Nantucket

Where Time Stands Beautifully Still

Thirty miles out to sea from Cape Cod, Nantucket floats in splendid isolation, wrapped in Atlantic fog that earned it the nickname "The Grey Lady." This 14-mile-long island preserves a remarkable chapter of American maritime history while offering modern luxury that draws discerning travelers from around the globe. Here, weathered cedar shingles and white picket fences frame a lifestyle that seamlessly blends Quaker simplicity with contemporary sophistication.

Once the whaling capital of the world, Nantucket's cobblestone streets still echo with stories of brave mariners who sailed the seven seas. Today, those same streets lead visitors past perfectly preserved Federal and Greek Revival homes, many now housing world-class restaurants, boutique hotels, and galleries that would be at home in Manhattan or Paris. Yet despite its evolution into one of America's most exclusive summer destinations, Nantucket maintains an authentic charm that feels worlds away from the mainland.

The Nantucket Experience

Historic Downtown

Main Street's cobblestones have been polished smooth by centuries of foot traffic, lined with captain's homes converted into luxury boutiques. Stop at the Whaling Museum to understand the island's extraordinary history—when Nantucket oil lit the lamps of the world. Browse Murray's Toggery Shop, birthplace of Nantucket Reds, those salmon-colored pants that signal summer has arrived. The Nantucket Athenaeum, one of America's oldest libraries, offers a cool respite and remarkable architecture.

Beaches Beyond Compare

Each beach tells its own story. Jetties Beach welcomes families with calm waters and amenities. Surfside faces the Atlantic's full force, perfect for those who love dramatic waves. Madaket offers legendary sunsets that paint the sky in impossible colors. For true seclusion, Great Point requires a four-wheel drive journey through soft sand, rewarding adventurers with pristine coastline where seals bask and lighthouse keepers once watched for ships. Cisco Beach draws the younger crowd, where beach bars and food trucks create a casual party atmosphere.

Culinary Excellence

Nantucket's dining scene punches far above its weight class. The Chanticleer in 'Sconset serves French cuisine in a rose-covered cottage that feels transported from Provence. Topper's at The Wauwinet offers waterfront fine dining where sunset becomes dinner theater. For authentic island flavor, grab lobster rolls at Something Natural or queue up at The Juice Bar for homemade ice cream—a tradition since 1969. Cisco Brewers provides the perfect afternoon escape, where local beers, wines, and spirits flow while food trucks satisfy every craving.

Island Adventures

Rent bikes and explore the island's extensive trail network—pedaling to 'Sconset village feels like discovering a secret garden town. Charter a boat for bluefish and striped bass, or simply cruise the harbor at sunset. The Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge offers miles of protected barrier beach where you might spot everything from piping plovers to grey seals. During the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival, the island transforms into a culinary capital. The Daffodil Festival celebrates spring with millions of blooms, while the Christmas Stroll creates a Dickensian wonderland.

Exclusive Accommodations

The White Elephant sits harbor-front, its rooms and cottages offering water views and gardens. Greydon House brings boutique luxury to downtown, while The Wauwinet provides a secluded escape with both ocean and bay beaches. Private home rentals range from modest cottages to compounds that host extended families in supreme comfort. Many visitors establish annual traditions, returning to the same house year after year, creating their own Nantucket legacy.

The Private Aviation Advantage

Commercial service to Nantucket means connections through Boston or seasonal flights from select cities. Private aviation transforms a complex journey into a simple pleasure. Depart when you want, from the airport closest to you. Bring your bikes, golf clubs, and that special case of wine without baggage concerns. Our crews understand Nantucket's weather patterns and have backup plans when fog intervenes.

Many families make Nantucket their entire summer, with regular flights maintaining connection to business obligations. Others pop out for long weekends, maximizing precious time on-island. The 35-minute flight from New York or 20 minutes from Boston barely gives you time to review your dinner reservations. Upon landing, your rental car or driver awaits, getting you to your cottage while others still wait in ferry lines.