These Are the 5 Best Hotels in Nantucket for Every Type of Traveler
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Whether you’re planning to visit Nantucket for the first time or it’s the place your family has summered for generations, this stunning New England isle always manages to feel magical. From the classic shingle-style architecture and charming cobblestone streets to the endless array of hydrangea blooms, salty sea air and nearly 400-year history, there’s truly no place like it in the world.
The hotels on Nantucket are all proud, thoughtful reflections of their coastal environs and pleasant pace of life that invite all guests to slow down and savor each moment. We’ve narrowed down the island’s top-notch properties that offer the best in hospitality, accommodations, dining and amenities that will keep you coming back for more, whether you prefer the buzzy summer months or relish in the quiet of the off season. These properties offer something for all ages and interests, whether you're seeking a multi-generational getaway, romantic weekend, vacation with friends, or a solo trip. Here, the best hotels in Nantucket for every type of traveler.
Best Hotel for Romance: The Wauwinet
Who it’s for: Couples seeking a romantic getaway, travelers seeking a five-star experience
Type(s) of Accommodations: Rooms, one-bedroom cottages, and the three-bedroom Anchorage House
Notable Amenities: Oceanfront with private beach access, one of the top restaurants in town, complimentary BMW X5 rentals
Location: Wauwinet
Pros: Privacy, unbeatable views, award-winning wine collection, seasonal in-room floral displays
Cons: Far from most other top destinations on the island, no on-site spa
While certainly the top pick for couples, The Wauwinet is also fantastic option for any party seeking the ultimate luxury experience on Nantucket. Situated at the farthest end of the island (about eight miles from downtown), guests will not only savor privacy but also some of Nantucket’s most picturesque views. There is truly no better place to be during golden hour than on the hotel lawn or seated outdoors at Topper’s sipping a glass of sunset-hued rosé.
The Wauwinet has a boutique feel that captures Nantucket’s breezy yet elegant charm while offering a host of top-notch amenities, such as a pre-arrival concierge to ensure a seamless experience; daily sherry, port, and cheese tastings in the afternoons; and tours of the hotel’s widely acclaimed wine cellar. It's also the only Relais & Chateâux property on the island.
Best Hotel Accommodations: White Elephant Nantucket
Who it’s for: Families and other large parties looking for spacious, stylish accommodations and a range of amenities closer to downtown
Type(s) of Accommodations: Rooms, suites, residences, garden cottages, and downtown lofts
Notable Amenities: Plenty of kid-friendly equipment and activities, two beloved restaurants, pool cabanas, on-site spa
Location: Downtown Historic District
Pros: Newly renovated, wide variety of accommodations, location, complimentary transportation around town
Cons: Not on the water, very pricey during high season
The sprawling White Elephant resort, a sister property to The Wauwinet, is a top destination for families and parties of all sizes looking a luxe stay while being right in the middle of the action. This property boasts the widest range of accommodation options for whatever your group desires, be it a more traditional suite overlooking the Nantucket Harbor, a chic garden cottage, or a gracious pied-à-terre-style loft downtown.
Beyond having some of the best culinary destinations on the island in Brant Point Grill and Topper’s, the newly renovated White Elephant boasts one of the few hotel spas on Nantucket, along with a family-friendly pool equipped with cabanas and an ice cream cart. However, the resort offers complimentary use of bicycles and self-driving BMWs for those looking to venture outside the property, and a pre-arrival concierge will ensure that you make the most of your time with a roster of curated local experiences.
Best Boutique Hotel: Greydon House
Who it’s for: Aesthetes and travelers seeking a cozier setting
Type(s) of Accommodations: Rooms, suites, private guest houses
Notable Amenities: Acclaimed Via Mare restaurant, Acqua di Parma and Ursa Major toiletries, library
Location: Downtown Historic District
Pros: Inspiring interiors, in-house dining, unique packages for enthusiasts of all kinds
Cons: No in-house breakfast or room service
Designed by famed husband-and-wife team Roman and Williams, this stunning 20-room boutique property in a mid-19th century house takes a global approach to Nantucket’s classic coastal design, from the block printed John Robshaw linens to the hand-painted Portuguese bathroom tiles featuring nautical scenes. However, Greydon House is much more than a pretty face, boasting a popular Venetian-inspired dining destination in Via Mare, clever amenities (think: complimentary use of Fujifilm INSTAX Mini 11 cameras), and thoughtful wellness-inspired programming, as well as seasonal retreats that feature functional medicine consultations, massages, and a memorable trek through Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge.
While we love the cozy, historic property that houses the main rooms, hotel restaurant, and charming library, Greydon House also offers more luxurious, private accommodation options in its four distinct guest houses nestled around the island's best neighborhoods. These stylish properties will help you establish a true home away from home in Nantucket while having the same chic design and curated amenities found at the hotel.
Best Hotel for Families: The Nantucket Hotel
Who it’s for: Travelers seeking a quintessential Nantucket vacation with all the amenities and beach proximity
Type(s) of Accommodations: Rooms, suites, cottages
Notable Amenities: Unparalleled wellness facilities, a seasonal kids’ club, ample culinary programming
Location: Brant Point
Pros: Only all-season resort on the island, award-winning hospitality, complimentary shuttle services
Cons: May be too bustling for a romantic getaway
This iconic hotel became even more famous with Elin Hilderbrand’s The Hotel Nantucket, which was inspired by this property (sans ghosts!). If you’re looking for an all-ages destination with every amenity you can think of, The Nantucket Hotel offers a colorful, comprehensive vacation experience. Children will love the kids’ club (offered in-season) and dedicated kiddie pool, while the adults will appreciate the ample spa and fitness programming and a separate pool for ages 14 and up.
The Nantucket Hotel is acclaimed for its impeccable hospitality that will leave you feeling like family after just one stay at this beloved property. While there is clearly plenty to do without leaving the hotel (including plenty of exciting dining experiences), the property offers complimentary beach and ferry shuttles, as well as antique vehicle rides around town to help guests maximize their itineraries. It’s worth mentioning that the hotel is dog-friendly, which may be a major pro for some and a deal-breaker for others, but it does add to the festive atmosphere.
Best Hotel for Historic Charm: Jared Coffin House
Who it’s for: History buffs and those looking to be at the center of it all
Type(s) of Accommodations: Rooms and suites
Notable Amenities: Pre-arrival concierge, courtesy car service, continental breakfast
Location: Downtown
Pros: Location, free island transportation, classic design, great value
Cons: On-site restaurant only open for part of the year, not much privacy for families
The historic Jared Coffin House is seated at an idyllic address on downtown’s buzzy Broad Street, though it manages to feel quite private. Another sister property to The Wauwinet and White Elephant, the Jared Coffin House offers a slew of modern amenities within this elegant bed-and-breakfast-style manse filled with antique furnishings and prominent local art. The hotel features a dining destination in the Nantucket Tap Room, daily continental breakfast and afternoon snacks, courtesy car service, and complimentary access to bicycles for cruising around town. Plus, you’re just steps away from the best dining, shopping, and local sights—many of which can be seen from the window of your suite.
While you may not have as many on-site amenities as the sister properties, Jared Coffin House offers the best of both worlds in staying at a cozy, historic inn, while having access to the pool, spa, fine dining, and other offerings at The Wauwinet and White Elephant. Each room is inspired by the grace and charm of this historic island and the suites are named after prominent citizens through the years.
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