Surfside Beach
#1 in Best Things To Do in Nantucket
Key Info
Price & Hours
Details
scorecard
- 5.0Value
- 4.0Facilities
- 4.5Atmosphere
Surfside Beach, located on the southern shore, is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It's definitely one of the most amenity-rich stretches of sand, too: Public rentals, showers, food kiosks and lifeguards are all here in the peak beach season. And although the waves may be too choppy for younger travelers, Surfside is great for catching a wave and participating in other gnarly watersports.
But popularity has a downside. Recent travelers recommend visiting in the off-season to avoid the crowds and parking challenges.
Surfside Beach is located at the end of Surfside Road and has parking for cars and bikes. There's also Nantucket Regional Transit Authority shuttle service during the summer season. Check NRTA's website for a schedule.
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2 of 5#2 Brant Point Light
Nantucket's iconic Brant Point Light is said to be the country's second oldest lighthouse by some aficionados. While this superlative isn't completely true — the current tower dates back to 1901, but the station has hosted a lighthouse since 1746 — the attraction remains a popular spot to view Nantucket Town's harbor.
You can't go inside Brant Point — it's still an active post used by the U.S. Coast Guard — but there's still a lot to see here. The beach of the same name is a picturesque place to take a breather and watch the boats float by the harbor. Recent visitors also enjoyed the beach plums growing wild at the entrance to the beach.
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