Francis Street Beach, Nantucket

You can reach this small stretch of sand on foot from Main Street in about seven minutes. From this vantage point, one may get some really nice views of the port. Swimming is permitted in the harbor’s calm waters; however, there is no lifeguard.

You can hire kayaks here and paddle out into the bay, across to Coatue, or down into the creeks. The sand on that section of the beach is exceptionally soft.

This beach allows leashed dogs, but owners are expected to keep their pets leashed and under control at all times. At this beach, you and your four-legged buddy are welcome to stroll, jog, or run along the water’s edge.