The 9 Best Lookout Spots on Nantucket for Stunning Views
08/14/2024
Nantucket’s charm lies not only in its historic streets and cozy cottages but also in its spectacular views. Perfect for hiking through nature reserves, watching the sunset from a beach, or gazing at the island from the top of a lighthouse, Nantucket has endless spots where you can take in the beauty of the island. Here are 10 of the best lookout spots on Nantucket for stunning views to check out, perfect for when you’re renting a vacation home here.
Altar Rock
As the highest point on the island, Altar Rock offers sweeping views of Nantucket’s interior, including the lush moors, serene ponds, and expansive sky. Hike to the top, and you'll be greeted by panoramic views that stretch across the island and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunrise: The early light makes the island’s natural beauty come to life in a soft, golden glow.
Sunset: Watching the sunset from this elevated viewpoint is magical, as the colors of the sky reflect off the land below.
Nearby Activities:
Hiking Trails: The Altar Rock Trail is a moderate hike that takes you through some of Nantucket’s most beautiful scenery.
Photography Tip: The broad, open views at the summit are perfect for wide-angle shots, especially during the changing light at sunrise or sunset.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse
One of Nantucket’s most iconic landmarks, Sankaty Head Lighthouse is perched on the eastern shore of the island. This red-and-white striped lighthouse is an essential stop for anyone visiting the island, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rolling hills of the Moors.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunrise: The lighthouse is bathed in soft light as the sun rises over the ocean, making it one of the best lookout spots on Nantucket for early risers.
Sunset: The lighthouse offers dramatic views of the coast as the sun sets behind it.
Nearby Activities:
Walking: Take a stroll along the nearby Sankaty Head Golf Course for some of the best coastal views.
Picnic Spot: The area surrounding the lighthouse has plenty of space for a peaceful picnic with a view.
Cisco Beach
Famous for its great surf and natural beauty, Cisco Beach is a lively spot on the south side of Nantucket. The beach offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and is a favorite for surfers and beachgoers alike. Great for catching waves or simply enjoying the view, it’s one of the island’s most serene spots to visit on a beach vacation in Nantucket.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunset: Cisco Beach is known for its vibrant sunsets, with the sky often ablaze in shades of orange, pink, and purple.
Midday: If you’re planning on surfing, midday is the best time to catch some waves while soaking in the views.
Nearby Activities:
Surfing: Cisco Beach is a top surf spot. Nantucket Surf School offers lessons for all levels.
Dining: Grab a bite at Cisco Brewers, where you can enjoy a cold drink and live music after a day at the beach.
Monomoy Beach
On the southeastern edge of the island, Monomoy Beach offers tranquility and beautiful views across the harbor to Nantucket’s downtown area. It’s one of the best lookout spots on Nantucket for peaceful walks, quiet reflection, and observing the harbor life.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunrise: A quiet, peaceful time to experience the gentle light over the harbor.
Nighttime: Monomoy Beach offers some of the best stargazing on Nantucket, with clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Nearby Activities:
Walking: The beach is perfect for a morning or evening stroll, with stunning views of the harbor and surrounding areas.
Photography Tip: Capture the silhouette of the beach and harbor against the setting sun for stunning evening photos.
Pocomo Head
Pocomo Head is a peaceful lookout located on the northern shores of Nantucket. This spot offers sweeping views of the harbor, with a backdrop of lush trees and open water. It's particularly popular for its quiet beauty and the variety of wildlife that frequents the area.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunset: The views from Pocomo Head at sunset are unmatched, with the water reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky.
Spring: The area comes alive with wildlife during spring, providing a beautiful natural show.
Nearby Activities:
Windsurfing & Kayaking: Pocomo Head is a popular spot for water sports.
Photography Tip: The wide, unobstructed views are perfect for capturing the essence of Nantucket’s coastal beauty.
Great Point Lighthouse
At the northern tip of Nantucket, Great Point Lighthouse stands as a beacon on the island's rugged coastline. To reach it, you’ll need a 4WD vehicle or a long hike, making it a bit more of an adventure. But once you arrive, the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape are more than worth the effort.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunrise: The lighthouse is a perfect location to watch the sun rise over the ocean.
Sunset: The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the sun setting over the water.
Nearby Activities:
Fishing: The area around Great Point is known for fishing.
Wildlife Watching: Seals and various bird species are often spotted in the area.
Brant Point Lighthouse
Located at the entrance to Nantucket Harbor, Brant Point Lighthouse is one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks. It is often the first sight when arriving on the island, and it offers stunning views of both the harbor and the town of Nantucket.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunrise: The harbor is calm and peaceful in the early morning light.
Sunset: The setting sun provides a dramatic backdrop to the lighthouse.
Nearby Activities:
Walking: The Brant Point Walk is a great way to explore the area and enjoy views of the harbor.
Photography Tip: The lighthouse is one of the most photographed spots on the island, especially during the golden hour.
Sconset Bluff Walk
The Sconset Bluff Walk offers some of the most stunning views of the island’s coastal bluffs and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors for its breathtaking beauty, especially as it offers views of the iconic Sconset Village and its charming cottages.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunrise: Early risers can enjoy a peaceful walk with stunning views of the rising sun over the ocean.
Fall: The changing foliage around the bluff offers a colorful setting for a walk.
Nearby Activities:
Walking: The Bluff Walk is a peaceful, scenic hike that takes you through Nantucket’s picturesque Sconset village.
Picnic Spot: The walk ends at Sconset Beach, making it an ideal spot for a picnic by the sea.
Smith’s Point
Located at the westernmost tip of Nantucket, Smith’s Point is a remote and tranquil spot that offers sweeping views of the water. It’s the perfect place for those seeking solitude and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the island without distractions.
Best Times to Visit:
Sunset: The sunsets at Smith’s Point are extraordinary, offering views of the sun sinking into the horizon.
Night: The area is ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
Nearby Activities:
Fishing: Known for excellent fishing, Smith’s Point is a great spot for anglers.
Walking: The beach is a peaceful place to enjoy a quiet walk along the water’s edge.
Nantucket offers some of the most breathtaking views you can find on the East Coast, with plenty of lookout spots that allow you to connect with nature.
Looking to experience Nantucket's breathtaking views firsthand? Great Point Properties offers a curated selection of vacation rentals that place you at the heart of the island's most scenic spots. From charming cottages near Brant Point Lighthouse to luxurious estates with panoramic ocean vistas, our portfolio caters to diverse preferences.
With over two decades of experience and a deep-rooted presence in the Nantucket community, Great Point Properties is committed to providing exceptional service and personalized attention. Our team works tirelessly to ensure your stay is memorable and seamless.
