10 Best Photography Spots on Nantucket

Nantucket, with its timeless charm and enchanting landscapes, beckons photographers to explore its unique beauty. Whether you’re an amateur seeking Instagram-worthy moments or a seasoned pro in pursuit of captivating photography shots, the island offers a myriad of stunning locations to satiate your creative vision.

From iconic lighthouses bathed in the soft hues of sunrise and sunset to hidden coastal gems that define the island’s character, these Nantucket photography spots promise captivating compositions. The island’s rich history, maritime heritage, and lush natural surroundings set the stage for a photographic journey you won’t soon forget. Step into a world where beauty knows no bounds and let your lens tell the story of Nantucket’s picturesque charm.

Best Nantucket Photography Spots

Brant Point Lighthouse

Address: Easton St
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

Brant Point Lighthouse stands as an iconic gem among Nantucket’s photography spots. Situated at the water’s edge, this classic lighthouse graces the north side of the island. Positioned at the end of a picturesque spit of sand, it’s a must-visit location for any photographer seeking to capture Nantucket’s charm.

What makes Brant Point Lighthouse a standout subject is its proximity to the harbor, allowing for stunning shots of boats and the coastline. As the sun dances on the waters or when the evening hues paint the sky, this photography spot offers a dynamic range of lighting conditions, making it perfect for photographers of all skill levels. Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, Brant Point Lighthouse is sure to fill your lens with captivating images that encapsulate the island’s beauty.

Sankaty Head Lighthouse

Address: 122 Baxter Rd
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

The Sankaty Head Lighthouse, situated on Nantucket Island, is a photographer’s dream come true. Built in 1850 and one of the first lighthouses to receive a Fresnel lens in the United States, it stands proudly as a historic beacon of maritime heritage. The lighthouse, automated since 1965, continues to cast its guiding light from the easternmost point of the island, in the quaint village of Siasconset.

Photographers flock to this scenic spot for good reason. Sankaty Head offers breathtaking vistas along the island’s rugged eastern coastline, and it’s during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset that its photogenic charm truly shines. The soft, warm light bathes the lighthouse, enhancing its coastal beauty, while the backdrop of the vast Atlantic Ocean provides a stunning contrast. Whether capturing the lighthouse against a fiery Nantucket sunrise or the soft hues of a coastal sunset, Sankaty Head Lighthouse delivers enchanting, frame-worthy photography shots that encapsulate the island’s natural splendor and rich history.

Madaket Beach

Address: Madaket Rd
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

Madaket Beach, situated on the western end of Nantucket, is an absolute wonder for photographers. Renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, this striking coastal paradise offers a unique canvas for capturing the evening’s golden hues in all their glory. The warm, soft light as the sun dips below the horizon casts a magical spell, providing a perfect backdrop for stunning silhouette shots and vibrant landscape photographs.

This beach adds an element of drama to your shots with its rough surf. The crashing waves create a dynamic and ever-changing scene, making it ideal for those seeking to capture the power and beauty of the ocean. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur looking for Instagram-worthy moments, Madaket Beach is a must-visit photography spot on Nantucket to unleash your creative vision and capture the island’s natural splendor.

Cisco Beach

Address: Hummock Pond Rd
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

Cisco Beach, a beloved destination on Nantucket, stands as an ideal locale for capturing mesmerizing photographs. This coastal beauty provides an excellent backdrop for photography enthusiasts seeking more than just standard landscape shots. The scene at Cisco Beach is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a dynamic blend of natural beauty and coastal energy.

Renowned for its surf, this location entices both wave riders and photographers alike. The crashing waves create a captivating spectacle, setting the stage for dramatic and vibrant shots. The interplay between the cerulean ocean and the sandy shores delivers a captivating contrast, making Cisco Beach an engaging subject for your photography endeavors. Cisco Beach promises an ever-changing, awe-inspiring canvas of oceanic drama, ensuring that every click of your camera captures the essence of this dynamic coastal haven.

‘Sconset Bluff Walk

Address: 27 Bank St
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

The ‘Sconset Bluff Walk is a captivating route for capturing the island’s charm. This scenic path winds through the enchanting village of Siasconset, where you’ll find a mesmerizing backdrop of charming rose-clad cottages. As you stroll, you’ll encounter these quaint residences adorned with weathered cedar shingles, white picket fences, and flourishing hydrangeas. Trellises adorned with climbing roses that caress rooftops add to the enchantment.

The gardens resemble postcards brought to life, making every step along the trail an Instagram-worthy moment. Not to be missed is the iconic rose-covered cottage on Mitchell Street. Whether gazing at the ocean or turning your lens toward Sconset Beach and the historic Sankaty Head Lighthouse, this ‘Sconset Bluff Path is a 2-mile photographic journey worth every frame, suitable for photographers of all levels.

