Jetties beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, located on the north shore just outside of town. Jetties Beach is named for the large rock jetties that have been guiding ships into Nantucket harbor since their completion in 1911. It is a wide, flat beach with shallow water and generous sand bars at low tide. The beach is well used by families and children as it is one the most accessible beaches on Nantucket and does not require a long hike up and down a dune! There is a large parking lot, a restaurant, shops, restrooms, and changing rooms nearby, as well as a playground. Numerous events happen at Jetties Beach during the summer, including the nationally recognized Boston Pops event, the local 4th of July fireworks, and other large gatherings.

Federally-protected shorebirds utilize this busy beach for nesting and breeding during the spring and summer months, so please respect any symbolic fencing and signage in place, and do not enter any fenced areas. Look out for signs stating “Restricted Area” that delineate shorebird habitat.