Sipping a cocktail with a beautiful view is one of life’s simple pleasures—even more so if that view is of an ocean. That’s why we’re bringing you our list of must-order cocktails at must-visit Tradewind summer destinations. Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and Newport are all quintessential summer hotspots, and flying on a Tradewind scheduled flight to each of these destinations is the best way to make the most of a visit.
Rather than spending hours in traffic, start your trip on the right foot, departing from a private aviation terminal before climbing aboard a comfortable Pilatus PC-12, which is able to land at airports just minutes from your final destination. To sweeten the trip even more, kick off the start of your journey with a craft cocktail onboard; all Tradewind Northeast flights now feature Cape Cod’r canned craft cocktails. We’re pleased to offer the Classic Cape Cod’r, a fan-favorite vodka cranberry with a hint of mint, as well as the Mermaid’s Tale, a refreshing combination of mint, watermelon, and tequila.
Once you arrive at your final destination, it’s time to kick off the cocktail (or mocktail!) tour. Here are our favorite spots for classic drinks in Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and Newport.
Nantucket
This island haven offers a plethora of great dining and drinking options, so there will be a spot for you no matter what you’re in the mood for. Nantucket establishments offer a diverse array of cocktails with a focus on fresh ingredients and some tiki-inspired flavors. One of the island’s most famous bars is The Nautilus, which offers the Blackout Barbie, a refreshing combination of tequila, fresh strawberries, and thyme that comes with a local Nantucket backstory. Locals also flock to Millie’s for its Madaket Mystery rum punch, which is made using a beloved island recipe.
Over the years, other popular spots have had their signature cocktails reach cult-favorite status. People-watching is a favorite pastime at the waterfront CRU, and it’s all the better if you’re sipping a CruCumber while you’re at it. The refreshing blend of vodka, lemon, and cucumber gets a twist with the unique addition of toasted sesame. Visitors also flock to The Proprietors for its extensive cocktail menu—try the Chai Chai Slide if you’re looking for a pick-me-up featuring rye, masala chai, coconut milk, coconut vinegar, and Licor 43.
The whole family can enjoy fresh juices at Lemon Press, a bright café with popular outdoor seating. Its juice menu is extensive and, although they serve cocktails, the mocktails at Lemon Press are among the most creative on the island. The Hop Water promises a “piney, earthy flavor” reminiscent of an IPA without the sugar and calories, and the Curious Elixir No. 1 artfully combines pomegranate and rhodiola to form a mocktail reminiscent of a Negroni.
Martha’s Vineyard
Despite their proximity to each other, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard have very different vibes—but both islands share a dedication to craft cocktails. Frozen-drink connoisseurs should know that no trip to the island is complete without a Dirty Banana from Nancy’s in Oak Bluffs—the signature mudslide with banana is a popular Caribbean drink that’s become just as beloved up north. The old-school and elegant Terrace at the Charlotte Inn is another spot for your island bucket list. Though its wine list is also extensive, its cocktail menu is a featured highlight. For a local flavor, try the Summer Club, which features Short Path Distillery’s Summer Gin made with wild Maine blueberries.
Enjoy a day out with the family at Nomans in Oak Bluffs, a popular spot with a wide expanse of lawn perfect for yard games. Nomans has two housemade rums, so the cocktails here lean tropical and tiki-inspired. You can’t go wrong with any of them, but the Pineapple Mint Daiquiri is a fun twist on a classic. Alchemy in Edgartown has been voted “best cocktails on Martha’s Vineyard” since 2014, and its famous mojito lives up to the hype. But its mocktails are also not to be missed—the Mint Rickey and Mango Mockarita are both incredibly refreshing.
Though it’s a relative newcomer, The Alley in Oak Bluffs has already made a name for itself as one of the island’s best cocktail bars in Martha’s Vineyard. This hideaway serves creative mixes with fun names like the beet-and ginger-infused Ms. Mo and the dill-heavy Gin-Dill-Rella.
Newport
Rhode Island’s most refreshing treat might be Del’s Lemonade, but that doesn’t mean the seaside destination doesn’t have plenty of options for cocktail aficionados as well. The historic Clarke Cooke House serves one of Newport’s most iconic cocktails—the Newport Water is a potent combination of Champagne, Grand Marnier, and St. Germain. At nearby 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille, sip a special reserve cocktail or one of several mocktails on the menu, including a spritz made with Ghia non-alcoholic aperitif.
You’ll be able to get a drink with a view at many spots in Newport, but its grand hotels take the cake in this category. The Café at The Chanler offers sweeping views of Easton Bay and creative cocktails including the One Fish-Tew Fish, which is made with local Thomas Tew rum. Don’t skip out on the mocktails either, including the Floralia with apple-yuzu juice and hibiscus syrup. The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn is an ideal spot to take young children, who will delight in playing on the large grassy expanse. Try any of the seasonal cocktails—but the Mansion Gin & Tonic is hard to say no to, with its Castle Hill bespoke gin and house-made tonic.
For funkier cocktails, look to two of Newport’s most creative restaurants. TSK focuses on local and seasonal cuisine, which also extends to its rotating cocktail menu. Try one of five Negronis on its menu, or opt for one of its “fancy drinks” featuring many different spirits. At Bar and Board Bistro, diverse cocktails are a perfect accompaniment to build-your-own boards and classic bistro fare. You can’t go wrong by picking one of beverage director Charlie Bullis’ rotating favorites, like the Carrot Ti with Bully Boy Rum Coop. #3, Rhum VSOP, carrot, celery, and walnut bitters. The “spiritless” options are great as well, with mocktails like the Island Sunset.
As you raise your glass in these charming havens, remember that every cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a toast to the captivating essence of these iconic destinations, a taste of their character, and a moment to treasure amid the gentle whispers of the ocean breeze.
To learn more about Tradewind flights to Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Newport, and more please visit our website. or contact scheduledservice@flytradewind.com. To receive a private charter quote, submit an inquiry here or contact our specialists at charter@flytradewind.com or 1-203-267-3305 option 2.