Great Point

Nantucket offers a variety of dining options near Great Point. The Proprietors Bar & Table is a relaxed eatery serving globally influenced fare in a contemporary space. For seafood lovers, The Seagrille is a year-round go-to with creative seafood dishes. Black-Eyed Susan's is a cozy American cafe known for its breakfast and BYOB-friendly dinners. Brotherhood of Thieves offers hearty family-friendly pub fare with a cozy atmosphere. Lastly, Queequeg's provides eclectic American plates in a snug setting.

Nantucket has several excellent hotels near Great Point. The Nantucket Hotel & Resort offers upscale rooms and suites with modern amenities. White Elephant Nantucket is an upscale harborfront hotel with a spa and casual dining options. The Beachside on Nantucket provides relaxed accommodations with an outdoor pool. Cliffside Beach Club is a chic hotel with a private beach and spa. Lastly, The Wauwinet is a luxury hotel with elegant rooms and two private beaches.

Great Point offers limited amenities due to its natural and protected status. There are no restrooms or showers directly on the beach, but visitors can find these facilities at nearby hotels or public restrooms in Nantucket Town. Picnic areas are not formally designated, but the scenic spots along the beach provide ample space for picnicking. Rental equipment for activities like fishing or surfing is available in Nantucket Town at places like tackle shops.

The beach itself is a major amenity, with its diverse landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. However, it requires a permit for driving and has specific rules to protect the environment and wildlife.

Great Point is renowned for its fishing opportunities, with species like striped bass and bluefish being popular catches. Swimming is available, though swimmers must be cautious due to the lack of lifeguards and varying water conditions. The area is also excellent for birdwatching, with many species of birds, including endangered piping plovers. Hiking and exploring the natural landscapes are other popular activities, offering a chance to see seals and other wildlife.

The dynamic landscape of Great Point, with its shifting sands and storm surges, makes each visit unique. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and explore the beach by walking or driving with a permit.

While Great Point itself does not offer specific disability access features like ramps or wheelchair rentals, Nantucket Island provides various accessible amenities. Many restaurants and hotels in Nantucket are wheelchair accessible, offering amenities like accessible restrooms and seating. However, the natural terrain of Great Point, with its sandy dunes and lack of paved paths, may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues.

For those planning to explore Nantucket Town, there are accessible public restrooms and outdoor seating available at the Visitor Services center. Additionally, some tour companies, like Nantucket Island Tours, offer wheelchair-accessible buses for island tours.

Parking at Great Point is limited and requires a permit for driving on the beach. The Wauwinet Gatehouse serves as the entry point for vehicles, where visitors can purchase an Oversand Vehicle Permit. There is a dirt parking lot near the gatehouse for those who prefer to walk onto the beach. Parking fees apply for driving on the beach, and there is no fee for walking. The proximity to the beach varies depending on where you park, but walking is generally required to access the beach itself.

It's important to note that the beach is privately owned, and driving requires a specific permit, which can be obtained from the Trustees of Reservations.

Great Point has a rich history, particularly in relation to Nantucket's whaling industry. The lighthouse was originally built in 1816 to aid mariners navigating the treacherous waters around Nantucket. Over the years, the lighthouse has been rebuilt several times due to fires and storms, with the current structure dating back to 1986.

The area is also known for its unique wildlife, including grey seals and endangered piping plovers. The dynamic landscape of Great Point, shaped by erosion and storm surges, makes it a fascinating place to observe natural changes over time.

Additionally, Great Point is a popular spot for fishing, with many anglers seeking to catch a 'Nantucket Slam'—a feat that involves catching specific fish species from the beach.

One of the main attractions at Great Point is the iconic Great Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse has been rebuilt several times due to storms and is a significant landmark for mariners navigating the area. The Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, which includes Great Point, is another major attraction, offering stunning natural scenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the refuge by driving or walking, taking in the unique landscapes and spotting wildlife like seals and endangered birds.

The area's historical significance, particularly its role in Nantucket's whaling industry, adds to its appeal. The lighthouse and the refuge together make Great Point a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.