Nantucket's most celebrated inn sits on a narrow strip of land between the harbor and Nantucket Sound. The 32-room property exudes timeless New England luxury with award-winning Topper's restaurant, personal beach butlers, and a beloved island culture.
The Wauwinet occupies a singularly privileged position on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts: a narrow spit of land where the calm Great Harbor meets the Atlantic-facing Nantucket Sound, providing guests with two distinct beaches within steps of the inn. The property dates to the late 19th century, when it served as a destination for Nantucket day-trippers arriving by boat, and has evolved under careful ownership into one of New England's most refined small hotels. Its 32 rooms, cottages, and suites are distributed across the main inn and adjacent cottage buildings, decorated in a refined New England aesthetic of white-painted woodwork, warm cotton textiles, and vintage island art. Each room feels like a private retreat rather than a hotel room, and the small scale means service is deeply personalized throughout a stay. Topper's, the inn's celebrated restaurant, has earned consistent recognition as one of Massachusetts's best, offering contemporary New England cuisine with an emphasis on local seafood, Nantucket produce, and an exceptional wine cellar in an airy dining room with harbor views. The inn operates its own launch service between the inn's dock and Nantucket Town, making exploration of the island's shops, galleries, and restaurants effortless without driving. Tennis courts, a library, and croquet lawns complete the amenity set, and the concierge team can arrange fishing expeditions, beach bonfires, and whale-watching excursions. The Wauwinet is open seasonally, typically from May through October, with peak summer demand making advance booking essential. It is a member of the Relais & Châteaux collection and consistently earns recognition as one of the most romantic hotel experiences in New England.
Amenities
- Private ocean beach
- Harbor beach
- Topper's restaurant
- Tennis
- Croquet
- Launch service
Location
120 Wauwinet Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554
Highlights
- Most exclusive inn on Nantucket
- two beaches
- award-winning restaurant
Tips for visiting
- Use the inn's launch service to reach Nantucket Town — it is faster and more scenic than driving, and parking in town is extremely limited.
- Topper's restaurant is one of New England's finest; make dinner reservations well before arrival, especially in July and August.
- Book harbor-facing rooms in the main inn for some of the most serene water views available on Nantucket.
- The inn is seasonal — confirm opening dates before planning a late October or early May visit, as dates vary year to year.
- Hire a bicycle through the concierge to explore the Nantucket bike trails extending from the inn toward Siasconset village.
Accessibility
The Wauwinet's historic inn buildings and beachfront setting present some limitations for guests with significant mobility restrictions; the compact layout includes threshold variations and some exterior paths over natural terrain. Guests requiring accessible accommodations should contact the inn directly prior to booking to discuss which rooms and amenities best meet their needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Is The Wauwinet open year-round?
No. The Wauwinet is a seasonal property, open from approximately May through October. Exact dates vary by year, and travelers should confirm the season opening and closing dates with the inn when booking.
How do guests get from The Wauwinet to Nantucket Town?
The inn operates a complimentary launch service that runs between the private dock and Nantucket Town waterfront. The service runs on a regular schedule during the operating season and is one of the most enjoyable ways to arrive in town.
What makes The Wauwinet unique among Nantucket hotels?
The property sits on a narrow spit between the Great Harbor and Nantucket Sound, offering two distinct beaches — one calm harbor-side and one with ocean exposure. Combined with Topper's restaurant, the launch service, and the intimate 32-room scale, it offers an experience unavailable elsewhere on the island.
Does The Wauwinet have a spa?
The inn does not have a traditional full-service spa on-site. In-room massage and beauty services can be arranged through the concierge. For a full spa experience, the inn can direct guests to options in Nantucket Town, reachable via the launch service.