Great Point/Great Point Light

Address: 1 N Beach St, Unit 1
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

At the northern tip of Nantucket, accessible exclusively by a 4×4 vehicle, Great Point unveils an untamed and rugged terrain that beckons photographers seeking to capture the island’s raw beauty. This locale is home to the awe-inspiring Great Point Light, a lighthouse that stands tall at over 60 feet. Steeped in history, this beacon was first established in 1784, witnessed destruction in 1984, and was masterfully resurrected in 1986.

Located within the scenic Coskata Coatue Wildlife Refuge, this remarkable setting offers a distinctive backdrop for Nantucket photography enthusiasts. The diverse vistas, from windswept dunes to the untamed shoreline, provide a myriad of opportunities to capture Nantucket’s natural allure. Be mindful of tides, as beach access can be limited during storms and high water. When visiting, always consult local tide schedules and avoid driving through water for a safe and unforgettable photographic journey.

Main Street’s Compass Rose

Address: 16 Main St
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

Main Street’s Compass Rose on Nantucket, situated at the crossroads of Main Street and Washington Street, offers an exceptional backdrop for photography enthusiasts. This captivating mural graces Gardiner’s Corner, now home to Polo Ralph Lauren’s store, drawing tourists to its historical charm. The Compass Rose, originally created as an advertising attraction for a 1936 art shop and photo-developing studio owned by Marshall Gardiner, embodies the island’s maritime heritage.

This intriguing mural showcases a nautical-inspired compass, guiding your lens to various distant cities and ports, each evoking a sense of wanderlust. As you frame your shots, the mural points you in the direction of Buenos Ayres, Moscow, Berlin, Hong Kong, Calcutta, and more, offering a global journey through time and space. The Compass Rose’s captivating portrayal of faraway destinations against the backdrop of Nantucket’s cobblestone streets and century-old structures is an alluring subject for photographers seeking to capture the island’s unique history and adventurous spirit.

Steps Beach Nantucket

Address: Lincoln Ave
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

Tucked away between the renowned north shore beaches Dionis and Jetties lies the enchanting Steps Beach, a hidden gem for capturing breathtaking vistas on Nantucket. This coastal haven is a prime location for panoramic shots of the Nantucket Sound, the iconic Great Point Lighthouse, and the luxuriant, verdant landscape. The cliff summit, accessible via a steep set of steps, provides an ideal vantage point for photography.

If you choose to descend to the beach, you’ll be rewarded with equally stunning scenes. The calm, warm, and shallow waters distinguish Steps Beach from the island’s other coasts, featuring a mesmerizing sandbar that emerges during low tide. As daylight wanes in late summer, seize the opportunity to photograph the dazzling bioluminescent sea creatures that draw near to the shoreline, adding an extra touch of magic to this hidden photographic paradise.

First Congregational Church

Address: 62 Center St
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

The First Congregational Church on Nantucket stands as a captivating subject for photography enthusiasts seeking striking and visually appealing shots. This historic architectural gem is a quintessential embodiment of the island’s timeless charm, with its stately facade, resplendent spire, and classic New England design. The church’s venerable presence offers an array of visually compelling compositions, from its elegant bell tower to the graceful lines of its white clapboard exterior.

Its harmonious surroundings, including the lush greenery and cobblestone streets, provide an enchanting backdrop for both close-up details and panoramic vistas. Whether capturing the church’s intricate detailing, framed by a radiant sunrise or dappled in the warm glow of sunset, photographers will find the First Congregational Church to be an enchanting and evocative subject for their visual storytelling.

Miacomet Beach

Address: Miacomet Rd
City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02554

Miacomet Beach, nestled on Nantucket’s southern coastline, stands as an unspoiled gem for photography enthusiasts. This serene expanse of shoreline offers a tranquil alternative to the island’s more crowded spots, presenting an idyllic setting for capturing Nantucket’s natural splendor. This paradisical beach, adorned with clear, crystalline waters, beckons visitors to bask in its wild, unspoiled beauty. The absence of lifeguards may limit swimming, but the breathtaking vistas make up for it. While shade is a rarity and amenities are absent, Miacomet Beach’s untouched allure, friendly locals, and unhurried pace make it a photographer’s haven on Nantucket.

As the Sun Sets, the Island reveals it’s Hidden Treasures

As the sun sets over Nantucket’s captivating horizons, the island reveals its hidden treasures to photographers. From the iconic Brant Point Lighthouse to the untamed beauty of Miacomet Beach, Nantucket is a haven for those in search of picturesque landscapes and historic charm. Sankaty Head Lighthouse’s timeless elegance and Madaket Beach’s dramatic surf paint a vivid contrast, while Cisco Beach captures the dynamic energy of the coast.

Wander the ‘Sconset Bluff Walk’s captivating path through the village or explore the untamed wilderness of Great Point for truly unique photography shots. Whether it’s the Compass Rose’s nostalgic allure, the enchanting vistas of Steps Beach, or the timeless elegance of the First Congregational Church, Nantucket photography splendor knows no bounds.

For more photogenic inspirations check out Nantucket Hikes or the top Historic Sites on Nantucket.