Sweet Scoops: Exploring Every Ice Cream Spot on Nantucket
08/18/2025
Nantucket’s ice cream scene is a tapestry of flavor, pricing, and seaside whimsy. Whether you're in the heart of town, nestled in Sconset village, or chasing a sunset out in Madaket, there's a frozen treat waiting just for you.
1. The Juice Bar (12 Broad Street, Downtown) - $$$
The OG of Nantucket sweet treats. Homemade, classic, and always delicious.
Highlights: Iconic homemade waffle cones (fragrant and warm), an ever-changing menu of over 40 handcrafted flavors, plus vegan options made with coconut milk.
Vibe: Lines form around the block on summer evenings, but locals say the wait is worth it. It’s a true Nantucket tradition. If you’re impatient, we recommend visiting for a treat after lunch to avoid waiting too long.
2. Jack + Charlie’s (10 Straight Wharf, Downtown) - $$
A youthful twist on the classic parlor, operated by island locals.
Specialties: Housemade ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, sundaes, and freshly baked waffle cones, including gluten-free and doggie cones.
Flavors: Black raspberry (fan favorite), pistachio, and seasonal riffs like salted caramel with chocolate chunks and exotic sorbets.
Extras: Breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and acai bowls.
3. Surfside Taco Stand (2 Broad Street, Downtown) - $$
Visit this hidden gem for ice cream and skip the lines.
Charm & Menu: A casual taco spot that also serves classic soft-serve ice cream. Order a vanilla, chocolate, or swirl cone or try the ice cream nachos. Surfside also has waffle cones and various toppings.
4. Nantucket Pharmacy (45 Main Street, Downtown) - $$
Step back in time to this vintage 1929 soda shop.
Vintage: An old-school soda counter serving fresh ice cream, frappes, shakes, and root beer floats in classic or fun flavors like Black Raspberry or Orange Sherbet. Enjoy your sweet treat on a classic round bar stool to finish off the experience.
5. Island Kitchen (2 Chins Way, Mid-Island) - $$$
A modern brunch spot that doubles as a haven for cold treats.
What Makes It Special: Ice cream crafted by Chef Patrick Ridge using a perfected 16% butterfat base. Unique small-batch flavors like Cookie Dough, Blueberry Pie, and Peppermint Brownie.
Perks: Indoor seating, off-downtown ease, vegan options, and ample parking.
6. Yummy (63 Surfside Road, Surfside) - $$
A sweet stop along the bike path, low-key and family-friendly.
Menu: Daily rotating ice cream flavors, plus milkshakes and acai bowls. Yummy also offers various lunch options, along with outdoor seating in a relaxed, beachside atmosphere.
7. ’Sconset Market (4 Main Street, ’Sconset) - $$$
Village charm meets scoop dreams.
What You’ll Find: A small assortment of classic flavors, cones, and toppings. Perfect for a mid-stroll treat for exploring Sconset's hydrangea-lined streets.
8. Millie’s Market (324 Madaket Road, Madaket) - $$$
The west-end’s cozy ice cream corner.
Treats Offered: Classics, toppings, shakes, or take-home pints. Mint chocolate chip and a Madeket sunset? Yes, please.
9. Three Way Scoops (57 Old South Rd, Mid-Island) - $$
Homemade flavors are conveniently available mid-island.
Standout Experience: Ice cream, as well as food by Yezzi’s, is available at this location. Place your order and enjoy a cold scoop on a picnic table.
Our Rankings:
Best Flavor: Juice Bar
Quickest: 3 Way Scoops
Cheapest: Surfside Taco Stand
Most Popular: Juice Bar + Island Kitchen
Whether you’re a one-scoop purist or a triple-stacker, Nantucket’s ice cream scene offers a flavor for every mood and a spot for every summer day. From the busy lines at The Juice Bar to the quiet charm of ’Sconset Market, each shop has its own unique charm and experience. Make it your goal to enjoy the island one scoop at a time before the season melts away.