Surfside and Cisco beach neighborhoods comparison

Surfside vs Cisco

Nantucket Neighborhood Comparison

Overview

South Shore Beach Communities

Surfside and Cisco are both beloved beach communities on Nantucket's south shore, attracting buyers who prioritize ocean access and a laid-back lifestyle. While they share similar beach vibes, each neighborhood has its own distinct personality and appeal.

Surfside is known for family-friendly activities and easy bike path access to downtown, while Cisco has become the heart of Nantucket's casual west end culture, anchored by the legendary Cisco Brewers complex.

Market Data

Price Comparison

Surfside Beach with families enjoying the Atlantic Ocean
Surfside
Median Home Price$2.2M
Available Properties18
Population400
RegionSouth Shore
Cisco Beach with surfers and the laid-back west end atmosphere of Nantucket
Cisco
Median Home Price$2.0M
Available Properties12
Population250
RegionWest End

Lifestyle

What to Expect

Surfside

  • Family-friendly beach with lifeguards
  • Dedicated bike path to downtown
  • Strong surf and boogie boarding waves
  • WAVE shuttle access
  • Surfcasting and BBQ areas

Cisco

  • Cisco Brewers brewery, winery, and distillery
  • Live music and food truck culture
  • Premier surfing destination
  • Connection to Bartlett's Farm
  • Younger, more social crowd

Analysis

Pros & Cons

Surfside

Advantages

  • Excellent bike path to downtown
  • Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Wide sandy beach
  • Good value compared to downtown
  • Strong rental demand

Considerations

  • Can be crowded in peak season
  • Limited dining options
  • Requires car for most errands
  • Less nightlife
  • South-facing (no sunset views)

Cisco

Advantages

  • Cisco Brewers social scene
  • Best surfing on island
  • Connection to Madaket sunsets
  • Excellent value
  • Farm-to-table lifestyle

Considerations

  • Further from downtown
  • Less developed infrastructure
  • Seasonal atmosphere
  • More rustic feel
  • Limited public facilities

Best Fit

Who Should Choose Each?

Surfside is ideal for:

  • Families with children
  • Active cyclists
  • First-time beach home buyers
  • Surfers and water sports enthusiasts
  • Those seeking good rental income

Cisco is ideal for:

  • Social buyers who enjoy breweries
  • Serious surfers
  • Those who love sunsets (via nearby Madaket)
  • Farm and local food enthusiasts
  • Buyers seeking laid-back lifestyle

Common Questions

Surfside vs Cisco

01

Which beach is better for surfing, Surfside or Cisco?

Both beaches offer excellent surfing conditions with consistent Atlantic swells. Cisco is slightly more renowned among serious surfers, while Surfside is popular for both surfing and boogie boarding with a more family-friendly atmosphere.

02

How do property prices compare between Surfside and Cisco?

Both neighborhoods offer more affordable options than downtown or waterfront areas. Cisco tends to be slightly less expensive with a median around $2M, while Surfside averages around $2.2M, though specific prices vary greatly by property.

03

Is Cisco Brewers open year-round?

Cisco Brewers operates year-round but with reduced hours in the off-season. Summer is peak season with daily live music, food trucks, and a vibrant outdoor beer garden atmosphere.

04

Which neighborhood has better access to downtown?

Surfside has better access to downtown via its dedicated bike path, making it possible to bike directly from Surfside Beach to downtown Nantucket. Cisco requires a car or the WAVE shuttle for most trips.

05

Are both neighborhoods good for families?

Yes, both are family-friendly. Surfside is particularly popular with families due to its wide beach, lifeguards, and BBQ areas. Cisco appeals to families who enjoy the brewery culture (with kid-friendly outdoor spaces) and proximity to Bartlett's Farm.

Explore Further

View Individual Neighborhoods

Ready to Decide?

Let's Find Your Perfect Neighborhood