Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket
Enjoy a privet surround and the garden's southerly orientation define the outdoor living space, offering warm sunshine. Enjoy mornings on the slate terrace, take time out for sunbathing or an afternoon of reading.Evenings offer stargazers a clarity unique to Nantucket. Birds abound. The first floor plan is open, the furnishings and art collection selected by and for cognoscenti, and the kitchen designed by a serious cook. When day is done, there's a cozy, tucked away, sky lighted, first floor bedroom & adjacent bath offering privacy to a second couple. The second floor master bedroom suite includes a side room with day bed, foyer, and bath. Certain seasons birds stage themselves for breakfast amid the canopy of branches to the west. The side room also enjoys a westerly view. Just steps away form the historic 'Three Bricks' on magnificent, elm shaded, upper Main Street; private Howard Court is a short, five minute walk to Town center. Designed for a totally self-indulgent summer idyll, the property is perfectly located, allowing occupants and their guests plenty of flexibility for both at-home or walking distance activities, without the need for a car; though the property does provide off-street parking for one vehicle. Nantucket, 'one of the most perfectly preserved examples of 19th century architecture in America.' and the once Whaling Capitol of the World pairs its unique history with pristine beaches, fishing & sailing, miles of bicycle & nature trails, absolutely world class restaurants, galleries and distinctive shopping. It's no wonder so many people return year after year.
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Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number C0067941970
About the area
Nantucket
Located in Nantucket, this cottage is in the city centre. Greater Light Garden and Fire Hose Cart House are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Nantucket Ferry Terminal and Cisco Brewers. Vestal St Observatory and Theatre Workshop of Nantucket are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking, windsurfing and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling.
Nantucket Historical Association - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
Whaling Museum - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
Nantucket Ferry Terminal - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Getting around
Nantucket, MA (ACK-Nantucket Memorial) - 7 min drive
Restaurants
Brotherhood of Thieves - 9 min walk
The Club Car - 9 min walk
Lemon Press - 9 min walk
The Rose and Crown - 10 min walk
b-ACK Yard BBQ - 10 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket ?
As of 23 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket on 26 Sept 2026 start from AU$824, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket ?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket ?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket ?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Historic 2 bedroom cottage in the heart of old town Nantucket located?
Located in Nantucket Town, this cottage is steps away from Greater Light Garden, Fire Hose Cart House and Hadwen House. Historic Mitchell House and Abiah Folger Franklin Fountain are also within 5 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Delighted your trip back to the island was busy. Enjoying the island with leisurely walks on the beaches and downtown streets no doubt brought memories back. We are glad your family enjoyed themselves!
Lovely artwork & luxurious bedding. Perfect location for access to town.
Camille V.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Nov 2024
We appreciate your choosing our cottage. Delighted you enjoyed your island getaway. It is nice to hear when our guests feel the difference in comfort for our bedding. Best wishes
Secret garden cottage filled with beautiful artwork. Walking distance to heart of town. Owners thought of everything. Can’t recommend this rental highly enough.
Heather d.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Dec 2025
So glad you enjoyed the cottage! We appreciate your efforts to make it to the island and hope your holidays continue with cheer. Thank you for your efforts in communication and you left the space so tidy we thank you (:
We had the most lovely stay here! It’s right in downtown but still felt like we were in a green garden oasis. Porter was a total pleasure to work with too!
Susan F.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 June 2022
Delighted for your family choosing our cottage for your backdrop 🌹
This cottage has always been a delight to stay in! This was our 3rd time staying in this quintessential Nantucket charmer. Its location is perfect for access to town, but offers the privacy one seeks.
Brenda S.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Oct 2024
Thank you again and again and again for choosing our cottage to help as a backdrop for your Fall getaway!
Hopefully you tossed, “the penny” as the ferry rounded Brant Point to assure your return(:
LOVE this darling cottage. Luxuriously appointed and great location for easy access to town. Would definitely recommend and stay in again. The hosts were always accessible and helpful. 5+ Stars!
Cathy N.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Dec 2024
J ⭐️ O ⭐️ Y ⭐️ F ⭐️ U ⭐️ L ⭐️ L is a wonderful feeling!
Thank you for sharing your kickoff to the season with the Grey Lady in all of its many seasons!
We enjoyed everything about this Nantucket gem-- the quiet location accessible to downtown, the tucked-away garden and dining outside, and the attention to detail evident throughout the house. A wonderful place to get away!
