What if I told you that just a short ferry ride from the mainland could take you to a world that feels decades away from the buzz of modern life? That’s exactly how I felt arriving in Martha’s Vineyard. No skyscrapers, no highways—just beach cottages, rolling dunes, seafood stands, and the kind of quiet that makes you exhale deeper.
I visited the island in early summer, chasing a bit of nostalgia, a lot of lobster rolls, and a change of pace. Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a family beach trip, or a solo recharge, here’s how I experienced the best things to do in Martha’s Vineyard—and what I’d do again in a heartbeat.
1. Explore the Gingerbread Cottages of Oak Bluffs
These pastel-painted Victorian cottages feel straight out of a storybook. I wandered the narrow paths with an iced coffee in hand, admiring the intricate trim and color combos. The Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association area, or “The Campgrounds,” is where you’ll find the most iconic ones.
📸 Pro tip: Visit just after sunrise to have the place nearly to yourself—and the best light for photos.
2. Bike the Edgartown to South Beach Route
Renting a bike is one of the best ways to feel the island’s rhythm. I pedaled from Edgartown through the flat, scenic Katama Road down to South Beach, with salty wind and open skies keeping me company. Once there, I kicked off my shoes, walked the shoreline, and didn’t check my phone for hours.
3. Visit the Edgartown Lighthouse
Small but picturesque, this lighthouse sits just a short walk from downtown Edgartown. I arrived in the late afternoon when the golden hour light hit the white structure just right. You can climb to the top for a view across the harbor, and it’s a favorite spot for engagement photos and quiet reflection alike.
4. Wander the Shops and Waterfront in Vineyard Haven
Vineyard Haven is the year-round hub of the island, and it has a different energy from Oak Bluffs or Edgartown—more lived-in, less seasonal. I spent a leisurely afternoon browsing indie bookstores, art galleries, and local boutiques before watching the ferries come and go from the harbor.
5. Eat Your Way Through Seafood Shacks
Here’s what I devoured during my trip:
- The Net Result (Vineyard Haven): Killer fried scallops and lobster rolls.
- Larsen’s Fish Market (Menemsha): I ate a lobster roll on the dock with my feet dangling over the water.
- Back Door Donuts (Oak Bluffs): Okay, not seafood—but their late-night apple fritter is iconic.
🍴 If you’re here in summer, get your lobster roll early—places sell out by sunset!
6. Catch the Sunset at Menemsha Beach
I came here with a blanket, some snacks, and a bottle of chilled rosé. Locals and visitors line the beach facing the setting sun—it’s one of the only places on the island where you can see it dip below the horizon. Watching the sky shift from peach to lavender, I felt time slow down.
7. Spend a Morning at Aquinnah Cliffs
The clay cliffs in Aquinnah are like nothing else on the island. I parked near the Gay Head Lighthouse, walked the short paths, and took in panoramic views of the sea and layered red, orange, and gray cliffs. It’s sacred Wampanoag land, and you can feel the history in the air.
8. Visit Chappy on the On-Time Ferry
Chappaquiddick Island, known as “Chappy,” is just a 3-minute ferry ride from Edgartown. I crossed over with my rental bike and explored the Mytoi Japanese Garden, quiet beaches, and remote trails. It felt like a secret part of the island—peaceful, simple, and unspoiled.
9. Chill Out at Lucy Vincent Beach (if you can)
This beach is on private land, accessible only to Chilmark residents or renters with passes. That said, if you’re lucky enough to get access, it’s a stunning, dramatic beach with cliffs and crashing waves. I was able to visit thanks to a friend staying nearby—and it was worth every salty hair flip.
10. Take It Slow
The best thing I did on Martha’s Vineyard? Nothing. I let myself nap after beach walks, read novels on porches, and sip iced coffee while people-watching in town squares. The beauty of the island isn’t just in its attractions, but in how it gives you permission to slow down and just be.
Best Towns to Stay in Martha’s Vineyard
Edgartown – Upscale, walkable, and perfect for romantic getaways.
Oak Bluffs – Lively, colorful, and family-friendly with lots of dining and nightlife.
Vineyard Haven – The practical base with year-round charm and good ferry access.
Travel Tips for Visiting Martha’s Vineyard
- 🚗 No car needed (unless you’re staying far out). Biking, walking, and public buses work great.
- 🎟️ Ferry reservations sell out fast in summer—book early.
- 🧴 Bring reef-safe sunscreen—some island stores prioritize eco-friendly options.
- 🌊 Beaches vary—some are private, others are family-friendly or wave-heavy.
- 🕰️ Things close early—don’t expect late-night dinners everywhere.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard?
Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the best weather and open businesses.
How do I get to Martha’s Vineyard?
Most people take the ferry from Woods Hole, MA. There are also seasonal flights into the island’s airport.
Do I need a car on the island?
Not necessarily—bikes, buses, and ride shares can get you around easily.
Is Martha’s Vineyard family-friendly?
Yes! Oak Bluffs and Edgartown are especially great for families, with calm beaches and activities.
Are there budget-friendly options on the island?
While the island leans luxury, you can find charming inns, picnic spots, and public beaches that don’t break the bank.
Final Thoughts
Martha’s Vineyard was the kind of trip that lingered with me long after I left. The sea air, the clapboard houses, the way the whole island runs on its own gentle rhythm—I found myself already planning my return before the ferry even docked back on the mainland.
If you’re craving charm, coastlines, and a pace that invites presence, this island delivers. Let me know if you go—I’ll happily share my favorite picnic spots.