Brant Point - After the storm a row of trees is covered in a blanket of ice. Paris, Ontario, Canada.
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Brant Point

4.6
·491k reviews·Nantucket, United States

Iconic lighthouse guarding Nantucket Harbor, offering picturesque views and a quintessential island welcome.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Brant Point - After the storm a row of trees is covered in a blanket of ice. Paris, Ontario, Canada.

Brant Point

Best Time

Summer mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic lighthouse guarding Nantucket Harbor, offering picturesque views and a quintessential island welcome.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Brant Point Lighthouse is a must-see, offering stunning harbor views and a magical arrival experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Catch the Sunrise

The sunrise at Brant Point Lighthouse is breathtaking. Grab a coffee and enjoy the golden hour!

🚲 Bike to Brant Point

Rent a bike to explore Brant Point and other island spots easily. Great for families!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brant Point Lighthouse

Brant Point Lighthouse

Nantucket Harbor

Iconic lighthouse offering stunning harbor views and a quintessential Nantucket experience.

Harbor Views

Harbor Views

Along the shoreline

Watch ferries arrive and depart, and enjoy the picturesque Nantucket Harbor scenery.

Coastal Walk

Coastal Walk

Pathways around Brant Point

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coast, taking in the fresh sea air and scenic surroundings.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Brant Point Visit

Brant Point is a popular spot, especially during summer. To avoid the biggest crowds and catch the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, September, October) for a more relaxed experience.

Getting to Brant Point

Most visitors arrive via ferry to Nantucket, then it's a short taxi, bike ride, or walk to Brant Point. If you're staying on the island, consider renting a bike to easily explore the area and other Nantucket attractions.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful sunset hues
Crowd
High
When
Shoulder season days
Why
Tranquil atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nantucket home for rent Brant Point with a great kids room. @jeaninecort #30milesouttosea #Nantucket
@brigittelabonte2
4.5K likes • 53.7K views

🌅 Catch the Sunrise

The sunrise at Brant Point Lighthouse is breathtaking. Grab a coffee and enjoy the golden hour! Instagram

🚲 Bike to Brant Point

Rent a bike to explore Brant Point and other island spots easily. Great for families! Instagram

‎مشوارنا اليوم كان على Brant Conservation Area — وجهة رهيبة للعيلة والأطفال! 😍 ‎المكان كتير كبير ومليان مساحات حلوة، وفيه: ‎🍃 منطقة الـ Picnic ‎🚶‍♀️ مسارات المشي (Trails) ‎🎣 منطقة الصيد بالنهر ‎⛺ منطقة التخييم ‎بس نحنا حبينا نقضي وقتنا كله بالمسبح 🏊‍♀️… عنجد انصدمت قديش كبير! ‎الأولاد انبسطوا كتير خصوصاً مع الـ Splash Pad 💦 ‎💵 الدخولية: 9$ للكبار، 4$ للأطفال (مع المسبح). 📍 Location: Brant conserva...
@chourouk_elhajj
1.5K likes • 89.9K views
Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning! Coffee ✅ heat on in the car ✅ sunrise view ✅ Good morning from Brant Point Lighthouse Happy August Nantucket! #august #nantucketisland #nantucket #nantucketmoment #summer #nantucketsummer #golden #goodmorning #sunshine #sunisshining☀️ #scenesofnewengland #findyournantucket #dreamy #metime #ack #nantucketphotographer #boats #birdseyeview #itsabeau...
shanerileyphoto
5.4K likes • 110.5K views

📸 Perfect Photo Op

Brant Point offers postcard-perfect views, especially with the lighthouse. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly Fun

Kids love watching the ferries and exploring the lighthouse area. TikTokInstagram

Watching Brant Point Lighthouse come into view as the ferry carries me closer to Nantucket… and closer to the memories waiting to be made. There’s something magical about finally reaching a place you’ve dreamed of, like the air is sweeter, the sun a little brighter. My ‘R’ bracelet glows in the light, reminding me of the love and adventure this island always holds. With every visit, Nantucket whis...
banglemylove
9 likes • 358 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Sunrise

The sunrise at Brant Point Lighthouse is breathtaking. Grab a coffee and enjoy the golden hour! Instagram

🚲 Bike to Brant Point

Rent a bike to explore Brant Point and other island spots easily. Great for families! Instagram

📸 Perfect Photo Op

Brant Point offers postcard-perfect views, especially with the lighthouse. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly Fun

Kids love watching the ferries and exploring the lighthouse area. TikTokInstagram

🚢 Ferry Arrival Views

See the lighthouse as you approach Nantucket by ferry for a magical welcome. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Brant Point for its iconic lighthouse, picturesque harbor views, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a beloved spot for photography and a welcoming sight for those arriving by ferry. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and restroom facilities can be scarce.

