Ultimate Travel Essentials for a Trip to Nantucket

Nantucket, with its charming cobblestone streets, picturesque beaches, and historic homes, is a traveler's dream destination. To make your trip both stylish and comfortable, packing the right essentials is crucial. Here’s a curated list of tried and true travel must haves to ensure your Nantucket getaway is nothing short of perfect.

1.Luggage Set

When it comes to stylish and practical luggage, the Coolife Luggage 3-Piece Set is an excellent choice. Its sleek design, durable polycarbonate shell, and 360-degree spinner wheels make navigating through airports and ferry terminals a breeze. Plus, the three size options allow you to travel light for a weekend with just a carry on or bigger options to check your bags for a longer stay

2. Sunglasses

Nantucket’s sun can be quite bright, so a quality pair of sunglasses is essential. Ray-Ban Wayfarers are not only timeless but also offer top-notch UV protection and clarity. Their classic style pairs perfectly with any outfit, whether you're strolling down Main Street or relaxing on the beach.

3. Tote BaG

For a versatile and stylish tote bag, the Longchamp Le Pliage is a standout choice. Its spacious interior is perfect for carrying your beach essentials, and the durable nylon material ensures it withstands the elements. The bag’s foldable design makes it easy to pack when not in use.

4. BackPack

For a stylish yet practical backpack, the Herschel Little America is a fantastic option. Its spacious interior and padded laptop compartment are perfect for carrying travel documents and electronics. The backpack’s vintage-inspired design complements any outfit, making it a great accessory for exploring the island.

5. Headphones

Traveling to Nantucket means you might spend some time on planes or ferries. To enhance your travel experience, these Airpod Max Headphones are a game-changer. Their noise-canceling technology ensures a peaceful journey, while their comfort and sound quality make them ideal for long trips. The durability of apple makes these worth the investment for some enjoyment, peace and quiet during the travel day.

6. Camera

Nantucket is quite picturesque between the cobblestone streets, beautiful homes, hydrangeas, and ocean views. Make sure you bring a digital camera with you to capture the beautiful moments and memories you make on the island. A set of film cameras are also a fun way to bring memories to life from the trip (and Nantucket looks pretty great on film!)

7. Tumbler

Stay hydrated and keep your beverages at the perfect temperature with a Stanley Tumbler. Its triple-insulated design ensures that your drinks stay cold or hot for hours. This tumbler is perfect for beach days or exploring the town. Pick any color that matches your vibe!

8. Portable Charger

Staying connected is important, and the Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger ensures your devices remain powered throughout your travels. Compact and powerful, this charger can keep your phone and other electronics charged while you’re exploring Nantucket.

9. Coastal Grandmother Wardrobe

Add a touch of patriotic flair to your Nantucket wardrobe with an American Flag Sweater. This stylish and cozy piece is perfect for cooler evenings or a casual outing. It offers both warmth and a classic look that complements the island’s laid-back but classy vibe.

For a chic and comfortable look, white linen pants are a must-have. These pants are perfect for a day at the beach or a leisurely lunch. The breathable fabric keeps you cool, and the elegant cut ensures you look

With these fashion forward, yet reliable travel essentials, your trip to Nantucket is sure to be memorable and hassle-free. Pack smart, travel in style, and enjoy all the charm this beautiful island has to offer. Safe travels!

Cape Cod Fairs & Festivals

Cape Cod is renowned for its scenic beaches and charming towns, but it also hosts a variety of unique festivals and events throughout the year that showcase the region's rich culture and vibrant community spirit. From celebrations of local arts and crafts to events that highlight the area's history and natural beauty, these festivals offer something for everyone. Whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, these distinctive gatherings provide an opportunity to experience Cape Cod in a memorable way.

Barnstable County Fair

Named the “Best Local Event of 2022” by the Cape Cod Times, the Barnstable County Fair brings classic fair fun to the Cape! Enjoy rides, music and entertainment, delicious food, and agriculture and animals showcases for a week in July. A staple event is the Demolition Derby, where crowds gather to watch JM Motorsport Productions’ intense motorsports insanity in action. Get the small-town, big-fair feel at the Barnstable County Fair. Visit the website for more information.  

Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival

Explore the various plant and floral offerings that Cape Cod blooms have to offer at the Hydrangea Festival! The festival typically occurs for about ten days in July, featuring tours of gardens, workshops led by experts, and special promotions at local nurseries. Not only is this festival a feast for the eyes and an excellent photographing opportunity, but the garden tours support local nonprofits in the community. Stay up to date about this event by following the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce.

Falmouth Holidays by the Sea

Happy Holidays! If you’re in the Falmouth area during December, there are plenty of fun activities to experience that will get you in the Christmas spirit. Join in song for caroling in Woods Hole Village. Watch Santa Claus arrive to town via boat. Walk in the Christmas Parade or run in the Jingle Jog. Falmouth knows how to get attendees excited for the most wonderful time of the year! Visit the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce’s webpage for the event for more information.

Brewster in Bloom

Brewster in Bloom occurs in late April or early May and is an excellent start to the blooming season on the Cape. There are a wide array of events, including a parade, a 5K run, antique tours, concerts, craft shows, and an overflow of community spirit. See Route 6A lined with daffodils and partake in the exciting family activities - it truly captures Brewster’s essence and charm. Stay tuned in about this event by visiting the Brewster Chamber of Commerce site.

Hyannis Father’s Day Car Show

What better way to spend Father’s Day than to see some of the coolest cars around? The Greater Hyannis Chamber of Commerce hosts a car show every Father’s Day right on Main Street in Hyannis. The event is free to attend and showcases hundreds of different vehicles, making it one of New England’s largest car shows. Local shops and restaurants are open throughout the day for you to explore while you’re out and about in Hyannis. If you or your dad are car fanatics, you can’t miss this event. Learn more about the event on the Greater Hyannis Chamber of Commerce’s webpage.

Eastham Windmill Weekend

Eastham’s Windmill Weekend in September is an excellent tradition that leads locals and visitors alike from summer into the fall season. On the Windmill Green and across town, there are events and activities all can enjoy. Check out the Talent Show, vendor fair, parade, vehicle show, road race, live music, and more! This event reminds everyone of the joys of gathering the community together and celebrating local businesses and organizations. For more information about the event, visit their website.

Wellfleet OysterFest

If you visit downtown Wellfleet on a special weekend in October, you’re in for a treat. Main Street is transformed into a festival full of vendors, live music, activities for children, and no shortage of oysters. There are demonstrations, presentations, and classes for attendees to learn all they can about oysters. And don’t forget to make time to witness the renowned Shuck-Off competition, America’s largest oyster shucking competition. The event is unlike any other that you’ve seen. Learn more about OysterFest by visiting the Wellfleet Oyster Alliance’s website here.

Festival of the Arts

The Creative Arts Center in Chatham hosts a Festival of the Arts every August. They celebrate local art by featuring a diverse array of handcrafted items, fine art, and unique creations from talented artisans. This festival is free to attend and is just a few minutes away from Main Street in Chatham. The event is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and collectors, providing a vibrant atmosphere that showcases the rich creative talent of Cape Cod. For more information about the Festival of the Arts, visit their website.

Cape Cod Canal Day

Get excited for Cape Cod Canal Day! Festivities occur at Buzzards Bay Park in Bourne, made possible by the Cape Cod Canal Region Chamber of Commerce. Visit vendors, play in the cornhole tournament, or run in the road race - there is plenty of entertainment at this event. The Cape Cod Central Railroad often runs excursion trains throughout the day from Bourne to Sandwich and back. Stay updated about the event by visiting their webpage here.

