A Nantucket Airbnb makes for a different kind of island getaway. In many ways, the jewel of New England, Nantucket Island, sits just off the coast of Cape Cod. It’s unpainted cedar buildings make it a beautiful destination for holidaymakers seeking a touch of older architecture to accompany their beach vacation. And we’ve found some of the best Airbnbs to take advantage of in the area.
Nantucket’s long history can be seen all around the island. The Whaling Museum, lighthouses, old churches, and more bear testament to its reputation as one of the best remaining examples of how 18th and 19th century America lived.
But Nantucket also has top modern options for restaurants and shopping, affluent residential spots, and nature reserve areas. The mix of old and new make it a wonderful option for holidays, whether in big groups or as a romantic couple.
And while there are a number of hotels and inns in Nantucket’s downtown, you may want to consider renting an Airbnb instead. Airbnbs offer privacy, flexibility, and lots of extra amenities. Here’s the good news. We’ve done some hunting on your behalf. So here are 14 of the best Airbnbs available for rent in Nantucket, Massachusetts.
Quick Breakdown of Airbnb Nantucket Island
Don’t want to go through a long list of options? Here’s a quick look at the top Nantucket summer rentals we found in this New England island haven.
- Best Beach House with a View: Windansea Beach Views from a Bright Apartment
- Best Airbnb Downtown Cottage: Updated Nantucket Cottage with Private Yard
- Best Cottage for a Romantic Getaway: NANTUCKET Island Airbnb Honeymoon Cottage
- Best House for a Big Group in Nantucket: Quiet and Unique Nantucket Getaway
- Best Nantucket House Rental with Views: “Upon a Rock” Peace & Quiet – Mid-island retreat!
Want some insider tips on what to do here? Make a point of watching some of the interesting videos about Nantucket that I’ve included in the post.
The Best Neighborhoods in Nantucket
Nantucket is an island, separated by waterways from Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. On Nantucket itself, there are at least four cool neighborhoods to visit when you’re there:
- Brant Point: Brant Point is the downtown of Nantucket, and its landmark feature is the lighthouse. But it’s chock-full of restaurants and shops.
- Siasconset: The locals call it ‘Sconset. It’s small, with only a couple of hundred residents. But it’s wealthy, and the only other official ‘town’ on the island.
- Madaket: Known for long beaches, it’s the best spot for enjoying the sun and the sea, especially Steps beach.
- Surfside: The name explains it. Popular as a surf spot, you’ll find it on the south end of the island.
For more info on Nantucket, its events and attractions, visit the official Nantucket website.
Top 14 Nantucket, MA Airbnb Rentals
Let’s check out 14 of the best Airbnb rentals in Nantucket, an iconic New England holiday destination.
1) Best of Nantucket !!
Location: Madaket
Superhost: Yes
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $1,043USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44087252
South of Madaket, right on the beach, and alluring dark wood furniture for a surprisingly opulent feel. The calm of the ocean will lull you to sleep, and the mornings from the deck are something you’ll remember and pine for long after you’ve left.
Up to ten of you can enjoy this ultimate oceanside breakaway, complete with a huge dining table, superbly fitted kitchen, and decent surf break just off the porch (this is the south side). The perfect Nantucket beach house.
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2) Updated Nantucket Cottage with Private Yard
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: Yes
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $275 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/30370202
In close proximity to the main part of town, this cosy Nantucket cottage rental is perfect for a romantic getaway. It has all you need to be self-contained, including a grill and kitchen, outdoor furniture and quaint furnishings.
But the restaurants and beach are all within walking distance. It’s hard to imagine you’ll need to use your car at all once you’ve arrived.
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Guest Review: “The cottage was a perfect stay for us and our two small children. It’s in the perfect location: walkable to town and a quick drive to the sunset or the beach (or an easy bike ride!)”
3) NANTUCKET ••• Honeymoon cottage
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: Yes
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $350 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14402557
The French doors offer lots of light, which is fabulous when combined with high ceilings. Surfside beach is a short walk away, so if hitting the waves is your deal, this place is ideal.
But it’s also cozy enough to enjoy with a partner, whether you like biking, hiking, or just staying in with a movie, and some food from the grill.
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Guest Review: ”Lia’s cottage is absolutely fabulous. It’s conveniently located on Surf Side not far from town or the beaches. We highly recommend this cottage for your next romantic getaway. 5,000 stars and a big thumbs up!”
