth it if you prefer a quieter, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere with an amazing beach to sit and enjoy for a bit. And the bike ride out is also very scenic, if you choose to get around that way.

‘Sconset is the better choice if you want more to do, as there are a few attractions here that are very much worth your time. To start, you can walk the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk, explore ‘Sconset Beach, and visit Sankaty Lighthouse. ‘Sconset is also known for its rose-covered cottages (in season), and also has a very small little town area with a great little sandwich place called Claudette’s.
‘Sconset Beach is also walkable from most places in the area, and is really beautiful.

It will all come down to personal preference, and what kind of day trip you’d like to have. If you choose to rent a bike or moped, it’s possible you could visit both, and not spend as much time in both places. Both these towns will make a day trip to Nantucket worth it.

Is Nantucket Walkable?
The main town of Nantucket is very walkable. In fact, you could stay in the downtown area your whole day and walk everywhere. If you want to leave town, however, to get to other areas on Nantucket, you will need to either use the Wave Bus, Uber, or rent a bike or moped. See below for more detailed information on how to get around Nantucket.

How To Get Around Nantucket?
To get around the entire island, you have a few options, which include the Wave Shuttle, renting a car, bike or moped, or using Uber. For a day trip, I would automatically rule out renting a car since you’ll be spending a lot of time in town, and parking is very challenging and not worth your time or energy. Uber is also reliable, but probably a bit slower if you’re coming from a big city and used to fast pick-up times.
The Wave Shuttle is Nantucket’s public transit system, and is a small bus that has routes going to all the towns on the island. From town, you can take a Wave Shuttle to both Madaket Beach and ‘Sconset. I’ve used The Wave a lot during my trips to Nantucket, and it’s a good way to get around. It’s basically a small bus.
Tips For Using The Wave: Tickets are purchased on board the shuttle, and you should plan to carry exact cash, as change is only given in the form of vouchers to use for future rides. The Wave routes also change seasonally, and run most frequently in peak season. To check route schedules and fare information for the routes you want to take, visit the Wave website here.
For a day trip, and especially if visiting Nantucket for the first time, I would highly suggest renting either a bike or moped if you’re looking to explore areas outside of the main town. If you’re comfortable with it, a moped will allow you to see more of the island in a shorter amount of time (and would also allow you to potentially visit both Madaket and ‘Sconset in a day trip).

How Much Is A Moped Rental On Nantucket?
My favorite bike and moped rental place on Nantucket is Nantucket Bike Shop. When I last rented a moped from them in 2022, the prices were $145 for a single, and $170 for a double, and that was for a full day (return by 5pm). They also provide you with a quick lesson to make sure you’re comfortable operating the moped before taking off, and helmets are included in the price. This is a great way to get around the island!
Renting a bike is also really fun. If you choose that option, the bike path to ‘Sconset from town is about 7 miles each way, and is very easy and flat. This bike path is an actual, designated paved path for cyclists and pedestrians, so even if you’re a beginner biker, this is very relaxing ride since you’re not sharing the road with cars.
And as mentioned, the bike ride out to Madaket is also very scenic and beautiful. It’s slightly more hilly than the ride out to ‘Sconset, but generally pretty easy.
How To Get To Nantucket
Since Nantucket is an island, the only way to get there is by ferry or plane. Below is a breakdown of all the ferry options, as well as all the places you can catch a ferry to Nantucket.
Cape Cod to Nantucket Ferries (Hyannis)

Hyline Cruises: Departs from Hyannis, and offers high-speed ferry service to Nantucket. Hyline ferries will take 1 hour to get to Nantucket.
Hyline is one of the most popular ferries to take to get to Nantucket. It’s a very convenient location in Hyannis, and there’s plenty of parking, but you’ll also want to be aware of the parking options, as the economy parking spots require a free shuttle to the terminal. Read more about that in the parking section below.
Steamship Authority: Departs from Hyannis (the dock is just down the street from Hyline), and offers both high-speed and traditional service to Nantucket. High speed ferries will take 1 hour to get to Nantucket, and traditional ferries will take 2 hours and 15 minutes. For day trips, I highly suggest doing the fast ferry if you can to maximize your time on the island. The traditional ferry service will save you money, but take more than twice as long.
Parking at the Hyannis port for both Hyline Cruises and Steamship Authority: Be sure to reserve your parking spot when you purchase your ticket, preferably at least a week or more in advance during peak season. It’s very possible that parking spots will be sold out if you don’t reserve ahead of time in the summer.
There are different options for parking at this ferry terminal, including on-site at the terminal, and an economy lot that will require a free shuttle service to and from the terminal. It’s best to arrive at least an hour before departure to ensure you have time to park. Click here for more information on parking and prices.
Cape Cod To Nantucket Ferry (Harwich Port)

