Discover the Best of Nantucket - On and Off the Water
Whether it’s your first time on island or your family’s favorite summer tradition, we’re sharing our team’s top picks for where to play, relax, and explore — the Next Level way.
Best Beaches on Nantucket
For Families:
- Jetties Beach – Calm water, public bathrooms, and a beachside restaurant
- Children’s Beach – Right in town, ideal for toddlers with a playground and lawn
For Surf & Space:
- Cisco Beach – Waves, lifeguards, and a popular surf scene
- Surfside – Wide beach, food stand, and great access
For Sunset Seekers:
- Madaket Beach – Legendary sunsets, quieter vibe
- Steps Beach – A hidden gem with scenic views and dramatic dunes
Where to Eat after a Day on the Beach or Water
Casual & Kid-Friendly:
- Millie’s – Baja-style fare with unbeatable tacos, quesadillas, and sunsets in Madaket
- Sandbar at Jetties – casual beach dining with daily buck-a-shuck and other happy hour specials
- The Brotherhood – open for lunch and dinner with great burgers and bites that hit the spot
Date Night or Celebrations:
- The Nautilus – Trendy cocktails and share plates
- Cru – Raw bar, seafood, and people watching at the harbor
- Straight Wharf – serving fresh coastal classics downtown on Nantucket's wharf
Things to Do (Beyond the Beach)
- Bike the Polpis Trail to ’Sconset – end with a walk on the scenic Bluff Path and one of Sconset Market's epic cookies
- Stroll Downtown Nantucket – boutiques, bookstores, and historic streets
- Visit the Whaling Museum – local history and a rooftop overlook
- Take a Harbor Cruise or Sunset Sail – ask us about our custom charters!
- Stop by Bartlett’s Farm – Nantucket’s favorite local market
- Grab a beer at Cisco - brewery, distillery, winery, live music -- what more can you ask for?
Other Hidden Gems we Love
- Jetties Beach at low tide – Tide pools and sandbars galore
- Brant Point Lighthouse – A classic photo opp (with or without donuts)
- The Moors – endless walking trails to explore
ACK FAQ
What are the some of the best things to do on Nantucket with kids?
What are the some of the best things to do on Nantucket with kids?
Children’s Beach, tubing with Next Level, and exploring tide pools at low tide are a few local favorites.
Where can I see the best sunset in Nantucket?
Where can I see the best sunset in Nantucket?
Depends on the time of year, but during the summer, Madaket Beach, Eel Point, 40th Pole, and Steps Beach are sure to provide some of the best sunsets (weather dependent). Our private sunset boat cruises are also known to provide unbeatable views!
Do I need a car to explore Nantucket?
Do I need a car to explore Nantucket?
Not necessarily! Biking and free shuttles are all available on island. Rentals as well; it just depends on your activities.
Explore Nantucket — Our Way
At Next Level Watersports, we believe the best way to see Nantucket is from the water.Whether you're learning to wakeboard, going tubing with your kids, or gliding across the harbor on an eFoil, we're here to help you make the most of your time on the island.