4) Quiet and Unique Nantucket Getaway
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $355 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33036561
If you enjoy open spaces, this delightful old-style home has a gigantic front yard to enjoy. There are three floors accommodating up to 12 of your closest friends or family. Though it’s close to town, you won’t mind staying in with an outdoor patio, grill, and outdoor shower.
The hosts have also graciously included the use of their beach chairs and towels for when you need to get to the beach.
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Guest Review: ”The pictures don’t do this home justice. It’s a beautiful place and the exact house you’d want if you’re visiting the island.”
5) “Upon a Rock” Peace & Quiet – Mid island retreat!
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: Yes
Airbnb Luxe: Yes
Price: $1095 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14282362
There’s something about the hardwood floors and the four-poster bed that really captures the romance of luxury. Or maybe it’s the window seat that harkens back to a colonial time. This suite is part of the main house, but has its own entrance for privacy. A small living room feels cozy. This is ideal for those who are mostly on the move around the island during the day.
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Guest Review: “Karen has Nantucket hospitality to the T. She is so kind and her home is amazing. It’s like staying in a hotel (luxury wise) but being at home (comfort wise). 10/10 on all fronts.”
6) Couple’s Retreat in Nantucket Walk to Attractions!
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $254 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/32791253
Charmingly known as the Jethro Coffin House, this condo is in town, and offers a patio, grill, and king bed – ideal for a couples getaway. Above all, the proximity to all that is downtown Nantucket is a big sell. You can literally walk to anything in town from here.
Bonus if you’re an art lover, the condo sits right above a gallery!
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Guest Review: “Loved this fantastic apartment over an art gallery in downtown Nantucket. Great location, stylish apartment, outdoor table, wonderful spot!”
7) Renovated Sconset house on large property
Location: Siasconset
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $550 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/17384543
Less than a mile to the lighthouse, with bike paths nearby, this renovated Nantucket home rental looks perfect with its big driveway setting, wraparound deck, and triangular ceiling beams. It’s also an úpside-down house, meaning that the living space is on the top floor, while the rooms are below.
This means some great views from the main space, where on clear days and evenings you can see for miles.
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Guest Review: “Excellent home right outside historic Sconset. Great for outdoor BBQs and super close to the beach. You will have a great time!”
8) Immaculate, two-story home with nautical design, deck, and outdoor shower!
Location: Siasconset
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: YNo
Price: $242 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/17153794
The nautical theme in the decor of this house is a nice touch, keeping it playful and different. But it’s also the relative seclusion of the location that will make it appealing to those looking for peace and quiet.
That said, it isn’t too far from Siasconset. So if you and your 8 friends are tempted to leave the homely feel of this admittedly pretty sizable house, you won’t have to travel far for a beach or a socializing.
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Guest Review: “I loved the house. As nice as the photos. It is a bright, airy place. Very private and lovely grounds. Very very very clean!”
9) Dog-friendly home overlooking ocean & nature reserve w/gas grill & Ping-Pong!
Location: Dionis
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $476USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/42687602
It may feel a bit isolated because of its hilltop location, but when it comes to being on holiday, that’s often a good thing. The views from this home are simply spectacular – in all directions! Dionis Beach is a decent walk down the path, or stay in and take advantage of the immaculate kitchen and dining facilities.
Whether you’re watching the boats and ferries arriving, or looking across the expanse of woods and reserve, you could do worse than breathing fresh Nantucket air from this elevation. And best of all… it’s dog-friendly!
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Guest Review: “This house was great, spotless when we arrived and had everything needed for a great island vacation.”
10) Polpis – Carlisle House
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $144USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/34021576
Nantucket island rentals can be expensive, but some Nantucket rooms for rent offer something basic for the solo traveler on a budget. Here’s a single room, with all the very basic needs: WiFi, TV, and a mini-fridge. But it’s cheap, it’s right in town, and it’s private enough for the explorer on the go. The owner-run inn also offers breakfast. Sold!
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Guest Review: “The location was AMAZING! What a lovely foggy 4th! The price was high for a twin bed in general but unbeatable for ACK! “
11) Renovated New Seabury Cottage with Backyard
Location: Mashpee
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Price: $795 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/23768281
For an option away from regular Nantucket house rentals, try Mashpee on the mainland, just a ferry ride away from Nantucket if you don’t mind the adventure. But this absolutely gorgeous cottage is totally worth it. There are high ceilings, pristine white and wooden decor, a fire pit for some outdoor warmth, and enough space for a big family get-together.
It’s also close to the beach, and Cape Cod is a short drive east.
