Where to Stay in Nantucket, Massachusetts
During the long summer months, the population in Nantucket swells to some 50,000 vacationers searching for their own slice of Massachusetts magic. Just a short hop by ferry from Cape Cod, this whaling post-turned-high-society hangout has attractions such as Madaket Beach and the Whaling Museum, along with accommodation stretching from Nantucket Harbor to downtown and beyond. From historic hotels to oceanfront cottages, here’s where to stay in Nantucket.
Greydon House
Boutique Hotel
The Martin
Boutique Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Nantucket lies The Martin, a 15-room property set within a newly reimagined historic inn, originally constructed in 1803. Inspired by the island’s natural aesthetic, the property’s newly revamped design pays homage to Nantucket’s natural beauty and rich history with sophisticated, coastal design elements. Featuring an elevated color palette reminiscent of the tones found in the island’s sky, sea, and moors, the varied hues of blue, green, and grey, provide a modern, cozy-meets-contemporary feel across the centuries-old property.
Brass Lantern Inn
Bed and Breakfast
This Nantucket bed and breakfast has a perfect location in the historic district, on the cobblestoned North Water Street. It’s just a short walk from the restaurants, shops and crucially – if you have bags – the ferry terminals. Classical elegance meets bright and modern in the 17 ensuite rooms, and in addition to visiting local attractions such as the beaches and Whaling Museum, you can also take afternoon tea on the secluded patio.
Faraway
Boutique Hotel
Seclusion and exclusivity are the watchwords here, so you can slip into the high-end Nantucket mindset in no time. A lively bar features an eclectic cocktail program, inspired by ports of the West Indies, and the Soho House-style Courtyard is strewn with parasols by day and glowing lanterns at night. Though there’s a discreet members-club vibe, you’ll be pleased to hear that dogs are warmly welcomed.
Nantucket Inn
Hotel, Luxury, Inn
At this family-friendly resort offering comfort and convenience just outside downtown Nantucket, you can indulge in “mom’s breakfast” – a tasty spread of comfort food – relax in the library lounge, or take a dip in the only indoor pool on the island. A homey oasis with cozy, traditionally furnished accommodation, this 100-room property offers you a range of room choices, all of them centered around three separate courtyards, with an outdoor pool and a fitness studio, too.
The Beachside at Nantucket
Hotel
Nautical but nice, this motel-style property is just a short walk from restaurants, shops, beaches and ferries. There’s a huge choice of accommodation, but the cliffside rooms – some with paved patio areas out front – are the only dog-friendly digs, all tastefully decorated in a traditional seaside style. The heated outdoor pool is just for you, but it’s less than a 10-minute drive to the notable dog-walking spot of Sanford Farm – where there are loops of between 2mi-6mi (3km-10km) to wear you both out.
The Nantucket Hotel
Resort, Hotel
This local institution defines itself by its warmth of character and generosity of spirit – the rooms are very comfortable, with the suites particularly beautiful. The hotel is pet-friendly, and children are welcome as well. There are activities aplenty, with a complimentary kids’ club, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center, plus the rest of Nantucket right on your doorstep.
Hawthorn House
Boutique Hotel
Built in 1849, this place to stay in Nantucket has been a boarding house for more than a century – but it’s all about modern convenience now. Hawthorn House is the only “invisible service” hotel in Nantucket, catering to independent travelers who focus on exploring their destination. It offers self-check-in and a digital concierge, and there are several options for breakfast within a block of the property. It makes for a hassle-free stay in the heart of the action.
29 India House
Independent Hotel
With a keenly preserved New England 1700s design – it’s even registered in Congress – this quaint yet striking property is a wonderful choice if you want to luxuriate in the old-school splendor of this charming island. Close to the harbor and Main St, this historic building doesn’t skimp on the modern indulgences, with beautifully finished rooms and a generous breakfast. There’s also a pet-friendly option, in the form of the very classy garden room.
The Cottages and Lofts at Boat Basin
Resort
Light and airy with a luxurious salty-sea-breeze aesthetic, the Cottages – which are fitted with full kitchens – allow you and your four-legged friend to explore the natural wonders on the island. Overlooking the harbor – made famous by Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick (1851) – the Cottages are right on Swain’s Wharf and Old South Wharf, so you’ll be minutes from sunset cruises, lighthouses, beaches and waterfront dining. The pet-friendly Woof Cottages are designed with you and your furry companion in mind.