Get Around
Nantucket — dubbed "Best Island in the World" by National Geographic — is the Faraway Land 30 miles off Cape Cod's southern coast. Visitors stepping off of the ferry are greeted by weathered wharves linked by cobblestone streets leading to a richly historic town. The entire island is designated a National Historic Landmark, and its diminutive scale makes for easy exploration of its sights and rich living history. At the heart of the island's enchantment is idyllic Main Street, named "One of America's Greatest Main Streets" by Travel & Leisure Magazine; a centuries-old aggregate of remarkably preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture coexists, along shady streets and byways, with au courant shops, galleries, hotels, bed & breakfasts, and restaurants featuring award-winning, inspired cuisine.
This page contains travel resources for getting around Nantucket. There is no bridge to the island, and it's not necessary to bring a car as convenient public transportation services allow easy access to all parts of the island. For information about getting to Nantucket, please see our page, Arrive.
ON ISLAND TRANSPORTATION
All buses are free. Nantucket Regional Transit Authority runs “The Wave”, which is a year-round shuttle bus services multiple routes all over the island. Some of these routes include transportation to Jetties and Surfside Beaches, and a Fast Ferry Connector from Faregrounds Road and the airport. The shuttles depart from downtown Nantucket and travel to mid-island and outlying areas, then loops back into town. All buses are handicap-accessible and accommodate two bikes on a first-come, first-served basis.
Both taxi and car rental services are available on-island year-round, with convenient locations in Town and at the Airport. Nantucket is small and extremely walkable, so please consider leaving your car in Hyannis, where both ferry lines operate secure lots. Parking can be difficult on-island, particularly in high season, and it is rather expensive to ferry your car back and forth.
What better way to experience Nantucket than by bike? At 14 miles long by 3 ½ miles wide—with predominantly smooth terrain and spectacular vistas, biking on the “Grey Lady” is a veritable delight. Twelve designated trails with over 32 miles of paths traverse the island, with many suitable for the novice bikers and families. Our bike shops will provide everything you need for your adventure—from a map and helmet to a suitable, properly-maintained bike built exclusively for the island landscape. Most rental shops also provide free roadside service. Sustainable transportation, coupled with a great workout. “Get on your bike and ride!”
Walking, Biking, & Driving Tours
Nantucket Island is full of must-see attractions that can be accessible both on foot, by bike, or by car. With beautiful views of beaches, cliffs, and a variety of different landscapes, all walking, biking or driving tours will give you a great feel for the island and the natural beauty that it possesses. Not only will you see charming landscapes and views but you also might learn about the history of the island and certain locations on Nantucket.