Activities

With over 80 miles of pristine beaches, Nantucket is perfect for beachgoers. From the gentle waters of Children’s Beach, Jetties, and Dionis on the North Shore to the stronger waves of Surfside, Miacomet, Cisco, and Madaket on the South Shore you’ll find the perfect venue tailored to small children, families, surfers, and experienced swimmers.

Beachcombers will be delighted to discover a variety of shells, unique stones, beach glass, and “mermaid’s purses.” Windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing lessons are available at Jetties Beach, and surfing lessons are offered at Cisco Beach. Nautical pursuits are plentiful and varied, with fishing and sailing charters, and boat rentals rounding out the mix. In season, the “Wave” bus conveniently shuttles passengers to both Jetties and Surfside beaches.

Twelve well-designated bicycle paths (32 scenic miles) ranging from 0.3 to 9 miles in length crisscross the island, making this “green” form of transportation an ideal way for all ages to explore our diminutive spit of sand and actively contribute to limiting vehicle traffic during the busy summer months. Public tennis and golf courses await professionals and novices alike. Disc golf is a fun and unique family activity, both easy to learn and free to play.

A haven for naturalists, Nantucket boasts a bevy of rare flora and fauna, as well as a host of unique animal species. Maria Mitchell Association offers nature and wildflower walks and birding field trips during the warmer months, as well as a Discovery Program introducing youngsters to the delights and wonders of the natural world. Murray Camp, Nantucket Community School, and Nantucket Island School of Design & the Arts (NISDA) also offer diverse camp experiences for all age groups.

Bus, van, and walking tours provide a fantastic insight into the island’s rich and varied history,or a self-guided walking tour of Nantucket’s preserved architectural gems allows you to meander at your own pace. (Pick up a Nantucket Historic Walking Tour pamphlet at the Chamber of Commerce or Visitor Services office.) Tours devoted to birding, biking, brewery, clamming, photography, and sightseeing are also available.

In the following pages, you’ll find a wealth of diverse activities to suit all age groups and interests, from Aquariums to Yoga and everything in between.