CC ACK Beach House: A Perfect Day on Nantucket

Today I am sharing my perfect day on Nantucket during the summer season.  It's a blend of beloved favorites and some off-the-beaten-path, locals-only gems I've recently discovered (since we became island home owners).

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Nantucket or you’re a seasoned regular, the island always has something new to offer - something to savor, explore, and fall in love with all over again.

Credit: Cailini Coastal

And of course, my perfect day wouldn’t be complete without my favorite people: my husband, our two daughters, and our dog George (who’s not technically a person, but if you’re a pet owner, you understand). This day would be spent with them, soaking up every magical moment together! 

COFFEE AT ROASTD

If you follow the @ackbeachhouse account you already know I am a huge Roastd fan because I post about them so often.  I genuinely go through withdrawal when I’m back in Connecticut. I’m not usually a latte person, but their house-made almond milk and cinnamon powder make them absolutely irresistible. Come fall, their seasonal options are next-level delicious. And if you're more of a tea person, their iced chai is another favorite. I can’t get enough!

Credit: Cailini Coastal

ISLAND WORKOUT

After waking up with some caffeine I like to move my body. I am traditionally a HIIT workout kinda gal and I love Nantucket Cycle & Fitness for classes.  They're fun, intense and a great way to start the day!

I am also mindful of my rest days and one of the more beautiful experiences I had recently was doing a poolside yoga session at home with YOGA WITH EMMY.

Credit: Cailini Coastal

STEPS BEACH

While it’s one of the more well-known beaches, Steps Beach is still one of my absolute favorites. The sweeping dunes are stunning, and I love glancing up to see the beautiful homes perched along the bluff.  It’s such a uniquely Nantucket view. With young kids in tow, I also really appreciate the calm, harbor side waters. The gentle waves make it the perfect spot for a relaxing, family-friendly beach day.

Credit: Cailini Coastal

MILLIE'S FOR LUNCH

Our home is a short drive to Millie's at the Rotary and so it tends to be a daily destination for us for lunch or dinner.  I love their Great Point Salad for lunch and if I'm feeling indulgent their fish tacos! 

Credit: Cailini Coastal

OUTDOOR SHOWER

It might sound a little odd to include my shower in a perfect day, but I absolutely love an outdoor shower. It truly brings me joy! After a day spent lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun, rinsing off under the open sky before dinner feels like the ultimate luxury. It’s one of those simple pleasures that makes beach days feel so special.

Credit: Cailini Coastal

SHOPPING IN TOWN

No day on the island feels complete without a little shopping in town.  I love sneaking in some shopping before dinner - it's usually quieter around that time, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. Whether I’m with my daughters or out with friends, there are a few must-visit spots I never skip. These shops are always on my list whenever I’m on island:

GYPSY

I intentionally save a portion of my clothes shopping budget just for Nantucket because of Gypsy. Their curation is amazing.  What I love most is discovering new brands every time I visit. I gravitate toward pieces that feel unique and special, and Gypsy always delivers with beautifully made, thoughtfully selected pieces. It's that perfect mix of elevated staples and standout finds that makes shopping there such a treat.

Alice Walk

I absolutely love everything about this brand! Their pieces are made from the softest materials, come in the happiest colors, and offer the perfect mix of playful style and everyday staples. It’s feel-good fashion you’ll reach for again and again!  

Bon Ton & Hospital Thrift

These are my go-to spots for home treasures, and what makes them so special is that everything is vintage or antique! Bon Ton may be tiny, but its curation is incredible. Every piece feels like a unique gem. Hospital Thrift is full of secondhand finds donated by island locals, and trust me, the magic is in the room to the left when you walk in. That’s where the best gems are!

Credit: Cailini Coastal

DINNER AT GALLEY BEACH

Nantucket is truly a culinary destination. I don’t think I’ve ever met a restaurant on the island I didn’t love. From casual grab-and-go spots to fine dining and everything in between, the food scene here is as diverse as it is delicious.

It’s nearly impossible to choose a favorite, but if I had to, I’d say Galley Beach simply because the location is unmatched. Tucked right into the sand with panoramic ocean views, it’s the kind of place where the setting is just as memorable as the food. Their menu, wine list, and cocktails are all top-notch, and the ambiance is nothing short of dreamy.

We’re early bird diners, and catching the sunset from Galley Beach is pure magic.

Credit: Cailini Coastal