A Nantucket Icon
- YOUR Williamson
- 22 hours ago
- 4 min read
Iconic. Waterfront. Unmistakably Nantucket.
Perched on the edge of Nantucket Harbor, the White Elephant has been the island's most iconic waterfront retreat for generations. With its impeccable service, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality, this one-of-a-kind resort seamlessly blends timeless New England charm with modern luxury. Whether you're here for a long weekend or an extended escape, the White Elephant offers an experience that is unmistakably, unforgettably Nantucket.
The world’s most exceptional hotels are not just located in a destination; they are the destination. White Elephant Resorts has long been synonymous with the island of Nantucket, when its sister property, The Wauwinet opened as the island’s first hotel in the late nineteenth century, and in 1988 became the original property of the White Elephant Resorts collection. In 1999, it was joined by the sweeping harbor-front estate that is now the acclaimed brand flagship – The White Elephant Nantucket.
Tale of the White Elephant
The White Elephant has graced Nantucket's waterfront since the 1920's. Originally a collection of rustic cottages, the hotel was the dream of a prominent Nantucket socialite, Elizabeth T. Ludwig. She believed that the property would, one day, be a fine harborside hotel. Her pet project became the talk of the town, known affectionately as "Mrs. Ludwig's white elephant" - a witty name that stuck. But Mrs. Ludwig never wavered in her belief that the White Elephant would become a gracious Nantucket hotel. The lodging business prospered and additional buildings were added, as were a new dining room, lounge and cottages.
In the early 1960's, new ownership transformed the property from a quaint seaside escape into a vacation destination. The original White Elephant was dismantled. The wings were moved to a nearby destination where they are still used as housing for summer employees. The cottages were relocated adjacent to the main building and are known today as the Garden Cottages. The current main building was designed and built so that the rooms would offer a view of the ever-changing harbor.
In 1999, the White Elephant underwent yet another stunning transformation. The traditional comforts and amenities of the hotel were made even more welcoming and beautiful with new, luxurious rooms and suites surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens.
In 2008, the highly acclaimed Residences opened on the former site of the Harbor House Village. The Residences reside in a collection of buildings that include the Manchester House, the intimate Springfield House and the historic Harbor House which is now the new Inn. The Manchester and Springfield Houses have been transformed with Victorian and shingle-style authentic Nantucket architecture and stunning light-filled interiors.
The Mad Hatter and Brant Point buildings front the former Mad Hatter Lawn where a 130-year-old tree - one of the oldest trees on Nantucket - has been protected for future generations to enjoy. The remaining buildings, Cliffside and Madaket, blend with the existing residential character on the corner of Easton and North Water Streets.
Over the last few years, the Inn has been added to the White Elephant. Located next to the Residences, the Inn features contemporary suites and deluxe rooms with a stunning lobby. Right off the lobby, guests enjoy the proximity of the Ballroom, Foyer, and Executive Boardroom spaces, ideal for meetings and celebrations.
Much has changed at the White Elephant, to be sure. Though one thing has remained the same. Just as in years long ago, but for very different reasons, the breathtaking White Elephant is still the talk of the town.
Accommodations
The hotel features fifty-four rooms and suites, some with outdoor space and direct access to the harborside lawn.
The Garden Cottages are located next to the main hotel and include eleven bright garden cottages ranging from one- to three-bedroom, set amid gardens overflowing with hydrangeas.
The Inn & Residences boasts twenty rooms/suites, including a spacious Penthouse, and a dedicated swimming pool, along with twenty-five multi-bedroom Residences, with top-equipped kitchens and appliances.
Lastly, The Lofts located at Easy Street and 32 Main), include three bedrooms each and state-of-the-art kitchens, and are located in downtown Nantucket for walking to charming restaurants and shops.
Highlights
Sitting on hydrangea-filled lawn watching the ships go out of the harbor; perennial favorite for families, as well as for weddings, celebrations and multi-gen gatherings; recent multi-million-dollar restoration of harborside hotel and Cottages; destination-inspired treatments at Darya Spa; acclaimed Brant Point Grill restaurant; panoramic harbor views and easy access to Children’s Beach; focus on art, including an Artist-in-Residence program, during which artists are invited to create Nantucket–inspired works.
Culinary
Recently renovated Brant Point Grill, at the main hotel, overlooks the harbor and is one of Nantucket’s top-rated restaurants for special occasion dining with menus that celebrate local ingredients, including the freshest seafood. Helmed by Executive Chef Joseph Hsu, it is particularly popular for Sunday brunch (Lobster Bloody Mary, anyone?) and the newly renovated Brant Point Grill lounge is a perfect spot for pre-dinner cocktails or a light bar menu.
Family
White Elephant’s one-, two- and three-bedroom Residences function like private rentals but with the perks of a hotel. Each comes with a private entrance, a pantry-style kitchen, and in-room laundry. The Residences also have a dedicated swimming pool (a bonus few hotels in town can offer), with private cabanas and a poolside ice cream cart that’s a hit with guests of all ages. Kids also get special amenities, like turn-down service with healthy snacks and activity booklets. The Residences are within strolling distance of Children’s Beach, and a shuttle takes guests to Jetties and Surfside beaches. Fun add-ons, like boogie boards, beach toys and ‘White Elephant Kids’ radio flyer wagons, are complimentary.
Spa
To maximize a vacation-induced glow, guests should not miss the ocean-inspired treatments at White Elephant Spa by Darya whose menu uses organic, all-natural ingredients in a long list of pampering, from hand paraffin treatments to algae wraps.
Events
The White Elephant Nantucket is one of the U.S.’s preeminent wedding venues thanks to the photogenic setting. A waterfront ceremony on the Harborview Lawn is iconic, as is the reception, dinner and dancing under the stars on the expansive terrace. The expert team here has years of experience, offering detailed planning, from booking to the day of execution, including ceremony rehearsals. Preferential guest room rates can be arranged, based on availability.
Make plans to experience Nantucket - visit the White Elephant soon.
White Elephant Nantucket
50 Easton Street, Nantucket, MA
@whiteelephantnantucket