Freedom Ferry departs from Harwich Port, and service to Nantucket takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. This ferry is smaller than Hyline and Steamship, and tends to sell out quicker, but I personally prefer this ferry because the parking situation is much easier.
The Freedom Ferry is the only option that allows free parking for day-trippers, and the lot is conveniently located very close to the ferry dock. It’s such a breeze to park here and walk to the ferry, which is why I choose to often depart from Harwich Port with Freedom Cruises. While the ride to the island is a bit longer than the other ferries, the parking situation makes it worth it for me.
New York City, New Jersey & New Bedford, MA to Nantucket Ferries
Seastreak offers ferry service to Nantucket from New York City, New Jersey & New Bedford, MA. These ferries vary significantly, offer more limited schedules and are longer and more expensive. Day trips will not be possible for ferries on Seastreak between Nantucket and New York City/NJ, but could be a convenient option for a day trip from New Bedford, MA. Click here to visit the Seastreak website for more information.
What Is The Cheapest Ferry To Nantucket?
Generally, they’re all pretty similar in price, so one is not significantly more or less expensive than the others.
The only one that is significantly less expensive is the Steamship Authority traditional ferry (the one that takes over two hours). However, this isn’t advisable for day trips, as you’ll spend a large portion of your day just getting there and back.
Should I Bring My Car On The Ferry To Nantucket?
I don’t recommend it for a day trip, and that’s because the cost to being your car on the ferry is high, and you’ll also be forced to take the slow, traditional ferry with Steamship Authority. Between the added cost, as well as the added time, it’s just not worth it for a day trip.
Plus, getting on bike or moped is really fun, and as mentioned, there are so many other ways to easily get around, including the bus system, and ride share services.
I also don’t recommend taking your car over to the island because of parking challenges, especially in the summer season. If you want to have a car on the island for a day trip, I’d recommend renting for a half or full day once you’re on the island, and do everything outside of downtown before returning it to avoid looking for parking downtown.
Can You Take A Day Trip To Nantucket From Boston?
Yes, you can, it it will make for a very long day. There is no direct ferry from Boston to Nantucket, but you can drive from Boston to Hyannis, and take the ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket. The drive from Boston to Hyannis is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, not factoring in traffic (but I highly suggest you add in at least another 30 minutes, depending on the day to account for traffic). Generally, the drive can be more than 2 hours, and possibly longer in the summer.
If you’re looking to take a day trip to Nantucket from Boston in peak season when traffic is the most congested, I would suggest driving into Hyannis the night before, spending the night in Hyannis, and then taking an early ferry the next morning to Nantucket. This will help you minimize the stress of traffic possibly making you late for your ferry. You can then spend the day on Nantucket, take an early evening ferry back to Hyannis, and then drive back to Boston (or stay another night!).
If you’re looking to do a true day trip to a Cape Cod island from Boston, and can’t spend the night before closer to the ferry, I’d recommend heading to Martha’s Vineyard instead, and taking this great tour day trip option from Boston!
Where To Eat On A Nantucket Day Trip
For day trips, you’ll likely be focusing on where to have lunch while on the island since you’ll be well on your way back to the mainland before or around dinnertime, unless you choose to take a later ferry back. Here are a few of my favorite places for lunch on Nantucket:

- Something Natural: Amazing sandwiches that are enormous. Located on Cliff Road about a 10-15 minute walk from town (but on your way to Step’s Beach).
- Lemon Press: Features different freshly-squeezed lemonades and really great, healthy options like salads and grain bowls.
- Millie’s: As mentioned before, if you decide to head to Madaket, be sure to stop here for their take on Mexican-seafood creations (the lobster quesadillas are to die for).
- The Charlie Noble: Really great pub/comfort food, that also has a raw bar and outdoor seating.
- B-ACK Yard BBQ: This place is always packed, even for lunch, but that’s because the food is really good. Focus is on high-quality BBQ and also some seafood offerings.

