Why Go to Martha's Vineyard
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Martha's Vineyard has been a summer escape for the rich and famous for more than a century, earning it a reputation as Hollywood East, and former President Barack Obama owns a home here. Yet this triangle-shaped island about 7 miles off Cape Cod is surprisingly relaxed. Most visitors come simply to unwind for a few days.
Each town has its own personality. Edgartown is elegant, with white captains' houses and upscale shops. Oak Bluffs is colorful and fun, known for its gingerbread cottages, carousel and lively harbor. Vineyard Haven is where many ferries arrive, and the fishing village of Menemsha is the place for fresh seafood and spectacular sunsets. Up-island, Chilmark and Aquinnah offer rolling farmland, quiet beaches and the striking clay cliffs of Aquinnah. Rent a bike or a Jeep to explore, and don't forget the classic souvenir, a Black Dog T-shirt or sweatshirt.
Ferries run from Woods Hole and other ports, and car reservations book up early. I'll handle your ferry, a charming inn or cottage and plan days that mix beaches, villages and great seafood.
BEST FOR
Families, couples, cyclists and New England beach lovers
BEST MONTHS
May–September
EXPLORE
Edgartown is known for historic sea captains’ houses; Oak Bluffs has gingerbread cottages; Vineyard Haven is a ferry hub, while Aquinnah offers dramatic cliffs.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Martha's Vineyard
North America › Northeast › USA › Massachusetts
Harbor villages, coastal trails and laid-back island days
Beach & Resort
Luxury
Sailing
Summer
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Give the island at least a full day and choose two or three towns rather than trying to see every beach and lighthouse.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Stay on public pathways and respect residents' privacy.
Oak Bluffs Gingerbread Cottages
Admire colorful historic cottages surrounding the Campground neighborhood and Tabernacle.
Check seasonal operating hours before visiting.
Flying Horses Carousel
Ride a historic carousel in Oak Bluffs, a favorite stop for families.
Explore early in the day before ferry-day visitors arrive.
Edgartown Historic District
Walk streets lined with white clapboard captains' houses, shops and coastal architecture.
Access and interior tours can vary by season.
Edgartown Lighthouse
Visit a harbor lighthouse near the center of Edgartown, with views toward the waterfront.
Use designated overlooks and follow conservation guidance.
Aquinnah Cliffs
See striking multicolored clay cliffs and coastal views in western Martha's Vineyard.
A historic waterfront hotel near the Edgartown Lighthouse and village center.
Harbor View Hotel
Edgartown
Hotel Tags
A family-oriented resort near South Beach, a short drive from Edgartown.
Winnetu Oceanside Resort
South Beach / Katama
Hotel Tags
A refined boutique inn among the historic streets of Edgartown.
The Charlotte Inn
Edgartown
Hotel Tags
An inn near ferry arrivals, shops and restaurants in Vineyard Haven.
Mansion House Inn
Vineyard Haven
Hotel Tags
A colorful harborfront boutique hotel near the Oak Bluffs ferry and waterfront attractions.
Summercamp
Oak Bluffs
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
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Monthly Weather
Monthly Events
Summer has the fullest services and busiest beaches; late spring and early fall bring a quieter pace with cooler water and fewer departures.
Best Times to Visit Martha's Vineyard
WHEN TO GO
06
Chappaquiddick
Edgartown's small ferry to Chappaquiddick has separate capacity and operating rules; plan the return.
05
Cars and Reservations
Vehicle ferry space is limited and requires advance booking; a car is not essential for all stays.
04
Rental Bikes
Cycling works for some town-to-beach routes, but rural roads may be narrow and busy.
03
Island VTA Buses
Vineyard Transit Authority buses link selected towns and seasonal destinations; check route times.
02
Flights
Martha's Vineyard Airport handles regional flights; arrange an island transfer.
01
Ferry Arrival
Most island visitors arrive via Steamship Authority or other ferries; verify your specific mainland terminal.
Ferries connect the island to mainland Massachusetts; public buses, bicycles and taxis are useful, while vehicle ferry reservations can be difficult in peak season.
Getting Around Martha's Vineyard