I just came back from another great trip to Nantucket. A good friend, who I went with on my first island visit four years ago, now owns her own home in Sconset and invited me and two other girls for a fall weekend getaway (it was technically the last weekend of summer, but felt like fall). Not only did the weather make it feel off-season, but there were less cars and crowds. We stayed in charming and beautiful Sconset, the eastern part of the island, which was pretty much closed up. However, the downtown was lively with shops and restaurants open and people walking around enjoying the cool crisp air.
This past weekend entailed lots of stuff I normally do in Nantucket—admired beautiful homes overlooking the sea, dined at new restaurants, shopped at fabulous stores and explored pretty beaches. If you're looking for a change of scenery you should look into doing an off-season visit to the island. Prices for lodging significantly drop, restaurants and shops are still open and you can experience the beauty of the island without the crowds.
Here's some ideas for that off-season Nantucket getaway:
What to do:
Rent a bike or hop on the local bus out to Sconset and take a walk on the Bluff Walk and visit the Sankaty Lighthouse. You can even bike out to the lighthouse, but don't miss the Bluff Walk and all the historic homes, beautiful gardens and ocean views. Grab a sandwich at Claudette's, currently the only spot open in Sconset at the moment. I had breakfast there every morning and the egg sandwiches were delicious. Walk or drive along Ocean Avenue in Sconset and see the beautiful homes and seaside views.
A visit to the island's beaches are worth a visit. You can park anywhere and never need a pass. One of my favorite beaches is Surfside, on the South Shore, but also worth checking out is Sconset, Steps Beach and Madaket, the latter has the most beautiful sunsets.
Where to Eat:
Nantucket has some amazing restaurants. Due to Covid, it's harder to get a reservation and also could be weather dependent. Make a reservation ahead of time, even in the off season.
The Gaslight — Great vibe, drinks and delicious Asian fusion cuisine.
Nautilus — Went here on my first visit to the island and still dream about the cuisine. Always a great vibe and delicious food with an Asian spin.
CRU — One of the buzziest restaurants right on the wharf overlooking all the yachts and boats. Grab a lobster roll and a glass of wine at lunch or a tasty seafood dinner.
The Beet — Good soups, salads and tasty dishes at this casual spot. They even serve beer, wine and sake.
Millie's — Only open from May-September and definitely worth a trip for their margaritas and delicious Mexican fare.
Oran Mor — This is a friends favorite restaurant on the island. It looks cozy and perfect for an off-season meal.
Where to Shop:
Nantucket has great shops and you can always find something special and unique.
Bodega Nantucket — This is one of my favorite shops for cool home decor and artwork inspiration. It has great candles, linens, pillows and other unique pieces for the home.
Nantucket Looms — Another spot for home accessories and decor that is always well-curated and has a coastal, modern feel.
Milly & Grace — I always pop into this shop to browse their selection of boho dresses and tops, cozy sweaters and cute home accessories.
The Lovely — This shop carries everything from stylish blouses to warm outwear and accessories.
Erica Wilson — This reminds me of a stylish shop I'd find in NYC stocked with my favorite designers. They have great kids and women's clothing.
Where to Stay:
In the off-season I recommend staying right in the downtown area so you can walk to shops and restaurants. There's the high-end White Elephant, which you can snag a room in the off-season for as low as $225; the intimate Greydon House, which also happens to have delicious food and drink in addition to their stylish guest rooms; Hotel Pippa and The Roberts Collection
Have you been to Nantucket in the off season? I'm already looking forward to my next trip!
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