What People Like

Iconic lighthouse views
Charming harbor activity
Peaceful coastal walks

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Scarce restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Brant Point is a short distance from the Nantucket ferry terminal. You can easily walk (about 15-20 minutes), take a taxi, or rent a bike. Many visitors enjoy biking around the island, including to Brant Point. Instagram

While driving is possible, parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Walking or biking are often more convenient and enjoyable ways to reach Brant Point. Instagram

The most common way to reach Nantucket is by ferry from Hyannis, MA, operated by Hy-Line Cruises. Flights are also available into Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK). Instagram

The high-speed ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket typically takes about 1 hour. Instagram

Yes, you can bring your car on some ferries, but it's often more practical and cost-effective to leave your car on the mainland and utilize Nantucket's excellent public transportation, bike rentals, and walking paths. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Brant Point itself, including the lighthouse grounds, is free to access. There are no admission tickets required to visit the area. TikTok

The Brant Point Lighthouse is an active aid to navigation and is generally accessible from the outside at any time. The lighthouse tower itself may have specific visiting hours if tours are offered, but these are not always consistently available. Instagram

No, there are no tickets to book for Brant Point. It's an open public area. If you plan to take the ferry to Nantucket, booking ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Instagram

While the lighthouse is a prominent landmark, official tours of the tower are not always guaranteed and may depend on seasonal availability and volunteer staffing. It's best to check local Nantucket tourism resources for current tour information. Instagram

Visiting Brant Point is free. The main costs associated with a trip to Nantucket would be transportation (ferry or flight) and any activities or dining you choose to do on the island. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Brant Point. The golden hour light is particularly stunning. Instagram

The Brant Point Lighthouse itself is the primary subject. Also, capture the harbor activity, the charming coastal homes, and the scenic views of the water. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local Nantucket regulations regarding drone usage in protected areas and near navigational aids like lighthouses before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and expansive harbor views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of passing ferries or distant boats. Instagram

Generally, photography is welcomed at Brant Point. However, always be respectful of private property and any posted signage. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

At Brant Point, you can admire the lighthouse, watch ferries, enjoy harbor views, take a leisurely walk along the coast, and soak in the quintessential Nantucket atmosphere. Instagram+1

Yes, Brant Point is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy watching the boats and the lighthouse. It's a safe and scenic area for a stroll. TikTokInstagram

You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours at Brant Point, depending on how much you want to relax, walk, and take photos. Instagram

Public restrooms are not always readily available directly at Brant Point. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or at nearby public areas in Nantucket town. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Depending on the season, bring layers as it can be breezy by the water. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable during sunny days. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Brant Point is a fantastic, low-key destination for families visiting Nantucket. Kids are often fascinated by the Brant Point Lighthouse and love watching the ferries come and go from the harbor. It's a safe and open area for them to explore, and the relatively short walk from town makes it easily accessible. TikTokInstagram

Consider packing a small picnic to enjoy by the water, or rent bikes with child seats to make the journey even more enjoyable. The simple act of watching the boats and the lighthouse can be captivating for younger visitors, offering a memorable part of your Nantucket family vacation. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Brant Point is a dream location. The Brant Point Lighthouse provides an iconic subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The harbor offers dynamic scenes with ferries and boats, perfect for capturing maritime life. Instagram+1

Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the lighthouse and the intricate details of the harbor. The changing weather and light conditions on Nantucket can also add dramatic flair to your shots. Remember to be respectful of the environment and any private property while seeking the perfect angle. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strollers

If you enjoy a relaxed pace, Brant Point is ideal. The pathways offer a pleasant coastal walk with beautiful views of the harbor and the lighthouse. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, breathe in the sea air, and simply enjoy the scenery without a demanding itinerary. Instagram

Combine your stroll with a visit to the nearby town of Nantucket for a coffee or a light bite. The accessibility from town makes it easy to incorporate into a day of gentle exploration. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Brant Point Lighthouse

The Brant Point Lighthouse is one of Nantucket's most recognizable landmarks. Standing proudly at the entrance to Nantucket Harbor, it has guided mariners for centuries. The current structure, built in 1901, is the second-oldest lighthouse in Massachusetts and the seventh on this site. Its distinctive red and white daymark makes it a picturesque subject for photographers and a beloved symbol of the island. Visitors often enjoy the views of the lighthouse against the backdrop of the harbor and the mainland. Instagram+1

While you can't always climb to the top, the grounds offer fantastic vantage points. It's a popular spot for families and couples alike, offering a quintessential Nantucket experience. The lighthouse's presence signifies arrival and departure, making it a poignant spot for those coming to or leaving the island. Instagram

Many visitors capture their first glimpse of Nantucket as the ferry rounds Brant Point, making the lighthouse a memorable part of their journey. The area around the lighthouse is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful coastal scenery and a chance to watch the bustling harbor activity. Instagram+1

Experiencing Nantucket Harbor

Brant Point offers a prime location to experience the vibrant Nantucket Harbor. From this vantage point, you can witness the constant flow of ferries, private boats, and sailboats. It's a dynamic scene that captures the maritime spirit of the island. Watching the ferries arrive and depart is a particular highlight for many, offering a sense of connection to the mainland and the wider world. Instagram+1

The harbor is not just about the boats; it's also about the atmosphere. The salty air, the calls of seagulls, and the gentle lapping of waves create a soothing soundtrack to your visit. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed walk, a picnic, or simply sitting and observing the maritime life unfold. Instagram

For those interested in photography, the harbor provides endless opportunities. From capturing the majestic Brant Point Lighthouse to documenting the diverse range of vessels, there's always something interesting to photograph. The changing light throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset, adds another layer of beauty to the scene. Instagram+1

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