Jetties Beach

Northern Jetties is pretty similar to its southern, sandy counterpart, Surfside. Both bustle with activity in the summer and are loaded with beachside perks like food carts and public bathrooms. But there are two major things that set Jetties apart.1) Because of its location on Nantucket Sound, Jetties' waves are much calmer than those found at Surfside, making it a better place for younger or less-experienced swimmers. 2) Jetties has a boardwalk lined with casual eateries, keeping visitors from going hungry on an all-day beach trip.

And most recent travelers love the family-friendly atmosphere at Jetties, but a vocal minority complain about the shore's upkeep. According to one TripAdvisor user: "Cigarette ends, bottle tops, etc [are] left in the sand. I recommend that Nantucket should buy a beach cleaner or two."

Jetties Beach is conveniently located a mile from downtown Nantucket Town, off of North Beach Street.