White Elephant Hotel
COST: $$$$
Nantucket Town's largest, plushest resort—which occupies a prime spot at the northern edge of Nantucket Harbor—is often booked for spring and fall weekend weddings. The hotel—a sister property of the Wauwinet—has an expansive waterfront patio (where many a white cake has been cut), chaise-dotted green lawns (where many a groomsman has taken a breather between dances), and a serene spa (where many a bride-to-be has indulged in a “Gift from the Sea” facial). The 64 airy, cream-and-white guest rooms are elegantly furnished, with nautical wall prints and upholstery in bright blue or red gingham; many have water views, and some have gas fireplaces. Families often choose one of the 11 stand-alone cottages instead—set among gardens, most have two or three bedrooms apiece, kitchenettes, and washer-dryer units.
Tip: Morning-after-the-wedding hangover? Sunday brunch at the on-site Brant Point Grill has a make-your-own Bloody Mary bar.
Room to Book: Harbor-View Rooms cost quite a bit more than standard doubles (about $150 more in high season)—but the stunning views over passing sailboats are worth it.
From the T+L 500
Classic harborfront inn with an award-winning wine cellar, convenient to downtown.
- Stats:
- 64 rooms; 11 cottages; 1 restaurant; 1 bar.
- Competitive Edge:
- The largest rooms on the island.
- Rooms to Book:
- Harbor View suites Nos. 252 and 254 have peaked ceilings and skylights; Nos. 147 and 242 are more secluded.
- Don't Miss:
- A spicy Bloody Mary on the outdoor bar's wooden deck.
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