Plan a Romantic Escape to Nantucket

5 Things Not To Be Missed

Nantucket is among the most popular destinations for romantic holidays, honeymoons, and weddings.

It is a small but charming island located 30 miles south of Cape Cod and near Martha’s Vineyard.

It has some of the best-preserved historic buildings, cobblestone streets, postcard-like shingle-style coastal cottages with blossoming gardens, iconic lighthouses, clean and infinite beaches, and perfectly conserved wildlife and natural habitat.

If you are planning a romantic trip to Nantucket, the first thing to do is book your ferry or plane tickets and find the perfect accommodation on the island. Thankfully, hundreds of private residences are offered for rent in all areas and neighborhoods of Nantucket to choose from.

Once you get there, you will be amazed at all of the different romantic things you can do and places you can visit in Nantucket with your loved one.

Here are our top recommendations for the best things to do in Nantucket for romantic couples.

1. Tandem Biking

Bicycle riding has been promoted in Nantucket since the 1890s, when the first bike paths were built.

Today, the entire island is encompassed by more than 30 miles of bicycle paths, and there are various bike rentals there.

You and your partner can rent a tandem bicycle and get in sync while pedaling around the island for the perfect romantic bike ride.

The different paths will take you to the unique beaches, lighthouses, historic areas, and fun places in Nantucket.

Some of the paths to explore with your partner include the Madaket or Polpis road paths, which lead to secluded beaches with stunning sunsets.

You can also pedal through the 28 miles long East Side Trail, which will take you to Surfside Beach, the charming island of Siasconset, the beach there, and the Sankaty head lighthouse. The path continues on one of the highest places on the island – Altar Rock which offers an amazing panoramic view.

2. Madaket Beach

You can walk, cycle or take the shuttle bus to Madaket Beach, located on the western end of Nantucket. This beach is one of the best-known spots for romantic wedding and engagement photos, as it offers a view of one of the most majestic sunsets in the world.

The long beach with soft white sand is the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic picnic with your partner while watching the sunset.

Just keep in mind that there are no restaurants nearby, so pack a picnic basket or a cooler with some fine wine and snacks for your romantic date on Madaket Beach.

3. Nantucket Atheneum Gardens

If you are spending the day in Downtown Nantucket, don’t forget to visit the island’s public library, called The Atheneum. The building itself is beautiful, and the Atheneum Gardens are a perfect spot to enjoy the local flora, blooming flowers away from the hustle-bustle of the Main Street, and the busy restaurants and boutiques. You can visit the library, where various events are held, offering both fun and education.

4. Sunset Sail

There is no better way to view the picturesque island of Nantucket and the sunset than from the ocean. You can hire a sailing cruise for a private romantic tour of the Harbor, the Nantucket Sound, and all points of the island.

There are various sailing boats and vessels perfect for romantic getaways and even for engagements, weddings, and anniversary parties.

You can also embark on one of the various organized sailing tours and cruises, some of which include fishing, others whale and seal spotting, and some of which are pure fun and have drinks and frozen treats.

5. Cisco Brewers

In case you want to enjoy a fun-filled day on the island with other locals and vacationers, one of the best places to visit is Cisco Brewers. This is the only brewery in the USA which is outdoors. It has a spacious garden and a stage with live music, which starts in the early afternoon and ends in the morning hours.

You can taste some of the incredible local craft beers, but even if you don’t like beer, don’t fret because the brewery is located next to the Nantucket Vineyard and the local Triple Eight Distillery. So you can enjoy some of the best locally made wines and spirits too.

Some of the best beverages to try there include the Wandering Haze IPA or the Gray Lady Wheat Ale. Spirit lovers will appreciate the unique locally made blueberry-infused vodka and various craft cocktails offered by the distillery.