Discover the Untamed Beauty of Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge
Experience the serene landscapes and diverse wildlife at Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Nestled on the picturesque Nantucket Island, the Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge offers a serene escape for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This stunning refuge is home to diverse habitats and incredible wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge
- 147 Wauwinet Rd, Nantucket, Massachusetts, 02554, US
- +1978-443-4661
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
- Check for guided tours and educational programs for a deeper understanding of the refuge.
- Dress in layers as coastal weather can change quickly, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Stay on designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure a safe experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start by navigating to the center of Nantucket. Once you are in the downtown area, head east on Main Street. Continue straight until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto Orange Street, which will turn into Wauwinet Road after a short while. Follow Wauwinet Road for approximately 4 miles. The Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge will be on your right at 147 Wauwinet Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554. There is no entry fee, but parking may be limited, so plan accordingly.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority (NRTA) bus service. Board the 'Wauwinet' bus at the main bus terminal in downtown Nantucket. The bus will take you along the route towards Wauwinet. Make sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time, as services may be limited. Once you reach the Wauwinet stop, walk approximately 0.5 miles down Wauwinet Road until you arrive at the Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge at 147 Wauwinet Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554. The bus fare is generally around $2.00.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, Nantucket has bicycle rental shops available in the downtown area. Rent a bike and head east on Main Street, then follow the same route as by car onto Orange Street and Wauwinet Road. This route is about 4 miles long and offers scenic views. Remember to wear a helmet and follow local cycling laws. There are no costs apart from the bike rental fee.
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Walking
For the more adventurous, if you are already in the Wauwinet area, you can walk to the Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge. Simply follow Wauwinet Road for about 1 mile from the nearest lodging or dining spot in Wauwinet. The walk is scenic, and you may encounter local wildlife along the way. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and stay hydrated.
Discover more about Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Wauwinet
8.1 km
Experience the ultimate coastal retreat at The Wauwinet, Nantucket's luxurious hotel that combines stunning views, exceptional dining, and rich local history.
White Elephant Nantucket
12.0 km
Experience the epitome of luxury and charm at White Elephant Nantucket, a stunning hotel offering breathtaking views and exceptional service on this picturesque island.
Discover Nantucket Tours & Nantucket Bike Tours
12.1 km
Uncover the stunning landscapes and rich history of Nantucket Island with guided tours and bike rentals for an unforgettable experience.
Life House, Nantucket
12.2 km
Experience the coastal charm of Nantucket at Life House, where comfort meets hospitality in a serene bed and breakfast setting.
Martin House Inn
12.3 km
Discover the charm of Nantucket at Martin House Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast offering comfort, history, and easy access to stunning local attractions.
The Centerboard Nantucket
12.3 km
Experience the charm of Nantucket at The Centerboard, a cozy bed and breakfast perfect for a relaxing getaway.
The Chapman House
12.3 km
Experience the charm of Nantucket at The Chapman House, a cozy bed & breakfast blending comfort and local heritage in a scenic waterfront setting.
Brass Lantern Inn
12.3 km
Discover the cozy elegance of Brass Lantern Inn, a charming bed & breakfast in Nantucket, perfect for your next coastal getaway.
Nantucket Historical Association
12.3 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Nantucket at the Nantucket Historical Association, home to captivating exhibits and the iconic Whaling Museum.
Sunken Ship
12.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at the Sunken Ship in Nantucket, where every purchase tells a story of the island's rich heritage.
Congregation Shirat HaYam
12.4 km
Explore Congregation Shirat HaYam, a serene synagogue in Nantucket, showcasing the island’s rich Jewish heritage and community spirit.
Greydon House
12.4 km
Experience the charm of Nantucket at Greydon House, where historic elegance meets modern comfort for an unforgettable getaway.
Dreamland Film, Theatre & Cultural Center
12.4 km
Discover the enchanting Dreamland Film, Theatre & Cultural Center in Nantucket, a perfect blend of cinematic magic and performing arts for all visitors.
Nantucket Bookworks
12.4 km
Explore Nantucket Bookworks, a beloved bookstore and gift shop offering a unique selection of books, local literature, and artisanal gifts in a cozy setting.
Nantucket Information Bureau
12.4 km
Discover Nantucket's hidden treasures and plan your perfect island getaway at the Nantucket Information Bureau.
