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Four Wheeling

© Fred Durand

Some of the most beautiful and intriguing parts of Nantucket are accessible only by four wheel drive vehicle. Why not leave the hustle and bustle of downtown to the "other" tourists and head out to the remote beaches of Great Point, Smith Point, or Coatue. You can drive for miles and miles along the beach, stop wherever you please, and do almost anything you want.

What you won't find is almost more appealing than what you will. Missing are the crowds, huge signs with lists of prohibited activities, lifeguards, concession stands, bath houses, bathrooms, blaring boom boxes, and vending machines. What you will find is peace and quiet, privacy, great fishing, endangered birds, and some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast of the United States.

If you've never driven in soft sand before, it does take some getting used to. You must have either a sport utility vehicle or truck with 4 wheel drive. All wheel drive cars do not have enough ground clearance and will almost always get stuck. Tires are important as well. All terrain or off road tires provide much better traction than standard tires; the softer the sand the more important this becomes. Before driving onto the sand, reduce the air pressure in all 4 tires to 13 or 14 pounds, an absolute must.

Before venturing into the dunes or onto the beach, there are a few recommended items to bring along in case the unexpected happens. Pack a small shovel in case you become stuck (it happens, even to experienced drivers). Also important is a square piece of wood at least 2 inches thick; you'll need this to place under your jack in case you get a flat tire. Without it the jack tends to sink into the sand. Don't forget a tire gauge; it's a must for reducing and refilling the air in your tires. You might also want to bring a cellular phone, flashlight, first aid kit, and fire extinguisher.

Driving in the sand is really not that difficult. Take it slow and get accustomed to the way your vehicle handles. Be careful of extremely soft sand, especially if you're heading uphill. Whatever you do, don't drive into the surf or ocean, you may not be able to drive out. A tow truck comes with a hefty price tag, as much as $500.

A number of public beaches allow 4 wheel drive vehicles, some are more restrictive than others. A few, such as Smith Point and Eel Point at the western tip of the island permit vehicles at any time. Others, such as Surfside and Miacomet, allow vehicles only at night between 5:00 pm and 8:00 am. All beach areas require a public beach access driving sticker obtainable from the Police Dept. at 20 South Water St. The current cost is $25; the permit is valid for one year.