Martha's Vineyard: A Timeless Island Paradise
Martha's Vineyard — located south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts — remains one of America's most beloved island destinations. From its pristine beaches and historic lighthouses to its farm-to-table dining and vibrant summer culture, the island offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and New England charm.
Table of Contents
Overview of Martha's Vineyard
Martha's Vineyard covers roughly 100 square miles, making it the largest island in Massachusetts not connected by bridge or tunnel. It consists of six towns — Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven (Tisbury), West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah.
The island has about 20,500 year-round residents (2024 MVC estimate), expanding to nearly 100,000 visitors in peak summer. Despite its popularity, the Vineyard retains a close-knit, community-driven atmosphere with strict environmental and building protections that preserve its rural charm.
History and Cultural Significance
The Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) are the island's original inhabitants and remain active stewards of the land today. English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold named the island in 1602. The 1800s brought whaling prosperity; later the island became known for its cottages, religious camp meetings, and artistic communities.
- 1602: Gosnold names the island after his daughter Martha and its wild grapevines.
- 1671: First English settlement in Edgartown.
- 1800s: Whaling and shipbuilding dominate the economy.
- Late 1800s – 1900s: Oak Bluffs evolves into a summer retreat with the iconic Gingerbread Cottages.
- Today: A creative, eco-conscious, and celebrity-favored destination blending tradition and tourism.
Natural Beauty & Landscapes
Martha's Vineyard features more than 19 public beaches, 200 miles of coastline, and thousands of acres of protected land maintained by the Martha's Vineyard Land Bank Commission and Mass DCR.
Top Beaches
South Beach (Katama)
3 miles of open Atlantic surf and dunes.
State Beach
Family-friendly bay beach between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.
Menemsha Beach
Ideal for sunsets and calm water swimming.
Aquinnah Cliffs Beach
Iconic clay cliffs and sweeping ocean views.
Note: Conditions vary by day; some beaches have strong currents or limited parking.
Preserves & Trails
Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
5,300 acres with 14 miles of bike paths.
Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
350 acres of salt marshes and woodlands, managed by Mass Audubon.
Menemsha Hills Reservation
211 acres of coastal forests with elevated views of Vineyard Sound.
Long Point Wildlife Refuge
Trails through dunes, beach and pond ecosystems (Trustees of Reservations).
Towns and Attractions
Edgartown
Historic whaling port turned elegant resort town with Greek Revival architecture and boutique shopping. Don't miss the Edgartown Harbor Light, Martha's Vineyard Museum, and the ferry to Chappaquiddick Island.
Oak Bluffs
Known for its vibrant streets and Victorian architecture. Top spots include the Gingerbread Cottages, the Flying Horses Carousel (1876, oldest in the U.S.), and the lush Ocean Park overlooking Nantucket Sound.
Vineyard Haven (Tisbury)
The island's main year-round ferry port with a working harbor, the Martha's Vineyard Playhouse, and the historic West Chop Lighthouse.
Up-Island Towns
Rural West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah offer rolling hills, farms, and quiet scenery. Visit Alley's General Store (1858) or the restored Gay Head Lighthouse for panoramic views.
Activities & Experiences
Beaches & Water Sports
Swimming and sunbathing on State Beach and South Beach.
Surfing and bodyboarding on the Atlantic side (Katama and Squibnocket).
Paddleboarding and kayaking in Edgartown Great Pond and Sengekontacket Pond.
Fishing charters from Menemsha or Oak Bluffs harbors.
Biking & Hiking
Over 44 miles of bike paths crisscross the island. Highlights include the State Forest Loop (14 miles) and Edgartown–Oak Bluffs coastal trail. For hiking, explore Menemsha Hills, Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary, or Long Point Refuge.
Cultural & Arts
Martha's Vineyard Museum: Permanent exhibits and rotating art shows.
Featherstone Center for the Arts: Workshops and outdoor art events.
African American Heritage Trail: Over 30 historic sites celebrating Black history on the island.
Martha's Vineyard Film Festival: Independent cinema each March and August (TMVIFF).
Culinary Scene
Fresh seafood and farm-to-table dining define the Vineyard's culinary identity. The island boasts numerous farms and fisheries that supply local restaurants year-round.
Seafood Highlights
Larsen's Fish Market (Menemsha): Iconic lobster rolls and ocean views.
The Net Result (Vineyard Haven): Fresh catch market and take-out meals.
Martha's Vineyard Oyster Fest: Annual October celebration of local shellfish farmers.
Farm-to-Table
State Road Restaurant (West Tisbury): Award-winning seasonal menu.
Morning Glory Farm (Edgartown): Local produce and baked goods since 1975.
Sweets & Treats
Back Door Donuts (Oak Bluffs): Late-night apple fritters and fresh pastries.
Mad Martha's Ice Cream: Homemade ice cream with locations across the island.
Accommodation Options
Hotels & Resorts
Harbor View Hotel (Edgartown): Historic 1891 property with harbor views.
Winnetu Oceanside Resort: Family-friendly resort steps from South Beach.
Mansion House (Vineyard Haven): Modern amenities, spa, and rooftop deck.
Bed & Breakfasts
Nobnocket Boutique Inn (Vineyard Haven): Contemporary luxury with personal service.
Vacation Rentals & Camping
Thousands of vacation homes range from quaint cottages to beachfront estates. Book through local real estate agencies or trusted platforms. For a rustic option, try the Martha's Vineyard Family Campground in West Tisbury.
Transportation
Getting to the Island
Ferries: The Steamship Authority runs year-round service from Woods Hole (MA). Seasonal routes operate from Hyannis, Falmouth, New Bedford and Quonset Point (RI).
Air: Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) offers seasonal flights from Boston, New York and Washington DC via Cape Air and JetBlue.
Getting Around
Bus: The Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) operates routes to all major towns.
Bike: Extensive paved paths connect towns and beaches.
Car: Bring a car by ferry (advance booking required) or rent locally.
Taxi & Ride Share: Available in Edgartown and Oak Bluffs year-round.
Best Times to Visit
Summer (June–August)
Peak season with average highs 75–82°F (24–28°C), lively streets and events.
Fall (September–November)
Mild weather and foliage color; ideal for photography and biking.
Winter (December–February)
Quiet off-season for solitude and winter walks.
Spring (March–May)
Blooming fields and fewer crowds — great value season.
Planning Your Visit & Travel Tips
Reserve accommodations and car ferry tickets well in advance for summer.
Consider spring or fall for lower prices and less crowding.
Bring layers — ocean breezes cool even warm days.
Respect beach access rules and private property signs.
Support local artisans and farmers markets for authentic souvenirs.
For more answers, visit our Martha's Vineyard FAQ
Data verified with: Martha's Vineyard Commission (2024), Steamship Authority, Mass Audubon, MV Transit Authority, and Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism. © 2025 MV Vacation.