Unmissable attractions to see
Great Point Lighthouse
0.1 km
Discover Great Point Lighthouse in Nantucket, an iconic historical landmark surrounded by stunning coastal views and rich wildlife habitats.
Great Point Beach
3.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Great Point Beach, an untouched paradise on Nantucket's coast, perfect for sunbathing, birdwatching, and peaceful escapes.
Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge Gatehouse
8.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Nantucket's Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Masquetuck Reservation
10.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Masquetuck Reservation, a serene nature preserve in Nantucket, perfect for relaxation and wildlife observation.
Windswept Bog
10.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Windswept Bog, a serene hiking area in Nantucket, offering nature trails, wildlife, and stunning landscapes year-round.
Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum
11.0 km
Discover the storied maritime past of Nantucket at the Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum, where history and heroic tales come alive.
Steps Beach
11.7 km
Discover tranquility at Steps Beach in Nantucket, MA, a picturesque public beach perfect for relaxation, swimming, and scenic coastal views.
Buglight
11.7 km
Explore Buglight, a historical lighthouse in Nantucket, where stunning coastal views meet rich maritime heritage, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Children's Beach Playground
12.1 km
Discover the enchanting Children's Beach Playground in Nantucket, MA, where family fun meets beautiful waterfront views in a safe and engaging environment.
Jethro Coffin House
12.3 km
Explore the historic Jethro Coffin House in Nantucket, a captivating glimpse into the island's colonial past and architectural beauty.
Whaling Museum
12.3 km
Discover Nantucket's maritime heritage at the Whaling Museum, a captivating journey through the island's whaling history and culture.
Nantucket Whaling Museum
12.3 km
Explore Nantucket's maritime legacy at the Whaling Museum, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and breathtaking views.
Waterfront Nantucket Harbor
12.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Waterfront Nantucket Harbor, where stunning views and rich maritime culture await every visitor.
Capt. George Pollard House
12.5 km
Discover the Capt. George Pollard House, a historical landmark that narrates Nantucket's whaling past and the adventures of its legendary captain.
Nantucket Atheneum
12.5 km
Explore Nantucket's rich literary heritage at the historic Nantucket Atheneum, a serene public library filled with books, art, and community events.
Essential places to dine
TOPPER'S
8.1 km
Discover unparalleled New American cuisine at TOPPER'S in Nantucket—an exquisite dining destination with stunning waterfront views.
Sandbar at Jetties Beach Bar & Restaurant
11.5 km
Experience beachfront dining at its best at Sandbar at Jetties Beach—where delicious grilled meals meet breathtaking ocean views.
Galley Beach
11.6 km
Discover Galley Beach in Nantucket: An exquisite seafood restaurant offering stunning ocean views and unforgettable dining experiences.
Brant Point Grill
12.0 km
Experience fine dining at Brant Point Grill in Nantucket - where fresh seafood meets stunning harbor views.
Lola 41 Nantucket
12.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Lola 41 Nantucket - where sushi meets global flavors in an inviting atmosphere.
Sailor's Valentine
12.1 km
Discover the essence of Nantucket dining at Sailor's Valentine, where fresh seafood meets inviting ambiance for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Breeze Restaurant
12.1 km
Discover Breeze Restaurant in Nantucket for fresh seafood and family-friendly dining amidst stunning coastal views.
American Seasons
12.3 km
Discover the essence of Nantucket dining at American Seasons—where seasonal ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Oran Mor
12.3 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine at Oran Mor in Nantucket, where seasonal flavors meet coastal charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cru
12.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Cru in Nantucket – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Scooters
12.3 km
Experience the best of New England cuisine at Scooters in Nantucket—where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality.
The Rose and Crown
12.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Rose and Crown – a family-friendly restaurant that transforms into a lively night club in Nantucket.
Straight Wharf Restaurant
12.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Straight Wharf Restaurant in Nantucket - where organic ingredients meet stunning harbor views.
Via Mare
12.4 km
Experience authentic Venetian cuisine at Via Mare in Nantucket - where every small plate tells a story of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Nantucket Tavern & Gazebo
12.4 km
Discover Nantucket Tavern & Gazebo – where delicious food meets breathtaking views in a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Antiques Depot
12.3 km
Explore the charm of Nantucket Antiques Depot, where history meets unique collectibles and vintage treasures await every visitor.
