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Under-the-Radar Luxury Cottages in the Heart of Nantucket

Harborview Nantucket

Photo Credit: Harborview Nantucket

If you have read Herman Melville's Moby Dick, you're acutely aware that 19th century Nantucket whaling culture majorly inspires this tale of punishing seas and relentless harpooning. Nowhere in the plot line are scenes of lounging on the beach, boat regattas, or hitting trendy boutiques and Island-to-Table restaurants.

Steve Mirsky
Photo Credit: Steve Mirsky

Look beyond the azure waters, remarkably similar to the Caribbean or the South Pacific, that greet you upon approaching Nantucket's shoreline, just steps away from the ferry dock. You'll find streets lined with cobbled stones, remarkably preserved 19th century storefronts, and oak trees that appear old enough to have accommodated the swing of a young Captain Ahab. It is here that you get a sense of the island's longstanding heritage. The Whaling Museum in the center of town is also a prominent reminder that whale oil once ruled here.

Harborview Nantucket
Photo Credit: Harborview Nantucket

Walk several blocks south of downtown on Washington St. past Handlebar Café, arguably the island's best coffee shop, and you'll likely pass right by Harborview Nantucket, a collection of 11 meticulously restored beach cottages, tucked away on a verdant lawn overlooking the harbor. Unassuming in outward appearances, this waterfront enclave fronted by an expansive lawn and a soft sandy beach overlooks Nantucket Harbor. Staying here provides a sublime duality of being on the water adjacent to marinas yet just a stroll to in-town restaurants like Dune Restaurant and Bar, giving you the best of what Nantucket has to offer at your finger tips.

Steve Mirsky
Photo Credit: Steve Mirsky

Cottages range from a cozy traditional fisherman’s lodge at water’s edge to an expansive four-bedroom renovated barn accommodating groups up to 8 making it perfect for family reunions and waterfront weddings. Interiors lovingly showcase historic integrity and classic design juxtaposed with the comforts of luxury modern living. Wood plank floors and loft bedrooms create a carefree playful ambiance accentuated by luxury amenities like fully equipped kitchens featuring appliances including dishwashers and refrigerators built into the cabinetry, vaulted ceilings, surround jetted spa showers, and in-suite washers and dryers. A complimentary assortment of local beers from Cisco Brewers and a bottle of wine from Nantucket Vineyard await at check-in further sweetening the experience.

No matter where you're staying on this property, you can be assured of light-filled spaces and private decks or balconies with sweeping harbor views.

Harborview Nantucket
Photo Credit: Harborview Nantucket

Perhaps Harborview Nantucket's most distinguishing feature making it a supremely special getaway is their concierge service that arranges everything from stocking your refrigerator before arrival to arranging a personal chef for en suite dining. They'll also set you up on the beach with signature umbrellas, designer chaises with plenty of towels, and a customized picnic basket.

Steve Mirsky

I firmly believe that distinctive cuisine and life-changing travel experiences are best savored by those driven by curiosity rather than solely on the recommendations of wine connoisseurs, gourmands, and jet setters. Classic hotels, signature boutique properties, and epic dining experiences provide some of the best opportunities for an authentic introduction to new cultures and cuisine. I shar...(Read More)

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