Based in the state of Massachusetts in the US lies the small, remote island of Nantucket. It is one of the most popular summer destinations on the east coast where people love to spend their vacations.
Filled with beautiful, serene sandy beaches along with pristine blue sea waters, Nantucket offers a splendid experience for tourists who want to spend their summers in a natural retreat.
Large ancient mansions, lighthouses, edgy cliffs, and pretty harbors are also some of the features that the place offers. Summers are the peak season in Nantucket, and tourists from around the world get involved in fun-filled activities offered around the place. Do you want to have an experience of a lifetime with your family? Well, here is your chance.
This is a guest contribution to our Discover the USA series
Best Nantucket Beaches
The locals of Nantucket are very environmentally conscious. Their prime motive remains to protect and maintain their lands from pollution and degradation. Due to such efforts by their community, the place has been upheld as one of the most popular family destinations.
The Nantucket beaches are the most serene and magnificent spots that one might have experienced in their entire lives. The safety factor for kids is another important factor that attracts families from across the world.
Here are the top 5 beaches families should look out for:
1. Children’s Beach
A perfectly fitting name for a family-friendly beach, this is the top place in Nantucket that families will first head to. Also known as Harbour Beach, it is just a short walk from the heart of the city.
An ideal beach for children, it is the best spot to spend time with your family. If you think beaches aren’t safe for your kids, let me tell you that you have no reason to worry here.
“Children’s Beach, Nantucket – Photo by: Michael Galvin” by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
The waters of the ocean are extremely tranquil and perfect for beginners to experience. The place is packed with playgrounds, bandstands, and exuberant eateries. During the summers, you can experience some family-friendly activities such as live music concerts, tie-dye sessions, and yoga.
2. Surfside Beach
Known to be one of the most famous beaches of the South Shore, Surfside Beach is a must-visit spot for you and your family. If you take a shuttle bus or bike ride, you need to travel 3 miles along Surfside Road to reach the destination.
“Surfside Beach” by eoringel is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, public telephone, parking, and eateries are some of the basic amenities that this place offers. The sea offers heavy waves and currents.
It is better if you are a little experienced if you want to indulge in surfing and swimming. The beach has a wide area, and tourists tend to take part in activities such as beach games, picnics, and flying kites.
3. Jetties Beach
If your kids are expecting you to take them to some wonderland this summer, visiting Jetties Beach in Nantucket is what will make them the happiest. The place is popularly known for being a relaxing family spot.
You can easily travel to this beach from the main town if you take a bike or a shuttle ride along the Northern shores. The waters are warm and easy for having a swim with your kids safely.
“Jetties Beach – Late Day, Nantucket” by Eric Gross Photography is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Playgrounds for kids, restrooms, showers, easy parking and restaurants are some of the facilities that are available here. You can take part in activities like kayak lessons, windsurfing, sailboating, and beach games.
4. White Water Tower Beach
If you are looking to spend a day with your family in absolute peace, White Water Tower Beach is your go-to spot. Also known as Washing Pond Beach, it is quite an uncrowded site that provides much privacy.
It has a wide beach with warm ocean waters and low tides, which proves to be safe for your kids to swim. Even being a family-oriented beach, this place is quite difficult to access.
The directions are hard to find, and you have to take a trek down the sand dunes to enter here. Although this place does not offer any facilities, you will find absolute serenity.
5. Siasconset Beach
Located along the Easternmost shore of the island, 6-miles from Downtown, Siasconset Beach is popularly known by the name of the place, Sconset, surrounding it. The beach covers a large area but does not tend to be overcrowded.
“2008 06 07 – 2405 – Siasconset – Beach” by thisisbossi is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
The huge ancient mansions and dainty, charming cottages accompanied by the beauty of climbing roses and orchids are something that tourists look out for. You can experience stunning sunrises from this area, and during the summers, seals can also be spotted frisking around the sea waters, making it a family favorite.
Where to stay in Nantucket
Nantucket isn’t always the cheapest place to stay on the east coast but does have some of the best Airbnbs in the US. Given its popularity, prices rise significantly over the summer, but you can still grab a great deal off-season and enjoy the best of Nantucket’s beaches in relative seclusion.
Search here for properties on Nantucket Island.
More beach inspiration in the US
We have a bumper collection of ideas for beaches in the USA, why not try next:
- 15 Brilliant beaches on the US Gulf Coast
- Family-friendly beaches in Florida
- 26 Best East Coast Family Beach Vacations
- 6 Family-friendly beaches in San Diego, California
- Perfect places to stay on the Oregon Coast
- Best worldwide family beaches off the beaten path
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About the Author
Jais Frank is a freelance content writer and enthusiastic blogger. He is the co-founder of The Legal Guides. He contributes to many authority blogs such as Tour and Travel Blog Dot Com and Essay Writing Guides Dot Com.
With thanks to Jais for his contribution. Fancy sharing your favourite part of the world on Our Globetrotters? Head on over to our Guest Opportunities page to learn more.
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