Located off the coast of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is a charming island in Massachusetts that has been a popular summer destination for celebrities, politicians, and families alike for over a century. With its picturesque beaches, quaint towns, and rolling hills, Martha’s Vineyard is a haven for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to visit on this beautiful island. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the top destinations to visit in Martha’s Vineyard, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant towns and hidden gems.
Beaches and Coastlines
Martha’s Vineyard is famous for its stunning beaches, with over 15 miles of coastline to explore. From secluded coves to bustling surf spots, there’s a beach for every taste and preference. Here are some of the top beaches to visit:
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The Beaches of Oak Bluffs
Oak Bluffs is one of the most popular towns on Martha’s Vineyard, and its beaches are a major draw. The town’s main beach, Oak Bluffs Beach, is a lively spot with plenty of amenities, including food vendors, restrooms, and showers. For a more secluded experience, head to Eastville Beach, which is located just a short walk from the town center.
Other Beaches to Visit
- Lighthouse Beach: Located in the town of Vineyard Haven, this beach is a favorite among families and offers stunning views of the lighthouse.
- South Beach: A quieter alternative to Oak Bluffs Beach, South Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
- Menemsha Beach: Located on the western side of the island, Menemsha Beach is a picturesque spot with calm waters and stunning sunsets.
Towns and Villages
Martha’s Vineyard is home to six charming towns, each with its own unique character and charm. Here are some of the top towns to visit:
Oak Bluffs
Oak Bluffs is one of the most popular towns on Martha’s Vineyard, and for good reason. Its vibrant downtown area is filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, and its beaches are some of the most popular on the island. Be sure to visit the iconic Oak Bluffs Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. (See Also: Where to Visit in Honolulu? Top Hidden Gems)
Other Towns to Visit
- Vineyard Haven: This charming town is located on the western side of the island and is known for its picturesque harbor and beautiful beaches.
- Edgartown: A historic town with a rich whaling heritage, Edgartown is home to many beautiful homes, shops, and restaurants.
- West Tisbury: A quieter town with a strong sense of community, West Tisbury is home to many artists and craftspeople.
Hidden Gems
Martha’s Vineyard is full of hidden gems, from secluded hiking trails to charming little museums. Here are some of the top hidden gems to visit:
The Vineyard Sound
The Vineyard Sound is a beautiful and secluded spot located on the western side of the island. It’s a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Other Hidden Gems
- The Martha’s Vineyard Museum: Located in Vineyard Haven, this museum is dedicated to the island’s rich history and features exhibits on everything from whaling to the Civil War.
- The Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful nature preserve located in Edgartown, the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many birds, turtles, and other wildlife.
- The Martha’s Vineyard Film Center: A unique spot located in Vineyard Haven, the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center is a great place to catch a movie or attend a film festival.
Recap
Martha’s Vineyard is a beautiful and charming island with something for everyone. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant towns and hidden gems, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect destination. Here are some of the top destinations to visit on the island:
- Oak Bluffs Beach: A lively spot with plenty of amenities.
- Eastville Beach: A secluded spot with stunning views.
- Lighthouse Beach: A great spot for families.
- South Beach: A quieter alternative to Oak Bluffs Beach.
- Menemsha Beach: A picturesque spot with calm waters.
- Oak Bluffs: A vibrant town with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Vineyard Haven: A charming town with a picturesque harbor.
- Edgartown: A historic town with a rich whaling heritage.
- West Tisbury: A quieter town with a strong sense of community.
- The Vineyard Sound: A secluded spot for swimming and kayaking.
- The Martha’s Vineyard Museum: A museum dedicated to the island’s history.
- The Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary: A nature preserve with many birds and turtles.
- The Martha’s Vineyard Film Center: A unique spot for movies and film festivals.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to Martha’s Vineyard?
The best way to get to Martha’s Vineyard is by ferry. The Steamship Authority and the Martha’s Vineyard Ferry offer daily departures from Woods Hole, Massachusetts. You can also fly into Martha’s Vineyard Airport, which is located in Vineyard Haven. (See Also: Where to Visit in Australia in March? Bloom & Explore)
What is the best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard?
The best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warmest and the beaches are busiest. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in the spring or fall.
What are the top things to do on Martha’s Vineyard?
Some of the top things to do on Martha’s Vineyard include visiting the beaches, exploring the towns and villages, and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and biking. You can also visit the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center.
What are the best places to eat on Martha’s Vineyard?
Martha’s Vineyard is known for its delicious seafood, and there are many great places to eat on the island. Some of the top restaurants include the Black Dog, the Beachcomber, and the Outer Bar. You can also try some of the island’s famous ice cream at the Martha’s Vineyard Ice Cream Company. (See Also: Where to Visit in Fukuoka? Unforgettable Experiences)
What are the best places to stay on Martha’s Vineyard?
Martha’s Vineyard has many great places to stay, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Some of the top hotels include the Beach House Hotel, the Vineyard Square Hotel, and the Martha’s Vineyard Resort. You can also consider renting a vacation home or cottage through services like VRBO or Airbnb.
