Visit Martha's Vineyard and Cape Cod

Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod

DISCOVER

Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

DEAR VISITORS,

Welcome to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, two coastal destinations that have captivated travelers for generations with their timeless beauty, rich history, and unmistakable New England charm.

Whether you’re strolling through a picturesque harbor town, cycling along scenic shoreline trails, relaxing on a pristine beach, or discovering a hidden local favorite, you’ll quickly find that every corner of the Cape and the Vineyard offers something unique. While each destination has its own distinct personality, both share a deep connection to the sea, a vibrant sense of community, and a tradition of hospitality that keeps visitors returning year after year.

Throughout Cape Cod, you’ll discover charming villages, iconic lighthouses, fresh seafood, world-class golf, familyfriendly attractions, and miles of spectacular coastline. From whale-watching adventures and scenic rail excursions to art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront dining, the Cape offers endless opportunities to explore at your own pace.

Just across the water, Martha’s Vineyard invites you to slow down and savor island life. Explore six distinctive towns, each with its own character and appeal. Wander historic streets, browse local galleries and shops, relax on breathtaking beaches, tee off on renowned golf courses, and enjoy farm-fresh and ocean-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or

experiences that will draw you back again and again.

CHEERS,

GARRY DUELL JR.

Publisher, Visit Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod

THE DISCOVER MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND THE CAPE APP

NORTH SOUTH NET, INC.

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Publisher & CEO Garry Duell Jr. gduell@northsouthnet.com

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Contributing Photographers

Michael Blanchard, J. Kevin Foltz, Alison Shaw, Caroline Dee Thornton

Contributors

Carol M. Bareuther, Colleen Kilfoil, Lisa Lucier, Wyatt Myers, Judi O’Donoghue, Lisa Simundson, David Umla

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD 2026/27

Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod

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MARTHA’S VINEYARD

MV2 WELCOME TO MARTHA’S VINEYARD Coastal Charm Meets Island Adventure

MV4 EXPLORING One Island, Six Destinations

MV14 ON THE WATER Tides of Adventure

MV20 ADVENTURES ON LAND Beyond the Shore

MV28 FUN FOR FAMILIES Endless Ways to Play

MV32 DINING Savor the Flavors

MV50 SHOPPING Seaside Finds

MV66 ARTS & CULTURE Creative Horizons

MV74 ACCOMMODATIONS Your Perfect Stay

MV78 REAL ESTATE A Place on the Vineyard

MV84 WEDDINGS Vows & Views

MV88 USEFUL INFORMATION Island Essentials

Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard

CAPE COD

CC2 WELCOME TO CAPE COD A Classic New England Escape

CC4 EXPLORING Cape Cod Uncovered

CC10 ON THE WATER Waves & Wonders

CC13 ADVENTURES ON LAND Paths & Play

CC16 DINING Fresh from the Cape

CC20 SHOPPING From Market to Main

CC24 ARTS & CULTURE Cultural Gems

CC28 ACCOMMODATIONS Rest Easy

CC32 REAL ESTATE Home by the Sea

CC36 WEDDINGS Forever Starts Here

CC38 USEFUL INFORMATION Tips & Info

IN1 ADVERTISER INDEX Guide to dining, shopping, and activities

From windswept beaches and charming villages to world-class dining and endless outdoor adventures, every moment here is filled with discovery. Whether you’re unwinding by the sea or immersing yourself in local culture, you’ll find the island’s charm unfolding at every turn.

From bustling harbor towns and historic villages to rolling farmland and dramatic coastal cliffs, discover the distinct character of each corner of Martha’s Vineyard.

On a clear day, you can stand on the northern coast of Cape Cod and glimpse an island surrounded by sparkling blue water and seemingly removed from the everyday world: Martha’s Vineyard.

Though it may feel a world away, “The Vineyard” is just a ferry ride or short flight from the Cape and mainland. And though it feels larger in size when you start to roam, it covers about 100 square miles, roughly the same size as the city of Tampa, Florida.

With its compact size, the terrain is incredibly diverse and is anchored by six distinct towns, each offering its own personality and appeal. Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven serve as the Vineyard’s lively commercial and ferry hubs, while Chilmark, West Tisbury, and Aquinnah provide a quieter pace and a deeper connection to the island’s natural beauty. To truly experience Martha’s

With its compact size, the terrain is incredibly diverse and is anchored by six distinct towns.

Vineyard, you’ll want to explore them all. Don’t worry about missing any; you’ll be back.

Just make sure you have your lingo straight, because the locals divide the island into two different regions. “Down Island” encompasses Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven, where you’ll find bustling streets, shopping districts, restaurants, and nightlife, along with many of the island’s most popular attractions. “Up Island,” the towns of West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah are known for their rolling countryside, quiet roads, working farms, and, in Aquinnah, the iconic clay cliffs that have become one of the Vineyard’s most photographed landmarks. Most visitors start their trek across Martha’s Vineyard Down Island before heading west to explore the scenic beauty and laid-back charm of Up Island.

EDGARTOWN

Elegant yet approachable, Edgartown is often described as a place where designer labels and flip-flops coexist in harmony.

Located on the Vineyard’s eastern shore, this picture-perfect harbor town is one of the island’s premier shopping destinations.

Seasoned visitors often arrive with extra room in their luggage, knowing they’ll leave with wardrobe additions. Whether wearable keepsakes will be casual island attire, polished resort wear or something special for an evening out, Edgartown’s boutiques deliver. The Great Put On, for one, remains a favorite stop for stylish men’s and women’s fashions. Claudia’s Jewelry showcases work from local artists and designers alongside a carefully curated collection of accessories, while Summer Shades offers eyewear perfect for sunny island days. Before you leave town, satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop at Murdick’s Fudge, a Vineyard tradition.

You might need to adjust your clothing size, because Edgartown also boasts one of the island’s most diverse dining scenes. From classic American fare and Italian cuisine to sushi, sandwiches, and, of course, freshly harvested seafood, there are options for every appetite. And when dinner is done, the evening doesn’t have to end. Grab a cone or cup from one of the town’s popular ice cream shops and enjoy a leisurely waterfront stroll with views across Edgartown Harbor towards Chappaquiddick.

The town’s walkable layout makes shopping, sightseeing, and exploring easy, whether you’re browsing the shops of Main Street, seeking out historic landmarks, or getting the best shot of the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse, rising above a sandy bluff.

Charming as the downtown area is, you’ll want to make time for Edgartown’s prized wildlife habitats and naturescapes. South Beach and Norton Point offer miles of windswept shoreline, while at the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll traverse woodlands, meadows, ponds, salt marshes, and pristine shorelines along four miles of trails. Birding programs and kayak tours will help you get the most out of the experience.

A Perfect Day in Edgartown

7:00 a.m. | The Harbor Wakes Up

Start the day near Edgartown Harbor as fishing boats and sailboats gently sway in the morning light. The quiet streets offer a glimpse of the town before the day’s activity begins.

8:00 a.m. | Walk through History

After breakfast and before the shops fill, wander the downtown streets that once made Edgartown one of the wealthiest whaling ports in New England. Brick sidewalks, church steeples, and stately homes sit only a few blocks from the water.

10:00 a.m. | Harbor Light and Lighthouse Beach

Take the short walk to Edgartown Harbor Light. From the lawn surrounding the lighthouse, boats cross the harbor towards Chappaquiddick while Nantucket Sound stretches beyond.

11:30 a.m. | Browse Main Street

Spend late morning ducking into boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. Edgartown has become one of the island’s premier shopping destinations, but it’s easy to navigate.

1:00 p.m. | Lunch in Town

Grab a table downtown and linger a bit. Edgartown’s dining scene ranges from casual seafood shacks to polished restaurants, and half the fun is watching the town move around you.

2:30 p.m. | South Beach

Trade Main Street for the open shoreline. South Beach stretches for miles, and even on busy summer days, there’s plenty of room to roam.

5:00 p.m. | A Trip to Chappaquiddick

Take the small ferry across to Chappaquiddick. The crossing lasts only a few minutes, but the pace feels entirely different on the other side. Quiet roads, conservation lands, and a pristine shoreline make “Chappy” feel worlds away.

7:00 p.m. | Evening along the Harbor

Back in Edgartown, the harbor becomes the center of attention once again. Sailboats return, diners fill outdoor tables, and the golden light settles across the waterfront.

8:30 p.m. | One Last Walk

Finish the day with an ice cream cone and a stroll. After sunset, Edgartown feels less like a destination and more like a neighborhood.

OAK BLUFFS

Follow the road north from Edgartown to find Oak Bluffs, known for its lively spirit and warm welcome. As the island’s most accessible ferry port, it’s also a place where you can step off a boat and be instantly immersed in the energy of downtown.

Circuit Avenue serves as the town’s happening hub, lined with souvenir shops, candy stores, boutiques, restaurants, and ice cream parlors that still recall the classic, leisurely seaside vacation. Browse the handcrafted artisan jewelry at Stefanie Wolf Designs, then stop by Third World Trading, a longtime favorite known for its eclectic mix of clothing, gifts, and globally inspired treasures.

While shopping is certainly part of the experience, Oak Bluffs offers far more than retail therapy. Take time to explore the bustling downtown streets before venturing farther afield by bicycle or moped. Rental options are plentiful and provide easy access to the town’s scenic coastline, historic neighborhoods, and waterfront parks.

