MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Marthas Vineyard

Things to Do in Marthas Vineyard

Marthas Vineyard Massachusetts, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The island's diverse landscape is great for hiking, water sports, cycling, and wildlife observation. Consider booking activities in advance with GetYourGuide.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Easy Trails

Manuel F. Correllus State Forest (flat, bike paths), Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary (gentle nature walk), Long Point Wildlife Refuge (paths to beach and pond).

Moderate Trails

Menemsha Hills Reservation (elevation changes, views from Prospect Hill).

Strenuous Trails

Great Rock Bight Preserve (steep sections to secluded beach).

Water Sports & Activities

  • Swimming: Atlantic Ocean beaches (State Beach for calm, South Beach for surf).
  • Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Rentals in major towns for harbors or coastal ponds.
  • Sailing/Boating: Charter a boat or join a public tour from Edgartown or Oak Bluffs.
  • Fishing: Surfcasting for striped bass/bluefish, charter angling trips, fly-casting in saltwater ponds.

Cycling Routes

  • Extensive paved bike paths connect towns.
  • Beach Road path (Oak Bluffs to Edgartown) for scenic flat rides.
  • Paths through State Forest for various terrains.
  • Unpaved trails in State Forest for off-road cycling.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Bird Watching: Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Long Point Wildlife Refuge, Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge.
  • Seal Viewing: Boat tours or Cape Poge shores in cooler months.
  • Deer Spotting: Common up-island at dawn/dusk.
  • Limited "adrenaline" sports; focus is on nature-based activities.

Shellfishing

  • Requires a town permit.
  • Clamming and scalloping are popular activities in season.
  • Offers a taste of local life and fresh seafood.
  • Check local regulations for permits and seasons.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always check weather conditions and local advisories before engaging in outdoor activities. For bridge jumping, do so at your own risk as there is no official supervision. Be mindful of maritime rules if boating or kayaking.

Cultural Immersion Experiences

Engage deeply with Martha's Vineyard's unique culture through workshops, performances, and local community initiatives.

Workshops & Classes

  • Featherstone Centre for the Arts (Oak Bluffs): Wide range of workshops in painting, pottery, sculpture, photography, writing.
  • Martha''s Grape farm Glassworks (West Tisbury): Offers demonstrations and occasional hands-on glassblowing classes.
  • Local Artists: Look for private lessons or classes from independent artists.
  • Look at local event schedules for seasonal offerings.

Cultural Performances & Events

Live Theater

The Martha's Vineyard Playhouse (Vineyard Haven) has live theater performances.

Concerts & Lectures

Union Chapel (Oak Bluffs) stages concerts, lectures, and community events throughout summer.

Film Festivals

Martha''s Winery Film Center (seasonal) screens independent films, documentaries, and hosts events.

Community-Based Tourism

Support local farms and fishermen by purchasing directly at markets or seafood shacks. This sustains the local economy and provides authentic experiences. Consider volunteering with local conservation groups if staying for an extended period.

Cultural Festivals

Martha's Vineyard African American Film Festival (August): A prestigious event. Martha's Vineyard Agricultural Fair (August): Livestock, crafts, fairground entertainment. Oak Bluffs Fireworks (August): Spectacular display. Vineyard Artisans Festivals (seasonal): Local artists and craftspeople.

Wampanoag Tribal Events

The Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) occasionally hosts public cultural events or powwows. These offer opportunities to learn about and respectfully engage with their traditions. Check their community schedule for schedules.

Relaxation & Wellness

Martha's Vineyard provides a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, from luxurious spas to peaceful natural settings.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • The Spa at Harbor View (Edgartown): Offers a range of treatments from massages to facials in an elegant setting.
  • Mansion House Spa (Vineyard Haven): Provides various spa services, including body treatments and nail care.
  • Independent Therapists: Numerous independent massage therapists and wellness practitioners operate on the island, offering private sessions.
  • Martha's Vineyard does not have hot springs; natural therapy stems from the ocean, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings.

Yoga, Meditation & Beaches

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Several yoga studios offer drop-in classes and multi-day workshops. Occasional yoga and meditation retreats may occur; check local listings or studio websites.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Many hotels, especially luxury hotels like The Winnetu Oceanside Resort, present private pools and beach clubs for guests. Public beaches are free and widespread.

Quiet Reflection

Find a quiet spot on any beach, lay out your towel, and enjoy the sun and sounds of the waves for natural relaxation.

Wellness Insights

Mindful Movement

Participate in a sunrise yoga session on the beach for a peaceful start to your day.

Ocean Therapy

Spend time by the ocean, letting the rhythmic sounds and fresh air calm your senses.

