SVILU's Insider Guide to Nantucket
There are few places that celebrate the 4th of July quite like Nantucket. Americana to the max – Independence Day on Nantucket is like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting – complete with water fights, pie eating contests and fireworks on the beach.
A cacophony of grey shingled cottages climbing with roses, cobblestone streets, New England sea air and long stretches of sand, this little island is a charmer. Only a one hour ferry ride from Hyannis on Cape Cod – Nantucket is a perfect summer weekend getaway.
Read on for our guide to the best spots on the island.
WHAT TO WEAR
Blue and white - a classic combination
1. Organic Cotton Merce Dress - the right amount of dressed up for dinner at Black Eyed Susan's
2. Layered Linen Tank Top - cool & crisp
3. Striped Organic Cotton Dolman Top - updated take on the classic mariner
EAT
Black Eyed Susan’s – an Island institution for good reason – the linguini with local Nantucket quahogs is not to be missed. BYO & Cash only.
Sayle's - grab a lobster roll (or some fried clams) and sit outside on the deck at this seafood shack.
The Downey Flake - gotta get here early for their famous sugar donuts.
Something Natural – call in your order to grab lunch for the beach. Avocado, Cheddar & Chutney + a chocolate chip cookie (and a Matt Fee Tea) and you are good to go.
Cru – sit dockside and watch the boats come and go over oysters & rosé.
Juice Bar – the line is long, but the ice cream in a homemade waffle cone is worth it.
DRINK
Galley Beach – the best place on the island for sundowners.
Cisco Brewery – make a day of it and ride your bike to the Brewery for some Grey Lady Ale & live bluegrass.
Greydon House – this is the prettiest bar on the island with a serious cocktail menu.
DO
Ladies' Beach – you can’t find a bad beach on Nantucket, but Ladies’ is nice and wide and you can walk for miles.
Steps Beach – calm water, easy to get to and great for sunset.
Sconset’ Bluff Walk – head to the eastern end of the island to the quaint town of Sconset’. Walk along the water towards the lighthouse and admire the gorgeous rose and hydrangea covered homes.
The Whaling Museum – for a rainy day (or when you need a break from the beach) the Whaling Museum is a nice stop to learn about the Island’s maritime tradition.
SHOP
The Sunken Ship – this is a treasure trove of fun stuff. Toys, novel hats, mariner shirt, tennis rackets, chewing gum. You name it – The Sunken Ship probably has it.
Murray's Toggery – the home of Nantucket Red pants, Murray’s is like stepping back in time. Preppy, colorful and worth a visit.
Atlantic – A mix of antiques, super chic home goods and independent European clothing lines.
Bookworks – Housed in a multi-room cottage, Bookworks is one part books and one part curiosities. It is the kind of place you want to settle in and explore all the nooks and crannies.
Follain – Incredible small batch natural beauty and make up. The store smells great too.
