The Nautilus, Nantucket

The Nautilus restaurant is built around the idea of having a social experience with people. They try to create an atmosphere where customers can enjoy how the food, drinks, energy, and atmosphere work together.

Although the Nautilus has a genuine New England marine and seafood emphasis, it draws heavily on haute, street food tastes, and products from Asia. The eatery takes its notes from traditional Japanese izakayas, pays homage to the tapas style of Spanish food, and also draws inspiration from continental South America and the Caribbean.

The beverages are made with a culinary approach, pulling inspiration from the current season and the location where they are served. The collections of wine, sake, and alcohol have won awards and aim to please a wide variety of customers by drawing from various geographical areas and offering a wide range of price points.

The unique, slightly nautical decor is full of references to Jules Verne’s book 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. The music has been carefully selected and is upbeat, the environment is vibrant, and every effort is made to make customers feel at ease, and like they are in their own space.

During the warmer months, the Nautilus will only take appointments for groups of 8 or more people. Those who are part of smaller groups must make an appointment the day of their visit; however, here’s the catch: the establishment only accepts reservations in person for the first hour’s worth, starting at one in the afternoon. When the phone lines finally open at three in the afternoon, most of the appointments for that evening have already been taken. On certain days, a queue will form in front of the restaurant as early as twelve in the afternoon.

Fishing In Nantucket

Once a bustling whaling town, Nantucket is now a popular vacation spot. Travelers from far and wide flock to the island to witness its stunning beauty and culture. There is an abundance of activities, luxury accommodations, and amazing restaurants! Whether you want to shop at exclusive boutiques, visit one of the many museums, or enjoy a fun-filled evening at local venues and events, Nantucket has something for everyone, sure to provide many memories.

Besides the activities mentioned before, fishing is yet another activity that you can enjoy on this island. Fishing is an incredibly popular activity on Nantucket throughout the year, but the best months for casting a line are from June to mid-October when the waters are warmer. This is because the popular game fish, such as stripers, whiting, and bonito, come close to the island’s shores to feed on sand eels, herring, and squid. These fish are ideal for novices, as they can be caught from the shore or docks.

Craving adventure and a test of your skills? Hire a small boat or kayak and sail further inland for a chance to catch cod, bluefish, and even bigger and harder-to-hook fish. To make the most of your trip, hiring a knowledgeable Nantucket fishing guide who knows the best spots to cast your line is best like that you will experience the joy of reeling in some of the most delicious catches.

If you want to take your fishing skills to a higher level, Nantucket fishing charters offer you a chance to do just that. Targeting huge tuna, sharks, mahi-mahi, and marlin in the North Atlantic’s open waters is an opportunity you don’t want to pass up. Nantucket has some of the best fishing charters around. With many of them having been in operation for a long time, you can rest assured that you will have an incredible fishing experience. Finding the perfect charter for your needs will be easy too. You’ll be able to find a well-maintained boat with the right equipment for the type of fish you’re after.

If you’re a fan of fishing, then you’re likely on the hunt for the perfect spot. From beginners to experts, here are some of the top fishing spots in Nantucket to reel in the catch of the day:

