Yesterday was my first beach day, which means that the summer season is upon us. As I know you may be planning your island visit, I thought this week would be the perfect time to share with you some of my favorites. So as to not overwhelm you, I’ll break it down by categories: shopping; eating; island activities, new & noteworthy and finally my favorite island day. I hope you enjoy.

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I know I may be a bit biased, but the shopping on Nantucket is simply the best. Here are my “Top 5” that I visit on a nearly weekly basis. Have I mentioned I have a slight shopping problem?!

The Lovely – The name certainly says it all. Offering an inspired mix of feminine, classic and refined bohemian, this little jewel has become my go-to for all things, well… lovely! Julie Biondi, proprietress and all around fabulous style icon, has an eye like no other. I have known Julie for years and couldn’t be happier for her on creating a store that in a very short time has become an island institution. I really can’t leave this store empty-handed. Some recent indulgences include this Tucker top, these clogs, and this little sleep set.

Trillium – Trillium is to home goods what The Lovely is to fashion and Robin, the owner extraordinaire, is one of the chicest ladies I know. Her exquisite shop on Washington Street, carries all of my favorites: John Robshaw bedding, John Derian trays, Kim Seybert tabletop items and a selection of pillows by Adam & Viktoria that I simply lust over. Last summer I invested in these Billy Cotton glasses and they have become one of my prized possessions!

Erica Wilson – What began as a spot to pick up an iconic Erica Wilson needlepoint kit (gosh, I really need to hone in on my creative talents and make one of those belts) has become a shopping destination for those looking for classic and beach inspired pieces. Carrying favorites like Roberta Freymann, Hartford, Calypso St. Barts and Sanctuary, I stop into Erica Wilson when I am searching for that iconic piece that I know will be a staple in my wardrobe for years to come.

Atlantic – If I were to open a store on Nantucket it would be like this. A collection of all things that the owner loves… jewelry, antiques and the best selection of little summer tops I have seen. I stopped in over the weekend (you can find the shop at 10 Straight Wharf) and fell in-love with a pair of vintage milk glass lamps with gold stars on them and picked up this top, which I wore to a dinner on the beach last night. Just love it!

Hepburn – I may have purchased my prom dress here years ago, which lets you know how long I have been a loyal fan. Inspired by the grace and beauty of both Katherine and Audrey Hepburn, the aesthetic of this store is just that… graceful, understated and timeless. Hepburn offers a well-edited collection of pieces from Trina Turk, Nanette Lepore, Michael Stars, and Paige Denim (just to name a few). If you are looking for the perfect dress to wear to an island wedding, stop on by 3 Salem Street and say hello to my dear friend, Tracy Berry.