Of course, Oak Bluffs shares the white-sand coastline of other Vineyard towns yet puts its own unique stamp on sightseeing. Victorian-era cottages, expansive ocean views, and popular gathering spots such as Ocean Park create a setting unlike anywhere else on the island. Nearby Inkwell Beach, an important landmark along the African American Heritage Trail, reflects the town’s rich cultural history and was once a generational, summertime sanctuary for Black visitors.

Arriving by boat? Oak Bluffs Marina, the largest marina on Martha’s Vineyard, serves as both a gateway and gathering place. As the day winds down, the harborfront boardwalk fills with people heading for dinner, ice cream, and a sunset that can stop conversations mid-sentence.

When hunger strikes, many diners savor the freshness of seafood in Oak Bluffs. Lookout Tavern pairs harbor views with a popular raw bar and inventive cocktails, while Sand Bar & Grille lets you eat with your toes in the sand; and the Lobsterville Bar and Grille serves fresh local favorites with a spectacular view of the harbor.

A Perfect Day in Oak Bluffs

7:00 a.m. | Coffee by the Ferry Docks

The town starts early. Ferries arrive, workers head downtown, and the harbor begins filling with activity long before most visitors are awake.

8:00 a.m. | Ocean Park Victorian homes frame Ocean Park on all sides, creating one of the most recognizable scenes on the island.

9:00 a.m. | Flying Horses Carousel

Visit the Flying Horses Carousel before the crowds arrive. The 19th-century ride features 20 hand-carved wooden horses with real horsehair and glass eyes.

10:30 a.m. | Circuit Avenue

As downtown comes alive, spend a few hours exploring Circuit Avenue. Candy stores, souvenir shops, galleries, cafés, and boutiques all compete for attention.

12:30 p.m. | Lunch near the Harbor

Find a seat overlooking the marina and watch ferries, fishing boats, and pleasure craft navigate the harbor entrance.

2:00 p.m. | Beach Time at Inkwell or State Beach

Spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing on the sand, or following the shoreline at Inkwell Beach or nearby State Beach.

5:00 p.m. | East Chop Lighthouse

Head to East Chop for sweeping views of Vineyard Sound and a visit to the historic lighthouse.

7:00 p.m. | Back Downtown

The energy picks up again as restaurants fill and Circuit Avenue glows under evening lights.

9:00 p.m. | Oak Bluffs after Dark

After dinner, stay downtown. On summer nights, Circuit Avenue remains one of the busiest streets on Martha’s Vineyard. Live music, crowded patios, and the steady flow of people between the harbor and downtown give Oak Bluffs an energy that’s hard to find elsewhere on the island.

VINEYARD HAVEN

Just west of Oak Bluffs, the historic waterfront town of Vineyard Haven is where maritime tradition and creative culture continue to shape daily life.

For centuries, Vineyard Haven’s harbor has served as one of the island’s most important ports. Today, ferries share the waterfront with fishing vessels, boatyards, and marine businesses that reflect and serve the town’s enduring connection to the sea.

But before enjoying Vineyard Haven’s present-day charms, take a detour to the past by strolling the William Street Historic District, a beautifully preserved neighborhood recognized on the National Register of Historic Places for its collection of mid-19th-century homes offering a glimpse into the architectural heritage that helped define Martha’s Vineyard.

Though you may be miles from the imposing cultural centers of big cities, culture is a priority here and remains central to Vineyard Haven’s identity. Much of the town falls within the Vineyard Haven Cultural District, an area dedicated to supporting local arts, preserving the waterfront character, and celebrating community life. At its heart is the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center, a year-round venue presenting independent films, live broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera, art exhibitions, and special events, including the Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival.

After exploring the arts scene, settle in for a meal overlooking the harbor, where waterfront restaurants and outdoor patios invite visitors to linger over fresh seafood, raw bar specialties, creative cocktails, and local lobster prepared in countless ways.

Among the town’s standout dining destinations are 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar, known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients; The Maker Café, where house-made pasta meets fresh island seafood; and Quitsa Kitchen, a working bakery serving homestyle fare. For a casual meal on the go, Woodland Variety & Grill remains a popular choice.

Shopping in Vineyard Haven also channels the town’s creative spirit. Conrado offers ethically and sustainably produced clothing and accessories, while The Green Room carries everything from brandname apparel to surf, skate, and swim essentials. Specialty shops include Coastal Supply Co., featuring gifts, souvenirs, and locally made products; and CB Stark Jewelers, continuing a tradition of showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive island-inspired designs.

A Perfect Day in Vineyard Haven

7:00 a.m. | Harbor Coffee

Grab a coffee near the ferry terminal and watch the harbor come to life. Boats arrive from Woods Hole, deckhands unload cargo, and the waterfront begins another day.

8:30 a.m. | William Street Historic District

Spend the morning exploring one of the island’s most beautiful residential neighborhoods. The streets are quiet, shaded, and lined with homes that have watched over the harbor for generations.

10:00 a.m. | Martha’s Vineyard Museum

The island’s story unfolds here through maritime exhibits, historic artifacts, and stories of the people who built life on the Vineyard.

12:30 p.m. | Lunch by the Water

Watch the action from your harborfront table — Vineyard Haven’s waterfront remains a working harbor, so there’s always something happening.

2:00 p.m. | Bookstores, Galleries & Shops

Vineyard Haven has long attracted artists, writers, and makers. Spend the afternoon browsing independent bookstores, galleries, and locally owned shops.

4:00 p.m. | West Chop

Follow the road north towards West Chop. The lighthouse itself isn’t open to visitors, but the drive and surrounding views are worth the trip.

5:30 p.m. | Owen Park

Watch children jumping off the dock, sailboats returning to the harbor, and ferries making their final runs of the day.

7:00 p.m. | An Evening Performance

Catch a film, a play, or a cultural event. Vineyard Haven’s arts scene stays vibrant year-round.

9:00 p.m. | Harbor Lights

End the day along the waterfront, where reflections dance across the harbor and the pace finally slows.

WEST TISBURY

Travel south from Vineyard Haven to discover West Tisbury, a town where open fields, country roads, and agricultural traditions continue to define the landscape. Covering 34 square miles, West Tisbury is home to just over 3,000 year-round residents, though its population swells each summer as visitors seek out the Vineyard’s quieter side.

Originally settled in 1669, the town has carefully preserved the rural character that once shaped communities throughout Cape Cod and the islands. Today, working farms, conservation lands, and historic gathering places remain central to life here.

One of the best introductions to West Tisbury is the West Tisbury Farmers Market, held from June through October at the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Hall. The hall itself is a local landmark — a reconstructed century-old postand-beam barn brought to the island from New Hampshire — and serves as a year-round hub for community events, artisan fairs, exhibitions, and the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair, a highlight of summer for generations.

West Tisbury is the kind of place that rewards slowing down, where you’re more likely to share a table with a lifelong resident than another visitor. Pull over at a farm stand. Wander into a gallery. Or take the long route through Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, which spans thousands of acres and features an extensive network of paved and unpaved trails that wind through woodlands, meadows, and ponds. Popular with walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and dog owners, the forest offers a peaceful retreat and, in some cases, trails that lead all the way to the shoreline.

Beyond its natural beauty, West Tisbury has unexpected treasures waiting to be found. Visitors can browse roadside farm stands, discover local artisan studios, visit a traditional general store, or explore outdoor sculpture installations tucked among the trees. Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Granary Gallery, the oldest and largest gallery on Martha’s Vineyard.

Lambert’s Cove Beach is another local favorite, celebrated for its soft sand, tranquil setting, and spectacular sunsets. During the summer season, however, access is limited to West Tisbury residents and renters with the appropriate beach permit.

A Perfect Day in West Tisbury

7:00 a.m. | Start with a Country Drive

Early morning is one of the best times to experience West Tisbury. Follow winding roads past stone walls, open fields, and farm stands preparing for the day. There is no rush hour here.

8:00 a.m. | Breakfast at Alley’s

Savor breakfast at Alley’s General Store, a Vineyard institution since 1858. Locals stop in for newspapers, provisions, and conversation, making it one of the best places to get a feel for the community.

9:00 a.m. | Wander the Farmers Market

If you’re visiting on market day, spend the morning browsing the West Tisbury Farmers Market at Agricultural Hall. Fresh vegetables, baked goods, flowers, crafts, and island-made products fill the grounds while musicians provide the soundtrack.

11:00 a.m. | Explore the State Forest

Head into Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, where miles of paved and unpaved trails weave through pine woods, scrub oak, and sandy glacial terrain. Walk, bike, or simply find a quiet trail and see where it takes you.

1:00 p.m. | Lunch from a Farm Stand

Rather than seeking out a formal lunch, assemble one. Pick up fresh fruit, local cheese, baked goods, or sandwiches from one of the

area’s farms or markets and find a shady spot to enjoy them.

2:30 p.m. | Art and Unexpected Discoveries

Spend the afternoon gallery hopping; the Granary Gallery and Field Gallery have long been fixtures of the island’s art scene. Outdoor sculpture, hidden studios, and roadside art often appear where you least expect them.

4:30 p.m. | Polly Hill Arboretum

Stroll the grounds of Polly Hill Arboretum, where unusual trees, flowering plants, and quiet pathways create a landscape that feels both cultivated and wonderfully wild.

6:00 p.m. | The Long Way Home

As evening approaches, take the scenic route. Follow the back roads through fields and woodlands as the late-afternoon light paints the countryside.

7:30 p.m. | Sunset at Lambert’s Cove

If access is available, make your way to Lambert’s Cove Beach. The north-facing shoreline offers some of the Vineyard’s most beautiful evening light, and the sunsets here tend to draw more locals than crowds.

