Staying in Town vs. Outside Town on Nantucket:

When planning a Nantucket vacation, one of the biggest decisions you will make is where to stay. The island may be small, but each area offers a unique and special experience.

Some visitors prefer the energy and walkability of Nantucket downtown, referred to as Town, while others visit specifically for the quiet beaches and open landscapes found in neighborhoods farther from the center of the island.

If you're deciding where to stay, here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of staying in Town, in nearby neighborhoods, or in more remote areas of Nantucket.

Lovingly referred to as Town by locals and frequent visitors, Nantucket’s downtown is the historic heart of the island. Cobblestone streets, classic gray shingle homes, boutiques, and restaurants line the harbor, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the summer.

Pros of Staying in Town

• Walkability: Town is one of the most walkable places on Nantucket. Restaurants, shops, galleries, and the harbor are all within easy walking distance.
• Dining and nightlife: Many of the island’s best restaurants, wine bars, and cocktail spots are located here.
• Convenience: Staying in Town means you are close to the ferry docks, grocery stores, and bike rentals.
• Great for first-time visitors: If it is your first time visiting Nantucket, staying in Town allows you to experience the island’s charm right outside your front door.

Cons of Staying in Town

• More crowds in peak season: July and August can be busy, especially along Main Street and the waterfront.
• Less privacy: Homes tend to be closer together compared to other parts of the island.
• Higher rental demand: Because Town is so convenient, homes here are often booked quickly.

Just outside Town are several neighborhoods that offer a balance between convenience and tranquility. Brant Point and Cliff are two of the most sought-after areas for visitors who want to be close to Town but not directly in the center of it.

Pros of Staying Near Town

• Quick access to Town: In areas like Brant Point or Cliff, you can often walk or bike into Town in just a few minutes.
• More space and privacy: Homes tend to have larger lots and quieter surroundings.
• Beautiful beaches nearby: Brant Point and Cliff are close to several north shore beaches, which are perfect for calmer waters and sunset views.
• Classic Nantucket feel: These neighborhoods offer a relaxed residential atmosphere while still being close to the action.

Cons of Staying Near Town

• Still popular during summer: Because of their proximity to Town, these areas remain highly desirable and usually book quickly.
• You may still need bikes or a car: While Town is close, some trips may be easier with transportation.

For visitors seeking peace, privacy, and natural beauty, Nantucket’s more remote neighborhoods provide a completely different experience.

Areas such as Madaket, Tom Nevers, Polpis, and Quidnet offer wide-open landscapes, quiet beaches, and a slower pace of life.

Pros of Staying Outside Town

• Privacy and space: Homes in these areas often have larger properties and more distance from neighbors.
• Nature and scenery: These neighborhoods highlight Nantucket’s coastal landscapes, moors, and dunes.
• Peaceful atmosphere: Farther from the summer crowds, these areas are ideal for relaxing beach days and quiet evenings.
• Spectacular sunsets: Places like Madaket are famous for their sunsets over the water.

Cons of Staying Outside Town

• Transportation is usually necessary: You will likely need a car or bikes to reach restaurants and shops.
• Less walkability: Dining and shopping options are not typically within walking distance.
• Planning is needed: Since you're staying farther from Town, it helps to plan grocery runs and dinner reservations in advance.

Located on the eastern side of Nantucket, Siasconset, known as Sconset, offers something unique on the island. Rather than feeling like a neighborhood of Nantucket, Sconset has the charm of its own small village. Rose-covered cottages, narrow lanes, and a quiet bluff overlooking the Atlantic create an atmosphere that feels both historic and peaceful.

Why Visitors Love Staying in Sconset

• A charming village center with a market, restaurants, and small shops
• Beautiful ocean views along the famous Sconset Bluff Walk
• A slower, more relaxed pace than Town

Although, Sconset is on the farthest end of the island, for many visitors it offers the perfect mix of village charm and coastal scenery.

The best place to stay on Nantucket depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.

Stay in Town if you want:

• Walkability
• Restaurants and shopping nearby
• A lively atmosphere

Stay near Town if you want:

• Easy access to everything
• A quieter residential setting
• Beaches close by

Stay outside Town if you want:

• Privacy and open space
• Scenic landscapes
• A slower pace of island life

Explore every Nantucket neighborhood by visiting our Neighborhoods page.

Where you stay can shape your entire Nantucket experience. Whether you prefer the convenience of Town, the charm of nearby neighborhoods, or the tranquility of more remote areas, choosing the right location makes all the difference.

Working with local experts can help you find a rental that fits your travel style, group size, and ideal location on the island.

See our vacation rentals in some of Nantucket's most popular neighborhoods:

Polpis Vacation Rentals

Madaket Vacation Rentals

Sconset Vacation Rentals

Wauwinet Vacation Rentals