Siasonset Village | Nantucket, MA
At the east end of the island, charming Siasonset Village (a.k.a. ‘Sconset) is a quaint miniature fishing village that has gone almost unchanged since the early 1700’s, when Nantucket town residents began summering here. On your way to ‘Sconset you will pass Sankaty Light which over looks the Sankaty Golf Course and some amazingly beautiful summer homes. The rose covered cottages are adorn with whimsical quarterboard signs and nautical décor. Some cottages even reflect the year they were built. Can you see how old the cottage below is? Yes – you read correctly – 1886! That’s well over a hundred years old, which is quite amazing since Nantucket has had it’s fair share of storms over the years.
As you enter ‘Sconset Village you will come upon a rotary. If you take a right here you will find the lovely ‘Sconset Beach – a quiet beach, with easy access to the ocean. The parking is limited but it is only a shore walk from the bus stop. There are lifeguards on duty and the beach is relatively uncrowded. There is a cute play ground for kids nearby. There are no public bathrooms on the beach but the public restroom in ‘Sconset Village is just a short walk away. ‘Sconset is a beautiful beach worth dipping your toes into but be careful the surf can be moderate to heavy with strong undertows. If your lucking you may even see seals popping their heads up close to shore. The sand is very fine and soft to the touch but can get very hot so don’t forget your flip-flops.
‘Sconset Village is also a great place to grab a bite to eat. Sandwiches can be purchased at the general store (near the traffic circle) or if you looking to sit down and enjoy the ocean views – you may want to try the Summer House’s Beachside Bistro located at 16 Ocean Avenue – the lobster roll is amazing! The Sconset Cafe is also a nice place to have dinner. They are located at 8 Main Street in Sconset and are open from 6:00 pm-10:00 pm. They do not except credit cards but will gladly except a personal check. If you want wine with your dinner you can purchase a bottle right next door (which was previously a bookstore).
‘Sconset Bluff Walk | Nantucket, MA
More than just gorgeous ocean views, the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk is a scenic stroll you won’t want to miss. Left over from the days of looking for whale spouts from shore, the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk, is an unadvertised public way that takes you right through the front yards of the island’s finest shingle-style cottages and offers spectacular ocean views. The first time we did the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk – we had a hard time believing that it was a public path and that we were allowed to casually stroll through and enjoy the delightfully charming gardens, rose covered cottages, and nautical bliss. There is something really special about this area and all the whimsical details you find along the way.
The path begins at the end of Front Street in Sconset. There is a sign that says FOOTPATH ONLY, NO BIKES, which appears to refer to a very steep and narrow trail heading down to the right to Codfish Park. The path you want to take is the less obvious one to the left, through the privet hedges and along the lip of the land. Residents are accustomed to the parade of strangers, but if you choose to enjoy an afternoon or evening adventure – please respect their privacy. Our residence take great pride in their homes and landscaping and it shows!
Today, the ‘Sconst Bluff Walk is part of the community thanks to William J. Flagg – a Nantucket resident and developer, who, in the late 1800’s could see that ‘Sconset, with it towering bluffs and endless ocean scenery, would grow in value and exclusivity. To help off set that he built into the deeds of the house lots a public right of way which has been a gift to both locals and tourists alike. So if you have time, take the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk and enjoy the ocean views, the rose covered cottages, the manicured backyards, and breathe in the timeless beauty of the ‘Sconset. You won’t be disappointed!
