.jpg)
8 hours Ago By Zachary Weiss
There was—at one point in the not-so-distant past—a defined high season for coastal destinations like the island getaway of Nantucket . Namely, the strict Memorial Day to Labor Day window in which the local population usually swelled with city escapists, their bags full of rosé and white denim. But, as our offices become more mobile, and our tether to a single home base becomes increasingly slack, these rules have changed.
With that in mind, find here a one-stop guide for everything an impromptu Nantucket dweller might want or need during the typical—or, in this case, not-so-typical —fall vacation season. Where to Stay Just a short walk from Nantucket’s downtown and the beach , this 14-room property is a refreshed take on the saltbox bed and breakfast. (Its appeal is evidenced best, perhaps, by the show-stopping tiger-printed staircase runner that greets you upon entry.
) Originally a personal home to Captain Robert Calder, who set up shop here between whaling expeditions in the 1830s, the Coastal Federal-style abode offers an outdoor common area warmed by a roaring fire, where cocktails and s’mores are offered gratis for guests each evening. There’s also an indoor lounge, stylishly decorated with House of Hackney textiles, framed Gucci scarves from the ’70s, and discreet stations of handsomely-scented hand sanitizer throughout. And don’t forget to check out their new sister property, Faraway, which also offers a great restaurant named—aptly—Sister Ship.
Just a stone’s throw from Jetties Beach and designed by Parts and Labor, Beachside is the latest installment in a wave of modern properties to open their doors on the island. Offering some of the most spacious guest rooms for weekenders is The Brant by Salt Hotels. Designed by Boston-based Bergmeyer, guestroom decor includes photography by island resident, Henry Michaelis.
Where to Shop Created by local resident Margaret Anne Nolen, Centre Pointe offers a selection of original wares crafted on the island. For the fall season, they’ve designed a collection of cashmere sweaters embellished with patterned ruffle details. Equal-parts wine shop and vintage treasure trove, Current Vintage is the brainchild of Elisabeth English, a longtime, year-round Nantucket resident who first burst onto the scene with the creation of beloved local sandwich shop, Provisions.
With an assortment of indigo textiles, minimalist furniture, and leather-bound editions of classic novels, Bodega is a dose of California cool in the island’s often prep-heavy landscape. For over 50 years, Nantucket Looms have handcrafted their plush throw blankets in their Main Street studio—making for the perfectly cozy extra layer during fireside cocktail hour. Established in 1968, this independent bookstore often plays host to Nantucket chronicler and “beach read queen’ Elin Hilderbrand.
The island’s answer to Cape Cod Chips, the Nantucket Crisps store offers a wide array of savory chips—including a polarizing shrimp cocktail flavor, and all of the indulgent accoutrements one could need. Caviar included! Where to Eat and Drink While it’s disguised as a breakfast diner in the morning, the dinner menu at Black-Eyed Susan’s is anything but typical island fare. An eclectic offering devised by Chef Todd Edwards includes an array of winter-ready indulgences like "Tokyo Fried Chicken” and a “Pork’Strami Taco Platter”.
Best of all, however, guests are welcome to indulge in the eatery’s B.Y.O.
B. policy. An ever-evolving menu crafted by Chef Gabriel Frasca offers a twist on coastal classics.
Just be sure to book ahead. Regarded as the best Thai food on the island, Siam to Go operates out of a small countertop hidden inside the Nantucket Ice Rink. Crispy spring rolls and chicken satay are the ideal addition to a cozy night in.
The house eatery for the sprawling White Elephant Inn, this watering hole boasts a sweeping view of Nantucket Harbor and their own fleet of Hinckley Yachts. For a break from town, visit the hotel’s sister restaurant, Toppers at The Wauwinet Hotel, overlooking Nantucket Bay. Usually a bustling hub for young islanders to congregate after a day at the beach, the fall season brings mulled wine and cider to the menu and a more relaxed atmosphere to the outdoor enclave.
This year, the brewery will also be breaking into the whisky business with their own Notch Single Malt. The Morning Bun is the must-have pick-me-up for the early riser at this breakfast boîte. This picturesque farm stand is a great spot to pick up homegrown eggs, honey, vegetables and flowers—and, in the winter months, Christmas trees.
Those taking an extended stay on-island can also opt for a membership to the farm for a weekly box of goods. The family name you’ll see on many menus on the island, Bartlett’s has been a trusted purveyor of farm-grown vegetables and flowers for decades. During the fall season, expect to find an array of seasonal treats including apple cider and in-season cranberries.
The more casual sibling restaurant to Straight Wharf, this fish market-style hangout serves up simply prepared local catches alongside a top-notch wine selection. No blazer required. Located across from one another on the unmistakably shell-covered Old South Wharf, these small shingled boîtes compliment each other with O Bar serving as a quick stop for cocktails and bites while awaiting a dinner reservation, and Bar Yoshi as the main event.
The awning outside may read “Boarding House,” but it’s now known as The Pearl. The Nantucket mainstay was recently reimagined to offer a wider array of cocktails and fusion dishes. Make sure to order the off-menu burger.
Additional Activities With over 9,000 acres of protected land, the island has no shortage of stunning, low-impact hikes. Among the favorites are Sanford Farm and Tupancy Links, both of which end with breathtaking seaside views. Also worth noting is Altar Rock, which culminates at one of the island’s highest points.
Guided maps for all trails are accessible through the Nantucket Conservation Foundation app, ACK Trails. Usually the site of the annual and highly-anticipated Cranberry Festival, a visit to Milestone Cranberry Bog is a look into the 200-year legacy of cranberry farming on Nantucket. It’s also a uniquely fall-friendly destination, as the peak season for cranberry harvesting lasts from late September through October.
Free group tours of up to eight people will be given twice-daily, led by third-generation cranberry bog manager Nick Larabee, and interpretive education coordinator, Nick Foley. For those looking to be inspired by and try their hand at recreating local traditions like the Sailors Valentine, shaker sewing carriers, and caned chairs, The Nantucket Historical Association’s Whaling Museum offers small group classes during the week from Monday to Thursday. This newly-launched concept led by the island’s non-profit film and cultural center invites visitors to take a step back in time and enjoy a film from their hatchback.
A beloved local sight in the harbor, Endeavor is led by Captain Jim and his family and offers tours through October. Join professional astronomers for Stargazing Open Nights at the Maria Mitchell Association Loines Observatory. View the moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, and even other galaxies.
Local nonprofit Maria Mitchell Association also provides the accouterments to participate in the hunt for scallops through October. This insider favorite yoga studio offers a variety of specialty classes and retreats..
