3 Nantucket Homes Meant For Hosting This Holiday Season

MASSACHUSETTS — Winter is here, which, for residents of New England, means that more nights are spent at home with the sun gone by 4:30 p.m.

It also means that the holidays are here, which brings opportunities for family and friends to gather around the dinner table and fire place.

It also likely means that your real estate searches are growing, specifically looking for homes that you picture as your future hosting quarters.

With our weekly home columns during the month of December, we'll look to a few notable markets in Massachusetts to help in that search — or maybe daydreaming.

During the third week, we'll turn our attention to Nantucket, where the phrase "dream home" definitely fits:

2 Maple Ln., Nantucket

Listed for $6.995 million, and complete with a pool area reminiscent of a tropical resort, this Nantucket home isn't lacking for winter time charm either.

Here's how a listing describes it:

Recently completed 6-bedroom property on stone-paved enclave with street lamps, brick sidewalks and granite curbs, convenient to Surfside area beaches and mid-island amenities. Offering five en suite bedrooms, the main house boasts nearly 5,300 square feet of finished living space across three floors. Gunnite pool, large spa with waterfall into pool and stone patio surround. The detached garage includes underground storage a one-bedroom suite above. Thoughtful details and extras include an outdoor shower private to and accessible only from the shower inside the primary bedroom suite. A second outdoor shower is attached to the pool cabana which features a stone counter with seating, TV, ice, refrigeration and a day bed swing."

3 Lyford Rd., Nantucket

Listed for $11 million, this home has never been offered on the market before, and comes complete with unobstructed ocean views and a ton of green space.

Here's how a listing puts it:

"Presenting a custom-built 2-bedroom cottage just a short distance from the private steps leading to the expansive beach below. This 2.45 ac property boasts an additional 2600 sf ft of allowable ground cover that becomes your blank canvas to create the ultimate beachfront retreat.

You have the chance to live comfortably in the existing cottage while your vision for the main house takes shape. And that's not all! Consider the prospect of lounging by your future pool, fire pit or even inviting guests over for friendly matches on your private tennis court. With the many possibilities abound, this property offers an unparalleled chance to craft the coastal oasis you've always desired."

5 White St., Nantucket

You tell me that, with a little snow added, that image of this White Street property wouldn't look like a holiday card.

Listed for $6.995 million, the home features plenty of space for hosting, and plenty of amenities to keep those who do stay entertained.

A listing reads:

"Stunning Surfside estate where intricate craftsmanship and thoughtful nautical details are second to none! 7 bedrooms, 8+ bathrooms complete with a main house, a second dwelling over the two car garage, walk in swimming pool with multiple water features, hot tub, greenhouse, gym with steam shower, generator and beautifully landscaped grounds. Situated on serene 1.84 acres that abut Camp Richards. Truly must be seen in person to fully appreciate."