9:00 p.m. | A Quiet Ending

Unlike some Vineyard towns, West Tisbury doesn’t offer much nightlife. Instead, the day ends with crickets, distant waves, and a sky full of stars.

CHILMARK

Continue west to Chilmark, a town where rolling hills, stone walls, grazing sheep, and dramatic coastal scenery create one of the Vineyard’s most iconic landscapes.

Time slows down here, where working farms and deep-rooted rural traditions anchor a life in tune with the seasons. Step into Chilmark’s agricultural heritage by touring the fields, browsing local markets, and tasting fresh bread and artisan cheeses straight from the sources.

Chilmark is also home to two of the island’s most coveted beaches: Lucy Vincent Beach and Squibnocket Beach. Both are prized for their natural beauty and unspoiled settings, with summer access generally reserved for Chilmark residents and renters with permits.

Squibnocket Beach, with its rugged shoreline and powerful surf, attracts both wave riders and anglers. Fishermen, in particular, are drawn by the possibility of hooking one of the region’s legendary striped bass, known locally as “stripers.”

Get your phone cameras ready because just beyond Chilmark, Menemsha is a rare, authentic working fishing village where generations of local families bring in the daily catch from Vineyard Sound and the Elizabeth Islands. Watch weathered boats dock at Dutcher Dock before enjoying ultra-fresh lobster, clams, and oysters on the water.

As evening approaches, Menemsha becomes one of the island’s most sought-after sunset destinations, with outdoor film screenings (in season) and community events beneath the stars.

A Perfect Day in Chilmark

7:00 a.m. | Breakfast at the General Store

The line forms early. Contractors, fishermen, landscapers, and summer visitors all find themselves standing together waiting for coffee and breakfast.

8:00 a.m. | Get a Little Lost

Leave the itinerary behind for a while. Follow Middle Road through rolling hills, stone walls, and open pastures. The landscape has changed remarkably little over the years.

10:00 a.m. | Menemsha Hills

The trails climb gradually before opening onto some of the best views on the island. From Prospect Hill, Vineyard Sound stretches towards the Elizabeth Islands.

12:30 p.m. | Lunch Alfresco

Pick up something local and eat outdoors. Chilmark’s agricultural roots remain visible almost everywhere you look.

2:00 p.m. | Chilmark Pond

Spend the afternoon near the pond, where kayakers, paddleboarders, shorebirds, and fishermen share the landscape.

4:30 p.m. | Menemsha Harbor

Head into Menemsha while fishing boats are still unloading their catch. The village remains one of the island’s last authentic working fishing ports.

6:00 p.m. | Seafood by the Water

Order fresh fish, lobster, or chowder and find a place to sit near the harbor.

7:30 p.m. | Sunset in Menemsha Night after night, people gather along the beach and harbor wall to watch the sun disappear into Vineyard Sound. It’s one of Martha’s Vineyard’s oldest daily traditions.

9:00 p.m. | Lingering in the Moonlight

Many visitors leave when the sun goes down. The locals know the best part may be the quiet that follows.

AQUINNAH

At the far western end of the Vineyard, Aquinnah just feels different from the rest of the island. The roads are quieter, the views are bigger, and the clay cliffs seem to rise straight out of the sea.

Many visitors arrive from nearby Menemsha by bicycle, taking advantage of the scenic route that connects the two communities. Cyclists looking for an easier journey can even utilize the area’s bike ferry to bypass some of the steeper terrain.

Once known as Gay Head, the town officially reclaimed its original Wampanoag name, Aquinnah, in 1998. The name translates to “high land,” a fitting description for a place where towering cliffs rise above the Atlantic Ocean.

The Aquinnah Cliffs are among the Vineyard’s most recognizable natural landmarks. Layers of vividly colored clay form dramatic patterns along the coastline, creating a landscape unlike any other in the Northeast. Whether viewed from the beach below or from the walking paths above, the cliffs offer unforgettable vistas and some of the island’s most spectacular sunsets.

The upper trails provide panoramic views that stretch across the ocean to the Elizabeth Islands and the iconic Gay Head Lighthouse. Visitors can also explore the lower shoreline for a closer look at the cliffs and surrounding coastal environment.

Beyond its natural wonders, Aquinnah offers art galleries, paddleboarding opportunities, cultural attractions, and enticing restaurants. Families visiting the area will also find community gathering spaces and new recreational amenities that reflect a town priority: the next generation.

A Perfect Day in Aquinnah

7:00 a.m. | Morning at Moshup Beach

Arrive before the crowds. The cliffs tower overhead, the surf rolls in below, and the only sounds are wind and water.

9:00 a.m. | Gay Head Lighthouse

Walk the paths surrounding the lighthouse and take in views that stretch across the Atlantic and Vineyard Sound.

10:30 a.m. | Learn the Story of the Land

Spend time at the Aquinnah Cultural Center to gain a deeper understanding of the Aquinnah Wampanoag community and its enduring connection to the land.

12:30 p.m. | Lunch with a View

The Aquinnah Shop Restaurant is perched directly atop the colorful Gay Head Cliffs.

2:00 p.m. | Explore the Clifftop Paths

The views shift constantly depending on the light, weather, and season. Spend some time simply walking and looking.

4:00 p.m. | Lobsterville Beach

Head north towards Lobsterville, where calmer waters and miles of untouched dunes create a tranquil beach escape.

5:30 p.m. | Clifftop Shops and Studios

Before sunset, spend some time around the overlook area, where small shops and artist studios sit above the cliffs. It’s a chance to browse local artwork, handcrafted goods, and oneof-a-kind keepsakes.

7:30 p.m. | Sunset at the Cliffs

As the sun lowers, the clay begins to glow. Reds, golds, oranges, and grays shift by the minute, creating one of the most memorable scenes anywhere in New England.

8:30 p.m. | The Last Light

Stay until the crowds leave. The silence that settles over Aquinnah after sunset is part of the experience.

By Lisa Simundson

Star Power | From

Hollywood actors and chart-topping musicians to presidents and political powerhouses,

Martha’s Vineyard has long attracted famous fans.

THE SAME QUALITIES THAT

DRAW MILLIONS of visitors to this island of cliffs and plains — breathtaking beaches, historical treasures, postcard-perfect small towns, and a refreshing sense of escape — have also made the island a favorite retreat for a red carpet’s worth of celebrities.

Singer-songwriter Carly Simon has been one of the Vineyard’s most recognizable residents for decades and, though known for her shyness, has hardly kept a low profile. In 1987, she appeared in Live from Martha’s Vineyard, an HBO concert special recorded on the beach in then–Gay Head (now Aquinnah).

The same qualities that draw millions of visitors to this island of cliffs and plains have also made the island a favorite retreat for a red carpet’s worth of celebrities.

Simon’s compound of 175 acres in Lambert’s Cove, West Tisbury, includes a gazebo, two barns, a horse shed, and many outbuildings, housing (at various times) goats, dogs, miniature horses, and donkeys — oh, and her two grown children, both musicians. Another longtime resident of the Vineyard, Saturday Night Live alum Dan Aykroyd lives in Chilmark. Aykroyd, who starred in Ghostbusters and The Blues Brothers , has even gotten involved in town politics on occasion, sending a letter in 2020 to the Martha’s Vineyard Commission in support of a local project, according to the  Martha’s Vineyard Times

Aykroyd’s neighbors, Hollywood power couple Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen, have long enjoyed spending time at their Chilmark home and are known for being active in the local community. Beyond their signature roles in Cheers and Melvin (and Howard), Danson appeared in the hit show Curb Your Enthusiasm, while Steenburgen was in the Netflix smash Gracie and Frankie

Danson’s friend and onscreen nemesis, Curb creator Larry David, also has a home on the Vineyard, as does actor Michael J. Fox, a summer resident who’s been known to frequent The Black Dog Tavern in Vineyard Haven.

Filmmaker Spike Lee broke ground on his home in Oak Bluffs in 1992, adjacent to the Farm Neck Golf Club. Lee says he once saw frequent visitor Barack Obama playing golf there and walked over to say hello. President Obama and his family famously spent many summers on the island during and after his presidency.

The Clintons have been Martha’s Vineyard mainstays for decades and

can sometimes be seen at Mad Martha’s ice cream shop. There are three Vineyard locations, so you might consume quite a bit of ice cream trying to catch a glimpse. Tough job, but someone’s gotta do it!

Other notable names connected to Martha’s Vineyard over the years include Oprah Winfrey, Bill Murray, Meg Ryan, Reese Witherspoon, and the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, all of whom have owned homes, vacationed here, or maintained ties to the island.

Of course, celebrity spotting isn’t an official Vineyard activity — but it does happen. You might find yourself standing behind a famous face in line for coffee, sharing a ferry ride with a recognizable actor, or passing a public figure strolling through town. On Martha’s Vineyard, even the stars tend to embrace the island’s laid-back spirit.

From sailing and sportfishing to paddleboarding and seaside escapes, discover Martha’s Vineyard from the water.

On an island surrounded by the sea, some of the most memorable adventures begin at the water’s edge.

In fact, your connection to Martha’s Vineyard starts before you even arrive. Crossing Vineyard Sound by ferry from Cape Cod, you’ll feel the salt air on your face as the island slowly emerges on the horizon.

With nearly 120 miles of shoreline, Martha’s Vineyard offers a remarkable variety of coastal experiences.

That’s a fitting introduction to a destination shaped by its enduring relationship with the sea.

