Marthas Vineyard Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Discount Cards and Passes

Frequent public transportation users gain from purchasing 3-day or 7-day VTA bus passes. This method yields considerable savings over single ride fares.

Free Activities and Attractions

Most public beaches are free. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and long walks.
Extensive free paths through state forests and conservation lands.
Wander through historic Edgartown, Oak Bluffs (Gingerbread Cottages), and Vineyard Haven.
Viewing lighthouses (Edgartown, Gay Head) from outside is free.

Happy Hours and Dining Deals

Some restaurants feature early bird specials.
Look for happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers.
These promotions are frequent during shoulder seasons.
Check specific restaurant websites for current offers.

Transportation Savings

VTA bus system for economical island-wide travel.
Bicycle rentals offer a cost-effective and pleasant alternative.
Walk whenever possible; towns are very walkable.
Avoid bringing a car; vehicle ferry is pricey, parking limited.

Accommodation Alternatives

Martha's Vineyard Family Campground for budget-friendly stays.
Vacation rentals suit groups or families cooking some meals.
Travel in shoulder or off-season for significantly lower rates.
More availability of lodging outside peak times.

Time-Saving Tips for Martha's Vineyard

Good planning enables maximum use of time on Martha's Vineyard, especially during busy periods.

Skip-the-Line Options

Pre-book all ferry tickets, especially for cars and peak passenger travel.
Book popular tours or activities in advance during high season.
Make dinner reservations at popular restaurants well ahead.
Avoid queues with smart pre-planning.

Best & Worst Times for Attractions

Visit popular attractions early morning for fewer crowds.
Late afternoon viewing often provides better light for photos.
Mid-day during July and August has larger crowds and waits.
Plan visits outside peak hours for a calmer experience.

Express Transportation

High-speed passenger ferries from Hy-Line Cruises save travel time.
Flights via Cape Air from Boston Logan (BOS) offer the fastest transit.
These options shorten journey durations considerably.
Faster transport typically carries a higher cost.

Efficient Routing & Pre-Booking Summary

Group activities by geographic area to reduce travel.
Study the VTA bus guide for route planning.
Book vehicle ferries 6-12 months ahead, passenger 1-3 months.
Reserve a place to stay and popular restaurant book far ahead.

Local Insights for Martha's Vineyard

Insider knowledge improves your trip and helps avoid typical tourist errors.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Not making a reservation ferry/your stay early; book ahead.
Underestimating summer traffic; allow extra travel time.
Forgetting insect repellent; ticks pose a concern.
Staying in one town; explore the distinct character of all six.

Local Terminology

Up-island: Western, rural towns (West Tisbury, Chilmark, Aquinnah).
Down-island: Eastern, developed towns (Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven).
Terms stem from old sailing charts.
The Vineyard: Common local term for Martha's Vineyard.

Unofficial Rules & Norms

Patience with ferry lines and traffic during summer.
Respect private land and stay on marked trails.
Properly dispose of trash and recycle to preserve the environment.
Acknowledge locals with a thank you or friendly greeting.

Impress Locals

A sincere 'Thank you' is always appreciated.
Use town names correctly (e.g., Tisbury for Vineyard Haven).
Express appreciation for the island's natural beauty.
Recognize local conservation efforts.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Adapt your Martha's Vineyard trip based on who you travel with.

Solo Traveler Safety & Social

Martha's Vineyard is a safe solo destination; practice standard precautions.
B&Bs offer a welcoming atmosphere for social interaction.
Bars in Oak Bluffs are good places for meeting people.
Join guided tours or workshops (e.g., Featherstone) to connect.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Select lodging with kitchens for meal flexibility.
Shores with calm waters like State Beach suit children.
Visit Flying Horses Carousel, Island Alpaca Company.
Pack plenty of sun protection and bug spray.

Managing Group Logistics

Book large vacation rentals well ahead for ample space.
Make restaurant reservations for groups owing to scarce seating.
Consider private van/taxi as VTA buses get crowded.
Coordinate ferry bookings carefully for multiple vehicles.

Accessibility Considerations

Refer to Section 11.4 for detailed accessibility details.
Always call ahead to confirm access for specific needs.
Confirm accommodations, attractions, and tour operators meet requirements.
Be specific about needs when making inquiries.

Traveler's Note

Plan ahead and book early, especially for ferries and accommodations, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Martha's Vineyard.

Exploring Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard invites visitors to discover its charming towns, stunning landscapes, and culture. Each corner of the island has its own unique story.