At the far western end of the island, Madaket is a popular beach, especially for watching incredible sunsets. Sand is soft. The surf can be heavy, so check beach conditions. There are some lifeguards, but not the full length of the beach. No restrooms, and no food service, so bring a picnic . There is some parking.
Madaket Beach is accessible by bike via a 5.5 mile paved bike path, or take the NRTA shuttle bus (seasonal).
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.
Stone’s Beach has dunes, dune grass, and surf on the south side of Nantucket. The beach has a small parking lot, though biking or walking to the beach is noted as ideal. Steep steps lead down to the beach. Stone’s Beach also has a Little Free Library for trading favorites, along with a small lookout and bench near the steps leading to the beach. No lifeguards, bathrooms, or food service are available.
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.
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.
