35 Shell Street Nantucket MA

For the first time in nearly 100 years, the iconic Wade Cottages—a cherished cornerstone of ’Sconset history—is being offered for sale. Originally acquired in 1929 as a family estate, this storied property has since served as both an inn and a beloved single-family home. Rich in character, steeped in history, and unrivaled in location, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The listing includes the abutting lot at 37 Shell st.
Perched high on the bluff with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the estate features a stately main house complemented by a classic three-bay garage. A gracious covered porch welcomes you, leading into a stunning living room adorned with a fireplace, multiple seating areas, and a wall of windows that frame breathtaking ocean views.
The residence is as functional as it is elegant, with a grand living room at the heart of the home separating two thoughtfully designed wings. The house offers over 10+ bedrooms—nine of which are ocean-facing—and six bathrooms, including two en suite rooms, and two bedrooms with a shared bath.
The north wing includes an office/mudroom, a kitchen, pantry, and a formal dining room. The south wing features a den with a fireplace and a two-room suite with a private bath and separate sitting room. The dining room, main living area, and den all have direct access to a wide ocean-view deck, ideal for al fresco dining or shaded relaxation.
Dual staircases—one in each wing—enhance privacy and circulation for residents and guests alike. Upstairs, the second level offers nine bedrooms, including a spacious primary suite that spans the depth of the house, connects the north and south wings, and features a dressing area and private bath. The north wing contains three bedrooms that share a spacious full bathroom. The south wing includes five bedrooms: three share a hall bath, while two twin bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bath.
The expansive lawn stretching to the bluff’s edge, a private hedged patio with water views, and a second hedged patio has areas for a firepit, seating area, and space for lawn games. Additional amenities include two outdoor showers and direct access to the ’Sconset Bluff Walk and the beach via a Land Bank staircase.
More than a home, the Wade Cottages represent a legacy—an irreplaceable piece of Nantucket’s heritage. This is a rare chance to own one of ’Sconset’s most treasured bluff properties, where generations have gathered and enduring memories have been made.

Floor 1: A spacious covered porch graciously welcomes visitors to this distinguished ’Sconset estate, providing an ideal setting to savor the ocean breeze. Upon entry, one is greeted by a grand living room adorned with original wood paneling, a stately fireplace, and an expansive wall of windows that frame panoramic views of the meticulously maintained grounds and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The residence is thoughtfully configured into two distinct wings, balancing privacy and refined living.

To the left, the North Wing encompasses an office with exterior access—suitable for conversion to a mudroom—which leads to the well-appointed kitchen, a side entrance, a rear staircase ascending to the second floor, a butler’s pantry, and an ocean-facing formal dining room with direct access to the rear deck. The dining area integrates seamlessly with the main living space, fostering an inviting environment for gatherings. Adjacent to the kitchen and pantry is a covered porch featuring built-in storage, ideal for beach equipment.

To the right, beyond the living room, the South Wing comprises a tasteful den with a fireplace and a wall of windows oriented eastward toward the ocean. This wing also offers a two-room suite complete with a private bath, a secluded deck with ocean vistas, a full hall bathroom, a private guest entrance, and a staircase to the second floor.

Floor 2: The second level features nine bedrooms, including a serene primary suite with a private bath. The South Wing comprises five bedrooms—four of which offer east-facing windows with water views—two full bathrooms, and a sitting room. Two of the bedrooms enjoy ensuite access to one of the hall baths, providing both comfort and convenience for family and guests. The primary suite uniquely connects to both the north and south wings. The north wing includes three bedrooms and a full hall bath. Staircases in both wings ensure privacy and ease of access throughout the residence.

Floor 3: A custom-built staircase accesses a loft area, leading to the widow's walk with sweeping views over Madaket Harbor, Smiths Point, Eel Point and beyond.

Parking:> Yes

Listed by Lee Real Estate

35 Shell Street Location

Property Code: #91363

Bedrooms:

10 beds

Bathrooms:

6 baths

Lot:

18,834 sq ft

Year Built:

1929

Heating Type:

Electric

Listed:

157 ago

Assessed Value:

$6,745,400

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