Nantucket Guide for Kids

Nantucket Guide for Kids

09/13/2023

We wish we could go back to being a kid on Nantucket! Going for bike rides, learning to surf, fishing, and running around the playgrounds. Summers on Nantucket are unforgettable as a young kid. What's not to love?

At GPP, we also understand traveling with kids of any age can be a challenge! We've come up with a guide for your young ones so you never have to worry about keeping them entertained.

Playgrounds

Let the kids run around at many of the great playgrounds across the island. The Discovery Playground is the newest addition and offers a great space. Children’s beach will become a classic childhood memory with the park, playground and beach all in one spot.

  • Children’s beach

  • Discovery Playground at Hinsdale Park

  • Backus Lane Playground

  • Sconset Playground

Educational Activities

Nantucket is proud of its impressive history and there are amazing opportunities for kids to learn more about it through hands-on and interactive activities.

  • Maria Mitchell Aquarium

  • Stargazing at Liones Observatory

  • Maria Mitchell Discover Center

  • Whaling Museum

Rainy Day Activities

For those days when you can’t be on the beach, there are still many fun activities for kids to do around the island. Get creative, cozy up for a movie, or wander around the classic toy stores downtown.

  • Dreamland Movie

  • Kids section at the Atheneum

  • Art class at Artist Association of Nantucket

  • Kids Stores:

    • Nantucket Bookworks

    • Barnaby’s Toy & Art Shack

    • Pinwheels

    • Townpool

Fun in the Sun

Get outside and Immerse the kids into what Nantucket is really about whether it’s being on the beach, out on the water, or taking advantage of the island's natural surroundings.

  • Surf Lesson at Cisco

  • Critter Cruise

  • Linda Loring Nature Foundation Walks

  • Rent a Kayak or SUP

Food & Treats

We’ve come up with a list of kid-friendly restaurants that offer a casual environment and menu suitable for all ages. When it’s time for dessert or a sweet treat, you’ll know where to go!

  • Brotherhood of Thieves

  • Something Natural

  • Island Kitchen

  • The Tavern

  • Juice Bar

  • Candy room at Force 5

Summer Camps

If you’re staying for a longer period of time and looking to keep the kids busy, look into the many great options for summer camps. All camps have offerings for kids across all age groups and are a great way to make new friends.

  • Strong Wings Adventure School

  • Murray Camp

  • Next Level Watersports

  • Nantucket Community Sailing

Kid Friendly Beaches

When the kids are young, the smaller waves on the North Shore beaches are perfect for splashing around or getting comfortable in the water. There are also lifeguarded beaches across the island that are a great option for when the kids want to play in the water all day.

  • Jetties Beach (Check out Sandbar while you’re there for some food and cold drinks)

  • Dionis

  • Surfside

  • Miacomet

  • Cisco

In need of a babysitter after a busy day with the kids? Contact your rental agent for our babysitter list.