Katama: A Coastal Gem on Martha's Vineyard

Welcome to Katama, a scenic coastal region in the town of Edgartown on Martha's Vineyard. Known for its wide-open landscapes, expansive beaches, coastal wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Katama is one of the island’s most iconic outdoor destinations.

This guide was produced using original photography and on-island field research documented by MV Vacation.

Top Attractions and Activities

• South Beach: One of Martha’s Vineyard’s most famous beaches, stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for strong surf, soft sand, and a wide shoreline ideal for sunbathing, walking, and photography.
• Norton Point Beach: A two-mile barrier beach that links Katama to Chappaquiddick. Managed by The Trustees of Reservations, it offers seasonal over-sand vehicle access (OSV), incredible birdwatching, and rugged coastal scenery. OSV permits and tide awareness are required.
• The FARM Institute: A working farm operated by The Trustees, offering educational programs, barnyard experiences, farm tours, seasonal events, and a farm stand with local products. A family-friendly highlight of Katama.
• Katama Airfield (Katama Airpark): One of the oldest continuously operating grass airfields in the United States. Visitors can watch classic aircraft take off and land or book scenic biplane rides over Katama Bay, South Beach, and Edgartown.
• Winnetu Oceanside Resort: Katama’s premier oceanside resort with direct access to South Beach. Offers dining, tennis, yoga, kids' programs, pools, water taxi access to Edgartown (seasonal), and shuttle service to downtown.
• Katama General Store: A beloved local spot for sandwiches, coffee, baked goods, picnic provisions, beach snacks, and Vineyard-made products. Ideal for stocking up before heading to South Beach or Norton Point.

Historical Highlights

The name Katama comes from the Wampanoag word meaning “crab-fishing place.” Historically, Katama developed as a seaside resort area in the late 1800s and served as the terminus of the Martha’s Vineyard Railroad, which once ran from Oak Bluffs to South Beach.

During World War II, the Katama plains were used as a military training site due to their wide, open terrain. Today, Katama remains largely undeveloped, preserving its windswept coastal character and expansive natural landscapes.

Visitor Tips

• Visit in shoulder season: Late spring and early fall offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and calm beach days.
• Bike-friendly area: The bike path from Edgartown to South Beach is flat, scenic, and ideal for families.
• Norton Point driving requires preparation: If planning to drive on Norton Point, check tides, surf conditions, and permit requirements from The Trustees.
• Pack essentials: Katama is remote. Bring sunscreen, water, and beach gear. There are limited facilities directly on South Beach.
• Picnic-perfect locations: South Beach dunes, Katama Bay overlooks, and the FARM Institute grounds make excellent picnic spots.

Frequently Asked Questions about Katama

Q: What is the best time to visit Katama?
A: Late spring through early fall is ideal for beach weather, biking, and exploring the coastal plains.

Q: Are there accommodations in Katama?
A: Yes. The Winnetu Oceanside Resort is Katama’s signature stay, offering oceanside access, restaurants, pools, fitness programs, shuttle service, and activities for all ages.

Q: What activities are available in Katama?
A: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach walks, biking, over-sand driving at Norton Point, farm programs at the FARM Institute, and scenic flights from the Katama Airfield.

Q: Is South Beach good for families?
A: South Beach has strong surf on the Atlantic side and requires caution, but families often enjoy the calmer waters of South Beach’s right fork or nearby bayside areas.

Fun Facts about Katama

• Katama Airfield is one of the oldest continuously active grass airfields in the United States.
• The name “Katama” translates to “crab-fishing place” in the Wampanoag language.
• South Beach is known for powerful surf, attracting body surfers and wave photographers.
• The Martha’s Vineyard Railroad once carried visitors directly from Oak Bluffs to Katama in the late 1800s.
• Katama’s open plains are a rare coastal grassland ecosystem, home to unique plant and bird species.

Explore more visuals of Katama in our curated Katama Photo Gallery.

Funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism.

All photos on this page were taken by MV Vacation during on-island filming and field research.