  • Brant Point – The currents here surge with force. It’s an ideal spot for predators like striped bass and bluefish to find their meals. It’s no wonder why so many anglers have had success here – Brant Point is a unique destination for surf casting.
  • Great Point – After a 40-minute drive along the beach and sandy roads in a 4×4 vehicle, you’ll arrive at the amazing location that overlooks the Nantucket Sound to the west and the North Atlantic Ocean to the east. Here, you can witness the seals swimming in the water. It’s also a popular surf casting spot, boasting a variety of game fish like false albacore, bonito, and Striper. If you can, also get to visit the renowned Great Point Lighthouse. It’s an experience like no other – one that should not be missed!
  • Madaket Harbor is a fabulous fishing spot between Eel Point and Smiths Point. If you’re looking for a boat or kayak to rent, the middle of the harbor is the place to go – full of bass, bluefish, and bonito, along with scup and fluke. You can wade through the shallow waters along the shores and try your luck at catching some game fish like bonito, striper, and false albacore.
  • On Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod lies Nantucket Sound, a popular fishing destination. Anglers flock to this body of water for its abundance of bluefish, striped bass, black sea bass, fluke, and scup. During the summer months, you can enjoy swimming near the shore. But lucky for fishing fanatics, bluefish, fluke, and scup can be caught from May to October. Not to mention, tuna, sharks, and cod can be reeled in here all year round.
  • A Nantucket fishing charter like the Albacore Charters is the perfect way to experience the thrill of open-ocean fishing. You can hunt for big-game fish like tuna, mahi-mahi, swordfish, wahoo, and marlin. Or, in the spring and summer, you can explore Georges Bank and try your luck at catching cod, haddock, pollack, and other groundfish, which are popular among recreational fishers. That can be yours, an exciting fishing adventure

Are you looking for a paradise for fishing? Nantucket is the place to be! This island offers a plethora of fish species, including cod, striped bass, bluefish, tuna, mahi-mahi, marlin, halibut, haddock, pollock, and bonito. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, you’ll be sure to find a species that suits your needs.  Fishing it’s a great way to relax and enjoy the natural world.

Books About Nantucket

Nantucket has a story to tell at every turn. Its vibrant past is ever-present, no matter where you go. It’s hard not to be captivated by the potential tales here, and that’s why so many books are based around or connected to the island. Whether you want to learn more about Nantucket’s history, enjoy a romantic novel, solve a mystery, or support local authors. With so many books connected to the island, Nantucket’s captivating tales will leave a lasting impression.

Experience the charm and beauty of Nantucket with each of these next stories as they unfold among its sandy beaches, salty breeze, and charming streets. With various genres and authors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Moby Dick by Herman Melville

Let’s start with one American gem, where Nantucket is the fourteenth chapter. The author had not been to the island before writing the book, yet he portrayed it with an immense amount of accuracy, calling it a whole beach.’ His writing is so vivid you’d think he’d seen the island firsthand.

The Guest Cottage by Nancy Thayer

Nancy Thayer’s The Guest Cottage is a local bestseller that offers the perfect Nantucket beach read. Here, you’ll find two lost souls who find one another after their paths accidentally cross when renting the same villa. This book by Thayer will keep you entertained with its captivating story and unique plot. The Guest Cottage will be sure to put you in the Nantucket beach spirit and have you wanting to come back for more.

Nights on Nantucket by Elin Hildebrand

Hildebrand is a local gem that is taking the world by storm between three women. They enjoy a summer night on the beach, only to find out that life can change in unexpected ways – this book captures the island’s spirit in a way that only a true local can. The story will draw you in and keep you perched on the edge of your beach chair. The bond between women can be strong, but sometimes secrets can be even deeper than the ocean.

A Nantucket Wedding by Nancy Thayer

A heart-gripping novel about a family’s journey to understanding and the strength of newfound love: a wedding on a widowed mom of two is praying that the occasion will bring her daughters back together. An incredible story set in a beach town, detailing family bonds and giving chances to start again.

The Book of Summer by Michelle Gable

This is a captivating tale of romance and summertime that unfolds against the enchanting scenery of Nantucket. It is a delightful story of adventure and love that will keep readers laughing and enthralled.

Nantucket by Nan Rossiter

Cadie and Liam are presented with a stirring tale of rekindled passion set against the timeless beauty of Nantucket. For a weekend of revelations and reminiscences, they are given a chance to face the reality of how time can change things while still acknowledging the truths that remain the same. They also get a bittersweet second opportunity to redirect their hearts home.

The Motion of the Stars by Amy Brill

This novel is inspired by the work of Maria Mitchell, America’s first professional female astronomer, and is a vivid depiction of the desires and ambitions that endure in the face of opposition. Set in 1845 Nantucket, it tells of the love between Hannah, a young Quaker librarian, and an unusual man who understands her dreams of searching for a comet. The story captures the struggles of a woman and highlights the importance of ambition and perseverance. Step out and explore the famous stars of Nantucket and be enlightened by this tale of passion and determination.

