Nantucket offers some of the finest beaches in the eastern United States, from the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge on it's northeastern shore to beautiful Madaket on it's western shore. Nantucket beaches have something for everyone, with protected beaches along the north shore to open ocean beaches along the south shore for those interested in catching a few waves.

In this 4 part Nantucket Treasures series we'll explore each of the islands main beach areas. Starting with 4 beaches along the North Shore, this list does not cover all of the beaches on the North Shore but include Brant Point, Children's, Jetties and Dionis beaches.

Brant Point Beach —Brant point offers one of the most photographed spots on the island with it's iconic lighthouse guarding the entrance to Nantucket harbor. Although technically a beach it's strong currents and heavy boat traffic make swimming unwise. However Brant Point beach is the perfect place to way goodbye to friends and family as the leave the island on the ferry.

Children's Beach —AKA harbor beach is easily accessed from downtown and is perfect for children and adults alike. In addition to it's calm waters the beach offers a park, playground, bandstand, lifeguard, restrooms, showers, food service, picnic tables.

Jetties Beach —Just a short walk, bike ride or shuttle bus trip from town , Jetties offers everything a family needs. It's calm and warm water is perfect for swimming and with amenities like volleyball nets, tennis courts, a skateboard park, and a playground it's easy to see why so many family folk to Jetties to spend the day.

Dionis Beach —For a more nature beach experience consider taking the 3 mile bike ride over to Dionis beach. It offers calm waters for swimming and plenty of sea shells along it's long beach and dunes.