A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Duck vs. Nantucket for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Duck or Nantucket?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Duck or Nantucket? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Duck

Duck is a traditional, compact, and charming beach town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Duck and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Duck or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Duck and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, and hiking, while Duck is known for its beaches. Duck is popular for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Duck different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nantucket and Duck. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Duck or Nantucket?

Nantucket is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.

Is the Food Better in Duck or Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Duck has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket is a popular place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Nantucket is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

With a selection of resorts, Duck makes a nice vacation spot. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Duck is renowned for its beaches. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

With world-famous beaches, Duck is a very popular vacation destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Duck does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Duck does not have a historic old town.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its hiking trails.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Many people include a hike when visiting Duck. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Is the Shopping Better in Duck or Nantucket?

Both Duck and Nantucket are great shopping destinations.

Duck is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Duck or Nantucket.

Duck is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nantucket is very family-friendly. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Nantucket is renowned for romance. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Duck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

Is Duck or Nantucket Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantucket is a popular place for its public transit. However, Duck is not a good beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is mostly limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

Is Duck or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Duck is renowned for its walkability. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Duck is a very easy beach town to get around on foot. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

Nantucket is a very walkable beach town. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

For even more information, also check out Is Duck Worth Visiting? and Is Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Duck?

How long in Duck or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Duck or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Duck due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Duck, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

Families should spend more time in Nantucket than Duck. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nantucket, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than Duck. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantucket that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Duck if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Nantucket.

One day in Duck or Nantucket?

Even though Duck is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the small town destination of Nantucket. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Duck or Nantucket?

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Duck or Nantucket?

Duck is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming small town of Nantucket. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Duck or Nantucket?

Duck is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Duck, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The charming island of Nantucket offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Duck and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. And not only is Duck much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Duck would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Duck and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket than you might in Duck.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Duck Expensive? and Is Nantucket Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Duck or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck and Nantucket, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Duck or Nantucket?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Duck or Nantucket in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Duck as well as Nantucket. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Duck this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Duck is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Duck receives a lot of rain in the summer. Duck usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Duck gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Duck or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Duck are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Duck for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Duck is a little warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Duck in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In October, Duck usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Duck or Nantucket in the Winter?

Both Nantucket and Duck during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Duck in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nantucket can be very cold during winter. Duck can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Duck is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 41°F (5°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Duck. Duck usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Nantucket. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Duck or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Duck and Nantucket. Most visitors come to Duck for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Duck is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 59°F (15°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Duck usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Duck