Do You Need a Car in Nantucket?

One of the most common questions visitors ask before coming to Nantucket is: “Do I need a car on the island?”

The short answer? It depends on where you’re staying and how you plan to spend your time. Nantucket is wonderfully walkable in some areas, incredibly bike-friendly, and also offers public transportation. However, a car can be helpful in certain situations.

Here’s a complete guide to walking, biking, shuttles, and driving on Nantucket, so you can decide what’s best for your visit.

Yes! Nantucket is very walkable, especially if you’re staying in Town or in nearby neighborhoods like Brant Point, Cliff, Edge of Town or Monmoy.

In those areas, you can easily walk to: Restaurants, shops, galleries, the harbor and ferry docks, grocery stores and coffee shops. Several beaches are also within walking distance, like Children’s Beach or Jetties Beach.

For visitors who enjoy strolling through charming streets, Town is one of the most pedestrian-friendly places on the island.

You do not need a car to enjoy Nantucket, but having one can be convenient depending on your plans.

When You Don’t Need a Car

You can comfortably skip a car if:

• You’re staying in or near Town
• You plan to bike often
• You’re visiting for a long weekend
• You prefer restaurants, beaches, and activities close together

Many visitors choose to walk, bike, and use shuttles instead, and never miss having a car.

When a Car Is Helpful

A car may be worth considering if:

• You’re staying in more remote areas (Cisco, Surfside, Madaket, Tom Nevers, Polpis)
• You’re traveling with young children or beach gear
• You want easy access to multiple beaches in one day
• You’re staying for an extended period

Keep in mind: bringing a car on the ferry requires advance reservations and can be costly in peak season.

Each transportation option offers a different Nantucket experience. Here’s how they compare.

Walking

Pros

• Easy and scenic in Town
• No cost
• Perfect for short distances

Cons

• Not ideal for reaching distant beaches
• Less practical with kids or gear

Best for: Town-based visitors, dining and shopping, relaxed itineraries.

Biking

Nantucket is one of the best biking destinations in New England, with miles of flat terrain and dedicated bike paths.

Pros

• Extensive bike paths across the island
• Faster than walking
• Easy access to beaches like Cisco, Surfside, and Madaket
• Widely available bike rentals (see our sidebar for our favorite bike rental shop).

Cons

• Can be windy
• Less ideal for very young children, long distances or large groups

Best for: Active visitors, beach hopping, longer stays.

Shuttle & Public Transportation

The NRTA shuttle system connects Town to most major beaches and neighborhoods.

Pros

• Affordable and reliable
• No parking stress
• Great for reaching farther areas

Cons

• Runs on set schedules
• Less flexibility late at night

Best for: Visitors without cars who want to explore beyond Town.

Driving

Pros

• Maximum flexibility
• Easy beach access with gear
• Convenient for families

Cons

• Limited parking in Town
• Traffic can be heavy during the summer months
• Ferry vehicle reservations required

Best for: Families, longer stays, visitors staying far from Town.

So… Should You Bring a Car to Nantucket?

A car is helpful but not essential, and many travelers find Nantucket more relaxing without one.

If you’re unsure, consider where you’re staying first. You may want to make your ultimate decision based on where you're staying. Keep in mind, the island does also have ride share services like Uber and Lyfte, so if you don’t bring a car, you can still grab an occasional ride to a farther destination, however you will pay more than public transportation.

• Reserve bikes early in summer

• Check shuttle routes near your rental

• Budget extra spending money if you plan on taking a ride share service

• Choose accommodations that match your mobility preferences

And lastly, if bringing a car, remember to book ferry space well in advance.