Jeannie S.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 June 2023
Truly appreciate your sharing your time with The Secret Garden as your backdrop!
The home is lovely - the attention to detail with the decorations inside was delightful. The location is great. The host was communicative and responsive. My family had a wonderful time here! The outdoor garden is also delightful:)
Other than a tight squeeze for our Volvo to park, the rental is lovely and full of beautiful paintings and antique furniture. The kitchen is amazing and the entire cottage is worth the stay on the Island. We walked downtown to dinner and back. The patio and yard are a nice outdoor touch.
Absolutely charming cottage - every detail thoughtfully and lovingly arranged. Beautiful garden, artful period details, comfortable beds and towels, and perfectly situated in town. The owner is extremely accommodating and kind. This place is an absolute gem, I would return in a heartbeat.
Natasha M.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 June 2024
We always hope to add to the overall experience each guests has when they come to the island. Reading your review gave me a warm feeling as I felt you too shared our efforts.
We loved our week at 8 Howard Court! Perfectly located on the edge of town. Easy walk into town, private yard, beautiful garden and an adorable cozy cottage, couldn’t ask for more! We look forward to our next visit!
Brenda S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
We look forward to your next visit.
Thank you so much for choosing The Secret Garden as your backdrop!
Happy Summer,
Porter
We can't even begin to describe how much we loved this property. This is the quintessential Nantucket experience! Everything from the decor to Porter's recommendations were beyond excellent.
Matt S.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2020
Thank you for sharing your enthusiasm. Delighted your family enjoyed the hidden treasures the island offers even when the beaches this time of year are for sea shell’s and watching seals dance on the waves!
This was one of our 'bucket list' trips with best friends of 40 years. We were more than pleased with the house and gardens, a perfect spot to enjoy catching up and explore the island's sites. The beds were very comfortable and the kitchen and grill were perfect for sharing the cooking of breakfast and dinner. The weather could not have been any more perfect. Being life long New Englanders, we know how hit or miss the early fall weather can be. Thank you for sharing your little piece of paradise with us!
Richard B.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2025
Hopefully Nantucket will become a seasonal getaway. Really inspiring to hear your adventurous childhood friendship is full of new adventures!
So glad we had a chance to talk.
Cheers to bucket lists (:
Wonderful cottage, fine amenities, lots of character.
Beautiful outdoor space.
Close to downtown, yet far enough away to provide quiet space.
Great communication with owners.
Jackie P.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May 2022
Daffodils and friendship perfect combination to start spring off!
Beautiful garden area and great kitchen. Location was also a bonus. Only recommendation would be put curtains or blinds on at least the first floor bedroom and bathroom.
DV
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019
About the host
Hosted by Porter and Jeff Shehab
My husband and I met on the Island in the mid '90’s and have family that live here year round. We are happily raising our family in New Jersey on a small farm. While we enjoy raising and showing Lincoln Sheep we stay busy with all the critters! If we do not get back to your email straight away it is because of the joys of country living. Please note for security reasons we want to protect you and ourselves from any fraud/scams. We will never ask payment to be wired for that very reason.
Why they chose this property
History, Character and Charm. Seeing this converted carriage shed repurposed into a cottage neatly tucked away, we knew immediately it was exactly what we were hoping for. The side streets of downtown lend themselves to wandering. Just off the beaten path and yet a 7 minute walk to the heart of town.
What makes this property unique
Nestled among the gardens on a quaint shell lane in the historic center of Nantucket Town, this circa 1827/1850 carriage house offers historic charm while providing the comforts of modern amenities and gracious living. It's a real life fairy tale cottage. Some call it magical! Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall our cottage covers it all. Daffodil weekend. A Joyful time of year to kick off -springs first kiss- with flowers abound. Truly the daffodil is a marvel of splendor with intricate details. Bartlett farms has a wonderful island display. The beaches are yours for the walking, jogging, or sheer beauty of just watching the waves. This brisk time of year the island is buzzing as the pace quickens, "summers almost here" atmosphere. If your anxious to get away and relax our tucked away cottage is just the spot. As summer arrives so does the bustle of beach goers. If you are unfamiliar with the island or have been able to enjoy the shores too often to count we are happy to help with activities. Should fall -Autums last caress- be your retreat time for R&R few spots could be sweeter.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests