Affordable Places to Stay in Nantucket: Realistic Options for Budget Travelers

If you’ve been invited to a Nantucket wedding (or just planning a getaway) and nearly fainted at seeing $700–$1,000 per night price tags, you’re not alone. Nantucket is famous for its cobblestone streets, sailboats, and sandy beaches—but also for being one of the priciest destinations in the U.S. While the island doesn’t allow camping and traditional “budget travel hacks” don’t always apply, there are still ways to keep costs under control.

Stay at Budget-Friendly Inns & Motels

While Nantucket’s luxury hotels dominate the headlines, a few more down-to-earth options exist:

  • Nantucket Inn (near the airport): Often mentioned as the most affordable hotel on the island, it’s simple but comfortable, with a small pool and shuttle service into town. Rates are still high compared to the mainland, but often half the price of downtown resorts.
  • Barnacle Inn & Ships Inn: Located in town, these historic inns are among the least expensive you’ll find in the center. Rooms are cozy and traditional, with basic amenities.
  • Hotel Pippa, Cliff Lodge, and Seven Seas Inn: These boutique-style inns occasionally offer competitive rates, especially if you book directly.

Airbnb, Guesthouses, and Room Rentals

Local families sometimes rent out rooms rather than entire homes. These can be significantly cheaper than hotels and give you a more authentic island experience. Look on Airbnb or dedicated Cape rental platforms like weneedavacation.com, which focus on Nantucket and Cape Cod listings.

Stay on the Mainland & Ferry Over

If overnighting on Nantucket feels impossible, consider staying in Hyannis or New Bedford and taking the ferry for the wedding or day trips.

  • Hyannis: The Steamship Authority and Hy-Line ferries run regularly. You’ll find plenty of chain hotels and inns here, some in the $200–$300 range in September.
  • New Bedford: With the Seastreak ferry, you can stay at standard hotels or budget motels and save hundreds compared to island rates.

Skip the Car to Save Big

Bringing a car on the ferry can cost up to $800 round-trip. Instead, rely on bikes, walking, or the NRTA “Wave” bus system to get around. Taxis and shuttles are available too, but plan ahead if you’re going out late.

Wedding Guest Hack: Ask About Room Blocks

If the wedding is at a venue or hotel, sometimes there’s a reserved room block at a lower negotiated rate. Check with the couple before you panic-book something expensive—you may have a hidden option waiting.

Final Tips for Affordable Stays

  • Book early: Even budget rooms sell out months ahead.
  • Travel with friends: Splitting a room can make $500 per night more manageable.
  • Look mid-island: Accommodations away from downtown and the harbor are usually cheaper.
  • Treat the ferry as part of the fun: Arriving by boat can turn a money-saving choice into a memorable travel experience.

✨ Bottom line: Nantucket is never truly “cheap,” but with smart planning—whether at the airport hotel, a small inn, or on the mainland—you can avoid emptying your bank account while still enjoying the island’s charm.

Posted 
Aug 18, 2025
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North American Islands
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