Top Things to do in Martha's Vineyard
Top 10 Things to do in Martha's Vineyard, United States
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. Martha's Vineyard Camp meeting Association (MVCMA)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 479 reviews
Reviewed By Fred M - Summerville, South Carolina
The Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association is truly a unique grouping of small gingerbread homes in a storybook-like setting. This is an absolute must see when visiting Oak Bluffs. I strongly suggest that visitors read about the history of the MVCMA before visiting. It's quite an intriguing story and includes some unusual and interesting facts.
2. South Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 390 reviews
Reviewed By Stevens B - Lebanon, New Hampshire
I think the waves are bigger and the water is a touch warmer than other beaches. Most people let the air out of their tires and drive out onto this beach with 4wd vehicles. Like a big tailgate party at the beach!
3. Aquinnah Cliffs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 372 reviews
Reviewed By Jake043 - Hilversum, The Netherlands
Although parking in this region of the coast is limited and can influence the viewing of the cliff but once you reached the beautiful beach a great view is possible.Also a good area for a nice long walk in this tranquil area
4. Menemsha Public Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 128 reviews
This calm surf beach, next to Menemsha Harbor, has food and restrooms nearby making it a hot spot for families, especially with young children. The beach is thought to have the best sunset on Martha's Vineyard.
Reviewed By Moments4Life - Highland Village, Texas
Perhaps only notable due to it's proximity of the take-out fish markets in the village and great spot for a sunset- but isn't that good enough? No spectacular rock formations, cliffs, or crashing waves, but worthy for a picnic all the same.
5. Shining Sea Bikeway
Overall Ratings
5 based on 884 reviews
Reviewed By Francesca V - Boca Raton, Florida
I LOVE the Shining Sea bikeway. Plenty of parking at lots near the start of the trail. Surface is FLAT for ALL levels of bikers. Can get "busy" with children & strollers during peak hours. Beautiful scenery takes one to lovely & vivacious Wood Hole!
6. Nobska Point Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 527 reviews
Reviewed By James W - Falmouth, Massachusetts
This historic lighthouse was recently deededto the town of Falmouth and is currently undergoing extensively renovation expected to be completed next spring. Fantastic views of Martha's Vineyard. Well worth visiting but check hourls and days open first.
7. Chilmark Chocolates
Overall Ratings
5 based on 68 reviews
Reviewed By Neegi - Barre, VT
It took us three different buses to find this little gem. The bus driver dropped us at the bottom of the driveway and picked us up about 1/2 an hour later. Well worth the effort. Tiny little shop...kinda crowded. Unusual flavor combinations. Great chocolate.
8. Ocean Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 182 reviews
Victorian mansions surround this charming Oak Bluffs park.
Reviewed By pina71 - New Jersey
Ocean Park is a wonderful place to stroll around. On one side of the park is the ocean and on the other side are beautiful victorian houses. The park has a beautiful band stand in the center of it and the ground is very well kepts with gorgeous flowers and a lovely fountain. A must see when in Oak Bluffs!
9. Edgartown Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 486 reviews
The Martha's Vineyard Museum is privileged to be the steward of three of the Island's lighthouses. The East Chop, Edgartown, and Gay Head lighthouses are not only historic reminders of a bygone age, but are working beacons that still send a light out into the night. Beyond their important functional role, these structures also offer visitors spectacular views of the breathtaking beauty of Vineyard Sound, the simple elegance of Edgartown Harbor & Chappaquiddick, and the majestic cliffs of Aquinnah. Major renovations completed in 2007, including installation of a staircase to the lantern room, allow the interior of the Edgartown Light to be open to visitors. A lighthouse keeper will be available and the doors will be open during designated hours. Parking is available, but limited, on North Water Street. The Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) busses drop off on Church Street in Edgartown. It is a 5-10 minute walk to the lighthouse from this location.
Reviewed By LI2107 - Houston, Texas
First off, do yourself a favor, and don't go to the vineyard in the winter. We were staying nearby in Plymouth and took a day trip to the vineyard the week before Thanksgiving. Most restaurants and things are closed. Our bus driver assured us that the lighthouse was open. So we walked down to it and were shocked at how small it was! We're from Texas, so I guess it's true what they say, everything is bigger in Texas! We walked down the beach and sure enough the lighthouse was closed. What a waste of a trip!
10. Gay Head Light (Aquinnah Light)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 167 reviews
The Martha's Vineyard Museum is privileged to be the steward of three of the Island's lighthouses. The East Chop, Edgartown, and Gay Head lighthouses are not only historic reminders of a bygone age, but are working beacons that still send a light out into the night. Beyond their important functional role, these structures also offer visitors spectacular views of the breathtaking beauty of Vineyard Sound, the simple elegance of Edgartown Harbor & Chappaquiddick, and the majestic cliffs of Aquinnah. The Gay Head Lighthouse is open seasonally. A lighthouse keeper will be available and the doors will be open during designated hours. Parking is available, but limited, on Aquinnah Circle. The Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) busses do have routes to the lighthouse.
Reviewed By Jamie W - North Adams Massachusetts
Was recommended by a friend needed to see. Took bus out and was worth the trip. The view of the water and cliffs was one of the best views I've seen in my life and definitely the best we saw on the vineyard! Aquinnah definitely feels like a different world on the vineyard. Peaceful quiet area. Go and relax and take it all in! The lighthouse it's self isn't anything spectacular but I promise the view is worth the trip!
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