Martha’s Vineyard is a go-to destination for summer getaways in New England. An island located off the coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Martha’s Vineyard is known for its charming towns and sandy beaches. The island is just a quick ferry ride from the mainland and has caught the eye of many celebrities, including Meg Ryan, Chelsea Handler, and even former US Presidents Barak Obama and Bill Clinton. A trip to Martha’s Vineyard is definitely worth exploring, but what exactly do you need to know before you go?
How To Get There
While is is possible to fly to Martha’s Vineyard, the easiest way to get to the island is by boat. During peak season, ferries usually depart at least once every hour from Falmouth, Woods Hole, Hyannis, and even Rhode Island. Most ferry ports do offer overnight parking on the mainland, but for those wishing to bring your car to the island, I highly recommend checking out the Steamship Authority which departs from Woods Hole all year long.
Where to Stay
When it comes to picking a place to stay on the Vineyard, you really can’t go wrong. There is no shortage of cute inns, bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels on the island. But if you are looking for somewhere charming and convenient, look no further than The Summercamp Hotel in Oak Bluffs! Formerly known as the Wesley Hotel, the Summercamp Hotel was recently renovated by the Lark Group and opened its doors just in time to welcome guests for Summer 2016.
Located in the heart of Oak Bluffs, the Summercamp Hotel is within walking distance to many popular restaurants, shops, beaches, and tourist attractions. The hotel offers its guests waterfront views of the Oak Bluffs Harbor from their charming outdoor deck. One of the best features of the hotel is it is located only minutes from one the island ferries!
What to Do:
Hit the Beach
Martha’s Vineyard is an island known for its beaches. Whether you are looking to take a surfing lesson on South Beach, jump off the bridge featured in the film Jaws, or to simply just set out a towel and soak in the sun, you can never go wrong spending the day by the water.
Rent a Bike
While it is possible to bring your car over to the Vineyard, I highly recommend leaving it behind if you are traveling during peak season. Most of the hotels offer parking, but the parking is very limited. Instead of driving, the best way to get around the island is to simply rent a bicycle! Martha’s Vineyard offers many bike routes along the water and it is the best way to get in a workout while also exploring the island. I highly recommend checking out this page for some great advice on planning your bike route.
Ride the Carousel in Oak Bluffs
One of the biggest tourist attractions on the island is the Flying Horses Carousel. Riders love to try their hand at collecting the rings as they go around. The lucky rider who grabs the brass ring wins a free ride!
Explore the Ginger Bread Cottages:
While you are in Oak Bluffs, I highly recommend taking the time to wander around the Gingerbread Cottages. These brightly colored homes were built in the 1800s by Methodists who gathered on the island during the summers. In an attempt to outdo one another, each home is decorated in different bright colors with wooden frills and porches. I highly recommend spending an afternoon getting lost among these unique homes!
Note: These cottages are privately owned homes so be mindful as to not trespass onto their porches.
Where to Eat
Breakfast
My favorite place to stop for breakfast on the Vineyard is iconic Black Dog Tavern in Vineyard Haven. As one of the first restaurants to remain open year-round on the Vineyard, the Black Dog is know for its beautiful waterfront views and great food. And of course no trip to this restaurant would be complete without stopping the gift shop for some Black Dog souvenirs for those back home.
Lunch
The Vineyard is host to many amazing lunch and sandwich shops including Skinny’s Fat Sandwiches and Nancy’s in Oak Bluffs. But one of my favorite places to eat has to be at Not Your Sugar Mama’s Organic Cafe . Tucked away in Vineyard Haven, Not Your Sugar Mama may be best known for their chocolate and desserts, but they also offer a wide variety of organic and vegan dishes and shakes. While they are on the pricier end of sandwich shops, I highly recommend stopping by to try their Buffalo Chickpea Pizza.
Dinner
There are many amazing restaurants to check out while you are on the island, but why not visit one that specializes in the food New England is known for? Alchemy Bistro & Bar in Edgartown offers a wide variety of seafood options such as fish cakes, oysters, and octopus. But don’t worry, if you are a vegetarian like me they also have many delicious options such as the risotto.
If it is a nice night out, ask if you can be seated upstairs on their deck. You will have a great view of Edgartown Main Street and be able to watch everyone walking by.
Dessert
Are you actually on vacation if you don’t indulge in a little dessert? While you are on the island, be sure to stop by Murdick’s Fudge for some local homemade desserts!
Latenight
For those of you who like to indulge your sweet tooth late at night, Martha’s Vineyard Gourmet Cafe and Bakery stays open late to making their donuts fresh for morning. One of the best kept secrets on the Vineyard is the fact that this cafe keeps their back door open until 1 AM for those leaving the bars looking for a late night snack.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out my other travel guides, currently featuring wellness itineraries for New York and Massachusetts.
