- Location: Siasconset, Nantucket, MA 02554
Sconset beach, or Siasconset beach, is located on the eastern coast of Nantucket along Milestone Road, about eight miles from town. Sconset town, previously a fishing village, is quite charming and picturesque. It’s rarely crowded because of the pounding currents, heavy surf, and strong undertows.
The island’s beach is accessible via the NRTA shuttle, or you can cycle along the 6-mile Milestone Road bike path. Alternatively, you can use the Polpis Bike path if you prefer a more challenging ride.
Lifeguards are on duty in season near the main entrance. The beach sits within walking distance of the quaint village of Sconset, where you’ll find the nearest amenities (restroom, grocery store, and restaurant). There’s a parking lot at the beach, but with no designated spaces. The white, pillowy sand can get toasty over summer, so ensure you pack up your flip-flops when heading to the beach.
At one end of the beach, you’ll spot a public trail known as Sconset Bluff Walk, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who love scenic strolls and incredible views. Towering Atlantic waves on one side and multimillion-dollar homes on the other, this east shore beauty is a fantastic seal spotting site.
If you’re lucky, you’ll also see a sea lion bobbing up and down in the waves. The beach features riptides, seaweed, and a wide section of soft tan sand to throw a Frisbee or build a sandcastle. You’ll see grass-topped dunes along the shore, frequently thundered by the pounding surf. The currents and surf at this beach can be pretty fierce, so swimming here is risky.
From the stunning shell-covered lanes to the elegant mansions lining the shore, Sconset beach is hats off captivating. If you prefer the sand and surf, wander off to Sankaty Head Light at the beach’s northern tip.