The Nine Lives of the Comet by Jan Brett.

Comet, a Nantucket cat, dreams of finding a safe home on the island. But, he soon discovered he was in for a wild adventure when he set off from the lighthouse near his birthplace. It wasn’t long before the mischievous kitty found himself in trouble and nearly lost his nine lives several times along the way. This is a delightful tale about a courageous feline who never gave up on his quest for a loving home. Kids especially will find this heartwarming story of Comet’s journey entertaining and inspiring.

Conclusion

Nantucket Island is the backdrop to all of these stories – a picturesque setting for a wealth of captivating tales. The island’s unique beauty is the perfect backdrop for various adventures, from the beaches to the bays. If you want to learn more about Nantucket Island, the Nantucket Atheneum is the place to go! This local library has a special section devoted entirely to the island, perfect for both locals and visitors. It is the ideal spot to find out all you need to know about this amazing place.

Final Touch Construction Nantucket

The Waterhouse family has provided top-notch excavating and landscape construction services to Cape & Nantucket since 1992. Final Touch Construction promises the same quality of service that a large company would, but with the personal touch of an owner-operated business. With over twenty-five years of experience, this family-owned business can guarantee you will get the attention to detail you deserve.

Final Touch Construction has been providing excavation services for over two decades. Their expertise covers a wide range of projects, from septic systems and utility trenches to building retaining walls, paving driveways, laying bricks for pathways, and seeding lawns.

No matter how serious your issue is, they have an answer. Whether you have water pooling around your foundation or street runoff flooding your yard, they can help by installing dry wells and grading your lawn and driveway.

Your outdoor living space during the summer should be just as inviting as the inside of your home. Show off your style with a stunning driveway, brick walkway, patio, retaining wall, tall privacy hedges, or whatever else makes you feel like you’re living in a castle.

It’s time to get your plans in motion and book a free estimate! That way, you can finish your yard project before summer and enjoy it all season long. Are you unsure about something? Feel free to visit their website and contact them for help.

From small projects to large-scale ones, they provide comprehensive assistance with whatever you need. With their experience, Rest assured that your project is in capable hands and will be handled with the utmost skill.

Nantucket Public Schools

Nantucket is home to almost 3,200 school-age children. It’s no wonder schools are a topic of interest. Nantucket is an exciting place for students to grow and explore from the classroom to the community. Let’s learn about the educational opportunities available on this island.

Nantucket Elementary School, Intermediate School, and Cyrus Pierce Middle School

Public schools were reaching the limits of educational capacity for younger students. Thankfully, the Nantucket Intermediate School came to the rescue in 2017. The $45 million project allowed grades three through five to experience a new building while Pre-kindergarten through second grade stayed in the original Nantucket Elementary School. This was a great boon for the city, providing much-needed space for students to learn and grow.

Cyrus Peirce Middle School is a place that offers a range of sports opportunities to students in grades six to eight, from field hockey to soccer, basketball, baseball, and softball. Not only do they get to practice and compete with local teams, but they also have the chance to travel to nearby towns to participate in games.

Nantucket New School

In 1985, Nantucket welcomed its first private school. From preschool up to grade eight, this school fosters strong student-teacher relationships and encourages community participation.

Education doesn’t end after the school bell rings. In 2010, the school joined forces with Strong Wings in an adventure school and summer camp. The students may explore the Whaling Museum, the Maria Mitchell Association, or the Nantucket Land Council. Older students embark on an annual journey to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, while younger ones visit Plimoth Plantation.

Nantucket Lighthouse School

This is the island’s newest educational institution, having opened its doors in 2000. It provides an excellent learning environment for children aged 3 to 14. The small school allows the youngest students to begin their educational journey by focusing on math, daily gratitude, and a celebration of individualism. One of the most remarkable aspects of this school is its outdoor garden and greenhouse, where students are actively encouraged to get involved in growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Additionally, the school hosts an annual Yuletide Fair fundraiser each December.

