"Nantucket! Take out your map and look at it. See what a real corner of the world it occupies; how it stands there, away off shore, more lonely than the Eddystone Lighthouse. Look at it-a mere hillock, and elbow of sand; all beach, without a background."--Herman Melville
Set 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, this old whaling town is now a nautical paradise. The island lures countless residents and tourists alike. In summer months, its population more than triples in size from 10,000 to 50,000 as folks gather to partake in maritime adventure, an 82-mile stretch of beachfront and celebrated east coast culture and cuisine.
The search for apartments in Nantucket may seem futile, as it's a seasonal town and can cost more than most budgets allow
"Nantucket! Take out your map and look at it. See what a real corner of the world it occupies; how it stands there, away off shore, more lonely than the Eddystone Lighthouse. Look at it-a mere hillock, and elbow of sand; all beach, without a background."--Herman Melville
Set 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, this old whaling town is now a nautical paradise. The island lures countless residents and tourists alike. In summer months, its population more than triples in size from 10,000 to 50,000 as folks gather to partake in maritime adventure, an 82-mile stretch of beachfront and celebrated east coast culture and cuisine.
The search for apartments in Nantucket may seem futile, as it's a seasonal town and can cost more than most budgets allow. Diligence and patience will prove necessary as you traverse property listings, condo rentals and homes for rent.
Don't give up, though. It's likely a better deal to move with a few friends and secure a posh crash pad than try to forge uncharted waters alone and wind up in a sea hut. Some homeowners in the area offer furnished apartments at a discount to those willing to take care of the property while they're away.
No matter where you settle, be prepared to shell out first month's rent, a few good-faith references and a hefty deposit that will cover any and all scuff marks left on the newly stained wood floors.
City Center: Locals refer to this part of the city as "town," and it's where a majority of the dining establishments and shops are. Living here will afford you access to larger single-family homes for rent, as well as small apartment complexes and that Whaling Museum you've heard so much about. It's historic and quaint while being the most bustling community on Nantucket. Sayle's Seafood, a sprawling shack doling out fried cod and the freshest oysters you'll likely ever eat, provides residents with sustenance for dining in or as take-out. Another community favorite is the Oran Mor Bistro, which boasts an inventive, locally inspired menu. Provisions, a sandwich shop, satisfies the urge for something quick and easy while out running errands or shopping for gifts to send to relatives back home. Boutiques, like Nantucket Brand, fill the quaint streets, and you can find groceries at Stop and Shop or Annye's Whole Foods and all your feel good items at Nantucket Pharmacy. Recreation in this area is paramount and consists of green spaces galore, including Lily Pond and Mill Hill Parks, as well as the Brant Point Lighthouse. Residents can rent kayaks at Sea Nantucket, or invest in some wheels at Young's Bicycle Shop; both make for great modes of transport.
Madaket: This rural community is situated on the southwestern side of the island and boasts cheaper rental prices and more available property for rent than neighboring blocks. You're likely to find medium-sized abodes and studio apartments up for grabs. It's a peaceful portion of the island, which means you'll enjoy an uncompromised view of the surroundings without the hustle and bustle of town. Millie's, a Tex-Mex eatery close by, provides stellar south-of-the-border cuisine in a down-home environment. The fish tacos steal the show, so save room for at least one portion. Anticipate outdoor adventure at Madaket or Dionis Beach, where the surf is heavy. Parks and ponds are abundant and include Hummock Pond and Clark's Cove, which are part of the Nantucket Conservation Foundation's efforts to sustain natural island habitats. If you're up for some fly fishing, call Captain Bill at Nantucket Outfitters and charter a guided excursion. Bikers can also rejoice as this portion of the island comes equipped with the Madaket Bike Path, a long stretch of road for enthusiasts. For groceries and spirits, West End Market has you covered. It's also a one-stop shop, carrying boogie boards and sunscreen for the beach bum within.
Cisco: This is a cozy little suburb just south of town that offers single-family homes, two bedroom apartments and condo rentals. There is a little bit of something for everybody here, and the prices reflect it -- they're steep but worthy for the amount of space granted. You'll be close to the noise but not at the center of it all. Neighborhood gem, Cisco Brewers, slings locally crafted beer, distilled spirits and wine. Food carts are on-site to satisfy the munchies, and live bands entertain the crowds. Not to be overshadowed by libation, East Coast Seafood offers residents the freshest fish and seafare in town. With recently harpooned swordfish and accoutrements to spice up the cabinet, locals spend their hard-earned money here for a reason. Leisure sports are all the rage in Cisco. Miacomet Golf Course allows a day on the putting green, while Miacomet Beach provides a day in the sand. It's business as usual, if by business you mean pleasure.
Siasconset: This rural portion of the island offers enormous homes that sometimes include up to five bedrooms. Considering the stunning nature of the properties, this area somehow sees the lowest asking price for rent. It's a steal if you're willing to live further away from town. Shopping, banking and dining are a bit more prevalent here than on the opposite end of the island. Seclusion is possible, but it's also a cinch taking out some cash at the nearby Bank of America ATM and spending it wisely at Topper's, the fine dining establishment that other fine dining establishments will never live up to. Wine and sunset out on the lawn will make you feel like royalty, until the check comes and you realize you've spent a quarter of your rent on shellfish. Centre Street Bistro is another option for dining in posh surroundings. It costs less than its swanky counterpart, but will afford you the same bellyache when you've decided you should eat four proper courses. The possibilities for entertainment here are endless. The Sankaty Head Golf Club once again caters to the golf pro in town. Siasconset Beach allows for sunbathing, while The Nantucket State Forest's South Pasture is more serene, allowing locals to roam around. The community can also participate in Disc Golf at a challenging course set against a wooded backdrop.
Nantucket is a seasonal destination for most, which means many dining and recreational establishments close their doors at the end of the summer. Winters here are best taken in by enjoying the peaceful surroundings that exist when tourists aren't present.
Living on an island means you'll have to become familiar with air and aquatic travel if you'd like to leave and return. A trip from Hyannis to Nantucket on The Eagle will take about two hours. The upside is that, with advanced notice to the carrier, you can take your car aboard for a simple commute once you've reached shore. Ferry service is year-round, as long as weather permits. If you're simply taking a quick trip ashore, Island Air, Nantucket Airlines and Fly Cape Air all provide service to Hyannis in under a half-hour.
Having a car in Nantucket is essential, especially if you live in a remote section of town. While commutes aren't long, having a car means easy access to entertainment that would otherwise be off-limits. Nantucket is equipped with bus service (The Wave), which provides seasonal service over nine routes, island-wide.
Grab the sunscreen and loosen that belt buckle; living on the island will grant you endless days and nights relaxing on the beach and delving into some seriously phenomenal fresh and regional cookery.