Local Products

Explore local boutiques for organic skincare and wellness products made on the island.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Although not a party island, Martha's Vineyard has varied evening entertainment options, specifically during the summer months.

Live Music & Performances

  • Live Music Venues: The Ritz Cafe (Oak Bluffs) is a lively dive bar including local and checking out bands. Offshore Ale Co. (Oak Bluffs) hosts live music with pub fare.
  • Theater: Martha's Vineyard Playhouse (Vineyard Haven) presents a season of plays. Old Whaling Church (Edgartown) holds concerts and shows.
  • Film Screenings: Martha's Vineyard Film Center (Vineyard Haven) screens independent films and hosts events.
  • Late-Night Snack: Back Door Donuts (Oak Bluffs) serves hot, fresh donuts late into the night.

Nightclubs & Socializing

Nightclubs & Dancing

The Cardboard Box (Oak Bluffs) is a popular late-night spot. The Loft (Oak Bluffs) often features DJs and dancing. Nightlife focuses more on bars and pubs with live music.

Bar Districts

Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs is the main hub for bars, pubs, and a an exciting night scene. Edgartown offers a more refined bar scene within hotels or upscale restaurants.

Extended Hours

Some bars in Oak Bluffs remain open until 1 AM (or later on weekends during peak season) for continued socializing.

Specialty Drinks

Enjoy local craft beers, artisanal cocktails at upscale bars, or classic The Northeastern us states concoctions.

Late-Night Bites

Beyond Back Door Donuts, some diners and pizza places in Oak Bluffs might offer late-night food options.

Seasonal Events

Look at local schedules for unique evening events like live music outdoors, movie screenings, or special themed nights during your visit.

Alcohol Consumption Advisory

Please drink responsibly. Do not beverage and drive. Utilize taxi services, ride-sharing, or the VTA bus system for safe transportation after consuming alcohol.

Shopping & Markets

Shopping on Martha's Vineyard has everything from local artisan crafts and unique boutiques to farmers markets brimming with island produce.

Markets & Artisan Crafts

  • Traditional Markets: West Tisbury Farmers Market (Wed/Sat, seasonal) for local produce, baked goods, crafts.
  • Artisan Festivals: Vineyard Artisans Festivals (seasonal) showcase local artists and craftspeople.
  • Artisan Workshops: Martha's Vineyard Glassworks (West Tisbury) for glass art. Independent artist studios dot the island.
  • Ethical Shopping: Prioritize local artists and businesses; look for "Made on Martha''s Vineyard" labels.

Luxury & Unique Finds

Luxury Shopping

Edgartown offers high-end boutiques, jewelry stores, plus premium art galleries for unique and luxurious items.

Boutique Variety

Oak Bluffs (Circuit Avenue) features a mix of unique boutiques, souvenir shops, and island-style apparel. Vineyard Haven offers eclectic shops, bookstores, and souvenir shops.

Souvenir Recommendations

Local artwork, island-themed clothing, nautical decor, cranberry products, fudge (Murdick's Fudge), artisan jewelry, books by local authors.

Island Crafted Gifts

  • Handcrafted jewelry and ceramics
  • Local photography and prints
  • Unique clothing and accessories
  • Specialty food items like jams and sauces

Apparel & Textiles

  • Island-themed t-shirts and sweatshirts
  • Boutique fashion from local designers
  • Nautical wear and beach essentials
  • Custom-made accessories

Literary & Local Reads

  • Books by Martha's Vineyard authors
  • Local history books and guides
  • Children's books with island themes
  • Unique stationery and art supplies

Shipping & Customs

Domestic Shipping
  • Standard U.S. Domestic shipping is available from island post business premises and shipping centers.
  • Consider shipping larger purchases home to save space in your luggage.
  • Inquire about shipping services straight from at local shops for convenience.
International Visitors
  • Adhere to U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations for bringing goods out of the country.
  • Keep receipts for high-value items for customs declaration.
  • Check your home country's customs allowances and restrictions before departure.

Shopping Tip

Plan your shopping trip around the Farmers Markets or Artisans Festivals for unique, locally made treasures and a atmosphere.

Your Personalized Island Itinerary

Recommended Activities

  • Morning: Hike at Menemsha Hills Reservation for panoramic views.
  • Mid-day: Cycle the Beach Road path from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown.
  • Afternoon: Visit Martha's Vineyard Museum, followed by shopping in Vineyard Haven.
  • Evening: Savor fresh seafood in Menemsha watching the sunset.

Considerations

  • Season: Adjust activities based on peak vs. shoulder season crowds and weather.
  • Transport: Factor in travel time between towns, especially if counting on buses or bikes.
  • Dining: Make dinner reservations in advance for popular establishments.
  • Flexibility: Allow for spontaneity and discovery of unexpected island charms.