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Guest Review: “What a beautiful home! This space fit our entire group so comfortably we had more than enough space. The layout is so well thought out with enough bathrooms for privacy and comfortability. ”
12) Life House, Nantucket
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: From $118 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/hotels/43411367
Life House is a beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Nantucket, offering a choice from 14 rooms. What makes it a wonderful Airbnb option is the charming uniqueness in the look and feel of each room, and the super-affordable pricing.
That’s not to mention the beautiful furnishings and living spaces, and the opportunity to meet other interesting people on your travels. Life House has been hosting guests since 1870, and today treats its guests to hotel-style in-room bath products for that extra touch.
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Guest Review: “We loved our stay at Life House. The property was beautifully designed with lots of nice touches like a light breakfast, tea and coffee anytime, and cocktail hour in the evening. ”
13) Spacious 32ft Cabin Cruiser, kitchen & hot shower
Location: Nantucket
Superhost: No
Airbnb Plus: No
Price: $211USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13752777
Go one better than a Nantucket beach rental. If you’re keen for something a little unusual, try sleeping on the water! This cute 32-foot cruiser is moored in Nantucket Harbor and ideal for a couple. The host has provided a kayak should you want to explore the local waters, and the on-board shower facilities will give you a “roughing it” holiday feel.
That said, you can simply slip off the boat for a restaurant dinner on the wharf, just after a swim off your very own deck. Different.
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Guest Review: “What an incredible location – moored in the middle of Nantucket harbor. It was a bit like a camping in a floating camper off grid, complete with self-contained generator/solar/batter electricity and water/waste system.”
14) Seas the Day – Cape Cod
Location: Chatham
Superhost: No
Airbnb Luxe: Yes
Price: $846 USD+ per night
https://www.airbnb.com/luxury/listing/42133325
Once more to the mainland for an option: There’s a classic New England feel at this luxury house. Maybe it has to do with the touches like rocking chairs on the porch. Five bedrooms can accommodate a fairly large group, and a BBQ on the deck or a game of air hockey is all you need to keep it social.
Alternatively, get down to town to try the local cuisine. Though, it will be tough to get away from the HUGE fireplace and giant movie-perfect TV.
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Tours & Day Trips Around Nantucket
Nantucket is the very definition of a beach town, where surfing and walking the shore is the primary attraction. But there are some paid activities that can be of great value. Here are a few.
Paddleboard to Washburn Island
“Once on the beautiful bay, we will begin to explore with opportunities to see an oyster farm, beautiful boats, coastal birds, secluded beaches and Washburn Island. During our time together I’ll continue to provide feedback on your paddle boarding technique so that you’ll gain further confidence. You’ll have time to paddle, play, picnic and pose for pictures. ”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/1122268
Price: $75
Private Guided Night Photography Tours on Cape Cod
“One of the best times to see and experience Cape Cod is after dark when the landscape is lit by starlight or moonlight. These times also give you the opportunity to visit and travel between destinations during hours that many people are asleep making these places quiet and serene. This tour is available for all experience levels.”
Price: $360
Private tour of Martha’s Vineyard with lunch included
“Originally inhabited by the Wampanoag people, Martha’s Vineyard was known in the Massachusett language as Noepe, or “land amid the streams”. A smaller island to the south was named “Martha’s Vineyard” by the English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold, who sailed to the island in 1602. The name was later transferred to the main island. It is the eighth-oldest surviving English place-name in the United States. Traveler pickup is offered.”
Price: $690
Am I Missing Any Great Nantucket Rentals?
Have you been to Nantucket? If there are any more excellent Nantucket vacation rentals I haven’t already listed, let me know via email or social media – I’d love to hear from you.
Other Great Airbnb Vacations Worth Checking Out
If you’re looking elsewhere for a great getaway why not take a look at these great Airbnb options?
- The 20 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Michigan for an Epic Great Lakes Getaway
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- The 19 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Maine for a New England Getaway
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- Southern Hospitality: The Best Airbnbs in Austin, Texas
- The 15 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Nashville for a “Music City” Getaway
- 17 Awesome Airbnbs in Flagstaff for the Perfect Arizona Getaway
Final Thoughts on Airbnb Nantucket Vacation Rentals
There’s the beach, hikes, bike trails, delicious cuisine, peace, and tranquillity. There’s something for everyone when it comes to Nantucket Island Airbnb rentals. But it’s especially awesome for summer beach breakaways and romantic warm winter seaside weekends. Let me know if you’ve been, and if you have any more insider tips on the best things to do there.
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