Jetties Beach.
Just a mile from downtown, Jetties Beach is Nantucket’s most convenient and social stretch of sand. Located on the protected north shore, its calm, shallow waters and low-tide sandbars make it a preferred alternative to the heavy surf of the south shore. The beach gets its name from the historic stone jetties framing the harbor, offering excellent views of passing boats. Unlike the island's more remote dunes, Jetties functions as a fully equipped public park, complete with tennis courts, a playground, and seasonal lifeguards. At its center sits a historic pavilion housing restrooms, showers, and the Sandbar—a lively open-air restaurant serving seafood and cocktails right next to the sand. It is the hassle-free choice for a classic, amenity-filled beach day.