Nantucket Island harbors nearly 100 places to stay, but the real character of the place is best captured in the old whaling merchants' and ship captains' houses converted to inns.

Many of these are carefully restored, luxuriously appointed, and staffed with professionals; others are run by one person or a couple and are modest but warm and friendly.

Rooms may be difficult to find in July and August unless you reserve well in advance, and while you will have a chance of finding a room for a day or two during the week, on weekends it's sometimes impossible.

If you plan to try to find a last-minute room in those two months, arrive on the island early in the day—fly over and beat the ferryboat crowds—and go straight to the town information office and ask what's available in town.

Although some lodging establishments on Nantucket stay open all year, many operate only between May and October.

Any place will give you an off-season discount on room rates if you come in spring or autumn, although the dates vary from one place to the next.

In high season (roughly mid-June to mid-September), you'll certainly have to send a substantial deposit to hold your room reservation.

Minimum-stay requirements (such as two or three nights on weekends) may be imposed during the high season as well.

Some lodging and dining places may not accept credit cards. Don not assume that they do—ask.

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