Are you searching for the perfect destination for your next family vacation? If so, then plan an unforgettable getaway with your kids in Nantucket! Only 30 miles south of Cape Cod, its beautiful beaches and quaint downtown offer plenty of fun for the whole family.

The remote island is famous worldwide for its vibrant culture, natural beauty, impressive whale watching, expansive hiking trails, happy residents, historical buildings (like scenic lighthouses), and appetizing cuisine. Suffice it to stay, there are countless things you won’t want to miss while visiting The Little Grey Lady of the Sea.

But, before diving into the five best things to do with your kids in Nantucket, first things first. Before you plan your itinerary, you need to decide where you want to stay.

Vacation Rentals

Many people prefer hotels for accommodations while on vacation. But, if you want a more private getaway, rent a luxurious home in town and enjoy a more local experience. Finding a convenient and reasonable place to stay can seem daunting. However, there are many great resources like Nantucket Rentals to help you discover the exact type of property you’re searching for.

Look For Amenities and Availability

Nantucket Rentals provides numerous properties in Nantucket so, to narrow down your search, you need to look for amenities you can’t compromise on with your kids. Details about a home’s capacity, the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, and the house rules are all provided on the website. And, the rentals are equipped with essentials like a TV, hair dryers, towels, toilet paper, basic soaps, air conditioners, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. Outdoor amenities may include a yard, furniture or dining area, beach chairs, a pool, parking, a deck, a porch, and the occasional tennis court (fancy!) Once you’re satisfied with the amenities, narrow down your search even more with your budget and property availability.

Is Your Booking Guaranteed?

Yes, bookings through Nantucket Rentals are guaranteed. So, you can enjoy a vacation with your kids in Nantucket without having to worry about where you’re laying your head at night.

5 Best Things to Do in Nantucket

Now that you know where you’re staying, it’s time to plan your itinerary! And, while there’s plenty to see and do on the island, there are a few things you really shouldn’t miss.

Visit The Whaling Museum

If you’re interested in history, then the Whaling Museum is the first place you should stop. At one time, Nantucket was known as the whaling capital of the world. And, while I’m personally opposed to the practice of hunting whales, the museum does a good job of presenting the island’s past economy in an educational way.

To immediately capture the attention of visitors, the skeleton of a 46-foot male sperm whale hangs from the ceiling. And, there are 11 fascinating galleries, hundreds of artifacts, and short films that provide in-depth information about past whaling. Plus, the museum is known for its huge Fresnel lens and candle factory, which was restored in 1847. Both shouldn’t be missed during your visit to the museum!

See The Lighthouses

Other Nantucket treasures include its three spectacular lighthouses – Brant Point Light, Great Point Light, and Sankaty Head Light. Each was built as a navigation aid for sailors and has its own unique charm and history.

On the north side of the island near the entrance to Nantucket Harbor is Brant Point Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1746, the lighthouse had to be rebuilt ten times due to fires and storms destroying the previous versions. But, the current structure is now over 110 years old and continues to stand the test of time. Still operational today, Brant Point Lighthouse is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The white and red-shaded lighthouse on the east coast of the island is known as the Sankaty Head Lighthouse or Sankaty Head Light. It became operational in 1850 and was later automated in 1965. And, after wrongly predicting it would fall into the ocean, the entire building was moved back 400 feet in 2007. Talk about a heavy lift! Despite not being open to the public, it’s a great spot for family photos as you roam around the grounds!

Finally, the Great Point Lighthouse at the northern tip of the island was originally built in 1784 but had to be rebuilt three times after fire and storms destroyed the first two (sound familiar?) But, the third time was the charm and the most recent rendition (built in 1986) is still operational today.

Enjoy A Boat Tour

If your family is fond of aquatic adventures and fun in the sun, then there’s no better way to spend the day than on a yacht! There are numerous companies that offer boat tours, so there’s bound to be one that fits your needs and budget. I recommend a few hours in the evening for a beautiful sunset experience. Or, an afternoon on the water where you can mix in some time in the surf.

On the boat, the entire family can play games, have snacks, enjoy the island’s natural beauty, or simply listen to the peaceful sound of waves lapping against the hull. After your tour, don’t forget to indulge in some delicious food at one of Nantucket’s local eateries to top off your picture-perfect day.

Visit The Nantucket Atheneum

Have any bookworms in the family? If so, make sure not to miss an afternoon at the historical library located in the heart of Nantucket. Re-opened in 1847 after a fire engulfed the original building (along with all of downtown), it was converted into a public library in 1900. Inside, you can access millions of books, music, and films for free! So, it’s a cost-effective activity that will help expand your kids’ minds without shrinking your pocketbook.

Spend A Day On The Beach

Another family-friendly activity is a simple picnic on the beach. After all, what child doesn’t love a day playing along the shoreline?! You and your loved ones can relax under the shade or swim in crystal clear waters as you while away the day. And, you’ll be the envy of everyone back home with photos of your family soaking up the sun and surf.

And, there you have it! Five places to visit with your kids in Nantucket that are sure to make it the vacation of a lifetime. Just remember to pack the sunscreen!

Have you been to Nantucket before? Comment below, I’d love to hear what your favorite activities were!

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