How to Find a Quiet Beach in Nantucket, Massachusetts

The island of Nantucket, Massachusetts, is only accessible by boat or plane. It's a great place for vacationing and has a number of beaches. How do you find a quiet beach in Nantucket? Here's a list to get you started.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider Pocomo Beach on the eastern shore of Nantucket. The water in the bay is warmer than that of the ocean and there's less heavy surf; but the lack of services and lifeguards leads many to choose other beaches on the island.

2. Consider paddling over to Coatue if you have a sea kayak or other boat. This area is remote and there are no facilities; but if you're looking for seclusion, this is where you'll find it.

3. Consider Nobadeer Beach on the south side of the island. This is another beach that tends to be quiet because it is not easy to get to and the beach doesn't have many of the services that families want, such as food and drink, restrooms and lifeguards. However, the trip out to this beach near the airport is well worth it and parking is available.

4. Consider Miacomet Beach on the southern shore of Nantucket. Restrooms, food and lifeguards are not available here either.

5. Consider Steps Beach on the North Shore. Again, there is little parking and no services are available, but the view and the gentle waves make the trip worthwhile.

6. Consider Dionis Beach--also on the North side of Nantucket--if you're looking for a quiet beach with a lifeguard. The beach is a few miles outside of the main part of town and is sheltered by a number of sand dunes.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider Eastern Shore beaches on Nuntucket in the late afternoons as more people will head to those on the west end of the island to view sunsets.
• Many of the beaches of Nantucket have heavy surf and are not recommended for those who aren't strong swimmers.
• Keep in mind that beaches without lifeguards and other services are more remote, so make sure that you are prepared in case of an emergency.