Nantucket is a picturesque island located about 30 miles from the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It is great for those who appreciate nature and history.
If you are planning a getaway with your family, it is a perfect choice as there are numerous family-friendly attractions.
How to Get to Nantucket
The first inhabitants of the island were the Wampanoag tribe. They named the island Nantucket which means faraway island. To access it, you will have to board a ferry in mainland Massachusetts which will take an hour, or a flight from Hyannis, which takes about twenty minutes.
How to Get Around the Island
To have the best experience when visiting the island, it would be better to explore it on bikes. You can either carry your own or hire some from a local business and have it delivered to your hotel.
There are several other transportation options available such as car and scooter rental. Buses are also available for efficient and more accessible travel to the beaches.
Exploring Nantucket with Your Family
There are plenty of sights and activities for all family members when visiting the island. They include:
Beaches
The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are several beaches where you can take your kids to swim; one example being the Siasconset beach, or as the locals call it, Sconset Beach.
The beach is found along the eastern coast of the island, only eight miles from town. It is a picturesque and charming place that is rarely crowded.
There are lifeguards on duty during the in-season months. You also have easy access to other amenities such as the grocery store and multiple Sconset restaurants. Take your family for a quick bite after a long day of swimming to finish the tour.
Sconset Bluff Walk
The Bluff Walk is the best place, for you and your family, if you love the outdoors. The trail gives you a scenic tour of the town’s outline.
Bluff Walk is also a great place for spotting seals. After a long walk, relaxing on the beach can reward you with a view of the beautiful sea lions around the island. Don’t go swimming in the ocean here as it is frequently victim to surf tides and currents that might sweep you away.
Whaling Museum
If you and your family want a glimpse into the town’s history, you can visit the whaling museum. Here you can observe fine arts from one of the most sought-after institutions. The museum has a rich history, starting from 1930, and is chock-full of beautiful art.
It is home to a large 46-foot skeleton of a sperm whale, which is one of the most beautiful whales that dotted the beautiful island years ago. You can also see prolific art and artifact pieces that give you a glimpse into the island’s heritage.
If you can, arrange your visit to coincide with the Whale Hunt Presentation class to get a history lesson into Nantucket, when it was still the whaling capital.
Your children will be amazed by the Hadwen and Barney Oil and Candle Factory, where they can learn to make candles from refined whale oil.
Moors End Farm
Going to the farm might sound boring when on vacation, but not this farm. It is full of activities that children and adults alike can enjoy. It offers amenities like swing sets, tents, touring caravans, and a play area for children.
You can also visit the farm to see how they produce various things, including their famous honey. While at it, you can take a pick of the best berries, corn, asparagus, and other foods.
Craftmasters of Nantucket
The Craftmasters is the best place to take young children for a fun activity. The store is a quaint, rustic place home to beautiful displays of toys. Here, they can see and play with toys from some of the best toy makers.
For antique lovers, you can also enjoy yourself at the store. It has lovely, unique pieces of figurines, toys, and utensils to tickle your fancy. These can be acquired at affordable prices.
Considering the island’s multiple beaches and scenic walks, Nantucket is the best place to be. You can enjoy some water sports, visit the best restaurants in town and take a tour of the whaling museum, to create memorable moments with your family.
Book your accommodation in advance to get a discount and also make your vacay’s experience seamless.