Nantucket High School

Students in grades 9-12 have one choice for schooling, and the steadily increasing. To make the most of winter, students can try out various activities such as field hockey, swimming, tennis, and sailing or join one of the many clubs like the school newspaper Veritas, the culinary club, or the quiz bowl team. With so many activities available, students are kept well entertained during the cold winter months.

Nantucket Community School

The Nantucket Community School offers something for everyone – from early childhood playgroups and dance classes to driver education and career training. Adults can also take advantage of CPR certification programs, language classes, and more.

One of the highlights of the school is the Nantucket Community Pool. The pool is home to the youth swim team and other teams and is open for family swims and individual workouts. To find out when the pool is open, simply check the online schedule.

 

The island has no universities, so if you want to pursue higher education, you must take a trip to the mainland. On Nantucket, a shop called the University of Nantucket offers distinctive, top-notch island apparel.

Maria Mitchell Association

The Maria Mitchell Association is a non-profit organization that is located on the beautiful island of Nantucket, Massachusetts. After Maria Mitchell’s passing in 1889, her former students, family, and admirers established this association in her honor in 1902. The M.M.A. keeps Maria’s memory alive by preserving her home, papers, and other artifacts. They also promote astronomical and natural science research and provide interactive and educational programs for all ages. This ensures that Maria Mitchell’s memory is kept alive and her legacy continues to benefit generations to come.

The great Maria Mitchell was an iconic figure in Nantucket’s history. She was a champion for women’s rights and education in the 19th century. She is renowned for being the first professional American female astronomer, having discovered a telescopic comet in 1847. Her worldwide fame earned her numerous awards and achievements. Her life serves as an inspiration to many women striving to make their mark in the world.

The Association has a few properties connected to Maria Mitchell. These buildings are spread out in different sections of the island. Each symbolizes her work and reminds her of the importance of her accomplishments.

  • The Historic Mitchell House, located at 1 Vestal Street, is the birthplace of Maria Mitchell, built in 1790, and is home to the Mitchell family from 1816. It is home to many artifacts and items of Maria Mitchell and her family,  personal items including one of her telescopes. The research library at the house is home to Maria Mitchell’s documents, personal library, and a special collection of rare books. It’s a treasure trove of astronomy, natural sciences, and Nantucket-related material from as far back as the 1600s.
  • The Natural Science Museum at 7 Milk Street is an exciting blend of a classic natural history museum, a zoo, and a science center. It is a great destination for all ages, allowing one to explore Nantucket’s plants, animals, and birds.
  • The Maria Mitchell Aquarium is at 28 Washington Street, right on the waterfront of Nantucket Harbor. Here, you can observe the local marine creatures in their natural habitats, learn about their ecosystems, and delve into the island’s biodiversity. There you can explore the amazing sea life around Nantucket!
  • The Loines Observatory is truly a sight to behold. With two domes built in 1968 and 2006, this place houses the antique 8-inch Alvan Clark telescope and a 24-inch research telescope that has been refurbished. This research observatory provides an opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky and learn more about astronomy. Whether you want to get the most out of a backyard telescope or take part in one of their astronomy workshops, the knowledgeable astronomy team can assist you in uncovering the mysteries of the stars. Discover the secrets of the night sky and gain the skills to navigate by the stars, all in one place. Located on 59 Milk Street Extension, you can also book your own customized private event through its private events program. For more information, visit their website.
  • The Vestal Street Observatory, located at 3 Vestal Street, is a site of research and lectures. Constructed in 1908, it’s home to a 7.5-inch telescope. The observatories are also open for public tours, programs, and lectures, with special events occurring throughout the year.
  • The Nantucket Land Bank and Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association have come together to bring the amazing Discovery Playground to Hinsdale Park. In 2019, it opened its doors to the public, and everyone could go and enjoy the playground every day.
  • The Research Center is home to various historical and current collections, such as herbarium, entomological, ornithological, mammalian, and geologic, which date back over a century. In the 1830s, it was built as William Mitchell’s schoolhouse, and in 1919, it began its new life as the MMA Science Library. In 1933, a stucco-sided wing was added to the building, which housed Maria Mitchell’s papers, library, and a remarkable collection of science-related books. In 2018, the building was restored and now serves as a repository and a laboratory space. To visit the Research Center yourself, you can find it at 2 Vestal Street. You can check the website or contact them via phone for more information about opening times.

