Nantucket Inn: Barefoot Ease With a Fresh Coastal Look

A thoughtful renovation, family-friendly pools, and complimentary shuttles keep this island stay relaxed and easy.

Waterfront homes and boats along Nantucket Harbor

By Emily Gerard

Why it works

On Nantucket, once the whaling capital of the world and one of the wealthiest communities in America, there is no shortage of swanky resort options for discerning vacationers. But The Nantucket Inn has carved out a much-needed niche as a relatively unpretentious and family-friendly destination since its inception in 1986. Now under new ownership after a meticulous renovation that began in 2022, the pristine resort is looking better than ever.

Sandy path through dunes toward a Nantucket beach

A Local’s Kind of Nantucket

“This is my Nantucket,” says Lauren Theodorakos, a longtime local and now co-owner of the property with her husband, “where you can be barefoot and there are kids running around.” One of their teenage sons even contributed to the art adorning the walls alongside works by renowned local painter Illya Kagan.

Bright lobby with wicker seating and nautical details at Nantucket Inn

A Nautical Welcome

Classic Nantucket nostalgia is on display from the minute you arrive; a wooden whaling boat outside sets the nautical scene, while the light and airy lobby is filled with impressive floral arrangements and wicker furniture, befitting any beach hotel worth its salt.

Indoor swimming pool beneath curved timber beams at Nantucket Inn

Pools & Evening Tennis

The Nantucket Inn also boasts some perks you won’t find at any other hotel, including the only indoor swimming pool on the island.

Guests playing tennis on the courts at Nantucket Inn

Two well-maintained Har-Tru tennis courts invite guests to strike up a friendly match or book a lesson with a pro; if it’s too hot to play during the day, they’re fully illuminated in the evening so you can still get in a set after the sun’s gone down.

Picnic basket and checked blanket on a Nantucket beach

The Island Within Reach

Some of the best beaches on the island are just minutes away, all the more accessible thanks to complimentary shuttles. Shuttle service extends to the center of town should you want to explore Main Street, and continues into the evening so that guests can enjoy an extra drink at dinner without worrying about driving back. In fact, the hotel’s close proximity to the airport means families staying here could forego the headache of a rental car entirely.

Fast Facts

Location: Nantucket, MA

Rating: Four-Star

The vibe: A relaxed coastal prep with a polished shine.

Food + Drink: Enjoy breakfast or a leisurely lunch at the newly-opened NobaDeer café; we like the lobster BLT and the Thai peanut noodle bowl with chicken. As afternoon turns into evening, grab a pick-me-up with an espresso martini and refreshments at NobaBar, or head there for a nightcap after dinner.

Amenities: Indoor & Outdoor pool; Hot Tubs; Fitness center; Tennis Courts; Shuttle service to Main Street and Surfside Beach

Our favorite thing about the hotel: The weathered shingle style and overflowing flower boxes are pure Nantucket. Plus, each section of the hotel has a lush grassy courtyard with chairs perfect for reading the morning paper with a latte in hand. We hear the courtyard spaces also come in handy when parents want the kids outside—but close by.

What’s nearby? The Nantucket Inn is located near some of the island’s most desired beaches – Nobadeer, Fisherman’s, Surfside, and Stones. Plus, it’s literally right down the road from the airport. You could walk there when you land and take advantage of the hotel’s shuttle service for a completely car-free vacation!

Any personal neighborhood recs? No trip to Nantucket is complete without a Bluff Walk pilgrimage. Head to Siasconset (call it “Sconset” to put the YK in IYKYK) and follow the famous trail along the cliffs for gorgeous views in every direction, from the ocean crashing below to the gardens of the island’s most picturesque waterfront residences.

Rooms: 100 guest rooms

Pricing (at original publication): Rates start at $335/night.

Closest Airport: ACK

Hotels Above Par

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