Madequecham Beach sits on the southeastern shore of Nantucket, accessed via Madequecham Valley Road — a long, narrow, winding dirt road that leads to a parking area and path to the beach. Wide vehicles should not attempt the road, and drivers should be prepared to pull aside for opposing traffic. The waves and current along the south shore make this beach ideal for strong swimmers and surfers. There are no restrooms, no lifeguards, and no bike path access.
Miacomet Pond is a freshwater pond located on Nantucket’s South Shore. It is noted as a good spot for young children. Parking is available at the pond, though it is limited and shared with Miacomet Beach. There is no lifeguard on duty and no facilities on-site. Visitors should be aware that snapping turtles may be encountered. Avoid entering the pond if an active algal bloom is reported.
Nobadeer Beach is near Nantucket’s airport and is popular with youth, offering surfing, surfcasting, and views of planes landing and taking off. Surfboard and wetsuit rentals and surf lessons are available during the summer months. A lifeguard is on duty in-season. Beach access involves a steep incline, but no stairs. Hazards include rip currents, high surf, and sudden drop-offs. There is a small parking lot; beach driving requires a 4WD vehicle and a permit.
Western Avenue Beach is located across from what used to be the Youth Hostel and is maintained by the Nantucket Land Bank. There extremely limited parking, though it is possible to park at Surfside Beach and walk to this beach access. The Land Bank has updated the entry to this beach, adding a small accessible park with seating. However, getting to this beach and shoreline requires going down a long set of gradual stairs and a long walk over a sand path.
Fisherman’s Beach sits between Nobadeer and Surfside on Nantucket’s south shore, offering a quieter alternative while still featuring dunes, dune grass, and surf. Steep steps lead down to the beach, and parking is very limited, so biking or walking is recommended. There are no lifeguards, no bathrooms, and no food service. Surf can be rough, and visitors should watch for undertow. Nearby Stones Beach shares the same character and also features a Little Free Library for trading books.