With nearly 120 miles of shoreline, Martha’s Vineyard offers a remarkable variety of coastal experiences, from expansive Atlantic beaches and tranquil salt ponds to bustling harbors where fishing boats still bring in the day’s catch. Whether you’re casting a line, setting sail, paddling quiet waters, taking a refreshing swim, or simply soaking in the ocean views, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the island from its most defining vantage point: the water.

A Different View of the Vineyard

To experience Martha’s Vineyard from a different perspective, trade the shoreline for a paddle-powered adventure by kayak or paddle board across the island’s calm coastal ponds, sheltered harbors, and quiet bays. Outfitters are plentiful, and some will even deliver boards and kayaks directly to your vacation rental.

For families, the calm waters of Sengekontacket Pond and Majors Cove near Edgartown are protected from heavy surf and offer an easy, relaxed paddle across clear waters and salt marshes teeming with coastal birds and marine life.

Adventure seekers and experienced paddlers may choose to launch from the shore and venture into Vineyard Sound. In Oak Bluffs, rentals and guided tours are available right on State Beach.

Guided excursions offer an even deeper connection to the island. Local guides share stories of the Vineyard’s maritime heritage, point out wildlife, and provide insight into the area’s unique

SAILING WITH PURPOSE

Capt. Ian Ridgeway, skipper of the historic schooner Shenandoah, is a licensed mariner, educator, and cofounder of the Martha’s Vineyard Ocean Academy. Through experiential learning and adventure voyages aboard the Shenandoah, the Academy helps inspire the next generation of sailors and leaders. For more information, visit mvoa.org.

coastal ecosystems. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, several outfitters also offer stand-up paddle board yoga classes on sheltered ponds and coves.

And when the day begins to wind down, the water remains just as inviting. Evening excursions in illuminated clear kayaks offer a magical way to experience the Vineyard after dark, with glowing boats gliding across calm waters as the last light fades from the sky.

Life below the Surface

As beautiful as Martha’s Vineyard is from the shore, some of its most fascinating discoveries lie beneath the surface. Slip below the waves and see the island from a whole new perspective.

From shallow, crystal-clear bays ideal for snorkelers and first-time divers to deeper offshore waters for experienced adventurers, the waters surrounding Martha’s Vineyard support a surprisingly diverse marine ecosystem. Stingrays, seahorses, and schools of colorful fish are commonly spotted, while divers venturing farther offshore may encounter brown sharks, blue sharks, and even the occasional thresher shark.

The region’s maritime history also runs deep beneath the waves. In fact, Vineyard Sound is known as a graveyard for historic shipwrecks, each holding a tragic tale. In 1929, thick fog caused an accident that claimed the coal schooner Taussig. Eleven years earlier, in

DID YOU KNOW ?

From shallow, crystalclear bays ideal for snorkelers and firsttime divers to deeper offshore waters for experienced adventurers, the waters surrounding Martha’s Vineyard support a surprisingly diverse marine ecosystem.

1918, the British freighter Port Hunter sank after colliding with a tugboat while carrying a vast array of war supplies. Perhaps most haunting of all, the Vineyard Lightship disappeared during the devastating hurricane of 1944, taking her entire crew with her.

Whether you’re exploring these vestiges of New England’s seafaring past or snorkeling closer to shore, a wet suit is recommended. The waters around Martha’s Vineyard remain cool even during the height of summer.

Local dive shops offer equipment rentals, certification courses, and guided excursions, making it easy for both beginners and experienced divers to explore a side of Martha’s Vineyard that many visitors never experience.

Cast a Line into Island Tradition

Fishing is a way of life on the Vineyard. Spend just a few days here and you’ll notice that conversations about tides, bait, and where the fish are biting are every bit as common as talk of the weather.

For visitors, chartering a fishing boat is one of the easiest ways to

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get in on the action. Expert captains who know where the fish are biting offer halfand full-day trips into Vineyard Sound, Nantucket Sound, and the Atlantic. In addition to local knowledge, they usually provide gear and bait, though it’s always worth asking what the charter includes before heading out.

The island’s fishing calendar revolves around a few key events. The Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby, held each fall, has been drawing anglers for generations, while the Oak Bluffs Bluewater Classic brings offshore fishing enthusiasts to the island each summer.

Around May, the fish many locals wait all winter for begin to arrive. Striped bass — or “stripers,” as everyone calls them here — signal the start of another fishing season. While stripers are pursued throughout the season, summer remains peak fishing time. But the island’s fishing opportunities extend far beyond these inshore favorites. Offshore anglers often set their sights on yellowfin and bluefin tuna, some of the most sought-after catches in New England waters.

Bluefish are another island favorite. Aggressive feeders that often travel in schools, they’re known for creating the dramatic surface feeding frenzies called “bluefish blitzes.” They’re exciting to watch, though not ideal if you’re a baitfish.

You don’t need a boat to fish here either. Martha’s Vineyard has long been considered one of the East Coast’s premier surf-fishing destinations. Walk onto almost any stretch of beach during fishing season and chances are you’ll find anglers casting into the surf, waiting for the unmistakable tug of the next strike.

Discover the Vineyard’s Many Shores

Ask returning Vineyard visitors about their favorite island pastime, and many will give the same answer: spending the day at the beach. The island offers no shortage of options, from long Atlantic-facing stretches of sand to protected harbor beaches where the water

stays calm and shallow. Some are known for surfing, some for sunsets, and some simply for being a good place to spend an afternoon with a book and a beach chair.

In Edgartown, every beach has its own personality. Located within Chappaquiddick’s Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation, East Beach attracts bird-watchers and nature lovers looking for a quieter experience. A short walk from downtown, Fuller Street Beach is a favorite for a quick swim or a few hours in the sun. Katama Beach, better known as South Beach, draws surfers and wave seekers, while Lighthouse Beach offers postcard-worthy views beneath the watchful eye of Edgartown Harbor Light.

In Oak Bluffs, Inkwell Beach is only a short walk from the ferry terminal, making it one of the island’s most accessible stretches of sand. Nearby Joseph Sylvia State Beach offers a completely different experience, with gentle waves and shallow waters ideal for families, along with a long shoreline that’s perfect for leisurely walks.

Owen Park Beach in Vineyard Haven is another family favorite, offering a sheltered harbor and notably warmer waters. Here, kids often spend just as much time tracking the passing ferries and sailboats as they do splashing in the shallows.

At the opposite end of the island, Aquinnah’s beaches showcase some of Martha’s Vineyard’s most dramatic scenery. Moshup Beach sits below the famous clay cliffs, where layers of red, gold, and gray rise above the shoreline. On a clear day, the view from the top ranks among the most memorable on the island.

Ask returning Vineyard visitors about their favorite island pastime, and many will give the same answer: spending the day at the beach.

For something quieter, head to Aquinnah’s Lobsterville Beach. Stretching along the shoreline near Menemsha Channel, it’s a good place for a long walk and a little solitude. Just keep in mind that sections of the beach may occasionally be closed to protect nesting and migratory shorebirds.

Speaking of Menemsha, Chilmark’s public beach may be small; but what it lacks in size it makes up for in atmosphere. Set beside one of the island’s last working fishing villages, it’s widely regarded as one of the best places on Martha’s Vineyard to watch the sun sink into the water.

West Tisbury offers yet another beach experience at Long Point Wildlife Refuge. Here you’ll find a coastal pond, walking trails, and a landscape that feels far removed from the busier parts of the island. Kayak and paddle board rentals are available during the summer months, making it easy to explore both land and water.

While most people picture the ocean when they think of the beach, locals know that some of the island’s most inviting waters are found inland. The Vineyard’s network of freshwater and brackish ponds has shaped the island’s unique ecology while offering idyllic spots for swimming, paddling, and wildlife viewing.

Edgartown Great Pond, Farm Pond in Oak Bluffs, and Crystal Lake in Vineyard Haven are all well worth seeking out, proving that sometimes, the perfect day on the water doesn’t require the ocean at all.

Trade the beach for scenic trails, championship golf, wildlife preserves, and outdoor adventures that reveal another side of Martha's Vineyard.

Martha’s Vineyard may be best known for its beaches, but some of the island’s most rewarding experiences lie beyond the shoreline. Whether you’re lacing up hiking boots, setting out on two wheels, or teeing up for a round of golf, there are countless ways to explore the Vineyard’s natural beauty on land.

Venture inland and you’ll discover a landscape every bit as captivating as the coast. Woodland trails wind through nature preserves, wetlands shelter abundant wildlife, and crystal-clear ponds offer moments of quiet reflection. Conservation lands showcase sweeping coastal vistas and some of the island’s best birdwatching, while picturesque golf courses provide opportunities to chase birdies of a different kind. However you choose to spend your time outdoors, Martha’s Vineyard makes it easy to get out and explore.

DID YOU KNOW?

Whether you’re lacing up hiking boots, setting out on two wheels, or teeing up for a round of golf, there are countless ways to explore the Vineyard’s natural beauty.

Trails for Every Pace

Lace up your hiking shoes and discover a quieter side of Martha’s Vineyard. From coastal preserves and wildlife sanctuaries to woodland trails and scenic overlooks, the island’s trail network offers a refreshing way to connect with nature.

Families will appreciate the Edgartown Pond Loop, a gentle 0.68-mile circuit around Sheriff’s Pond, accessible from a quiet side street in downtown Edgartown. The route offers views of the main pond, surrounding meadows, salt marshes, Eel Pond, and, in the distance, Nantucket Sound. It’s also navigable for those using mobility aids.

