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Where to Stay in Marthas Vineyard

Where to Stay in Marthas Vineyard

Marthas Vineyard Massachusetts, USA Travel Guide

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Hotels, Inns & Motels

  • Luxury Hotels

    The Charlotte Inn (Edgartown) offers refined, old-world charm.

  • Boutique Hotels/Inns

    Enjoy unique character and personal service at Lambert's Cove Inn & Restaurant (West Tisbury), the sophisticated Hob Knob (Edgartown), the lively Summercamp (Oak Bluffs), and the centrally located Mansion House Inn (Vineyard Haven).

  • B&bs (B&Bs)

    Numerous charming B&Bs across all towns present intimate atmospheres, often with locally sourced breakfasts and hosts providing local tips.

  • Motels

    Budget-friendly motel options exist, specifically in Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven, offering basic, clean accommodations at a lower price point.

Rentals & Camping

  • Vacation Rentals

    A popular choice for families or groups. Rentals span small cottages to large luxury homes. Find them through Airbnb, Vrbo, and local rental agencies. They offer space, kitchens, and a home-like stay.

  • Camping

    Martha's Vineyard Family Campground (Vineyard Haven) is the main camping spot. It has tent and RV sites, providing a rustic, economical stay.

  • Hostels

    Martha's Vineyard lacks traditional backpacker hostels. Budget-conscious solo travelers often find specific budget motels or single rooms in B&Bs during the off-season.

  • Homestay Options

    While not formally organized, some B&Bs offer a similar feel with local hosts. TrustedHousesitters or Airbnb may connect you with residents offering rooms.

Martha's Vineyard Neighborhood Guide

Each town on Martha's Vineyard is a distinct character.

Edgartown

Pros
  • Upscale amenities
  • Beautiful architecture
  • Central to discover the island
  • Excellent dining and shopping
Cons
  • Most expensive
  • Can get packed
  • Parking is often difficult
  • Costly parking

Oak Bluffs

Pros
  • Lively, family-friendly
  • Good for evening entertainment
  • Close to State Beach
  • Excellent VTA bus access
Cons
  • Can be noisy
  • Very crowded in summer
  • Especially crowded on Circuit Avenue

Vineyard Haven

Pros
  • Year-round ferry access
  • More local feel
  • Central for bus connections
  • Generally less expensive
Cons
  • Less "touristy" charm
  • Public beaches are not as prominent

Up-Island Towns: West Tisbury, Chilmark, Aquinnah

Pros

Peaceful, immense natural beauty, access to rural charm, stunning views and sunsets (Aquinnah).

Cons

A car is highly suggested, longer bus rides, fewer places to dine and shop, many beaches are private, further from main towns.

Booking Strategies

Effective booking strategies secure your preferred accommodation, especially during popular travel periods.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (July-August): Book accommodations 6-12 months in advance for popular inns, hotels, or specific vacation rentals. Vehicle ferry spots often sell out quickly.
  • Shoulder Season (May, June, September, October): Book 3-6 months in advance for the best selection and prices. Passenger ferry tickets and any remaining vehicle spots also book early.
  • Low Season (November-April): Book 1-3 months in advance. More flexibility exists, but selection may be limited due to seasonal closures.
  • General Tip: Always review deposit and cancellation policies carefully. Travel insurance mitigates risks.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Major OTAs: Use Booking.com, Agoda for hotels and B&Bs.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb, Vrbo are popular. Local agencies like Sandpiper Rentals specialize in island properties.
  • Directly with Properties: Booking through a hotel or B&B's website often yields the most competitive rates and direct communication. IHG Hotels is an option for certain brands.
  • Community Resources: Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce website lists member accommodations.

Further Booking Insights

Negotiation Customs
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not customary, especially in peak season.
  • Prices are usually fixed. Off-season might bring discounts for direct or longer bookings.
Security DEPOSIT & Cancellation terms
  • Vary widely. High-season bookings often have significant deposits (50-100%).
  • Strict cancellation policies are common (e.g., non-refundable within 60-90 days on getting there).

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Season

Accommodation prices are highest in July and August.

Shoulder Season

Prices drop during The month of may, June, September, and October.

Low Season

Lowest prices in November-April. Many properties close in winter.

Accommodation Recommendations

Finding the right place to stay completes your trip.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget Options

Martha's Vineyard Family Campground (Vineyard Haven) offers an affordable option for tents and RVs. Look for budget motels in Oak Bluffs/Vineyard Haven like Nashua House Hotel or Dockside Inn for economical hotel-style stays.

  • Martha''s Winery Family Campground
  • Nashua House Hotel (Oak Bluffs)
  • Dockside Inn (Oak Bluffs)
Mid-Range Options

Many B&Bs and inns offer comfortable stays that balance cost and amenities.

  • Various Bed & Breakfasts
  • Local Inns

Luxury & Family Stays

Luxury Options

Harbor View Hotel (Edgartown) has elegant rooms plus gourmet restaurants. The Charlotte Inn (Edgartown) is known for exquisite decor and personalized service. The Winnetu Oceanside Resort (Edgartown) is a family-friendly luxury resort with beach access.

  • Harbor View Hotel
  • The Charlotte Inn
  • The Winnetu Oceanside Resort
Family-Friendly Options

The Winnetu Oceanside Resort offers kids' programs and direct beach access. Vacation rentals are often the best choice for families. Summercamp (Oak Bluffs) has a fun atmosphere and some rooms with bunk beds.

  • The Winnetu Oceanside Resort
  • Vacation Rentals (Booking.com, Vrbo)
  • Summercamp (Oak Bluffs)

Solo & Long-Stay Options

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    B&Bs offer a welcoming, social atmosphere with hosts providing local insights. Hotels in Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs offer convenient access to public transport and amenities for solo exploration. Hostelworld is a resource for budget stays, though limited on MV.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals suit stays longer than a week, often with more economical weekly rates. Some inns and hotels may present extended stay rates during off-peak months.

  • Holiday Rentals for Extended Periods

    Explore options on Vrbo or local rental agencies for comfortable, longer visits.

  • House/Pet Sitting

    Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique long-stay opportunities with a local connection.

Cultural & Historical Properties

  • The Charlotte Inn (Edgartown)

    Known for elegant, period décor, classic charm, and meticulously curated art. Transports guests to a bygone era.

  • Historic B&Bs

    Many inns reside in beautifully preserved historic homes, offering a stay withwithin the island's architectural heritage. Examples: Ashley Inn (Edgartown), Isabelle's Beach House (Oak Bluffs).

  • Harbor View Hotel (Edgartown)

    A landmark property with a rich past, offering views and amenities from a prime historical location.

  • Gingerbread Cottages (Oak Bluffs)

    While not individually rented, staying nearby allows appreciation for their unique architectural charm and historical context.

Essential Booking Links

Major Booking Platforms

Find hotels, B&Bs, plus apartment rentals with ease on these trusted sites.

Specialized Accommodation & Rentals

For unique stays, extended visits, or vacation homes.

Accommodation Character by Town

Edgartown

Historic whaling town, upscale, elegant. Immaculate white clapboard houses, grand mansions, boutique shops, fine dining, Edgartown Lighthouse. Refined atmosphere.

Oak Bluffs

Whimsical gingerbread cottages, bustling harbor, Circuit Avenue with shops, restaurants, bars. Historic Flying Horses Carousel. Family-friendly and energetic.

Vineyard Haven Tisbury

Main year-round ferry port, residential, working-class feel. Eclectic shops, art galleries, diverse restaurants. Martha's Vineyard Museum. Less "touristy" than Edgartown or Oak Bluffs.