Nantucket for the Family

Nantucket is a lovely family destination and you can, believe it or not, still catch all the fun with a last-minute getaway as summer turns to fall. Enjoy the many kid-friendly beaches, the miles and miles of cycling trails and the wealth of educational museums.

Stay

The White Elephant on Nantucket is an enjoyable luxury property that gives you a home-y feel alongside all the must-have amenities you crave. Complimentary bicycles are provided so you can zip around town at your leisure, all with the family in tow. If you book an in-town, three-bedroom loft, your family will also have access to a BMW hybrid for the duration of your entire stay. For families with younger children, request the in-room camp-out bundle, which comes with your own in-room teepee and a faux campfire for a fun little camping experience without all the mess.

In September, you can save 25 percent on your stay at the White Elephant if you stay three consecutive nights with the Summer for Less promotion.

If your traveling troupe includes a furry friend, book a stay at The Woof Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin. This accommodation option is renowned for its pet-friendly service. Dogs on the go can expect to be greeted with their own bed for the stay, a gift basket of treats and toys, food and water bowls and personalized pet tags. There are even dog-walking services available and a pet concierge.

Eat

Nantucket boasts an array of modern dining options with new eateries opening nearly every season. This year, you have a whole host of new choices to pick through. There’s Pizzeria Gemelle, for pizza featuring local ingredients; or The Whale, an American bistro; and Saltbox Tavern & Table for comfort food with some updates.

A former factory which made candles from whale oil is now the Whaling Museum housing a fine collection of scrimshaw, harpoons, ship models and paintings. Photo: Lei Xu | Dreamstime.com

Play

Take your complimentary bicycle out on the cobblestone streets and explore all the shopping right at your fingertips. If you’re lucky, you’ll arrive just in time to catch the Goop pop-up MRKT shop, filled with Paltrow-approved items fit for a luxury New England beach vacay.

Even if you’re not looking for a little retail indulgence, cycling is still a great way to see the island. There are plenty of short cycling loops suitable for the entire family.

Another great way to see Nantucket? Take to the water with a boat tour.

Make sure to take the kids to the Whaling Museum in downtown Nantucket to uncover the destination’s long relationship with the industry and animals.

Of course, you can’t visit Nantucket without spending some quality time on the beaches. Beyond searching for shells and building sand castles, families can enjoy fishing from the shore or your very own clam bake.