Top Things to do in Martha's Vineyard
What to do and see in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts (MA): The Best Lighthouses
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. Aquinnah Lighthouse
2. Edgartown Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 590 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 nidesa - Wayne, United States
The historical lighthouse in Edgartown have a magnet to visitors to be seen .Beautiful homes to see from Main Street to the lighthouse.Nice blooming flowers.Must visit every time in the island.
3. Gay Head Light (Aquinnah Light)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 210 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 nidesa - Wayne, United States
Seeing the lighthouse the Cliff over & over every time we arrived the island and to say goodbye before going home to Wayne is one of our ritual things we do for over twenty two years ! The home of Wampanoag tribes & Wampum arts!
4. East Chop Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 142 reviews
Reviewed By 229jodye
One of the four on the island. Can walk all around, see the bluffs. And late afternoon allows for some beautiful light. Highly recommended.
5. West Chop Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 62 reviews
Reviewed By nidesa - Wayne, United States
There’s something unique & unusual to this lighthouse among five lighthouses in the island of Martha’s Vineyard. There’s actually people living on the premises and so cute. The only Lighthouse that we haven’t gone and seen after coming to this island for over 22 years is the one in Chappaquiddick island.We’ve gone to that island once over 15 years ago just to see the bridge where Ted Kennedy’s car fell. This lighthouse we always visit for the past 5 years. There’s so much to see here....We love this island ! Please do come n visit !
