Nantucket, Mass. is home to the preppiest, cutest beach town in the world. If you're lucky enough to be visiting the island, you're lucky enough.
The island features beautiful beaches, unbelievable views, high-end shops and an upbeat night life. Here's a list of the must do, must see, and must eat of the island!
Must see. Siasconset Bluff Walk. The bluff walk in 'Sconset (the local slang term for the Nantucket town) is a simple beaten path that runs between backyards of wealthy, perfectly landscaped homes and the cliffside of the 'Sconset beach. The path meanders through tomato bushes, hydrangea plants, vine-covered arches and perfectly mowed lawns allowing all travelers the pleasant views of the beach or the adorable cottage architecture. During my visit, there was a small child-run lemonade sale featuring sparkling lemonade with pink striped paper straws that was the perfect addition to the walk! I also highly recommend bringing a camera and your best picture-taking face because the photo opportunities here cannot be missed.
Must do. Main Street Shopping. The main street in Nantucket is there right when you get off the ferry. It's also an easy bike ride or quick car ride from most areas of the island. You definitely will want to drive, considering how many shopping bags you'll end up coming home with. The stores in town are upscale, with big brands such as Vineyard Vines, Lilly Pulitzer, Ralph Lauren and Island Company. Of course, there are lesser known names and more boutique-type places, but don't expect to find any super-savings deals. Even with a budget of practically zero, I enjoyed the shopping by browsing and just trying on the colorful Lilly dresses and KJP bracelets and admiring the store windows and displays. The absolute must-do shop is the TownPool storefront that exhibits brand such as Chubbies and KJP, along with pop-up stores of lesser known American-made products that are adorable. I discovered the store Mahi Gold which sells printed cotton dresses that fit to perfection!
Must eat. LOLA Burger. LOLA is the must eat place for a casual and fun summer meal of gourmet burgers and fries. The menu consists of every burger and topping imaginable, including various original sauces that also go perfectly with the fries! My favorite aspect of the restaurant is the delicious gluten-free roll and bun option. The gluten-free roll was so good, I had to double check with the kitchen to be sure it was actually gluten-free. All of the burgers are prepared to a perfect medium-rare and are as juicy and mouthwatering as a burger can possibly be. The best part? It's not as expensive as other Nantucket options! Plus, it's great for those spending a week or more on the island who may be growing sick of seafood or BBQ chicken at home. The absolute must-eat is the chipotle mayo and fois gras sauces that make an amazing addition to any burger or fry!
