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.
Ladies Beach is located south of Bartlett Farm and within the Smooth Hummocks Coastal Preserve. The beach features body surfing and boogie boarding during low tide. There is a nearby parking area and a footpath through the dunes for beach access. The waves and current along the south shore make this beach ideal for strong swimmers and surfers
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.
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.
