Top Things to do in Martha's Vineyard
The 10 Best Free Things to do in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts (MA)
Yes, getting there is a bit of a project. But vacationers have been braving the ferry for years, and this tiny island off Cape Cod remains one of the most popular and picturesque destinations in New England. Among the island's towns, you're sure to find the Vineyard that's right for you. With stately Greek revival houses dating back to the whaling era of the early 19th century, Edgartown is a seaside village of boutique shopping and pristine harbor views. For more of a "beach town" feel, Oak Bluffs has the Flying Horses carousel, an arcade and an easy walk to the beach, plus the history and charm of the "gingerbread" houses in the Methodist campgrounds. Vineyard Haven offers visitors a blend of both. For a real retreat, Chilmark/Aquinnah is the place to get away from it all. In the off-season, the island is quieter and far less crowded, but the shore is always beautiful. Whenever you visit, leave your car behind! Cabs are plentiful and greet the incoming ferries to help you reach your destination. Most visitors prefer to explore the island on a bicycle, scooter or tourist-friendly public buses.
Restaurants in Martha's Vineyard
1. Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
A good description of the many natural activities found on the island
Reviewed By jerb2014 - Bristol, United States
Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary has it all: great hiking trails, a beautiful forest, great views, large boulders and a fabulous beach. Four hundred acres were purchased or received through donation to create this treasure. Some of the paths are a bit steep but not too challenging. One leads to the beach where you will fine pristine water and fine sand. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed. To get there, take State Road to Indian Hill Road, follow this to Obed Dagger Road and look for sanctuary signs. The road is narrow and unpaved and not for the faint of heart, but in about a mile, you will arrive to the parking area. There, relax and enjoy!
2. Oak Bluffs Public Library
3. Inkwell Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 121 reviews
This Oak Bluffs beach and surrounding area of colorful gingerbread Victorian houses have strong links to African-American heritage on Martha's Vineyard, dating back to the Revolutionary War. The beach was the setting for a teenage romance movie called "The Inkwell."
Reviewed By Hgtravl - Marlton, United States
I had no clue just how beautiful the beaches where at Marthas Vineyard until I arrived. As soon as we left the ferry, we noticed the aqua crystal clear beaches! I cannot get over how "tropical" colored the water was- felt like we where in Flordia! The beach was spotless clean. Not a single piece of trash- even for peak tourist times. Beautiful beach with crystal clear waters... Loved the beautiful tumbled rocks by the jettys- found a few keepers!
4. Joseph Sylvia State Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 109 reviews
Small waves, low dunes and lots of seashells make this narrow, two-mile stretch of public beach popular with families. The beach runs between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown, and is called "Bend-in-the-Road Beach" on the Edgartown side.
Reviewed By ebrraiin - Jersey City, United States
Great beach, east to get to via bike or car. The water is clear and warm. The waves were quiet. Looking forward to going back.
5. Ocean Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 231 reviews
Victorian mansions surround this charming Oak Bluffs park.
Reviewed By HollsinSavannah - Fryeburg, United States
Wonderful park to listen to bands in summer. Also great place to walk to with a coffee and a back door donuts donut and sit
6. Information Booth
7. Circuit Avenue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 308 reviews
Off-beat and quirky shopping enclave in Oak Bluffs.
Reviewed By py236 - Albany, United States
Circuit Avenue is in the heart of Oak Bluffs once upon a time where African Americans went on vacation because they weren't allowed to be anywhere else. Restaurants, tourist shops and ice cream stores line the street. Every night, people walk up and down the block, gather to talk or sit outside. It's just down the block from the pier, which has a wide range of food and activity offerings. Truly the heart of the town and walking distanxe to the beach and town square.
8. Katama Beach (South Beach)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 74 reviews
Jump the waves or ride the great surf on the Atlantic Ocean side of this three-mile barrier beach, or enjoy a more relaxed pace on the tranquil Katama Bay side, a protected salt pond with lovely views of the bay. Katama is the largest public beach on the island.
Reviewed By BeachEnthusiast01 - Edgartown, United States
Lovely beach! Great access, plenty of parking and portapotties - excellent setup. The wave action is strong; not for the faint of heart. Strongly suggest to go a low tide; beach space becomes cramped at high tide. All in all a great experience.
9. Old Whaling Church
10. Gay Head
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 142 reviews
The 10-minute walk from the parking lot is well worth the trek to this spectacular beach with its magnificent multi-colored cliffs, which are a national landmark. The lack of commercialism means a true escape and relaxation, but you'll need to bring food and supplies.
Reviewed By starsnsands
Stunning Magnificent Ocean Beach with lovely waves and the beach is dotted with pebbles of all sizes and shapes. Marine life abounds along the waters. I think GayHead is one of the Loveliest Beaches in the World. The sands are soft but this beach has a lot of stones.
