Learn exactly what to do at Martha’s Vineyard by a regular who visits every summer (and even got engaged there). Below, I share an updated, curated list of Martha’s Vineyard transportation, lodging, activities, restaurants, style, and so much more, such as how it differs from Nantucket. You’ll learn only the absolute best the island has to offer. Let’s plan your Martha’s Vineyard trip!
About Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
About Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is an island located about 7 miles off the southeastern coast of Massachusetts in the United States, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its scenic New England beauty, historic charm, cultural diversity, and summer attractions. But, don’t let the name fool you– there are no vineyards!
At least one week is recommended to see all that the large island of Martha’s Vineyard has to offer. This allows leisurely time to explore its many towns, beaches, and landmarks.
The best month to visit Martha’s Vineyard is August. The weather is warm but not as hot as July, and its beautiful flowers are still in bloom. The businesses are also still open through the end of summer.
Visiting Martha’s Vineyard is worth it for those who enjoy scenic New England beauty, charming towns, coastlines, historical and cultural attractions, and a diverse, relaxing environment.
How to Get There
To get to Martha’s Vineyard, many people take a ferry. Popular Massachusetts mainland ferries leave from Woods Hole (allows cars but book as early as possible–months in advance), Falmouth, or Hyannis on Cape Cod. Other ferries leave from such locations as the island of Nantucket, New York City, and Kingston, Rhode Island.
Alternatively, you can fly into the island’s small airport (featured on the TV show Wings) from many major cities.
Expert Tip: I’ve flown several times, and I’ve taken ferries from Rhode Island and Cape Cod several times. We prefer flying since we can fly direct from our home in Philly. The closest ferries are about two hours in addition to your car ride to the ferry.
Getting Around
Martha’s Vineyard is larger than you may think. It takes about two hours to drive the perimeter! There are many ways to get around. First, the island’s public bus system is excellent. You can also rent a bike or a car, hail a taxi, or use ride-sharing services.
Lastly, you can easily walk around the major towns, including Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Oak Bluffs.
Expert Tip: We book a rental car for pickup right at the airport. We have also rented bikes to get from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown and back. It’s possible to bike to other towns, but the roads are not as flat. Ride sharing has also been very easy over the past few summers.
Where to Stay
My in-laws book a rental house through VRBO nearly one year in advance. Depending on how much room you need, 8-12 months is the lead time for a larger summer rental home.
While I haven’t stayed at any hotels, I’ve visited them. The Winnetu is a good choice for families or those who don’t want to be in the center of the action. It’s a fairly secluded space right next to South Beach and about two miles from the center of Edgartown. (I’ve also heard actor Steve Carell stayed there!)
If you prefer to be “in town,” we love the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown, and we always stop there to have a drink on their porch. It’s upscale, yet charming, and as its name states, the view of the Edgartown Lighthouse and the harbor is picturesque.
What To Do At Martha’s Vineyard: Top Picks
For a Day Trip
For a day trip on Martha’s Vineyard, I recommend picking one major town (Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, or Edgartown) and enjoying all that it has to offer. The island is too far spread out to reasonably do more than that, though we have given folks a “day tour” of a few spots. You would just have to be quick and organized. Below in this post I share more about each town.
Without a Car
Again, without a car, the best option is to pick one major town and walk it on foot, especially if you only have a day. Otherwise, simply use public transportation, ride sharing, or bikes to get around.
For Free
If you have good weather, the best free activity is visiting a beach! The one we visit most often is the Jaws beach (State Beach) in Edgartown, made famous for its appearance in the movie Jaws. There’s a small bridge that visitors jump off of, and it’s fun to watch them. (I’ve never done it myself!) There is also adequate parking there.
If you don’t like the beach but are still wondering what to do at Martha’s Vineyard for free, then relaxing in the charming Ocean Park in Oak Bluffs is another excellent option.
Expert Tip: Read the best books set on Martha’s Vineyard as your beach read!
