Things to do this spring in Nantucket

Spring in Nantucket is often one of the most beautiful and underrated times of the year to visit. The island begins to thaw from the winter chill, blooming to its quintessential spring event – the Daffodil Festival (or Daffy), which officially kicks off spring and leads into the busier summer months.

Here are the top things to do in Nantucket this spring:

One of the island's most beloved events: The weekend includes an antique car parade, the Daffodil Hat Pageant, Children’s Bike & Dog Parades and an island Tailgate picnic in Sconset. This must-see spring tradition features more than 3 million daffodils in bloom. For more information about the Daffy, see our post on the festival.

The weather is ideal for exploring Nantucket on two wheels. The island’s top routes include Polpis Road to Sconset and the Cisco Bike Path to the beach and brewery.

Spring is a great time to beat the summer crowds at the Whaling Museum and dive into Nantucket’s seafaring history — including the story that inspired Moby-Dick.

Cisco Brewers reopens in the spring with live music, food trucks, and local beer and wine. The brewery has great vibes and a perfect afternoon hangout.

Spring is when shops reopen and new seasonal collections arrive. The island has a plethora of local shops and treasures. For more, see our guide for the shopper.

Many of the island’s restaurants begin opening with fresh spring flavors and new seasonal menus. Straight Wharf and The Chanticleer feature seasonal ingredients. The Nautilus and Lemon Press reopen with lighter, vibrant dishes, and Cru is a must for waterfront oysters and rosé.

While it may be a little chilly for most water activities, kayaking during the spring is beautiful and the harbors and ponds are less crowded (just don’t forget your long sleeves). You’ll catch early blooms, seabirds, and maybe even seals in quieter coves, and cooler air means fewer bugs.

Best Spots to kayak include, Hummock Pond, Polpis Harbor, Eel Point or Madaket Harbor and Nantucket Harbor. For more on kayaking, see our kayaker’s guide.