This beach is between Sconset and Tom Nevers Pond, nearly 7 miles from Nantucket town, and is a wonderful beach if you like your privacy. Sweeping views, plenty of room. Surf can be heavy with strong currents. This beach is a bit of a hike from the village of ‘Sconset, so bring any food and beverages you’ll need. No lifeguards.
Surfside Beach is one of Nantucket’s busiest beaches and is family friendly, though surf here can get heavy. The wide beach is good for picnics and beach games, and this beach is popular for early morning shelling and evening surfcasting. Dogs are permitted here as long as they are leashed and licensed. Restrooms with a diaper changing station, showers, and a food concession are on-site. Bonfires are not permitted. Lifeguards on duty in-season. Located at the end of Surfside Road with parking.
Madequecham Beach sits on Nantucket’s southeastern shore, accessed via Madequecham Valley Road — a long, narrow, winding dirt road leading to a parking area and path to the beach. Wide vehicles should not attempt it, and drivers should be prepared to pull aside for opposing traffic. The waves and current make this beach ideal for strong swimmers and surfers. There are no restrooms, no lifeguards, and no bike path access.
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.
Cisco Beach is a South Shore beach on Nantucket, located at the end of Hummock Pond Road — a four-mile bike ride from town. Known for heavy surf and soft sand, it is very popular with surfers and young adults. A lifeguard is on duty in season, though there are no facilities on site. Rip currents can be strong, and visitors are cautioned to be aware of undertow and rip tides. The beach is occasionally foggy and has parking available. The lack of facilities may make it less attractive for families with children.