With Kids
While I don’t have kids myself, I do have nieces that visit the island with me. The best kids activities are visiting the Alpaca Farm, riding the historic Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs, sailing on the Pirate Adventures boat (for young children), going to the beach, bike riding, playing arcade games, and bowling in Oak Bluffs. Kids also love the many ice cream shops in town!
Romantic
The most romantic thing to do on Martha’s Vineyard is charter a sail. Each year, we privately charter the famous Tigress catboat in Edgartown. It can hold up to six guests, and it’s known for it’s patriotic American flag sail, making it easy to spot! Captain Kurt is great and always offers lots of local info on your sail. Sometimes, he’ll even play his banjo for you!
Something Unique
The most unique idea for what to do at Martha’s Vineyard is take the very short (a minute or two) ferry from Edgartown to Chappaquiddick on foot, bike, or car. (If by car, go in the morning to avoid long lines.) It’s extremely private there. You can visit the Mytoi Japanese Gardens or just explore! There is a lot of nature and beautiful beaches to see.
You can drive onto the most secluded beaches if you have a car with a Massachusetts license plate and proper tires. It’s our favorite Vineyard experience. However, they don’t allow rental vehicles on these beaches anymore.
Hidden
The best “hidden” adventure we’ve taken on Martha’s Vineyard was to drive down a long dirt path and onto the beach on Vineyard Sound near Lake Tashmoo. It’s where Diane Sawyer’s house was, and it’s mostly private. However, there is a small public space, where we watched the sunset by ourselves. Recently, we also clammed there.
Vacation Attractions and Beaches By Town
Oak Bluffs: Victorian Charm and Family Friendly
Oak Bluffs is known for its vibrant and diverse aesthetic, historic gingerbread cottages and carousel, charming Ocean Park, and bustling waterfront. It offers a mix of small shops on its main street (Circuit Ave.), family-friendly restaurants, and beaches, making it a popular place for both relaxation and activities for all ages.
Attractions and Beaches
- Gingerbread Cottages: Colorful, historic houses
- Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association: Historic grounds with unique architecture
- Flying Horses Carousel: the oldest hand-carved carousel in the U.S.
- Ocean Park: beautiful grassy park with views of the ocean
- Inkwell Beach (historically significant), Jetties Beach (ideal for families), and Eastville Beach (near the town center)
Where to Eat and Drink
- Mocha Mott’s: the best bagels and coffee on the island; get there early!
- Nancy’s Restaurant: our go-to for a bite of American food and/or sushi with a harbor view; Malia Obama once worked here
- The Pawnee House: a newer spot for farm fresh creations and craft cocktails; excellent vegan options
- Back Door Donuts: a traditional spot at night to get a warm donut from the “back door;” excellent apple fritters; visited by Bill and Hillary Clinton
Edgartown: Whaling Era-Architecture and Sophistication
Edgartown is known for its 19th-century architecture, beautiful New England-style homes, and scenic harbor. It offers upscale dining and boutique shopping for coastal grandmothers and fans of St. Michael’s, Maryland. Like Nantucket, it’s a place to see and be seen.
Attractions and Beaches
- Edgartown Harbor and Lighthouse: Scenic waterfront views
- Old Whaling Church: A historic church with beautiful architecture
- Edgartown Village: Historic district with upscale establishments, including a Vineyard Vines store with exclusive merchandise (and free ponchos on rainy days!)
- South Beach (Katama Beach) for great swimming and surfing near the Obamas’ home (but note the water is choppy), Lighthouse Beach for relaxing, and State Beach for calm, beautifully blue waters and family friendliness
Where to Eat and Drink
- The Seafood Shanty: (our favorite) for semi-casual waterfront dining and an award-winning lobster roll; get there early to dine on the deck
- Atlantic: for more upscale waterfront dining; Michelle Obama dined here
- 19 Raw: a favorite for amazing craft cocktails and oysters; we end up there multiple times each year
- Alchemy: for fine dining like the Obamas; our group loved the maple dijon Brussels sprouts
- Noman’s: a casual lunch spot with parking and lots of space for kids to play
Vineyard Haven: A Small and More Residential Harbor Town
Vineyard Haven is known for its busy harbor and small main street. It offers a blend of maritime charm and local culture. It’s more residential than the other major towns. The beaches aren’t as prominent, but the boats are!