The Maria Mitchell Association is no ordinary organization – they are deeply committed to science and research. For over a century, the Astronomy Department of the Association has been pushing the boundaries of understanding and exploring a variety of celestial objects and phenomena. They have left no stone unturned, from planets to star clusters, interstellar clouds, and galaxies.

The VMA Museum of Natural History is connected to the Association and is the go-to place for research on land animals and plants. It offers interns, local students, and volunteers opportunities to participate in projects focusing on biodiversity and rare species. Marine research is also conducted and collaborated on with the Association, and they have looked into biodiversity, population dynamics, and invertebrate reproductive physiology.

In addition, the Maria Mitchell Association also provides everyone with the chance to become a community scientist. You can join in on their projects and do your part to help with important research. Watch for new projects and learn how to get involved here.

The Maria Mitchell Association provides a wide selection of events and programs for adults and children of all ages. From the star-gazing activities at Loines Observatory to their Discovery Camp programs, you can find the perfect experience for you on their website. Get ready to set off on an adventure that will stay with you for years!

Craftmasters Of Nantucket

Step into Craftmasters to experience a time warp! You’ll find a treasure trove of handmade leather bags, belts, and glass animals. The rustic brick walls are adorned with wool caps and in the back, you’ll find tusks, scrimshaw knives, and letter openers. Ask the knowledgeable staff about the unique nature of each item!

The sign outside features a leather punch, instantly telling you the purpose of the store. As you enter, the rich, musky smell of cowhide greets you. Illuminated display cases showcase intricate nautical-themed items, belt buckles, cufflinks, and money clips. Leather items and tools are scattered around, and the people here are experts in leather craftsmanship.

Besides the leather goods, Craftmasters has a plethora of other fascinating pieces. Glass pieces, Xmas ornaments, lamps, clocks, timepieces, strange dolls, and scrimshaw fill the space. It’s an anachronistic shop that will excite all your senses and imagination.

Craftmasters is one of Nantucket’s oldest stores, owned and operated by David Masters. He also creates timeless pieces from Wooly Mammoth ivory and oil-based paints – perfect for collecting or gifting. Visit on a cold day to enjoy the warmth of the fire and the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Siam To Go, Nantucket

This snack bar tucked away in the Nantucket Ice rink is like a hidden gem. Though its location may be deceiving, it serves some of the best Thai food available. So if you’re looking for a cozy night at your accommodation after a long day at the beach, takeout from this spot is a great option.

Bo Sasomsin and her husband, Piya Phatthanaphuti, are the masterminds behind this family-run establishment. Both are originally from Thailand, and they moved to the United States during their teenage years.

Their dishes are full of fresh vegetables and plenty of protein, like noodles and curried dishes. Not to mention, the portion sizes are very generous. Plus, if you ask for it spicy, they won’t disappoint. In fact, the smokiness of some of their dishes is truly authentic.

For any traveler looking for a unique and delicious Thai food experience in Nantucket, this is the place to be.

Albacore Charters for a Great Day of Fishing

The Albacore is a 35ft custom sport fisherman offering the utmost comfort in all sea conditions. This private charter provides exclusive boat use for up to 6 people, regardless of age. The boat has the latest high-tech electronics and all necessary safety gear. Captain Bob DeCosta is a second-generation Charter Boat Captain with 50 years of experience fishing the waters around Nantucket.

Are you looking for the perfect fishing trip? They have many options for you to choose from! A 2 1/2 Hour Trip is great for children or novice anglers who don’t want to venture too far. Bluefish are the primary catch. The 5 Hour Trip is scheduled around the tides so that you can fish in the morning or afternoon. You can expect to catch Striped Bass, Bluefish, Black Sea Bass, and Fluke. For those looking to catch lots of big fish, the 8 Hour Trip is the way to go. If you’re looking to catch fluke, the 9-Hour Fluke Special Trip is your choice. The 10-Hour Full Day Inshore Trip is your ticket for a full day of fishing. And for the ultimate experience, check out the Full Day Offshore Trip – it’s monster fishing at its best! For more information, visit their website.

Be sure to bring a hat, sunnies, sunscreen, a camera, a jacket or sweatshirt, and some snacks and drinks. Alcohol is allowed for passengers aged 21 and over, and please note that food and beverages are not included.

The Albacore can comfortably fit up to six people, and the cost stays the same whether there’s one person or the maximum number. Fishing gear and bait are all provided, and your friend will even clean the catch for you. They even guarantee that you’ll catch at least one fish on each trip, and if you don’t, it’s free of charge!

If you need to cancel, you have 96 hours for 2 1/2 or 5-hour trips and seven days for 8-hour or full-day trips. No fee applies for any weather-related cancellations, and if it’s raining, you don’t have to go out, but if you want to, we’ll accommodate you. If it’s too windy, the captain makes that call.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water or a more intense and challenging fishing experience, Albacore Fishing Charter can provide the perfect trip.

Nantucket Walkabout Tour

Discover Nantucket’s natural beauty with Nantucket Walkabout – the island’s only year-round guided hiking service that takes adventurers on a journey of discovery through Nantucket’s protected lands, no matter the season.

Head outside to explore the untouched wilds of Nantucket. Go bird-watching and botany walk, and explore the geology of the island. Discover the many geological formations, rare and wild plants, migrating songbirds, white-tailed deer, and picturesque harbor and ocean views. You can also find ponds, swamps, and raptors in the area. Nantucket Walkabout offers guided natural history hikes on conservation land to teach you about the island’s physical makeup and allow you to explore new trails.

The knowledgeable Peter Brace is your guide as you cross the natural environs of Nantucket. He will leave you with an unforgettable experience; you can even bring your child along for an educational and fun adventure. So, take the plunge and discover all that Nantucket has to offer!

To better understand each trail, read the detailed descriptions on their website. Hikes range between 1 to 4.5 miles, lasting anywhere between 1 to 3 hours. This depends on your group’s energy level, the weather, and your time limits. Generally, you should allow two hours from pick-up to drop-off, with three hours for the Smith’s Point hike. As for the minimum number of hikers, except for the Smith’s Point Hike, there is none. You may take up to 17 people for any hike. With 11 unique hikes to choose from, there’s something for everyone!

At Nantucket Walkabout, you can book a custom, private hike for your group or join one of the regularly scheduled hikes. Check out the Hike Calendar to see which hikes are available each day, and book your spot with just a few clicks. You can check on their website and call or email them. All hikes require a reservation, but you can choose to pay online or with the guide on the day of.

When you’re preparing for your hike, be sure to pack the essentials. You must wear good walking shoes or boots, bug spray, sun lotion, a camera, water, and some food. Additionally, you can bring a backpack, a walking stick, sunglasses, binoculars, and a compass. Lastly, make sure you check the weather before you go and dress accordingly.

Nantucket Walkabout will pick you up from Handlebar Cafe in downtown Nantucket for every hike. They will take you back to the same spot when your adventure is finished. However, if the weather does not permit, They reserve the right to cancel the hike.

Touring Nantucket with Nantucket Walkabout is an amazing experience for everyone in your family. You can take in the beauty of nature while spending quality time together, and you may even learn something new along the way! So why not make a day of it and get out into the fresh air? You won’t regret it!