Nantucket—our sister island, affectionately known as The Grey Lady—makes for a perfect day trip from Martha’s Vineyard.
Catch the Hy-Line ferry from Oak Bluffs Harbor, with departures at 9:05 a.m. or 12:05 p.m. The hour-plus crossing is easy and relaxing, and the snack bar onboard serves beverages, including alcoholic drinks. You’ll arrive right in downtown Nantucket, so there’s no need for a car.
Start with breakfast. Eat before you head out so you can maximize your time exploring the island. If you’re not dining at the inn, consider local favorites such as Highlands General, Mocha Mott’s, or Alia’s
Before leaving, pack a small backpack with:
- A reusable water bottle
- Sunblock
- An extra layer, just in case the weather changes
FYI a link to public bathrooms in the downtown area
Your first stop should be the Whaling Museum. If you participate in a qualifying organization, the Card to Culture program may allow free admission. Check the program details before your visit to see if you’re eligible.
If not, museum admission rates are:
- Adult: $25
- Senior (65+) / Student: $23
- Youth (ages 6–17): $10
- Children under 6: Free
- Island residents and museum members: Free
Whaling Museum 
Don’t miss the roof top look out
Museum admission also includes access to the Hadwen House, a beautiful Greek Revival mansion built in 1846 by whaling merchant and silver retailer William Hadwen. Since your admission sticker allows you to come and go throughout the day, be sure to keep it on—even if you’re just stepping out for a bathroom break.
For getting around the island, Nantucket’s public bus system, The Wave, offers an all-day pass for $8. There are also public restrooms located at the downtown bus depot.
Spend time wandering through Nantucket’s charming downtown district. Browse the boutiques, stroll the cobblestone streets, walk along the waterfront, or join a guided walking tour.
Fans of Elin Hilderbrand’s Nantucket novels may enjoy following the Blue Book Tour, a self-guided experience inspired by locations featured in her books. Another excellent option is Barrett’s Tours, which offers guided excursions highlighting the island’s rich history and character.
If you’re looking for a memorable meal, Nantucket has plenty of options:
- Enjoy lunch or dinner at Galley Beach, where you can dine with your toes practically in the sand while taking in spectacular ocean views.
- Craving sushi? Bar Yoshi is a longtime island favorite known for fresh sushi and harborfront seating.
- Head to The Sandbar at Jetties Beach for a casual beachside atmosphere, cold drinks, and classic summer fare.
No visit to Nantucket is complete without a stop at Cisco Brewers. Part brewery, part winery, and part distillery, Cisco is one of the island’s most beloved gathering places. Grab a drink, enjoy the live music, and soak up the laid-back Nantucket vibe.
Before catching the ferry back to Martha’s Vineyard at 5:15, make one final stop at The Gazebo for their famous mudslide. This season is especially meaningful, as it marks the end of an era for the iconic harborfront establishment. After more than three decades under the current ownership, 2026 will be the last season to enjoy the original Gazebo mudslide recipe as Nantucket visitors have come to know it.
Whether you’re visiting for the history, the scenery, the beaches, or simply the chance to experience the unique atmosphere of The Grey Lady, Nantucket is a memorable and worthwhile day trip from Martha’s Vineyard. Just don’t forget to raise a mudslide to one of the island’s most cherished traditions before heading home.
