Nantucket is a tiny, 50-square mile island off the coast of Massachusetts and it's a quintessential New England seaside enclave -- complete with picturesque sand dunes, lighthouses and a charmingly sleepy downtown. While the beaches are scenic and great for relaxing on during the hottest summer days, the waters can be chilly. In that case, cruisers might choose to check out Nantucket's Whaling Museum, one of its many lighthouses or some of the shops, boutiques and restaurants that inhabit its center, or even embark on a sailing or fishing excursion.
While quaint Nantucket is a small town, it does offer a more upscale experience with a number of high-end shops and fine dining eateries for visitors to patronize. More active travelers can go surfing or enjoy the island's bike paths. Time permitting, you may even be able to hop on the ferry to see Cape Cod.