Also great for younger visitors, the West Tisbury Storybook Walk sits west of Edgartown on Nat’s Farm, threading through sunny meadows, woodlands, and pasture near the Correllus State Forest bike path. The mostly flat route passes an equine learning center — horses included — with storybook displays placed along the trail.

In Edgartown, the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses 194 acres of meadows and salt marshes laced with trails for all ability levels while offering a variety of educational programs and activities throughout the year, including two dedicated nature play areas for children.

More ambitious hikers can seek out the Cross Chilmark Trail, which begins at Great Rock Bight Preserve on the island’s north shore, delivering sweeping views across Vineyard Sound towards the Elizabeth Islands. The route continues west to Peaked Hill Reservation — the island’s highest point at 311 feet — where the panorama is nothing short of spectacular.

South of Great Rock, the Fulling Mill Brook Preserve features a 1.5-mile loop trail leading to a small dam tied to a late-1600s wool-processing operation. Footbridges span the brook, providing access to areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

For a longer outing, the 5.6-mile Tiasquam Waskosim’s Ramble winds through Waskosim’s Rock Reservation and the Tiasquam Valley Reservation. The trail includes three loops and passes through a rich mix of woodlands, open meadows, and shaded wetlands along Mill Brook, with Waskosim’s Rock serving as one of the route’s most notable landmarks.

Two Wheels, Endless Views

For many visitors, cycling is the quintessential Martha’s Vineyard experience, and it’s easy to see why. With more than 40 miles of bike paths and routes suited to every skill level, the island is tailor-made for exploring on two wheels.

While the Down Island trails connecting Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown are largely flat and well suited to casual riders, the Up Island communities of West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah offer a more demanding ride, where winding roads and rolling hills are rewarded with some of the island’s most spectacular scenery. If you didn’t pack your own bike, rental shops and repair services are readily available across the island.

Popular routes abound, including the Edgartown-toSouth Beach ride, a seven-mile round trip along Katama Road that’s perfect for a beach day. The Edgartown-toVineyard Haven route is a straight shot when you follow Edgartown–Vineyard Haven Road. Meanwhile, the Oak Bluffs-to-Edgartown path is among the island’s most popular rides, a flat six-mile route offering views of Nantucket Sound and Sengekontacket Pond.

DID YOU KNOW?

With more than 40 miles of bike paths and routes suited to every skill level, the island is tailormade for exploring on two wheels.

Up Island towns don’t have designated bike paths, but their winding roads and rolling hills make for memorable riding for those who have the legs for it.

To explore Chappaquiddick, catch the On-Time Ferry with your bike. The roads are quiet and largely rural, and the 200-acre Wasque Point Wildlife Management Area is a rewarding destination.

A Heart for Rescue | Island resident Leslie Hurd turns compassion into action with her tireless work rescuing

and rehoming dogs — a mission that’s close to the heart of The Black Dog community.

SOME PEOPLE SEEM to arrive at their life’s calling early and never look back. For longtime Martha’s Vineyard resident Leslie Hurd, that calling has always been animals — dogs in particular.

The Black Dog, as an island-rooted business, has come to know Hurd well over the years, watching her quiet but relentless dedication to rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming play out up close. Some of her rescues have been fostered in our home office; others have been adopted by our colleagues. Our island stores have hosted Doggie Adoption Days with her organization, Angels Helping Animals Worldwide, which is also the current beneficiary of our Round Up program. Hurd’s story deserves to be shared more widely — so, here it is.

Her path began in a Boston University dorm room, where she rescued a dog and a cat and discovered, almost immediately, that animal rescue wasn’t just something she did — it was who she was. What followed is a history that’s hard to summarize: pulling puppies and their mothers from puppy mills, pulling dogs from kill shelters across the South, meeting planes full of strays on South Carolina runways, and driving across multiple states with 20 or more dogs in tow, bunking in hotels along the way.

Hurd has coordinated large-scale rescue missions from the Virgin Islands and, in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, helped rescue more than 1,000 dogs from Texas to the Florida Panhandle — with country singer Kenny Chesney lending a hand.

She doesn’t do it alone. Her team includes Dr. Cheryl, a retired veterinarian who provides medical care for rescued animals; Lynn, a committed animal advocate who has joined Hurd on countless missions; and Caroline, a local Martha’s Vineyard resident who has fostered numerous animals until they find permanent homes. Together, they are working towards something bigger: a new half-acre facility on Cape Cod that will include a barn, a quarantine building, and living quarters for full-time staff.

Angels Helping Animals Worldwide is a 501(c) nonprofit funded entirely by donations and grants. Founded in 2014, the organization’s mission is to transport animals from areas with an overabundance of strays to regions where adoptable pets are in short supply — and to help those animals find homes. Learn more at www.angelshelpinganimalsmv.org

DISCOVER

Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape

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Scan the QR code found throughout the pages of this visitors’ guide to download the indispensable Discover Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape app while on the go.

See the Island Your Way Prefer the freedom of four wheels? Rental cars are available at multiple locations across the island through Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals, with additional options based in Oak Bluffs and at the airport. Budget MV in Vineyard Haven specializes in Jeeps and sports cars, among other vehicles.

If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, sightseeing tours offer a relaxed way to discover the island’s highlights. If you’d rather let someone else navigate, sightseeing tours are plentiful, including Vineyard Transit/MV Sightseeing, which runs bus connections to all six towns along with fullisland tours and trolley rides. Other options range from fullday sailing adventures and custom private tours to audio guides, self-guided itineraries, and even scavenger hunt experiences. Many operators offer hotel pickup and dropoff, making it easy to explore without worrying about logistics — just ask your concierge for recommendations.

Guiding Lights

Martha’s Vineyard’s five historic lighthouses stand as enduring reminders of the island’s maritime past. During the 19th century, when whaling, fishing, and seafaring commerce drove the local economy, mariners relied on these steady beams for safe passage to shore. Lighthouse enthusiasts have long recognized this collection as the country’s most diverse grouping in such a compact area, each one overlooking either Vineyard Sound, Nantucket Sound, or the approaches to Edgartown Harbor and Cape Poge.

The West Chop Lighthouse, built in 1817 at the entrance to Vineyard Haven Harbor and rebuilt in brick in 1838, was the last of the island’s lighthouses to be automated, remaining staffed until 1976. Now operated by the Coast Guard, it is not open to the public.

Its counterpart, the East Chop Lighthouse in Oak Bluffs, welcomes seasonal visitors, with a lighthouse keeper often on hand to share its history.

The Edgartown Lighthouse, originally built in 1828, has been moved, rebuilt, and restored multiple times over the years. It welcomes visitors during the summer and is an easy walk from downtown.

On Chappaquiddick Island, the Cape Poge Lighthouse dates to 1802 and was established by the U.S. government to guide traffic into Edgartown’s busy whaling harbor. Its remote location requires an over-sand vehicle to reach.

Perched dramatically above Aquinnah’s colorful clay cliffs, the Gay Head Lighthouse offers some of the most breathtaking views on Martha’s Vineyard, making it a fitting finale to any lighthouse tour. Nicknamed the “Red Queen” for its red brick exterior, it dates back to 1844, replacing a wooden structure first built in 1796. Today, it welcomes visitors throughout much of the year and hosts a variety of events.

Lighthouse enthusiasts have long recognized this collection as the country’s most diverse grouping in such a compact area.

The Vineyard Goes to the Dogs

| From scenic trails

to beachside romps, Martha’s Vineyard offers endless outdoor adventures for your four-legged friends.

DOG PARKS

John G. Rogers Dog Park

88 Holmes Hole Rd., Vineyard Haven. A welcoming spot with a stick library for fetch, plus water, bowls, poop bag receptacles, and plenty of parking. Nice walking trails nearby round out the visit.

Trade Wind Fields Preserve County Rd., Oak Bluffs. Considered one of the most

pet-friendly places on the island, this 72-acre conservation property is on the site of a former small airfield (the occasional plane still lands here, so keep an eye out). Walking trails wind through the meadow and into the woods. Dogs should be on leash or under immediate control; bring your own water, though bowls and poop bag stations are on-site.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

Many dogs are just as enthusiastic about the water as their owners, but seasonal restrictions apply at most beaches — so, always check posted signage for current hours and rules.

Aquinnah — From May 15 through September 15, leashed dogs are welcome at Lobsterville Beach. Off-season, leashed dogs can visit all beaches.

Chilmark — Dogs are welcome at the beaches here in the offseason only and may be off leash.

Edgartown — A short ferry ride to Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge on Chappaquiddick Island opens up a beautiful barrier beach with a salt pond where leashed dogs are welcome throughout the refuge. Lighthouse Beach and Fuller Beach also allow dogs before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. for sunrise and sunset strolls.

Oak Bluffs — From May through September, dogs may visit the waterfront before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. Off-season, they’re welcome anytime. The harbor loop is a favorite among dog owners year-round. State Beach (Oak Bluffs and Edgartown) — Dogs are not permitted between April 1 and August 31 due to nesting terns and piping plovers. Vineyard Haven — Eastville Beach, just over the drawbridge, is a calm, leash-required spot ideal for dogs who love to swim.

