Can’t stand Cape Cod or the idea of spending another summer in Providence? Don’t want to deal with the prices and crowds in Martha’s Vineyard?
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Nantucket it is.
Like Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket is a small island located just off the south coast of Cape Cod. It’s one of the area’s most prestigious and esteemed summer vacation spots, one that used to attract some of the country’s most influential businessmen. Today, it remains affluent—but you can still find a few affordable enclaves.
Nantucket is also small enough to cycle across at only 14 miles. Its smaller size means reservations fill up, from hotels to ferry tickets. But you’ll be treated to smaller crowds, letting you truly soak up those stunning coastal views. Its beaches are also public, meaning you can explore freely.
I have just one piece of advice: Bring your formalwear. The island is still considered the most upscale and buttoned-up in the Sound. And you can feel that Old World feel when you stay at these charming cottage Airbnbs in Nantucket.
Charming cottage Airbnbs in Nantucket
Mid-Island Apartment
This is a simple-and-clean one-bedroom apartment unit that’s attached to a larger home. You can sleep three, but I recommend asking the host about the second bed—I don’t see a clear spot in the listing images. There’s also no separate kitchen. Instead, you have a basic kitchenette setup with a stovetop, fridge, and coffee-maker. There’s also a lush sitting area out back that’s green and gorgeous.
Mid-Island Crash Pad
Enjoy this classic studio that has a beachy, Nantucket feel throughout. The studio is part of a home, but has its own separate entrance for privacy. (The hosts live upstairs, but you probably won’t see them.) Just outside is a bike path that leads into town—but you can also wait for the shuttle that passes through. No car rental needed.
Cozy Studio-Apartment
Speaking of studios, this is a micro-rental located conveniently between downtown Nantucket and that popular Surfside Beach. That means you’ve got nature and nightlife within reach. There’s just one trade-off in exchange for the rental’s reasonable price (for Nantucket)—there’s no bed. The large, comfortable sleeper sofa functions as a bed, making this ideal for low-maintenance couples and solo travelers.
Somer Sweet
This one-bedroom apartment is located on the second floor of a residence with a private entrance. Like the other Airbnbs in Nantucket listed here, it’s a basic, more affordable setup. You’ve got a functional kitchenette, cozy living room and bedroom, and—the real perk—proximity to the beach. You’re just .2 miles away from the soft white sand. The Wave shuttle stop is also close by for added convenience.
Sweet Dreams Romantic Guest Cottage
Don’t let the low-quality images fool you—this is a popular one-bedroom rental in Nantucket that won’t cost an arm and a leg. It’s a two-floor guest house on the host’s property, located next to their home. It’s a small setup, but highly functional for couples. The spiral staircase is also adorable, as is the small patio out front where you can sit and enjoy your morning coffee.
Heart of the Sea
This quaint one-bedroom rental is set inside a classic Nantucket cottage with unique design features throughout, like the reclaimed sink. It’s located on the island’s extensive bike network, letting you zip around whenever the sunshine calls. Just know that the hosts live below this unit and request quiet couples only.
Nantucket Solace (room rental)
If you’re heading to Nantucket with the hopes of spending as little as possible, you can opt for a room rental like this one. You have a queen-sized bedroom downstairs, along with a private bathroom located next to the bedroom. There are plenty of bike paths around, including access to Nantucket’s Main Street. Just know that you’re sharing this home with the host and a cat named Annie Oakley.
Go big: Cisco Surf Shack
So far, I’ve sought to keep my recommendations focused on more affordable rentals—but let’s say you want to really enjoy your time in Nantucket, and aren’t afraid to spend. In that case, the Cicsco Surf Shack is hard to beat. It’s a three-bedroom cottage that can fit six in a spacious-but-cozy setup. Out back, there are hammocks set amid greenery, along with a little sitting area and grill. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a picture-perfect Nantucket home that’s both contemporary and classic.
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