Located just off Nantucket's unspoiled southwest coast, the fishing and farming community of Madaket is an alluring option for vacationers in search of a tranquil New England getaway. This small but perfectly formed village boasts a charmingly old-school general store, a much-loved independent restaurant serving hearty home-cooked fare and direct access to an expansive beach, which happens to be one of the best spots on the island for marveling at spectacular summer sunsets. Madaket vacation rentals range from beautifully renovated fisherman's cottages to modern family-size summer houses, so you're bound to find something that's just right for you.
Within easy reach of your Madaket vacation rental you'll find an array of attractions to captivate the whole family. If you're hankering to learn about the island's seafaring history, make a beeline for the Nantucket Whaling Museum. Housed in a restored 19th-century candle factory, its enthralling exhibits include the complete skeleton of a 46-foot sperm whale, and a presentation about the ill-fated Essex whaleship, which inspired the classic novel Moby Dick. The Jethro Coffin House is another must see. Built in 1686 and restored in the 1920s, this National Historic Landmark is the only surviving building from the island's initial English settlement.
Many visitors to Madaket are perfectly content to while away their days lounging around on soft, white sands, taking aimless strolls along the oceanfront and feasting on freshly caught local seafood. But those of a more active disposition are equally well catered for. Nantucket is a joy to explore by bicycle, with over 30 miles of pristine bike paths to race along. The island's crashing waves are a dream for surfers, with long-established surf schools offering expert tuition for all ages and abilities. Or perhaps you'd rather try your hand at adrenalin-pumping pursuits like wakeboarding, kitesurfing or parasailing.
Nantucket is at its loveliest between June and August, when days are long and the weather is generally warm and sunny. Naturally, Madaket vacation rentals are in high demand during peak season, so be sure to book well in advance if you're planning a high summer getaway. May and September are also great months to visit, with agreeably mild weather and fewer out-of-towners competing for a spot on the beach. Winters, by contrast, usually bring sub-zero temperatures and a little snow.
Madaket and its surrounding waters are home to all manner of mesmerizing creatures. For an unforgettable family day out, join a boat trip in search of local marine life. The star attractions are the magnificent finback, humpback and minke whales, but you might catch sight of sleek dolphins, stately sea turtles or impossibly cute seals over the course of your voyage. Nantucket is also a haven for birdwatchers, with 100s of species making their home here, including brilliant-white snowy egrets, majestic osprey and stealthy Cooper's hawks.
Fly into Nantucket, MA (ACK-Nantucket Memorial), the closest airport, located 6.6 mi (10.7 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could also fly into Vineyard Haven, MA (MVY-Martha's Vineyard), which is 23.3 mi (37.5 km) away.
The heart wants what it wants, and right now it wants to go on vacation. It's time to pack your suitcase and take off to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Madaket:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Madaket vacation rental for you.
You need only take a peek inside Vrbo's tiny house vacation rentals in Madaket to recognize that awesome things really do come in tiny packages. Expertly designed to make use of every inch of space, these pint-sized digs promise a big vacation experience:
You sure can! From simple retreats to lavish escapes, we've got a wide range of log cabins to rent in or around Madaket. If you're the adventurous type, you'll love these options:
Forget about those household chores — weekends were made for fun. Settle into one of these weekend getaways in and around Madaket and make the most of all the terrific things to do nearby:
Generally small, affordable and well located, it's difficult not to be charmed by a studio apartment. Make yourself comfortable in one of these options and get acquainted with Madaket up close:
There are plenty of highlights around Madaket to add to your itinerary. Satisfy your inner culture vulture by visiting Lyric Stage Company of Boston and Theater III.
Just because you only have one or two days to spare doesn't mean you need to spend it in a soulless hotel. Head off on vacation but still have the comforts of home at one of these short-term rentals in or around Madaket:
Nothing says "I love you" like a romantic weekend escape. If you're longing to spend a couple of nights away with your sweetheart, we've got some romantic getaways in and around Madaket that will set your heart aflutter:
Nothing says "best vacation evvv-er" like staying in a mansion. Treat your nearest and dearest to a truly unforgettable getaway at one of these mansions for rent in and around Madaket:
Big groups mean massive fun. They also mean finding a place that'll effortlessly fit your whole crew. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Madaket and get your favorite people together under one roof:
From games of sharks and minnows to refreshing morning dips, a pool promises hours of fun for both adults and kids. Earn brownie points with family or friends by renting a house with a place to swim in or near Madaket: