Hotel Snapshot
If you fancy accommodations bang on the water on your getaway to the tiny New England island of Nantucket—and let’s face it, who doesn’t?—the Cottages at the Boat Basin is your place, hands down. This storybook-like collection of 29 individual cottages on the wharf are styled after the 17th and 18th-century fishermen’s homes that are very much a part of Nantucket’s patina. They are located within walking distance from town and draw on the destination’s seafaring culture. Staying in one feels like living in a seaside village, which is exactly how it should be when you’re in a locale where the water is everything.
The property is part of White Elephant Resorts, the hospitality group with five boutique hotels in Nantucket.
Design & Character
The cottages recently debuted a multi-million-dollar renovation and exude a light, bright contemporary coastal flair. The Canada-based designer Audrey Sterk favors an aesthetic that’s heavy on nautical blues, misty grays, brass and rope-and-jute accents. But the charm here is that the original architectural details, such as the wood beams and vaulted ceilings, are untouched.
Hand-painted seascapes across the living walls in each cottage illustrating Nantucket’s deep ties to whaling make it very clear where you are. We also love the nautical charts of the island, brass barometer instruments, and other decorative pieces that nod to seafaring.
The Rooms
Make no mistake, these are full-on homes and range from studios to split-level three-bedroom lofts. Each has its own name—Sea Syren, Essex, Orion, etc.—and is equipped with a full kitchen and lovely sitting area. Many have private decks overlooking the harbor. Pet owners will drool over the dozen “Woof Cottages” that have beds, treats, and personalized tags for that animal you adore.
Food & Drink
The Cottages don’t have an on-site restaurant, but there’s no need for one when you can grab a few essentials from the grocery store and fix up your breakfast in the kitchen. Come lunch and dinner, the best restaurants are within a five-minute walk. You can also hit the spots in other White Elephant Resorts hotels, from the harbor front Brant Point Grill at the White Elephant to the slightly more upscale Topper’s at The Wauwinet on the other end of the island.
Amenities
A stay gets you access to a bike to explore the island, a shuttle to the beach, and fishing rods, reels, and nets for kids. You’ll have to walk over to the main area to see a staff member, but they’re a call away and genuinely warm and willing to help you in any way.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
You’re in the heart of Nantucket’s action here. Located on the slips of the Nantucket Boat Basin, a former fisherman’s community, the Cottages are close to town, which means you can walk to the hopping restaurants and chic boutiques.
There’s a lot to see and do. For dining, call-outs go to Something Natural, a more than half-century-old Nantucket institution famous for its tasty sandwiches, Cru, which shows off local seafood, and On the Whale, a laid-back bistro with an outdoor patio. Our favorite store is Centre Pointe, overflowing with stylish home goods, gifts, and jewelry.
Tap into your active side with the island’s more than 30 miles of flat paved trails. Go biking along the gorgeous paths or walk instead, especially in the morning when the air is crisp and fresh, or at sunset.
Fast Facts
Location: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Rating: Four-star
The Vibe: Relaxed coastal living meets understated luxury in a property that feels like a quiet retreat but is within steps of the hubbub of town.
Room Count: 29
Starting Rate: Starting rate in the low season is $395; in the high season, it’s $795
Food + Drink: While the Cottages themselves are self-catering, a lineup of excellent restaurants is just out your door,
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The home-away-from-home setting, but a lot cuter and special feeling than where we actually live.
Closest Airport: Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK) is around 10 minutes by car.
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