New England, USA
U.S. Citizens: No visa is needed for Martha's Vineyard. You need standard identification for domestic air travel or ferry boarding, such as a state-issued driver's license or a U.S. Passport. International Visitors: Standard United States visa requirements apply. Visitors from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries must have an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before travel. Other nationalities need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, obtained through a U.S. Embassy or consulate. Applying for visas well in advance is recommended.
No specific entry fees apply for Martha's Vineyard itself. For international visitors, standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures happen upon arrival at your first port of entry into the United States, typically at a major international airport on the mainland, not directly on Martha's Vineyard. You will clear customs and immigration there before proceeding to your connecting flight or ground transport.
No general special permits are usually needed for standard tourist activities on Martha's Vineyard. Some specific events or private properties might have their own requirements. Access to some "resident-only" beaches is restricted, but plenty of public beaches welcome all visitors. If planning to fish, a Massachusetts saltwater fishing permit is needed.
No specific health-related entry requirements exist for Martha's Vineyard beyond general U.S. Entry regulations. These regulations do not currently include vaccinations or tests for general entry. Consult your healthcare provider for any personal health recommendations before travel.
For Air Travel & Ferry Boarding
REAL ID-compliant driver's license, US Passport, US Military ID.
Confirm specific ID requirements with your airline or ferry operator.
Before traveling to the US
Valid passport (6 months validity beyond stay), approved ESTA or valid US Visa.
Immigration clearance happens at your first US port of entry, not on the island.
No special island fees
No specific island entry fees. Plenty of public beaches available for all visitors.
Massachusetts saltwater fishing permit is needed for fishing.
The currency used is the United States Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available across the island's towns. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) are broadly accepted. Some smaller, seasonal businesses, food trucks, or farm stands may prefer or only accept cash. Carrying some cash for small purchases or tips is advisable. Currency exchange services are limited on the island itself; it is best to handle any currency exchange before arriving in the U.S. Or at major mainland airports.
Tipping is customary in the United States for service industries. For restaurants, provide 15-20% of the bill (pre-tax) for good service. Bartenders: $1-$2 per drink, or 15-20% of the total drink tab. Taxi/Rideshare Drivers: 15-20% of the fare. Hotel Housekeeping: $2-$5 per night, left daily. Tour Guides: 10-20% of the tour cost, or $10-$20 per person per day.
Camping or basic motel, self-cooked meals, VTA bus/bike/walk.
Mid-range hotel/B&B, mixed dining, public transport with occasional taxi.
Luxury hotels, fine dining, private car services, exclusive tours.
Approx. $190 - $240 from Woods Hole (advance reservation needed).
$8.00 for unlimited rides.
Your well-being on Martha's Vineyard is important. This section delivers health and safety advice to help you prepare for a good trip.
No specific vaccinations are needed for entry to Martha's Vineyard beyond those typically recommended for travel within the United States (routine immunizations and annual flu shot). Consult a healthcare provider for personal recommendations.
The island's coastal environment means strong sun exposure, creating sunburn risk. Ocean beaches, especially South Beach, can have strong rip currents. Poison ivy is common in wooded areas.
Keep a list of these numbers on your phone and a physical copy in your wallet. In case of lost documents, contact local police first, then your nearest embassy or consulate (for international visitors) or your state's DMV (for U.S. Citizens).
