HB’s Guide to Nantucket
If you're lucky enough to be on Nantucket, you're lucky enough.
What we love most about Nantucket isn't necessarily what's on the itinerary. It's the little moments in between: fresh hydrangeas spilling over garden gates, a scoop of ice cream in Sconset after a walk to Sankaty Head Lighthouse, needlepoint treasures at Erica Wilson, and a harbor sail at golden hour. Nantucket is one of those rare places where every corner feels like inspiration. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another summer on ACK, these are a few of our favorite places to eat, shop, and explore.
Where to Eat
Claudette's
Start your morning at Claudette's with a coffee and breakfast sandwich before heading out for a day of island adventures.
Cru
Order the lobster roll, find a sunny table overlooking the harbor, and stay longer than planned.
Cisco Brewers
Cisco offers live music, plenty of outdoor seating, and a rotating lineup of local food trucks, making it the perfect casual afternoon stop.
Siasconset Market
No trip to Sconset is complete without stopping at the market for ice cream. Grab a cone and take a stroll through one of the island's most charming neighborhoods.
Chanticleer
Tucked away in charming Sconset, Chanticleer is one of our favorite dinner reservations on Nantucket. The garden setting feels straight out of a dream, and our advice is simple: start with oysters. Always.
Where to Shop
Grace Geier
One of our favorite boutiques on the island and a longtime Hunter Bell retail partner. We always love stopping in to see the beautiful assortment and connect with the Nantucket community.
Erica Wilson
Even if you're not a stitcher, stop in for inspiration alone. The walls are covered in Nantucket-inspired canvases that feel like works of art.
Mitchell's Book Corner
Few things are better than a good beach read, and Mitchell's Book Corner has something for every member of the family. This picturesque bookstore is one of our favorite places to browse on a quiet afternoon.
TownPool
If you're traveling with little ones, TownPool is a must. From candy and sweet treats to toys and gifts, it's the kind of place that makes every kid's Nantucket vacation feel a little more magical.
What to Do
Set Sail with Endeavor Sailing
No Nantucket trip is complete without getting out on the water. One of our favorite island experiences is sailing aboard Endeavor with Captain Jim. Between the stunning harbor views and Captain Jim's incredible local knowledge, it's the perfect way to experience Nantucket from a new perspective.
Walk the Sconset Bluff Path
One of the most beautiful walks on Nantucket. Begin in Sconset and follow the bluff path toward Sankaty Head Lighthouse, taking in stunning ocean views and some of the island's most iconic cottages along the way.
Explore Sconset
Affectionately known as "Sconset," this historic village is filled with rose-covered cottages, quiet lanes, and coastal charm. It's the perfect place to slow down and soak in the beauty of the island.
Wander Downtown Nantucket
Spend an afternoon strolling the cobblestone streets, discovering local shops, grabbing an iced coffee, and enjoying the timeless charm that makes Nantucket so special.
What to Wear
Nantucket dressing is all about timeless coastal style. We gravitate toward crisp cottons, gingham prints, nautical stripes, and shades of blue inspired by the harbor. Pack a breezy day dress for exploring town, an easy matching set for a sunset sail, and a lightweight layer for cooler evenings by the water.
If we had one perfect Nantucket day, we'd start with coffee at Claudette's, spend the morning wandering through Sconset, walk to Sankaty Head Lighthouse, cool off with ice cream from Siasconset Market, browse Erica Wilson and Mitchell's Book Corner, enjoy a lobster roll at Cru, and finish the evening sailing aboard Endeavor as the sun sets over the harbor.
