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Welcome to Nantucket, Massachusetts, a charming island destination that embraces four-legged friends with open arms. If you’re planning a getaway with your canine companion, Nantucket offers many dog-friendly experiences. For a more visual guide to the island, see my story highlight covering our trip, here.

Dog-Friendly Hotels

• Nantucket Resort Collection – Regatta Inn
  • Nestled in the heart of Nantucket, the Regatta Inn, part of the esteemed Nantucket Resort Collection, warmly welcomes guests and their furry friends. During our weekend getaway, we had the pleasure of experiencing this cozy bed and breakfast, which is one of their three dog-friendly locations on the island.
  • The Regatta Inn offers the perfect blend of homey comforts and luxurious touches. From the moment we stepped inside, we were embraced by the inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a classic BnB, but with those big, fluffy beds you find at only the best hotels.
  • The pet-friendly accommodations ensured both humans and canines felt right at home. We had access to endless snacks (for Roswell and for us), beach chairs, a cozy fire pit, daily breakfast, a ride to and from the ferry, the list goes on and on. They also supplied our room with everything Roswell needed: dog bowls, treats, a new toy, a dog bed, a bandana, and even doggie steps so he could get up onto the bed himself. We’ve stayed in a lot of dog-friendly hotels, and the stairs were a first (such a thoughtful touch!). The staff went above and beyond to cater to our needs, and all were major “dog people.” 
  • The Regatta Inn proved to be the perfect base for exploring the island. It was a half mile away from basically anything we needed, including the main streets of downtown Nantucket, Brant Point lighthouse and the beach, and the ferry, of course.

Dog-Friendly Dining

• Island Kitchen: Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Island Kitchen is a must-try when you’re on Nantucket. We had the pleasure of getting dinner and drinks with Roswell in their covered patio area. We were served some of the best food we’ve had in a long time, while Roswell was served like a king with his own little water bowl. I’m not sure what was better, our meal or the ice cream we got for dessert. Island Kitchen has their own ice cream counter with a variety of homemade ice cream options – SO GOOD! 

• Brotherhood of Thieves: This historic pub welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area, allowing you to indulge in classic American fare and local brews while enjoying the company of your four-legged friend. The relaxed atmosphere and pet-friendly policy make Brotherhood of Thieves a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Cisco Brewery: A visit to Nantucket would not be complete without experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Cisco Brewery. This dog-friendly establishment welcomes pups in their spacious outdoor seating area, providing a perfect setting for a laid-back afternoon. While you savor their craft beers, wines, and spirits, your canine companion can soak up the lively ambiance and make new furry friends. Cisco Brewery often hosts food trucks and live music, and we had the best afternoon enjoying their sunny backyard. Tip: if you don’t have a car while on island, take Cisco’s free shuttle there and back, which runs a couple times each hour. I’m not sure how well a bigger dog would fit in the van, but Roswell was happily welcomed. 
• Sandbar at Jetties Beach: While this restaurant was not yet opened for the season when we visited, we did take Roswell for a walk down to Jetties Beach and were able to take in the views that this place has to offer during the summer season. Located right on the beach, you and your dog will enjoy a laid-back vibe, dining on picnic tables and letting your dog dig in the sand. I know Roswell will love this place, next time we visit 😉

Dog-Friendly Activities

• Land Bank Dog Park: Treat your pup to some off-leash fun at the new Land Bank Dog Park, located mid-island. This spacious park offers ample room for dogs to run, socialize, and burn off some energy. It offers both a small- and large- dog area that are fully fenced in. A single trail surrounds the park’s wooded area if you prefer to walk your dog on-leash.
• Brant Point Beach: Dogs are welcome anytime during the off-season (this applies to most beaches on island, too), and before 9am and after 5pm during the summer. Take in the scenic views and iconic Brant Point lighthouse. This is a popular tourist spot, so expect some crowds most days. Other beaches to check are Surfside Beach, Jetties Beach, and Madaket Beach.
• Shopping downtown: Nantucket offers a variety of dog-friendly shops, including some fun pet boutiques as well. We are always a fan of The Black Dog, and had to stop into their Nantucket location. Pawsitivity had a lot of cute dog accessories, and Cold Noses near the wharf has just about anything your vacationing pup could need.
• Sconset Bluff Walk: Unfortunately we didn’t get to visit here due to it’s location (not in walking distance to downtown), but it’s on our list for next time! Take a leisurely stroll with your leashed dog along the picturesque trail, offering views of the ocean and seaside cottages.
• Tupancy Links: Located in the heart of Nantucket, this former golf course is the perfect place to let your pup run around and get some energy out. With 73 acres of green space overlooking Nantucket Harbor, you may want to add this to your list.

Getting Here

• By Ferry: We prefer the fast ferries out of Hyannis; you can choose either the Steamship Authority or the Hy-Line. Fast ferries are about 1 hour from Hyannis to Nantucket, and a bit pricier than the slower ferries, which are over 2 hours in length. Dogs are welcomed on ferries at no extra cost, and I guarantee you will see many other pups on your trip over.
• By Plane: Cape Air allows pets onboard for a small fee, see their most up to date rules and regulations on their site.

Nantucket, with its welcoming atmosphere and abundant dog-friendly opportunities, is a perfect destination for a memorable getaway with your pup. We can’t wait to be back on island with Roswell, and hope you make it out there too!