PATHFINDERS

The island’s conservation properties offer beautiful walking for dogs and their people — each with its own set of regulations, so it’s worth a quick call before you go:

• County of Dukes County: 508-696-3840

• Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank: 508-627-7141

• The Nature Conservancy: 508-693-6287

• Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation: 508-693-5207

• The Trustees of Reservations: 508-693-7662

• Vineyard Conservation Society: 508-693-9588

• Vineyard Open Land Foundation: 508-693-3280

Fairways, Courts & Wellness Pursuits

Golf on Martha’s Vineyard comes with scenery that may well upstage the game itself. The island’s courses — a mix of public, private, and semiprivate — offer ocean views and beautifully maintained grounds.

The Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs, for one, is a semiprivate 18-hole course set against meadows, marshes, and water views that make even a bogey feel worthwhile.

Vineyard Sound provides a scenic backdrop at Mink Meadows Golf Club, where expansive fairways and manicured greens have welcomed players for more than 85 years. The nine-hole course offers proshop services and lessons for all levels of play.

Also overlooking Vineyard Sound, the Edgartown Golf Club, founded in 1926, is open to members and guests year-round (weather permitting) and runs a junior golf program along with benefit tournaments open to the public during the summer months. Also in Edgartown, the Vineyard Golf Club takes a different approach, combining quality play with an environmental commitment across 235 acres. Recognized as one of the world’s most

environmentally sensitive courses, the private club works with naturalists and regulatory bodies to maintain a fully organic operation.

For something truly unique, head to the aptly named Royal and Ancient Chappaquiddick Links, established in 1887 and surrounded by untouched forest for a truly secluded feel. Accessible by ferry, this private club offers weekly memberships, day passes, and night golf. Golf may take center stage, but it’s far from the island’s only recreational pursuit. Tennis and pickleball enthusiasts will find courts throughout the island, including Vineyard Family Tennis and Farm Neck Tennis in Oak Bluffs and the Lake Street Tennis & Pickleball Courts in Vineyard Haven.

The island’s YMCA offers even more ways to stay active, from wellness programs and swimming lessons to an ice arena. A day pass unlocks more than 70 group fitness classes — including yoga — plus full access to the aquatics center. For those seeking a more mindful pace, Yoga on the Vine in Edgartown offers hot yoga classes in a cozy setting.

ADVENTURES ON LAND GUIDE

Island Alpaca Company

1 Head of the Pond Rd., Oak Bluffs

508-693-5554

www.islandalpaca.com

 Island Alpaca Company is a 19-acre farm and home to more than 35 alpacas and two llamas. It welcomes you to the delightful world of alpacas and invites you to visit them! Its farm and gift shop are open seven days, year-round; and it is also a venue for your special event or celebration (www.alpaca-weddings.com). Experience one of their special programs designed for all ages (www.alpacayoga.com, www.alpaca-walks.com) or visit www.alpaca-fun.com for all! Island alpacas are also available for sale, and Island Alpaca Company delivers.

From historic rides and wildlife encounters to scenic bike paths and beachside fun, Martha’s Vineyard offers countless experiences for families to make memories together.

There’s something special about a family trip to Martha’s Vineyard. Maybe it’s the salty breeze that greets you as the ferry pulls into port, the charming towns filled with ice cream shops and colorful cottages, or the simple joy of spending uninterrupted time together outdoors.

Whatever the reason, this Massachusetts island has long been a favorite destination for travelers of all ages, offering a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and classic summertime fun.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or a longer stay, the Vineyard makes it easy to keep everyone entertained — from toddlers to grandparents.

Timeless Family Fun

Some of the Vineyard’s best activities are refreshingly simple. Spend an afternoon flying kites at Ocean Park, challenge the family to a round of mini golf, or duck into an arcade for a little old-fashioned competition. Bowling alleys and casual

entertainment spots across the island offer laid-back fun that appeals to kids and adults alike.

One attraction, however, stands above the rest as a true Vineyard tradition: the Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs. Originally built in 1876 for Coney Island before arriving on Martha’s Vineyard a decade later, the carousel remains the oldest operating platform carousel in the United States. Its beautifully carved wooden horses and beloved brass ring game continue to delight generations of visitors year after year. Maintained by the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust, the Flying Horses is far more than a historic landmark — it’s a rite of passage for families visiting the island.

Hands-On Learning Experiences

Martha’s Vineyard also shines when it comes to educational experiences that never feel like schoolwork. At Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, children can connect with nature through guided walks, birdwatching, and interactive environmental programs. The sanctuary’s trails wind through woodlands, ponds,

and salt marshes, giving visitors the opportunity to spot local wildlife while learning about the island’s ecosystems.

In Edgartown, the FARM Institute offers younger children a chance to experience life on a working farm through its popular Barnyard Buddies program. Kids can help collect eggs, tend gardens, and meet animals, including goats, sheep, and chickens. It’s an engaging way to introduce children to sustainable farming and life outdoors.

Meet the Island’s Animals

Animal lovers will find no shortage of memorable encounters on Martha’s Vineyard. One favorite stop for families is Island Alpaca Company, where visitors can interact with the farm’s friendly alpacas while learning about their care and fleece production. The experience is equal parts educational and adorable. Horseback riding is another unique way to experience the

DID YOU KNOW ?

The island’s very first movie theater opened over a century ago. Although it’s no longer used as a regular movie theater, you can still attend special events like film festivals at the charming, historic Capawock Theatre in Vineyard Haven.

island. Several local stables offer lessons and guided trail rides suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Exploring wooded paths and open landscapes on horseback adds a sense of adventure that many kids never forget.

Fun for Older Kids and Teens

While the Vineyard is known for its relaxed pace, there are still plenty of activities to keep older children entertained. The island’s year-round ice arena offers public skating sessions throughout every season, providing a fun break from beach days during the warmer months.

Teens can also head to the local skate park, where skateboarders and inline skaters gather to practice tricks and spend time with friends. Combined with outdoor recreation and watersports, these attractions help ensure every member of the family stays engaged during the trip.

Explore the Island Outdoors

Martha’s Vineyard is made for outdoor adventure. With more than 120 miles of shoreline, scenic nature preserves, and an extensive network of bike trails, it’s easy to spend entire days exploring the island’s natural beauty.

Cycling is one of the most popular ways to get around. Visitors can bring bikes over on the ferry or rent them locally before setting off along more than 40 miles of paved paths. One of the most beloved routes stretches between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown along Beach Road, where riders are treated to sweeping ocean views and glimpses of the island’s picturesque salt ponds.

Families who prefer hiking will find plenty of rewarding trails as well. Wander through the rolling terrain of Menemsha Hills, admire the dramatic clay cliffs at Aquinnah Headlands, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Mytoi Japanese Garden, a hidden gem tucked away in Chappaquiddick.

Cycling is one of the most popular ways to get around. Visitors can bring bikes over on the ferry or rent them locally.

Of course, no Vineyard vacation is complete without time on the water. Calm beaches provide ideal conditions for young swimmers, while older kids and adventurous parents can try kayaking, paddleboarding, or even surfing lessons. With gentle surf and beautiful scenery in every direction, the coastline becomes a playground for the whole family.

A Place Families Return to Again and Again

Part of Martha’s Vineyard’s lasting appeal is its ability to bring generations together. One fam -

ily member may fall in love with the beaches, while another prefers bike rides, wildlife walks, or historic attractions — yet somehow the island blends it all seamlessly into one unforgettable vacation.

From outdoor adventures and animal encounters to nostalgic amusements and meaningful learning experiences, Martha’s Vineyard offers families the chance to reconnect, explore, and create traditions that last for years to come. And for many visitors, one trip is all it takes to start planning the next.

Fresh from the sea, sourced from the farm, and inspired by cultures near and far, dining on Martha’s Vineyard is a feast for all the senses.

Martha’s Vineyard is earning attention for more than its postcard-perfect scenery. Fodor’s Travel recently named the island one of only six destinations on its U.S. Go List for 2026, calling it “a classic New England summer escape with newfound culinary appeal.” Spend a few days dining here, and it’s easy to see why.

Freshly harvested seafood, locally grown produce, and flavors from around the world come together on menus across the island, creating a food scene that extends far beyond traditional New England fare. The result is a dining culture shaped not only by the Vineyard’s land and waters but also by the diverse people who live here, work here, and return season after season.

DID YOU KNOW?

Seafood remains at the heart of many menus. Sustainably raised Eastern oysters, prized for their clean, briny flavor, are cultivated in Katama Bay and Edgartown Great Pond. Several oyster farms offer boat tours that allow visitors to cruise out to the beds, learn how oysters are grown and harvested, try their hand at shucking, and enjoy a floating raw-bar experience. Other local favorites include sweet bay scallops, hard-shell clams known as quahogs, soft-shell steamers, blue mussels, and an abundance of finfish, including striped bass, bluefish, fluke, black sea bass, tuna, and swordfish. Agriculture also plays a vital role in the island’s culinary identity. Nearly 50 farms span Martha’s Vineyard’s 1,700 acres of farmland, producing everything from vegetables and herbs to berries and orchard fruits. Spring brings asparagus, peas, radishes, and tender greens; summer delivers sweet corn, tomatoes, melons, and berries; while fall harvests feature pumpkins, apples, pears, winter squash, carrots, beets, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Farm stands and farmers markets make

Freshly harvested seafood, locally grown produce, and flavors from around the world come together on menus across the island.

it easy to sample the season’s bounty, while greenhouses help keep fresh greens and herbs available throughout much of the year.

Global influences are equally woven into the Vineyard’s food culture. Independent restaurants serve everything from Moroccan tagine and Indian butter chicken to Thai curries, Jamaican jerk chicken, Mexican street tacos, sushi, Brazilian pão de queijo, and Koreaninspired specialties. With no national chain restaurants and a culinary scene shaped by chefs and restaurateurs from around the world, the variety often surprises first-time visitors.

