Martha’s Vineyard, or the Vineyard as it’s locally called, is my happy place! This enchanting island is a mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
With cotton candy sunsets, locally run businesses, delicious treats from backdoor donuts, and even occasional sightings of the Obamas (yeah, they’re out here!), it’s no wonder some people call it their personal Disneyland.
I feel so fortunate to have spent my summers growing up visiting the island, and I think Martha’s Vineyard should be on everyone’s New England bucket list.
This Martha’s Vineyard travel guide can help you plan your adventures. It includes information on how to get there, where to stay, the best things to do, and more.
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Martha’s Vineyard Travel Guide For First Time Visitors
Table of Contents
Where is Martha’s Vineyard?
Martha’s Vineyard is an island in Massachusetts located south of Cape Cod.
Getting to Martha’s Vineyard?
Martha’s Vineyard is only accessible by ferry and plane, so plan your travels to the island in advance.
By Ferry
The Steamship Authority ferry departs from Woods Hole in Falmouth, MA, offering year-round service to Vineyard Haven (main port) and seasonal service to Oak Bluffs (May-Oct). The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes.
Steamship Authority ferry schedules to Martha’s Vineyard and fare information
Insider Tip: If you plan to bring a car, book in advance as spots fill up quickly, especially in summer. The Steamship Authority also offers a waitlist option!
If you’re traveling to the Vineyard from other locations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, and New Jersey, visit the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce site for more seasonal passenger-only ferry service information.
By Plane
The most convenient way to get to the island is to fly into the West Tisbury airport (airport code MVY), which is located in the middle of the island. I prefer this method of traveling, especially since I live in NYC.
JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines offer seasonal flight service from Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. At the same time, Cape Air provides daily year-round flights from Boston and other areas of Massachusetts and Westchester, NY.
Insider Tip: For flights, I like to use the Hopper app. I love that Hopper alerts me when fares drop and predicts the best time to buy plane tickets.
By Bus
If you’re coming from Boston (South Station), M.A., or Boston (Logan Airport), you’ll want to take the Peter Pan bus to Woods Hole.
Things To Know Before Visiting Martha’s Vineyard
- Peak Season Crowds: July and August are the busiest months. Expect more crowds, higher prices, and heavy traffic. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider coming in May, June, September, or October.
- Book Accommodations Early: Lodging options fill up quickly, so booking your stay as early as possible is essential. Regular visitors often reserve their spots a year in advance.
- Weather Variability: The weather can be unpredictable, especially in the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October). Pack layers and be prepared for both warm and cool weather.
- Dining Reservations: Popular restaurants can be busy, especially during peak season. Make dining reservations where possible, or be prepared for a wait.
- Cash and Cards: Some places, especially smaller businesses and taxis, are cash only. However, more establishments are starting to accept credit cards. It’s good to have some cash on hand, just in case.
- Beach Access and Parking: Some beaches require a permit or have limited parking. Check ahead for access information, especially for popular spots like Aquinnah and Menemsha.
- Respect Local Wildlife and Nature: The island is known for its natural beauty. Be mindful of the environment by staying on marked trails, disposing of trash properly, and respecting wildlife habitats.
- Cell Phone Reception: Cell phone service on the island can be spotty in some parts, especially in Aquinnah and other parts.
- There are no Vineyards on the Island: Despite the island’s name, Martha’s Vineyard does not have vineyards. British explorer Bartholomew Gosnold named the island after his daughter Martha and the viney undergrowth found along the coast.
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit are May through October. Early summer (May and June) offers fewer crowds and easier access to accommodations, while July and August are peak season with bustling activity.
September and October are quieter and perfect for a more relaxed visit. Plus, later in the season, the Atlantic Ocean is the warmest, making it ideal for swimming!
Insider Tip: September and October are popular for weddings, so book accommodations early.
Related Article: 12 Essential Tips You Need To Know for Capturing The Menemsha Sunset
Getting Around
By Car
Bringing your car is convenient for staying longer than a week or for family trips. Car rentals are available, but book early during peak season.
By Bus
The Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) bus system covers the island, making it easy to get around without a car.
By Bike
Biking is a great way to explore. Most VTA buses have bike racks, and All-Star Bike Rentals offers island-wide delivery and located near the ferries.
By Taxi/Uber
Taxis are available 24/7, but expect longer waits during peak season. For a list of taxi companies on Martha’s Vineyard, check here. Ubers and Lyfts are also available, though cell reception can be spotty.
Insider Tip: Avoid mopeds, which can be dangerous on the island’s winding roads.
Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard
- Go on the Flying Horse Carousel: Ride the oldest platform carousel in the U.S., Oak Bluffs. This carousel features 20 hand-painted wooden horses with real glass eyes, horsehair manes, and tails. Try catching the single brass ring for bragging rights and win a free ride!
- Visit the Gingerbread Cottages: No trip is complete without visiting the vibrant and exquisitely designed Victorian gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs. As you wander the “Cottage City,” you will notice the carpenter’s gothic architecture and details. While there, visit the Tabernacle, where events and performances occur primarily during the summer and fall.
- Go on the African-American Heritage Trail: African Americans have significantly contributed to the Vineyard and its deep history. The trail has 30 dedicated sites around the island, and I highly recommend booking a tour to learn more about the island’s history from an expert.
