Fishers Island, New York, not to be confused with Fischer island in Florida, has some nature-based activities available to tourists. The island has what is necessary for life in a small town. Seafood and typical island-type food are available.
Block Island is a conservation paradise with 40% of the island set aside for that purpose. On top of this there are about 25 kilometres of beaches. The island hosts a number of restaurants and foodies have a wide choice of cuisines. As you would expect on an Atlantic island, seafood has pride of place on most menus. Most of them open during the holiday season only. There are many types of entertainment on the island, including a full 18 hole golf course attached to the Brenton Hotel, cycling, horse riding, hiking, nature reserve walks, sailing and fishing. It is essential to book a round of golf in advance. This is a place to visit if outdoor and natural entertainment are what you are after.
Mystic, Connecticut was once a significant ship-building port and is now home to Mystic Seaport, one of the leading maritime museums in the world. The Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration, world renowned for its research into marine life, particularly beluga whales, is also situated there. The area contains several vineyards, wineries and craft breweries, some fairly new, but well worth a visit for the local drinks and the events which they host. The restaurants and food specialists in Mystic have food which will satisfy all tastes. Being coastal, seafood does of course have pride of place, but many national cuisines also feature. Mention must be made of the bakeries and chocolatier which will make any chocolate-lover’s mouth water from afar. For nature lovers, a large variety of activities awaits. Cycling, kayaking, hiking, nearby beaches, ziplining and many more are there to be enjoyed.
Nantucket is known for its springtime daffodils. The island’s wealth was founded on the whaling industry which was established in the seventeenth century and lasted until the 1830s when it was destroyed by fire. The Nantucket Whaling Museum is one of the notable points of interest which also include other noted museums and galleries. The island is not renowned for having a hectic nightlife and may be described as typical New England. It is home to several beaches and lighthouses which are necessary considering the shipwrecks and maritime collisions which have occurred in the past. Restaurants on the island cater for all tastes. For those who enjoy locally made drinks, Nantucket has its own winery and a craft brewery which creates brews from locally sourced ingredients, both traditional and fruit based.
Nicknamed as the heart of cape cod, Hyannis captures everything there is to love about the famed holiday hideaway that ensnared the hearts of the Kennedys among other countless celebrities and society folk over the years. With its sweeping sandy beaches, well-orchestrated museums, hip restaurants, craft beer brews, and artistic vibes, there’s a lot happening in Hyannis. History lovers can head to the John F Kennedy Museum and be inspired by how the president and his clan spent their days sailing and dreaming around Hyannis. Visit the art district and stroll around the harbour to catch sight of some of the bright creative shanties housing work as part of the Hyannis HyArts cultural district. Take your pick of beaches including Veterans Beach with its tribute to JFK or Kalmus Beach for a spot of windsurfing.
Woods Hole is a picturesque seaside village that boasts a rich history and diverse culture. It is located near many stunning beaches and harbors, providing a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the local marine life at the Woods Hole Science Aquarium or take a stroll along the scenic Eel Pond. The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution offers unique exhibits detailing the area's maritime history and research. The village is home to a number of quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a lovely place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Overall, Woods Hole is a charming destination that offers something for everyone, from lively ocean activities to peaceful moments of reflection.
Martha’s Vineyard, better known as The Vineyard, is an island summer destination south of Cape Cod and is best known as the location of the film Jaws. It is one of only five place names in the USA to contain an apostrophe. The islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Chappaquiddick are permitted to produce wines with names classified by the American Viticulture Association’s wine-of-origin nomenclature as Martha’s Vineyard AVA wines. The island is also known for the craft beer brewed by Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery in Edgartown where one can also share platters of mainly locally sourced food in the Tap Room. The island has six towns which can all be reached by bicycle, cab or bus. Film festivals devoted to arthouse, independent, international and African-American films are held at various times each year on the island. The islands are not renowned for wild nightlife and are best visited for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, picnicking, beach activities, visits to oyster farms and the annual film festivals.
Newport, Rhode Island is a prime yachting destination located on the historic Narragansett Bay. With its picturesque shorelines, bustling harbors, and hidden beaches, it is a perfect place for sailing and exploring the area. Boaters can take part in the Newport Harbor Boat Parade, an annual tradition spanning over a hundred years that features creative and elaborate decorations from each vessel. Marinas in Newport range from small to large, with every amenity a boater could need. Sailors can stop at many ports of call, from the lively anchorages at Brenton Cove and Coddington Cove to more isolated and intimate settings like Sakonnet Point and Potter Cove. A great alternative to marinas are moorings, which offer safe, affordable overnight accommodations. Take in sweeping views of the bay during a stroll or bike ride down the Cliff Walk, or explore the charming shops, galleries and restaurants of Newport's historic downtown. Newport truly is an oasis for yachting enthusiasts of all levels.