The dining experiences themselves are just as diverse. Elegant waterfront restaurants, intimate farm-to-table eateries, bustling cafés, food trucks, taquerias, raw bars, clam shacks, bakeries, ice cream shops, and classic burger joints all have a place here. While Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and Vineyard Haven offer the greatest concentration of restaurants, memorable dining experiences can be found throughout the island, including in the quieter Up Island towns.

VINEYARD HAVEN

A strong year-round community helps shape Vineyard Haven’s dining scene. Coffee shops, bakeries, seafood restaurants, and family-owned eateries serve locals and visitors alike, creating a welcoming atmosphere where residents and travelers often share the same tables.

Just steps from the ferry on Union Street, El Barco is a vibrant seasonal Mexican cantina known for its casual “tacos and tequila” concept and waterfront views. Standouts include fish tacos featuring perfectly fried local catch topped with citrus slaw, Quesabirria tacos filled with rich, savory birria on house-made tortillas,

and the smashburger taco, which combines the crispy, caramelized edges of a smashburger with a traditional taco format. A menu of cocktails, mocktails, and fruit margaritas rounds out the experience.

On Main Street, The Ocean Club serves fresh coastal Mediterranean cuisine in the historic setting of a renovated 1905 bank. Signature mezze and small plates include octopus shawarma and za’atar-crusted focaccia, while handmade pastas shine in dishes such as Lobster alla Vodka and Sicilian-Style Anchovy Pasta. Diners looking to indulge can even add a whole roasted two-pound Maine lobster to the latter.

DID YOU KNOW ?

Coffee shops, bakeries, seafood restaurants, and family-owned eateries serve locals and visitors alike, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

On the outskirts of town along State Road, Woodland Variety & Grill is the kind of place locals stop before heading to the beach. Breakfast starts early with pancakes, bacon, egg-and-cheese sandwiches, and other hearty favorites. At lunch, burgers, steak subs, Cajun chicken sandwiches, and thick Sicilian pizza draw a steady crowd.

Planning a beach picnic or backyard gathering? Order the Burger Bar in a Box a day in advance. Each box includes 10 burgers, available with or without cheese, along with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise for easy serving anywhere.

EDGARTOWN

Historic charm and a vibrant dining scene go hand in hand in Edgartown. The town’s restaurant lineup ranges from raw bars and seafood houses to Italian eateries, steakhouses, and chefdriven kitchens.

Located just two blocks from the ferry dock, Rockfish Restaurant has long been a favorite gathering spot. Inside the two-story space, exposed brick walls and a welcoming atmosphere set the stage for a menu that blends comfort food with fresh island seafood. Diners can choose from lobster rolls, lobster pot pie, seared scallops over asparagus risotto, fish tacos, and tuna poke nachos. Woodfired flatbreads are another crowdpleaser, topped with combinations such as prosciutto and arugula or barbecue chicken.

OAK BLUFFS

For sheer variety, many people gravitate to Oak Bluffs. Restaurants, cafés, ice cream shops, and bars cluster around the harbor and downtown, creating one of the island’s liveliest dining scenes.

Perched above the harbor on Seaview Avenue, Lookout Tavern sits steps away from the Steamship Authority ferry terminals serving Woods Hole and New Bedford. The eateries’ waterfront location and lively atmosphere make it one of the first restaurants many people see when arriving in Oak Bluffs. Three menu standouts keep diners coming back: the oversized lobster roll piled high with sweet lobster meat, the fish tacos filled with crispy Chilean sea bass and topped

with smoked chili cream, and the Spicy Trio, a sushi-lover’s favorite featuring three different spicy rolls in a single order.

To the west, on the Oak Bluffs harbor at the Circuit Avenue Extension, Fishbones Bar & Grille feels like a beach bar with a Caribbean twist. Northern island dishes include New England clam chowder, beer-battered fish and chips, and blackened swordfish with pineapple salsa. At the same time, conch fritters, Jamaican jerk wings, and a scrumptious seared sesame tuna appetizer, served over crispy plantain chips, bring southern island tastes to the plate. Handcrafted frozen drinks, like mojitos and piña coladas, are a specialty. Outdoor seating, sunset views, and upbeat energy draw a steady crowd.

Nearby, Sand Bar & Grille sits directly on the harbor boardwalk, where diners can literally sink their toes into

the sand while they eat. The atmosphere is casual and fun, often accompanied by live music.

The Baja fish tacos, topped with

avocado-cilantro sauce and pico de gallo, are crowd pleasers. The Island Ceviche combines local lobster,

Restaurants, cafés, ice cream shops, and bars cluster around the harbor and downtown, creating one of the island’s liveliest dining scenes.

shrimp, crab, and mahi in one bright, fresh dish. Many also come for the sushi, especially the creative specialty rolls.

A five-minute stroll south along Circuit Avenue offers a sweet ending to any meal. Tucked behind a bakery in a small alley, Back Door Donuts has become an Oak Bluffs tradition, serving piping-hot fresh-out-of-the-fryer pastries straight from a literal back door during late-night hours. Apple fritters are the star attraction, followed closely by the maple bacon donut and rich, cream-filled Boston Cream.

A seasonal favorite is the Jaws Donut, topped with blue raspberry glaze and a shark gummy — and sometimes filled with red jelly — as a playful tribute to the iconic

1975 film shot on the island.

For something more substantial, ESH, located at 50 Circuit Avenue, pairs a stylish dining room anchored by a restored fireplace with progressive American cuisine infused with West Coast influences.

MV Salads proves that salads can be a destination meal. Known for generous portions, local ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere, favorites include the Menemsha Lobster Cobb, the Mermaid Meadow Summer with watermelon and local feta, and the vegan-friendly Campground Smok’n Chicken bowl. Every salad is served with a freshly baked, house-made corn muffin, often garnished with an edible flower.

The Culinary Classic Debut

Martha’s Vineyard celebrates its inaugural islandwide food and wine festival, showcasing local flavors, top chefs, and seasonal delights.

A NEW FALL TRADITION debuts in 2026 with the inaugural Martha’s Vineyard Culinary Classic, a four-day festival of food, wine, and music taking place islandwide October 15–18, 2026. Born from a popular autumn culinary weekend once hosted at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort in Edgartown, it has evolved into a signature islandwide celebration of the Vineyard’s rich food culture.

Visitors can look forward to immersive tastings featuring the island’s fresh seafood and farm produce; multicourse, chef-driven, farm-to-table dinners held at locations throughout the island; hands-on culinary workshops; and interactive demonstrations that highlight the flavors of New England’s autumn. Come hungry and ready to savor the true taste of Martha’s Vineyard. For more details, visit www.mvy.com/2026-culinary-classic.

“This

Rock Star Salads | Fresh bites meet one of the Vineyard’s most Instagrammable spots.

MV SALADS ON CIRCUIT AVENUE in Oak

Bluffs has long been a favorite stop for fresh salads, wraps, and a healthy dose of island personality. The menu offers something for everyone — from meat and lobster lovers to vegans — and the team is known for accommodating a wide range of dietary preferences and allergies. But beyond the food, MV Salads has become famous for something else entirely: its unmistakable visual appeal.

Over the years, the MV Salads RockWall has evolved into one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most photographed spots. Featuring hanging rocks that create a dramatic and instantly recognizable backdrop, the wall has become a must-stop photo op for visitors and locals alike.

Celebrities, tourists, families, and islanders regularly pose in front of it before sharing their snapshots online. In

Follow along on Instagram at @mvsalads.

many ways, it has become a landmark in its own right — a place people want to document as part of their island experience.

Then there’s the famous MV Salads car. If you’ve spent any time on Martha’s Vineyard, chances are you’ve spotted it cruising around the island looking like a giant salad on wheels. Quirky, colorful, and endlessly photographed, the small vehicle has become part of the brand’s unmistakable personality. Kids wave, visitors stop for photos, and islanders can’t help but smile when it rolls by.

Part lunch spot, part photo backdrop, and part island icon, MV Salads has become a destination in its own right.

Part lunch spot, part photo backdrop, and part island icon, MV Salads has become a destination in its own right. Blending fresh flavors with a playful sense of creativity, it captures the community spirit that makes the Vineyard so special.

Where Fire Meets Flavor |

Inspired by the transformative power of fire, ESH blends elevated comfort food, creative design, rooftop gatherings, and late-night jazz into one unforgettable experience.

ESH MEANS FIRE IN HEBREW — and at the heart of the restaurant is the belief that without fire, there is no cooking. Fire is transformation. It is warmth, energy, ritual, and flavor. It is the beginning of every meal and the spirit behind every detail of the ESH experience.

Located in Oak Bluffs, ESH is more than a restaurant. It is an atmosphere, an art piece, and a gathering place designed to awaken all the senses. The space has been built with intention, shaped

by hand, and layered with texture, sculpture, music, and mood. From the artwork to the utensils, from the intimate dining room to the newly remodeled rooftop, every element is part of the story. The main artwork speaks to the concept itself — cooking, tools, and creation.

The dining experience at ESH is a recipe of its own: food, atmosphere, music, and hospitality combined into one. The menu offers elevated comfort food with a creative, modern edge, blend-

ing fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and playful presentation. Brunch is served daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering a relaxed yet refined way to begin the day. In the evening, dinner service runs from 5 to 9 p.m., with reservations available for guests seeking a more intimate dining experience.