Respoke
12.3 km
Explore Respoke, a boutique gem in Nantucket, offering unique clothing and shoes that reflect the island's stylish charm and vibe.
Nantucket Boat Basin Authentic Shop
12.4 km
Discover stylish nautical clothing and accessories at the Nantucket Boat Basin Authentic Shop, your go-to destination for island-inspired fashion.
Commonwealth
12.4 km
Explore the charm of Nantucket at Commonwealth, a delightful consignment shop brimming with unique treasures and vintage finds.
Abigail Fox Designs Nantucket
12.4 km
Explore the coastal chic of Abigail Fox Designs Nantucket, offering unique apparel and accessories that embody island style and charm.
DAWN
12.4 km
Explore the best of Nantucket's fashion at DAWN, where style meets local charm in a delightful shopping experience.
Four Winds Gifts
12.4 km
Explore the enchanting Four Winds Gifts in Nantucket for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures, capturing the island's coastal charm.
Nalu
12.4 km
Explore Nalu, a charming clothing store in Nantucket, offering unique apparel and accessories that capture the essence of island life.
current vintage
12.4 km
Explore Current Vintage in Nantucket for a unique blend of fine wines, vintage clothing, and eclectic antiques in a charming boutique setting.
Space
12.4 km
Discover unique treasures and local art at Space, a charming store on Nantucket's Old South Wharf, perfect for souvenir hunting.
gypsy
12.4 km
Explore Gypsy Clothing Store in Nantucket for unique fashion that captures the essence of the island's culture and style.
REMY
12.4 km
Experience the essence of Nantucket fashion at REMY, where unique styles meet coastal charm in a beautiful waterfront setting.
WHEAT Nantucket
12.5 km
Explore WHEAT Nantucket, a charming boutique offering upscale gifts and unique finds that capture the essence of coastal living.
The Skinny Dip: A Summer Collective
12.5 km
Shop at The Skinny Dip in Nantucket for trendy summer styles that capture the spirit of coastal living. Explore unique clothing and accessories today.
Alice Walk - Nantucket Store
12.5 km
Shop at Alice Walk in Nantucket for unique women's clothing that blends local charm with contemporary style, making your trip unforgettable.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tree Bar
12.4 km
Experience the charm of Nantucket at The Tree Bar, where delicious food and craft cocktails meet a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Ethos Wine Bar & Bistro
12.4 km
Experience the best of Nantucket dining at Ethos Wine Bar & Bistro, where exquisite wines and bistro cuisine create unforgettable moments.
The Gaslight
12.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and delightful atmosphere at The Gaslight, a premier dining destination in Nantucket, Massachusetts.
The Chicken Box
13.5 km
Experience Nantucket's vibrant nightlife at The Chicken Box, a must-visit bar and nightclub offering great drinks and lively atmosphere.
The Muse
14.3 km
Discover The Muse, a vibrant bar in Nantucket offering an extensive drink menu and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Ocean House Beach Bar
30.1 km
Enjoy creative cocktails and a vibrant beachside atmosphere at Ocean House Beach Bar in Dennis Port, Massachusetts.
Cleat & Anchor
30.6 km
Discover delicious grill specialties and refreshing drinks at Cleat & Anchor, the perfect coastal dining experience in Dennis Port, Massachusetts.
Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen
31.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen in Harwich Port, where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients.
Twenty Eight Club
31.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Twenty Eight Club in Dennis Port, MA – where great food, drinks, and friendly locals create unforgettable memories.
O'Shea's Olde Inn
32.1 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at O'Shea's Olde Inn in West Dennis, where delicious food and live music create unforgettable memories.
Sand Dollar Bar and Grill
32.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American and seafood cuisine at Sand Dollar Bar and Grill in South Dennis, MA – a must-visit dining destination.
Captain Parker's Pub
32.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of New England at Captain Parker's Pub, where seafood delights meet a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Sundancer's Cape Cod
32.4 km
Experience the best seafood and live music in West Dennis at Sundancer's Cape Cod, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.
C.B. Perkins Cigar Lounge & Bar
35.1 km
Discover the ultimate tobacco experience at C.B. Perkins Cigar Lounge & Bar in Hyannis, where relaxation meets sophistication with every puff.
Four Point Tavern
35.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Four Point Tavern in Hyannis, a perfect spot for tourists to unwind and enjoy Cape Cod hospitality.
