A Guide to Exploring the Historic Lighthouses of Nantucket
Nantucket is renowned for its natural areas and rich history. Did you know it’s also home to three iconic lighthouses? It’s just one of the reasons why, at Affordable Rentals, we enjoy helping visitors from around the world navigate the island in Jeep rentals, car rentals, and more. We live here year-round, so on your next visit, ask us about our tips for visiting these historic lighthouses.
Brant Point Lighthouse
Established in 1746, Brant Point Lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in America. Standing at just 26 feet, it’s the shortest in New England. Its flashing red light is surprisingly visible up to ten miles out to sea. This lighthouse has withstood multiple reconstructions. The current structure has stood since 1901.
Visiting Brant Point
Access: Brant Point is accessible year-round without any permits required.
Inside Access: The lighthouse itself is not open to the public, but visitors can explore the grounds.
Location: Located near the Nantucket Harbor, it’s a short walk from downtown.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse
Perched on the eastern edge of the island, Sankaty Head Lighthouse was built in 1850 to address the dangerous shoals off Siasconset. Known for its white and red bands, Sankaty offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
Visiting Sankaty Head
Open Season: It’s generally accessible from dawn until dusk each day, with limited interior tours during certain times of the year.
Access: Plan on a short drive followed by a brief hike.
Permits: No beach permits are required to visit, but check local listings for parking restrictions.
Great Point Lighthouse
The Great Point Lighthouse is situated on the northernmost tip of Nantucket. This working lighthouse has gone through a lot of changes over the years. Since its construction in 1784, it has been destroyed and rebuilt a few times. Its final reconstruction was in 1986.
If you love nature and want a serene escape, a visit to this area will give you a beautiful panoramic view of the Atlantic and the island itself.
Visiting Great Point
Open Season: This is accessible year-round. Conditions may vary, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Access: You must have a beach permit to visit the lighthouse. Because of the terrain, we recommend accessing the area in a four-wheel drive. We offer SUV and Jeep Wrangler rentals that come with a beach permit for your visit.
Inside Access: The lighthouse is generally closed to the public, but the exterior surroundings are a must-see.
Getting Around the Island
To explore all that Nantucket’s lighthouses have to offer, reserve a rental from Affordable Rentals. Whether you choose an electric car rental for convenience or a Jeep Gladiator rental for off-road exploration, we’ll help you get on your way to a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.
Are you ready to set off on your lighthouse adventure on Nantucket Island? For a rental for your next vacation, contact Affordable Rentals at (508) 313-9313 or reserve your rental online today!