Also called “Pebble Beach.” No lifeguard; no facilities.
Surf at this beach can be heavy; very coarse sand. Sometimes foggy. This beach is rarely crowded. Excellent surfcasting. Access onto the beach can be difficult. Limited 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.
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.
