ETERNAL SUMME
Perched just a short walk from downtown and Jetties Beach, the Beachside Hotel is a modern reimagining of a beloved mid-century classic. Originally built in 1960, the property reopened this year after a full transformation by Blue Flag Capital and award-winning designers Parts & Labor, who drew inspiration from the nostalgic warmth of the 1950s and ‘60s to channel an “endless summer” vibe. The design ethos fuses a spirited palette of sea foam green, terracotta, cream, and warm wood, seamlessly blending vintage craft references with contemporary comforts. Public spaces like the laid-back lobby with woven seagrass pendants and a mossy green tiled bar open onto a lush central lawn and updated pool courtyard, creating a true indoor-outdoor retreat. thebeachside.com
GLORY DAYS
Every year, on the second Saturday in August, thousands descend upon the golden-sand shores of Jetties Beach to dance under the stars for a cause. First held in 1997, Boston Pops on Nantucket is a treasured summer tradition, and tickets always sell out. The concert, which benefits Nantucket Cottage Hospital, is underpinned by the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra every year with a special musical guest. This year, Springsteen fans will be treated to the Jersey kid’s greatest hits courtesy of Bruce in the USA, the acclaimed Vegas founded tribute band. Music begins at 7 p.m. and ends at 9 with a drone show lighting up the New England night sky. nantuckethospital.org
HARBORSIDE BITES
Sophisticated but never stuffy: that’s the name of the game at Straight Wharf Fish, a quintessential New England fish market and casual clam shack overlooking the harbor. The seafood is as fresh as it gets, delivered daily by local fishermen. Grab a box to take home clams, scallops, swordfish, salmon, calamari, and more or take a seat in the light-washed dining room or water-facing terrace to feast on site. Menu standouts include a massive lobster roll, served warm with brown butter and shallots or chilled with créme fraiche, and beef-fat fried whole belly clams. There is, of course, classic clam chowder (made with smoked bacon), along with a locally loved bluefish pate with pickled veggies. straightwharffish.com
SET THE TABLE
Since its 2014 launch by a trio of culinary visionaries, The Nautilus has become a local favorite for shared tasting experiences that blend New England seafood like fluke sashimi or East Coast oysters with influences from Asia, Spain, and Latin America. With fewer than 50 seats, the restaurant radiates infectious energy: imagine lively banter at communal tables, the sizzle of dishes in the open kitchen, and inventive cocktails flowing alongside a thoughtfully curated wine and sake list. Don’t miss the communal Captain’s Table: its live-edge wood top sets the scene for indulgent feasts like whole roasted duck or a generous rib-eye, all meant to be passed around and savored together. thenautilus.com/Nantucket
SANDS OF TIME
Tucked along the island’s serene northeastern tip, the Wauwinet is a timeless retreat. Since first welcoming guests in 1875 and named in honor of a Wampanoag chief, this Relais & Châteaux gem has been lovingly restored throughout its lifetime most recently receiving a tasteful, multi-million-dollar renovation that beautifully marries its cedar shingled heritage with modern luxuries. With just 32 guest rooms and four cottage suites, many featuring bay or ocean views, the property exudes an air of intimacy, catered to those seeking peace and refinement. Guests can wake to the tranquil rhythm of Nantucket Bay, cycle through scenic trails on complimentary bikes, paddleboard or kayak in calm waters, and retreat to two secluded beaches: the Atlantic side for waves, the bay side for calm sunsets. wauwinet.com