Discover island life on
NANTUCKET
Escape to a very different kind of America just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod. The tiny island of Nantucket may have once been the whaling capital of the world, but today it’s an in-the-know holiday destination, crammed with history, unspoilt beaches, and some serious foodie treats.
THE PLACE TO STAY For a romantic hideaway with period character and an epic shell-filled beach right on your doorstep, check in to The Wauwinet, an historic hotel with just 36 rooms that’s nestled among the dunes at the north-eastern tip of the island. Go for a ride in their vintage station wagon or hop on their oyster boat and help catch dinner. If you prefer to be more central, The Residences at The White Elephant Village are a homefrom-home (if you were a celebrity). Superstylish apartments decked out in elegant coastal style with gigantic bathrooms, come with four-poster beds, fully fitted kitchens, a private pool and access to bicycles.
THE VIBE Lovingly preserved and packed with some of the oldest and most desirable properties in the USA, the island’s town centre is charmingly wonky with cobbled streets and signature-style cedar shingle-clad buildings. Every avenue is an Instagram moment. It’s fiercely independent too, so you won’t find coffee chains and high-street brands. They even have their own brewery and distillery. Go in October and you can witness the cranberry harvest and the golden colours of autumn.
EAT The Brant Point Grill at the White Elephant Hotel (about £ 60 per head) is your go-to for a contemporary take on classics like steak, lobster and locally caught oysters – plus it has the best view of the harbour. Sip killer cocktails at Lola 41° ( lola41.com) and then small-plate the night away at The Nautilus ( nautilusnantucket.com; about £ 50 per head) where the food is an intriguing fusion of Asian and Latin American flavours. Be sure to book ahead for the not-too-formal fine dining at Topper’s at The Wauwinet (about £75) – think deconstructed clam chowder, chef’s signature shrimp with grits and a 1,450-bottle wine list. Phew!
PACK Go incognito like the Forbes’ List famous who holiday here in little more than a faded polo shirt, shorts and flip-flops. Think Ralph Lauren-by-the-sea and you’re pretty much there. You’ll need a jumper for the beachside breezes.
LOWDOWN Direct return flights with Norwegian from London Gatwick to Boston start from £ 220 per person ( norwegian.com). From Boston, fly with Cape Air ( capeair.com) to Nantucket from £116. Rooms at The Wauwinet start at £150 per night and The Residencies at The White Elephant Village from £ 480 per night; book both at nantucketislandresorts.com.