The White Elephant Hotel in Nantucket, MA was the pet project of prominent socialite Elizabeth T. Ludwig. Originally a cluster of rustic seaside cottages, she dreamed it would one day be the harborside resort and major attraction of Nantucket that it is today. Established in the roaring ’20s, the White Elephant has seen many changes and renovations over the years, expanding and building as the tourism industry began to boom on the island. In the 1960s, new owners took over the property and transformed it from a series of rustic cottages to a beautiful harborside vacation destination. The original structure was disassembled and rebuilt in a nearby location adjacent to the main building, some of which is still used as housing for summer employees.
The new main building was built so you could see the harbor in all of its glory. Another stunning transformation occurred in 1999 as the White Elephant Hotel blossomed into the beautiful resort that it is today.
The hotel has something to offer everyone, from its luxurious rooms, decorated with a nautical theme, to its world-class staff that’s trained to help guests with every amenity available. You can choose to stay in the main hotel, the cottages, or in one of their chic downtown lofts, and no matter the choice, you won’t be disappointed. A complimentary White Elephant BMW house car is available for guests to explore the island. Depending on the season in which you visit you can layout and enjoy the sun at the hotel’s fabulous inground pool which includes private cabanas for guests. Only a few minutes’ walk from the historic downtown Nantucket take a walk and explore some of ACK’s best local attractions such as The Nantucket Whaling Museum or watch the sailboats going in and out of the harbor.
When staying at the White Elephant Hotel you must eat at the famed Brandt Point Grill which serves up regionally inspired New England fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dine in style with views of the famous Nantucket harbor while you enjoy your meal. Start your day with BPG’s signature Lobster Bloody Mary paired Smoked Salmon and avocado toast or Lobster Eggs Benedict. Serving up small dishes such as short rib beef Barbacoa tacos, locally sourced oysters, freshly caught ceviche, and Bartlett’s Farm fresh tomato and burrata just to name a few. Executive Chef Thomas William Pearson has taken his years of experience and created a space and menu that is truly exceptional.
Whether you seek a weekend getaway or a longer respite, the White Elephant will leave you feeling relaxed and pampered. They have created a unique space melding old world Nantucket with modern luxuries, and this luxurious modern hotel has a hint of old New England which makes this a major ACK attraction sure to make you want to come back and stay again.
Words by Benjamin M. Ellis
