A guest’s perceptive on her recent fall visit:
I have always loved fall on Nantucket. I like the softening and the quieting aspect of the Island,
with its clear blue skies and familiar breezes. While the crowds have slowed, the Island still
bursts with natural beauty and charm.
I’ve heard countless times that “September is the new August” and, well, I suppose that means
October must be the new September? Either way, Nantucket’s gorgeous weather tends to carry
into the autumn months and is the perfect time for a peaceful, truly stunning weekend get-away.
While a few shops and restaurants may close up for the season, don’t let these quieter months
keep you away. Here are five ways to enjoy fall on Nantucket – with places that are open year
round (or at least until winter).
1. Beach Cruise
I love the feeling of heading out on the long, winding roads of Nantucket with absolutely no
plans for the day. These fall days are the perfect time for exploring the island by bike, and
Young’s Bicycle Shop stays open all season to make it super easy for you to rent a beach
cruiser for your stay.
Two popular rides include journeys from historic downtown to ‘Sconset or Madaket, both of
which, while long, are fairly easy. We biked back around to Brant Point Lighthouse, located five
minutes from Town, just in time for sunset.
2. Fall on PUPtucket
Nantucket anytime of the year is a great place to vacation with your dog – but especially these
fall months, when the Island starts to quiet down and beaches start to open up, is it a true dog’s
paradise.
We love staying at the Brass Lantern Inn because it is a totally pup friendly Bed & Breakfast
right in the heart of historic downtown. Our golden doodle, Luna, was greeted with an adorable
doggy care package, a travel water bowl, and a little satchel of welcoming treats from
Geronimo’s and Cold Noses. I think Luna found her puppy home away from home.
3. Morning Strolls at Steps Beach
Located just a twenty minute walk from the Brass Lantern Inn, Steps Beach is the perfect
destination to get out for some morning movement and to take in the sea-drenched air. While
this is one of my favorite Island walks during all seasons, I especially loved the softer color
palette of Steps in September. With honeyed dunes and muted seascapes, the expansive
beauty of Steps contrasted seamlessly with the foam and rolling dunes of the Atlantic.
Plus, Luna had a blast running freely through the salty air.
4. Fall’s Foodie Paradise
Nantucket in the fall is a true foodies paradise. Between the brilliantly red cranberry bogs and
the official kick start of bay scalloping season, these fall months are chock-full of Island locals
celebrating the natural bounty of this beautiful Island.
Better yet? You can now experience the best of this little Island without the wait of long
restaurant lines – or reservations that need to be made weeks in advance. The true local gems
are open way beyond the summer season, and we had the pleasure of strolling leisurely around
Town, and stopping in to dine at two of our favorite restaurants – Queequegs for fresh caught
scallops and The Nautilus for blue crab fried rice.
5. Bartlett’s Farm
Both Bartlett’s Farm (and brewery right down the road) are an absolute fall must. This corner of
the Island really comes alive during these autumn months – and there’s no better place to
explore the natural beauty and bounty of this island. So, get your flannels and scarves and
head out to Cisco for a gorgeous fall shoot!
Come and experience Nantucket in the fall for yourself! Click for special fall offers.