Provincetown Pride

Provincetown has always been a town known for LGBTQ+ awareness, support, and empowerment. What better way to spend Pride Month than attend the events Provincetown has planned? Typically held during the first weekend of June, Provincetown Pride promises events of all sorts; drag shows, comedy shows, parades, rallies, and festivals showcasing local businesses. There are often other events in Provincetown promoting queer celebration throughout the year. Check out the Provincetown Business Guild’s website for more information.

Cape Cod’s collection of festivals and events offer something special for every resident and visitor throughout the year. Events such as these highlight the region’s powerful community spirit. If you are visiting during a time of the year when one or more of these events is taking place, you should definitely give them a try.

How to Spend the Perfect Memorial Day on Cape Cod

Cape Cod enthusiasts know that the real start of summer is  the moment you drive over the bridge for the first time on Memorial day weekend. With it brings the hope that the next three months are filled with memories and appreciating the many offerings of Cape Cod. While it is a beautiful place to come and relax in the sun, sand, and the sea, it would also be a shame to miss out on the special events and traditions that are happening this weekend. 

Rise and Shine

The perfect Memorial Day begins the moment the sun starts casting its rays over Cape Cod, waking you up to the promise of a day filled with adventure and relaxation. Start your morning with a stroll along one of the many beaches that line the Cape. Whether it's enjoying the dunes and dramatic cliffs of the National Seashore, appreciating the low tide on the bay side, or listening to the waves crashing on the beaches of Nantucket sound. A morning stroll will be shore to set the tone for a peaceful day ahead.

After a refreshing walk, treat yourself to a classic cape cod breakfast at one of the quaint local diners. Savor a hearty plate of fresh seafood, eggs benedict, or fluffy pancakes, paired with a steaming cup of coffee to fuel your day. Or if you are on the go, check out some local cafes and bakeries for grab and go breakfast sandwiches, pastries and a beverage of your choice.

Celebrate with the Community

Join in on the celebrations and feel the spirit of community that defines Cape Cod. Attend a local Memorial Day parade or concert featuring live music and patriotic performances. Afterwards, get creative and partake in festive activities such as fireworks displays, picnics, beach bonfires, or outdoor barbecues with friends and family.

Many towns on Cape Cod hold Memorial Day ceremonies and parades to honor and remember the men and women who have served in the military. Click here for the local listing of events.

Indulge in Local Favorites

For many of us, it's been a while since our last time on the Cape. The good news is Memorial Day weekend offers several opportunities to cultivate your perfect weekend menu. While you might want to fire up the grill one night, your only other responsibility is to eat all the fresh seafood Cape Cod has perfected over the years. Whether that's a lobster roll, fish tacos, or a nice sitdown meal on the water, you can’t go wrong with any of the local offerings. Many of these places are just opening for the summer this weekend and can’t wait to have you!

Don’t forget about ending the day at one of Cape Cod’s most beloved ice cream shops. Whether it's Sundae School, Cape Cod Creamery, The Smuggler or the shop your family claims is “the best on the cape”, each of these shops deserve to feel the love of Memorial Day weekend. Visit your favorites from the past, or branch out and try something new.

Get Outside

Take advantage of the beautiful weather and outdoor activities. Spend time at the beach with family and friends, hit the golf course with your buddies, go for a solo hike in one of the Cape's many nature preserves, or enjoy a bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Explore the Capes Military History

Take the opportunity to delve into Cape Cod's military history by visiting historical sites and museums. Start your journey at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, where rows of white headstones stand as a reminder of the countless lives lost in service. Continue your exploration at places like the Cape Cod Military Museum in Bourne or the Coast Guard Heritage Museum in Barnstable to learn about local heroes.

Reflect and Remember

As Memorial Day weekend draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the memories made and the moments shared with loved ones. Whether you spent the weekend lounging on the beach, exploring charming towns, or indulging in delicious cuisine, let the spirit of the holiday remind you of the importance of family, community, and freedom. Express gratitude for the sacrifices of our nation's heroes and the opportunities they have afforded us. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, celebrating Memorial Day on Cape Cod is a time-honored tradition that captures the essence of summer and pays tribute to the values we hold dear.

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