I have witnessed various spots around the globe known as sunset celebrations where fairly large groups of people gather in one spot, generally the western most point of a given place, to watch the sun go down. While rubbing sweaty elbows and having drinks spilled on you by complete strangers in somewhat tight quarters can still be a great time, the Nantucket take on a sunset celebration simultaneously and magically combines the beauty of nature, a sense of community and a moment of peace all at the same time.
While you might have to rub elbows and hopefully not trade paint in the parking lot, once your toes touch the sand on Madaket's expansive beach you can quickly find a section for you and your crew to watch the sun go down. The sound of the surf is generally loud enough to reduce surrounding groups' sunset chatter to a whisper and if you are looking for complete silence all it takes is about a 75 yard walk either way away from the parking lot to find your very own slice of sunset on Nantucket.
Pickup some champagne and simple apps in downtown Nantucket before heading out to enjoy this daily summer ritual. Madaket beach is located about 15-20 minutes drive from "town" and would be a perfectly scenic drive with the top down in one of Becky's Broncos trucks. Becky's is the only all Bronco Convertible fleet of rental cars on Nantucket and offers free delivery anywhere on island. If you prefer using some leg power (but not too much), rent an electric bicycle at Wheels Of Delight and cruise the Nantucket bike paths out to catch sunset. These bicycles are super easy to ride, way more safe then the dreaded moped and would be about a 40 minute pedal from town. Be sure to stop at the famed Millie's restaurant at Madaket beach before or after your Nantucket style sunset celebration. It is an institution on Nantucket for drinks and casual bites. Prioritize sunset at Madaket on your things to do on Nantucket list. It is not to be missed...and don't be late.
Sunset On Nantucket's Madaket Beach Is Not To Be Missed On Your Trip