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.
Tom Nevers Beach, also known as “Pebble Beach,” is a rarely crowded south shore beach on Nantucket with very coarse sand and heavy surf. Beach access can be difficult, and the area is sometimes foggy. It is an excellent spot for surfcasting. There is no lifeguard on duty and no facilities on site. Parking is limited.
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.
Miacomet Beach is located at the end of Miacomet Road on Nantucket’s south shore. Paved road gives way to narrow sand roads, and parking is limited. Beach driving is prohibited. Surf and rip currents can be dangerous: lifeguards are on duty in-season. This beach is another good spot to watch the sun set. There are no restrooms and no food service at this beach. Families with young children may prefer nearby Miacomet Pond.
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.
