Mermaid-core lovers rejoice, we’re shedding a new light on one of Over The Moon couples’ favorite waterside wedding destinations, Nantucket. With a rich history in whaling, tourism, science, and more, the Massachusetts island truly has something for everyone. Herman Melville’s Moby Dick was famously inspired by Nantucket whaler Captain Pollard and his crew’s experience aboard the ship, The Essex, which was attacked by a seemingly vengeful whale.

At OTM, we’ve covered at least 20 weddings on Nantucket Island, each with its own personal spin on the classic aesthetic. And it’s clear that the locale will always be a top East Coast destination for wedding ceremonies, big and small. Whether you visit the summer destination every year or you’ve never been, below is our guide to hosting a wedding on Nantucket.

When to Go and How to Get There

Nantucket at its core is a summer holiday destination. The peak month is July, but we also love events here in the late spring and early autumn. From New York City, there are easy direct flights from all major airports that land at ACK, or, if you have time, take a relaxing six-hour ferry ride. From Hyannis, Massachusetts, the easiest way to reach the island is by taking a ferry, either the high-speed, passenger-only boat or the two-hour traditional one. If you’re not coming from the East Coast, odds are you will need to connect somewhere, but we promise it’s worth it!

Where to Stay

Because of Nantucket’s popularity and loyal vacationers, if you’re planning a wedding here, you need to book not only your event venues but also any room blocks or accommodations well in advance. We absolutely adore The Wauwinet. For this oceanfront venue, you’ll need to buy-out the entire resort for large weddings (it can host up to 200 guests), but it’s so nice to have the place to yourself. The hotel, which is just a short car ride outside of town, features 32 luxury guest rooms, suites, and four charming cottages. It also boasts AAA Five Diamond cuisine and wine service, so you and your guests can experience the best of seaside fare.

There’s also no shortage of things to do, from taking a complimentary bicycle into town with your guests to a pre-wedding tennis tournament or a private beach day or a lobster expedition on The Wauwinet Lady. There’s a reason why everyone in town will tell you to visit The Wauwinet; its charm is luxurious yet approachable and open from April to late October.

Another favorite spot with a more modern feel is White Elephant. A five-minute walk from town, this waterfront hotel was just renovated for the 2023 season and features spacious rooms at the inn, harbor-side hotel, garden cottages, and downtown lofts. Freshly decorated with Nantucket-inspired yet youthful art and decor, the hotel hasn’t lost once ounce of its tranquility and comfort.

White Elephant can easily accommodate up to 300 wedding guests and has indoor and outdoor venues for all of your events—our favorite might be the Harborview Lawn with sweeping views of the island. And The White Elephant Spa by Darya is also so convenient for pre-ceremony treatments and getting ready with your bridal party. The hotel is also home to the famous Lobster Bloody Mary, so make sure you don’t leave without trying one.

Where to Eat

If you’re staying at White Elephant, take a complimentary 45-minute cruise on The Wauwinet Lady across the island to Topper’s for lunch or dinner. We recommend the latter, so you can enjoy a drink on the lawn of The Wauwinet at sunset too. Topper’s is the only AAA Five Diamond restaurant on Nantucket; enjoy the best of what New England has to offer here. Our favorite dish is the garganelli with lobster and crab.

In downtown Nantucket, head to Lemon Press for a casual coffee, healthy breakfast, brunch, or lunch, inspired by Persian cuisine and culture. The young spot also caters in case you want a spread for the getting ready suite on the morning-of. Another great spot for casual eats is Something Natural, the sandwich shop with a cult-like following that makes its own bread—once you know the logo, you’ll see it everywhere. The Smoked Turkey and the Terry Terrific are our favorites.

Since 2012, CRU Nantucket Oyster Bar has served the island a casually elegant dining experience with a lively and upbeat crowd. Located in the heart of the harbor, it’s also a great place to host a rehearsal dinner, surrounded by the sea.

For dessert, stop by The Juice Bar for the island’s famous ice cream—expect a line no matter what time you go. The lactose intolerant will also welcome the dairy-free flavors that aren’t just sorbets with welcome arms.

What to Do

A short walk from White Elephant, the Brant Point Lighthouse is a picturesque, small operating lighthouse worth checking out. The station was established in 1746 and recalls Nantucket’s whaling and shipping history. Want more of yesteryear? From there, head to Broad Street to take a tour of the Whaling Museum and learn all about the island’s maritime past and why woven baskets are Nantucket Birkins. Then, take a walking tour with the Nantucket Historical Association. You and your guests will learn so much about the historic houses, families, and economic shifts while getting your steps in.

Want to relax with a glass of wine or a cool beer? Take bikes out to Cisco Brewery, where you can enjoy a casual drink with live music and local eats.

If you’re closer to Siasconset, go out to see the 70-foot-tall Sankaty Head Lighthouse on the bluff at the end of Baxter Road. The stalwart lighthouse was built in 1850 and hasn’t been replaced since; it’s only been moved back slightly by 400 feet.

Back downtown, do some shopping at the Hospital Thrift Shop. In its 94th year of business, this place is a thrifters heaven and has led to more than 6.9 million dollars in donations to the Nantucket Cottage Hospital. There’s everything from drapes, dinnerware, and fashion discarded by locals here. We even scored a real freshwater pearl bracelet for four dollars on our last visit.

Want more vintage? Also downtown is Current Vintage, which features a delightful selection of wines and mid-century clothing. Make room in your suitcase to take home at least a few looks from here.

Want newer threads? Hill House Home has a pop-up on the island until September 30, as founder Nell Diamond frequently visits Nantucket with her family. The latest summer collection is also available on Over The Moon, if you don’t have time to get to Massachusetts.

A favorite wedding after-party spot of OTM Brides, The Chicken Box gets a visceral reaction when mentioned to Nantucket regulars. It’s an infamous, rowdy spot, but it’s a great, casual, local spot to give guests a well-rounded experience of the island.

What to Pack

Now that you’ve been sold on the location, it’s time to pack for a weekend wedding on Nantucket with our Timeless Summer Edit of swimwear, fashion, accessories, and more. Recall classic, seaside Americana with nautical shades and prints and natural materials.