What’s The Best Time Of Year For A Nantucket Day Trip?
Most people visit Nantucket for a day trip in the summer, with July & August being peak season. One of my personal favorite times to visit Nantucket is July when all the hydrangeas are in bloom, because they’re really something special to see!
Secret Tip! There’s a really magical week to visit Nantucket when the roses and hydrangeas are in bloom at the same time, which is the last week of June. This can vary a bit year to year, of course, but generally this week, you’ll find that the rose-covered cottages are in full bloom, and the hydrangeas have started to peak. It’s simply wonderful!
But honestly, anytime between May and the beginning of October is a wonderful time to visit! June-mid-September will be the most crowded, but I think it’s worth it.
Many businesses will close down for the season starting mid-late October, and stay closed through the following spring, so that’s also something that’s good to know.
What To Pack For A Nantucket Day Trip

To have an enjoyable day trip to Nantucket, you’ll want to be sure to bring some things with you. Below is a list of things I suggest you pack for your day trip. And just a reminder to try and keep it minimal, since whatever you bring, you’ll have to carry around with you all day.
- A light backpack or tote bay to carry around your day-trip essentials.
- A reusable water bottle to refill and stay hydrated.
- Your driver’s license if you want to rent a moped, or order cocktails at a restaurant.
- Flip flops or beach sandals for walking on beaches (see below about wearing comfortable shoes!)
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- A light sweater or jacket for the ferry ride (it can get cold out on the water, even on a hot day).
- Optional: A swimsuit and towel if you think you may want to take a dip in the water. I’ve packed a quick-dry towel and a swimsuit in my day pack before, and have changed under my dress or in a bathroom stall. Most day-trippers won’t want to do this, but for those like me who can’t stay out of the water, it’s an option!
What To Wear For A Nantucket Day Trip
What you wear on your Nantucket day trip won’t make your break your day, but there are a few tips I have that will allow you to be the most comfortable. I also suggest keeping it casual for a day trip. Nantucket can be seen as a “fancy” destination, but it’s also very casual, so no need to dress up too much. Here are my tips for what to wear on a Nantucket day trip:

→ No heels! Many of the streets on Nantucket are old with uneven brick or cobblestones, and heels of any kind will not do you any favors. Definitely stick to flats. Even wedges or espadrilles for a day trip will be tricky. You’ll thank me, I promise! 🙂
→ Sneakers or sturdy sandals are the best for day trips. Then, as suggested above, pack some lighter flip flops or beach sandals in your day pack for visiting the beaches if you think you’ll need them.
→ If visiting in the summer when it’s hot, breezy outfits are best. Casual summer dresses are great, or shorts and lightweight tops also work.
→ Optional: A hat to shield your face from the sun.

Heels are definitely not advised!
What Is Nantucket Known For?
Nantucket is most known for its history in the whaling industry, and even has an entire museum dedicated to educating visitors on how Nantucket had become the whaling capitol of the world. This was even referenced by Herman Melville in Moby Dick.
Nantucket is also known for its Nantucket Bay scallops, which are harvested right off the Nantucket coastline by local fishermen.
These days, Nantucket is also known as a luxury summer destination that maintains its old-world charm, and is home to celebrity summer homes as well as some of the best beaches in New England.

More posts you may enjoy:
- How To See Off 3 Of Nantucket’s Lighthouses
- How Many Days Do You Need On Nantucket? + More Things To Do!
- Is Nantucket Or Martha’s Vineyard Better For A Day Trip?
- Best Times To Visit Cape Cod & The Islands
- Winter On Nantucket: Things To Do & Tips For Visiting This Time Of The Year
- Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting
- My Guide & Tips For The Nantucket Daffodil Festival
And That’s A Wrap On If A Day Trip To Nantucket Is Worth It
As I’m sure you can see, Nantucket is a very beautiful, special and fun place to visit for a day trip, and I hope I’ve been able to convince you that a day trip to Nantucket is absolutely worth it.
These pictures are so dreamy! Would love to spend a day biking around
You convinced me to visit Nantucket, so saving it for my future trips! I really loved your photos, but your article was so informative as well – good job!
I think I need to visit as well. Is it great to visit in the Fall?
What a lovely place Nantucket is! It’s definitely on my list of places, but you’re article makes me want to move it up the list! Beautiful photos. Thanks for sharing with us.
I haven’t made it to Nantucket or Boston yet, but both sound incredible! I’m going to have to schedule a trip to see both ASAP. I can’t wait to see Madaket Beach after reading your post.