- Visit Inkwell Beach: Located in Oak Bluffs, the famous Inkwell beach named after the Black beachgoers is a lovely destination to relax, soak up the sun, and swim. Here, you’ll see many diverse families enjoying a beach day.
- Check out Aquinnah: Formerly known as Gay Head, it is worth visiting during your Vineyard stay. It’s located in the western part of the island and is truly a gem. Aquinnah features scenic multicolored clay cliffs, a lighthouse, an Aquinnah Cultural Center, and one of the best places to watch the sunset on the island.
- Catch the Sunset in Menemsha: Menemsha is a fishing village in Chilmark known for its cotton candy sunsets. For the best experience, pack a picnic and a sweatshirt and enjoy the sunset, as it can get chilly, and plan to arrive at least 2 hours before sunset.
- Explore Edgartown: Edgartown is the only town on the island with cobblestone streets, making you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. This seasonal town was once a whaling port. It is perfect for strolling along its picturesque harbor, taking in the beautiful homes, boutique shopping, and enjoying lunch at one of the many delicious restaurants.
- Go to the Alpaca Farm: If you’re visiting the island with children and looking for a fun afternoon activity, look no further than the Island Alpaca. Here, you can learn about the alpaca lifestyle, take a self-guided walking tour of the farm, and learn about the benefits of the alpaca as livestock. Alpaca sweaters, hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, and much more are available at the farm store.
- Get Back Door Donuts: No trip to Martha’s Vineyard is complete without a visit to backdoor donuts. This is an MV staple and has grown in popularity over the years. What’s so special about this bakery is its speakeasy-like setup, where you go to the back door (hence the name) at night for delectable hot fresh apple fritters, donuts, and other baked goods. If you like apples, get the apple fritter; it’s my favorite and melts in your mouth. Note the line can get pretty long, but I promise it’s worth the wait!
- Enjoy a Dirty Banana from Donovan’s Reef: Don’t miss the Dirty Banana from Donovan’s Reef, right next to Nancy’s Snack Bar in Oak Bluffs. Donovan happily makes a frozen treat that blends fresh bananas, rum, chocolate, and ice while happily singing reggae tunes! Not into banana and chocolate? Try a Painkiller or Rum Punch instead. With your drink in hand, walk along the pier or grab a bite to eat at Nancy’s.
Here are more tours to add to your Martha’s Vineyard itinerary:
Where to Stay
Martha’s Vineyard offers a range of lodging options, from charming bed-and-breakfasts to luxury hotels and vacation rentals.
Securing lodging can feel like the Hunger Games. Regulars often book for the following year before leaving the island. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book in advance. Here’s a list of great hotel options around the island for your visit.
Oak Bluffs:
- $$ The Surfside Hotel
- $$ Pequot Hotel
- $$ Summercamp
- $$ Narragansett House
- $$$ Inkwell Beach Cottage
- $$$ The Oak Bluffs Inn
Vineyard Haven:
Edgartown:
- $$$ Faraway Martha’s Vineyard
- $$$ The Edgartown Inn, The Edgartown Collection
- $$$$ Harbor View Hotel
Insider Tip: Renting a house is a great option if you’re traveling with a group. Prices range from $3,000 to $15,000 per week, depending on the time of year, location and property.
Where to Eat
There’s no shortage of delicious restaurants to try. Here’s a list of a few of my favorites.
- Red Cat – is a cozy spot in Oak Bluffs known for its creative American cuisine. You have to try the Brussels sprouts; they are so good! I recommend making a reservation in advance.
- Atria – For a sophisticated dining experience, Atria serves contemporary dishes that highlight local ingredients. Be sure to make a reservation here as well!
- Clearwater Cafe – located in Vineyard Haven- is the cutest spot for a casual yet healthy breakfast and lunch.
- Biscuits – This Black-owned restaurant in Oak Bluffs is a favorite by many for its hearty breakfast and brunch offerings, featuring classic comfort food with a Southern twist. To beat the line, arrive early!
- Linda Jeans – One of my favorite places to eat on the island and the perfect spot for homemade breakfast. Linda Jeans is popular, but the wait isn’t too long.
- Nancy’s Snack Bar – Located on the harbor in Oak Bluffs, it’s the perfect place for delicious seafood and American fare with stunning views of the harbor. While there, visit Donovan’s Reef for a dirty banana painkiller. For a fancier dinner, head upstairs to Nancy’s upscale dining offerings.
- Larsen’s Fish Market – This iconic fish market in Menemsha is renowned for its fresh, locally caught seafood. I can’t get enough of the stuffed Quahogs!
- Seafood Shanty – A casual spot with a laid-back vibe, Seafood Shanty serves fresh seafood and offers spectacular views of Edgartown Harbor.
- Giordano’s – Another favorite of mine! Gios is a family-owned restaurant offering delicious Italian-American dishes, including famous pizzas and fried clams.
- Grace Episcopal Church – Affordable lobster rolls are served on Fridays, drawing locals and visitors to taste this New England classic.
Lady Chin’s Two Cents – Conclusion
Martha’s Vineyard is a magical destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning natural beauty to its charming towns and rich history, the island is a place where you can truly unwind and create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re exploring the picturesque beaches, indulging in the local cuisine, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Martha’s Vineyard promises an experience that will captivate your heart.
As someone who has grown up visiting the Vineyard, I am confident that you will fall in love with its unique charm and endless attractions. Pack your bags, embark on this adventure, and let the magic of Martha’s Vineyard make you want to return again and again. Safe travels!
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