Nantucket Island: Top 10 Experiences

I have been lucky enough to spend the last two summers on Nantucket, a small island off the coast of Massachusetts. This dreamland is only reachable by boat, ferry, or plane. Although the prices can be frightening, you will never regret any time you spend escaping into the Atlantic...

If you really don't believe you have time to spend an entire summer here, at least come for a weekend. Here are my top ten recommendations:

1. Restaurant Week

Every year the restaurants on island offer discounted tasting menus. You are able to sample foods that would normally be out of your price range. 'Straight Wharf,' 'Cru' & 'Dune' will never let you down. Enjoy multiple courses, and make sure you order a bottle of wine.

2. Island Kitchen

This is the best place mid-island. They offer an extensive breakfast menu and the best mimosas. Make sure to order 'The Animal' or the 'Spinach & Goat Cheese Scramble.' Right next door is the best ice cream on the island, including my favorite flavor, 'Charcoal' or 'Peanut Butter Cookie Dough.' Fresh donuts are also a hit at this walk-in place.

3. The Brewery

No trip to the island is complete without an afternoon at the Brewery. Choose from locally produced vodka, beer, or sangria. The mix drinks are delicious, strong, and you can get one for $10. For an interesting experience try the 'Pineapple Jalapeno Liqueur.' There is always live music at the Brewery - bring some playing cards & spent the afternoon hanging with friends. Bonus, dogs are welcome!

4. Buck-a-Shuck

The best deal on island: $1 oysters, clams & shrimp during happy hour. A great way to grab drinks with a twist. Several places offer this deal on island - keep up with the schedule & choose from a variety of oysters.

5. Rent Mopeds & Drive to Siasconset

Bringing a car to island is expensive, but it's a great place for a mini road-trip. Rent mopeds downtown and explore the island. They are easy to drive and give you an unique experience. Once there, park your mopeds & do the 'Sconset Bluff Walk.' On your way back, check out one of the three lighthouses on island 'Sankaty Head Light.'

6. Millie's & Madaket

The bus is only $2 to visit Millie's & Madaket Beach. It runs hourly. The best Mexican food on island, make sure you order the '40th Pole' with a side of guacamole & 'Lobster/Mango Summer Rolls.' The 'Blue Lemonade' is an island classic.

7. Downtown Bar Crawl

One of the best aspects of Nantucket is the nightlife. Go to the 'Galley,' sit outside, watch the sunset, and sip on a glass of wine. Then, head to 'The Gazebo' for a 'Mudslide.' Take a walk down the pier to 'Slip 14' for a 'ShineBox.' The night is not complete until you've made it to the 'Lobster Trap' for an 'Elbow Bender.' If you're still standing at this point, your last stop of the night should be an 'Espresso Martini' from 'Station 21.' End the night with a drink singing along to the pianist at 'Club Car.'

8. Rainy Day? Starlight & Corner Table

Not every day is a beach day. So when it starts to rain, head to this small movie theatre that includes a bar. Then, get a snack & coffee from Corner Table. Supporting small businesses in some of the comfiest environments downtown. Corner Table also offers cooking lessons - check them out for another unique experience.

9. Nobadeer & S'mores

Spend the day in the largest waves. It's the party beach on island - you can drive your cars right onto the beach. Then, stay around the beach and find a place for a campfire. It's a great way to spend the day & night!

10. Great Point

Go big or go home? Probably the 'Great'est adventure on Nantucket if you can gather the resources, which includes a 4WD vehicle. Getting a group together, splitting the costs, packing a picnic - all worth it in the end!

See you in ACK!