Attractions and Beaches
- Vineyard Haven Harbor: A bustling waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and views of boats
- Lighthouse at East Chop: A historic lighthouse with scenic views of the island and the harbor
- Lamberts Cove Beach for soft sand and gentle waters, and West Chop Beach for scenic views and access to the West Chop Lighthouse
Where to Eat and Drink
- The Black Dog Tavern: for casual waterfront dining and quintessential Martha’s Vineyard “black dog” merchandise
- Waterside Market: for casual breakfast and lunch/take out; as seen on Summer House Martha’s Vineyard
- Salvatore’s: We haven’t eaten there, but multiple locals have told me it’s their favorite restaurant on the island
More Places to Visit on Martha’s Vineyard
Aquinnah
Aquinnah is home to the Gay Head Cliffs, where you can view the Atlantic Ocean as far as your eyes can see. You can also climb the Gay Head Lighthouse for an even higher view. Pictures do not do it justice. The beaches below the cliffs are also nice, but note that parts are nude and parking is tough to get!
Menemsha
Menemsha is a small fishing village on the Southwest coast with a small beach and a few lobster shacks, often frequented by actor Ted Danson. It’s known for its glorious sunsets. Every night, people bring coolers and chairs to watch the sunset with a glass of wine and some lobster from the local shacks. It feels like a beachy drive-in movie, and everyone claps when the sun sets!
Get there early if you’re driving! The small parking lot quickly fills after 5 p.m.
Expert Tip: Be sure to shop the best bookstores on Martha’s Vineyard. They’re unique and excellent!
What to Wear on Martha’s Vineyard: Plan Your Outfits
SHOP THE POST
Style
Martha’s Vineyard style has a distinct look: preppy, nautical, and Americana, but with more casual sensibilities than upper crust neighboring island Nantucket. Think blue and white stripes, gingham, chambray, seersucker, wicker purses, and golf styles.
What to Pack
Even in the summer, you should pack for various weather, including hats for windy breezes and pullovers, jackets, and/or jeans for chilly mornings and evenings. I’ve had to buy these items more times during the summer than I can count!
It’s not uncommon for summer temperatures to fluctuate from the high fifties to the eighties during the day, and it feels especially chilly when it’s windy. We always visit in the summer and pack like it’s spring, summer, AND fall, regardless of the weather predictions.
I’m always cold, so I also love to pack my local ChappyWrap blanket, which I use at the house and on boats. (See my review of the Chappy wrap blanket.)
Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket
The classic Massachusetts travel debate is: Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket? I’ve been to both islands multiple times.
My Pick: I prefer Martha’s Vineyard for its charm, uniqueness, diversity, and laid-back environment. I love shopping and walking around the exquisitely beautiful Nantucket on a day trip from Martha’s Vineyard (a two-hour ferry ride). Still, I would prefer it only for a shorter getaway, as fewer activities exist.
Either way, you can’t go wrong, as both are exquisite representations of the upscale coastal New England aesthetic. Below are some key differences:
MARTHA’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket
MARTHA’S VINEYARD
- More family-oriented and laid back
- More unique towns and landscapes
- Expensive
- More culturally diverse
NANTUCKET
- More adult-oriented and luxurious
- One main town and uniform landscape
- More expensive
- More focused on preservation
Recap
You’ve learned what to do at Martha’s Vineyard and so much more! To recap, I recommend planning a longer stay of about one week to experience more of the unique towns and beaches. Regardless, it would be best if you aimed to visit at least one of the major towns. I recommend Oak Bluffs for families and Edgartown for adults. Also, remember to pack for colder and warmer days, even during summer.
