Martha’s Vineyard is a picturesque island located just south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Known for its beaches, art scene, walking trails, charming towns, and rich history, it attracts visitors from all over the world. This guide covers everything you need—how to get here, what to do, where to go, and the best places to explore.

The Towns of Martha’s Vineyard

The island includes six distinct towns, each with its own atmosphere:

• Edgartown — historic whaling town, lighthouse, restaurants, beaches.
• Oak Bluffs — famous for colorful gingerbread cottages and nightlife.
• Vineyard Haven (Tisbury) — year-round port, local shops, sailing culture.
• West Tisbury — rural farms, artisan shops, Alley's General Store.
• Chilmark — rolling hills, fishing villages, Menemsha sunsets.
• Aquinnah — Wampanoag territory, dramatic clay cliffs.

Top Beaches

Martha’s Vineyard has some of the most beautiful beaches in New England. Here are the island’s most iconic coastal spots:

• South Beach (Katama) — surf, sand dunes, strong waves.
• State Beach — calm water, famous Jaws Bridge, family-friendly.
• Menemsha Beach — best sunsets on the island.
• Lucy Vincent Beach — dramatic cliffs and Atlantic views.

Where to Stay

Martha’s Vineyard offers a wide range of accommodations, from boutique inns to iconic New England hotels and private vacation rentals. Availability fills up quickly in summer, so booking early is essential.

• Edgartown: Harbor View Hotel, Edgartown Inn — luxury stays near the water.
• Oak Bluffs: Summercamp, The Attleboro House — vibrant and walkable.
• Vineyard Haven: Mansion House, Vineyard Square Hotel — great year-round options.
• Chilmark/Aquinnah: Beach Plum Inn — peaceful, scenic, nature-focused.
• Vacation Rentals: Ideal for families; summer rentals often $3,000–$7,000/week.

Where to Eat

From iconic seafood shacks to farm-to-table restaurants and late-night bakeries, the Vineyard has something for everyone.

• Iconic: Black Dog Tavern, State Road Restaurant.
• Seafood: 19 Raw Oyster Bar, Lookout Tavern in Oak Bluffs.
• Casual Eats: Back Door Donuts, The Barn Bowl & Bistro.
• Local Favorites: Menemsha Fish Market, Morning Glory Farm.

How to Get to Martha’s Vineyard

Most visitors arrive via ferry from Woods Hole (Steamship Authority). Seasonal ferries operate from Hyannis, Falmouth, Quonset, and New Bedford. Direct flights from New York, Boston, and other regional airports are available in summer.

Getting Around the Island

Whether you prefer biking, buses, or scenic drives, the island is easy to navigate.

• VTA Bus: $10/day unlimited; connects all towns.
• Bike Rentals: $30–$50/day; perfect for Katama & Edgartown.
• Taxis & Rideshare: Available island-wide.
• Walking: Downtown Oak Bluffs and Edgartown are walkable.
• Car: Useful up-island; parking limited in July–August.

Things To Do

• Explore the Aquinnah Cliffs overlook.
• Bike the Edgartown → South Beach → Katama loop.
• Visit art galleries and local shops in Oak Bluffs & Edgartown.
• Take a sunset stroll at Menemsha Harbor.
• Kayak or paddleboard on Sengekontacket Pond.

Events & Festivals

Martha’s Vineyard celebrates arts, food, music, and agriculture all year long.

• Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair — August tradition.
• Film Festival — documentary & indie films.
• Food & Wine Festival — fall culinary celebration.
• Live Music: Nomans, Ritz, Loft, Lampost.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season (July–August): Warmest weather, busiest months.
• Shoulder Season (May–June, September–October): Best balance of weather & crowds.
• Off-Season (November–April): Quiet, peaceful, limited hours.

Wildlife & Nature

The island is full of wildlife—ospreys, deer, ocean birds, and even wild turkeys. Trails throughout the Land Bank properties offer some of the best nature experiences in Massachusetts.

Practical Tips

• Packing: Layers, sunscreen, comfortable shoes.
• Costs: Groceries + dining 20–40% higher than mainland.
• Cars: Summer ferry reservations required months in advance.
• Pets: Beaches have seasonal restrictions — always check signage.
• Families: State Beach, farms, and town centers are ideal for kids.