Upstairs, the remodeled rooftop offers a more casual, open-air setting designed for long afternoons, sunset drinks, and easy gatherings with friends and family. With a full bar, simple bites, coffee, dessert, and a menu designed for both comfort and creativity, the rooftop adds another layer to the ESH experience — laid-back, social, and distinctly Vineyard.

Beginning at 10 p.m., the space transforms into a jazz lounge inspired by the soul of Chicago blues and jazz. The goal is to create an atmosphere where taste and music move together — where the energy of the room, the sound of the instruments, and the experience of the food become part of the same rhythm.

ESH is built on contrast: fire and water, art and function, elegance and ease, fine dining and soulful music. It is intimate without being formal, creative without being overdone, and sophisticated without losing its warmth. Every visit is designed to feel personal, sensory, and alive.

As the evening unfolds, ESH shifts into something deeper.

Whether you come for brunch, dinner, rooftop drinks, or latenight jazz, ESH invites you to slow down, settle in, and experience the beauty of food, art, music, and fire coming together.

UP ISLAND

In West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah, dining remains closely tied to the island’s farms and waters. Known collectively as “Up Island” — a term dating to the whaling era, when this part of Martha’s Vineyard measured a higher degree of longitude and was considered farther “up” the island by mariners — the area is home to farm stands, oyster farms, fish markets, food trucks, and restaurants built around what is grown, harvested, or caught nearby. Fresh seafood, just-picked produce, and a slower pace define much of the experience.

That connection comes into sharp focus at State Road Restaurant in West Tisbury, a previous James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Hospitality. Set in a charming post-and-beam farmhouse with antique furnishings, a stone fireplace, and a garden patio, the restaurant serves a seasonal, from-scratch menu built around harvests from its own gardens as well as ingredients sourced from local farms and island fishermen. Favorites include the wood-grilled burger, striped bass, seafood chowder, house-made ricotta, and pan-roasted chicken.

The area is home to farm stands, oyster farms, fish markets, food trucks, and restaurants built around what is grown, harvested, or caught nearby.

By Carol M. Bareuther,

The Ocean Club: Banking on Flavor

Historic

architecture and

coastal

Mediterranean cuisine

make The Ocean Club one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most distinctive dining experiences.

A PLATE OF

LOBSTER ALLA VODKA

served beneath a soaring bank dome isn’t something most diners expect to find on Martha’s Vineyard. That’s part of the allure of The Ocean Club, where Mediterranean-inspired cuisine meets more than a century of island history.

The Ocean Club opened in August 2025 inside one of Vineyard Haven’s most recognizable buildings. For decades, islanders passed through the doors of the stately 1905 stone structure at 75 Main Street to do their banking. Today, they come for dinner. Owner Reid “Sam” Dunn carefully preserved many of the building’s historic details while transforming the former Martha’s

Vineyard National Bank into a year-round restaurant and gathering place for meals, drinks, celebrations, and special events.

Leading the kitchen is Chef Marc Orfaly, who grew up in an Armenian family in Brookline, Massachusetts, and started cooking at age 15. After training at Johnson & Wales, his culinary career has taken him through some of the country’s most respected restaurants, including Todd English’s Olives in Boston, Joachim Splichal’s Patina in Los Angeles, Mark Peel and Nancy Silverton’s Campanile, and Barbara Lynch’s No. 9 Park in Boston. In 2001, he opened Pigalle, a Parisian bistro in Boston’s Theater District that earned national acclaim,

including seven consecutive James Beard Award nominations, a Food & Wine Best Chef in America designation, and recognition from Esquire and Boston magazines.

Today, Orfaly’s menu draws inspiration from the Mediterranean while showcasing the catch and seasonal harvest from local fishermen and farmers. Guests often begin with mezze such as house-made hummus, ceviche, and za’atar-crusted focaccia before moving on to handmade pastas and locally sourced seafood. Signature dishes include Lobster alla Vodka, featuring sweet lobster, rigatoni, English peas, basil, grated Parmesan, and a creamy tomato-vodka sauce, as well as Martha’s

Vineyard Cioppino and Kimchi Fried Rice topped with jumbo lump crab. A blueberry phyllo cobbler provides a memorable finish. Plans also call for the addition of a future raw bar.

The dining room itself remains one of the restaurant’s greatest attractions. Original mahogany doors frame the entrance, stained-glass clerestory arches and a grand domed ceiling draw the eye upward, and a glasstopped communal table rests atop the original vault door. The former bank vault now houses the wine collection, creating a setting that is every bit as memorable as the meal itself. Throughout the year, guests gather here for rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, family celebrations, and other special occasions.

DINING GUIDE

VINEYARD HAVEN

El Barco

16 Union St., Vineyard Haven

508-684-5001

www.elbarcomv.com

 El Barco on Martha’s Vineyard is a vibrant taco and tequila bar serving bold Mexican soul food just steps from the Vineyard Haven ferry. Expect tacos, burritos, and handcrafted margaritas in a fresh, festive, open-air setting that feels like vacation the moment you arrive.

The Net Result

79 Beach Rd., Vineyard Haven

508-627-9967

www.mvseafood.com

 The Net Result, an upperscale fish market, is in the Tisbury Market Place. Open year-round, it features retail, wholesale, and a takeout restaurant with outdoor seating serving awardwinning sushi, fried seafood, lobsters, crabcakes, raw bar, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and a variety of poke bowls.

The Net Result has been awarded Best Seafood Market on Martha’s Vineyard by Cape Cod Life magazine and the Vineyard Gazette’s Best of the Vineyard 10 years running. It will cook and prepare your lobsters to go — whether it’s for 2 or 50 people. It also features sushi platters to go and ships all its products to all 50 states. Visit to check out what fresh seafood is all about. As The Net Result has said for years, “Our fish is so fresh, it’ll make you blush!”

The Ocean Club

75 Main St., Vineyard Haven

508-338-7965

www.oceanclubmv.com

 The Ocean Club in Vineyard Haven is an upscale, coastalinspired restaurant and bar showcasing Mediterraneaninfluenced cuisine, fresh local seafood, and craft cocktails in a restored historic bank building. Guests enjoy refined yet relaxed ambience, thoughtful service, and a sophisticated evening steps from the ferry on Main Street.

Quitsa Kitchen

455 State Rd., Unit 9, Vineyard Haven

508-338-7787

www.quitsakitchen.com

 Savor coastal-inspired cuisine at Quitsa Kitchen in Vineyard Haven. From fresh, locally sourced ingredients to vibrant island flavors, every dish reflects Martha’s Vineyard charm. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a casual bite. Plus, impress guests with Quitsa Cuisine Catering — elevated flavors and artful presentations for unforgettable gatherings.

Woodland Variety & Grill

455 State Rd., Unit 4, Vineyard Haven

508-693-6795

www.woodlandvarietyandgrill. com

 Woodland Variety & Grill has been a local family-owned and -operated business for over 25 years, proudly serving locals and guests to the Vineyard. Convenient, outside of town, and with ample parking, it is your one-stop shop for prepared or made-to-order food, drinks, snacks, and ice for home or the beach.

EDGARTOWN

Rockfish Restaurant

11 N. Water St., Edgartown

508-627-9967

www.rockfishedgartown.com

 Located in the heart of Edgartown, Rockfish Restaurant is an upscale gastropub. Serving lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (the bar until 12:30 a.m.). Rockfish features American bites, including pizza from its wood-fired brick oven, steaks, and fresh seafood supplied from its own fish market, The Net Result. You can also enjoy pasta dishes, salads, tacos, and an array of appetizers that will please anyone’s palate. There are two floors, with the upstairs featuring a cozy atmosphere with wood-beam ceilings, a brick oven, banquet seating, and a full bar serving award-winning cocktails. Downstairs you’ll find a more casual and vibrant bar atmosphere. Visit for lunch and dinner or stop in for dessert and order its award-winning espresso martini that will surely cap off a perfect evening out.

OAK BLUFFS

Back Door Donuts

5 Post Office Square, Oak Bluffs

508-693-3688

www.backdoordonuts.com

 Back Door Donuts is a Martha’s Vineyard icon, serving artisan coffee and pastries by day and hot, made-to-order donuts and famous apple fritters by night, where locals and visitors gather in Oak Bluffs for a sweet, nostalgic ritual that defines the island’s summer buzz.

Eleven Circuit Restaurant & Bar

11 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

774-563-8054

 Eleven Circuit Restaurant & Bar blends the traditional with

the contemporary by bringing dishes like deep-fried lobster, jerk chicken, and oysters to the heart of Circuit Ave. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with disc jockey entertainment nightly, Eleven Circuit is the place to be.

ESH

50 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-687-9271

https://eshmv.lovable.app

 ESH is a new Oak Bluffs restaurant serving elevated comfort food with a creative, modern edge. From brunch to dinner, the menu blends fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a relaxed and upscale setting.

Fishbones Bar & Grille

12 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs

508-696-8227

www.fishbones-mv.com

 Fishbones Bar & Grille is situated directly on the Oak Bluffs Harbor in Oak Bluffs, conveniently located within walking distance to the ferry, bus, and taxi terminals. It offers lunch, dinner, and a full bar. Its menu features entrees, sandwiches, seafood, burgers, and other great island-themed favorites. It also has a great drink menu with a wide selection of quality spirits, beer, and wine; handcrafted specialty drinks; as well as frozen favorites.

Lookout Tavern

8 Seaview Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-696-9844

www.lookoutmv.com

 One of the best water views on Martha’s Vineyard overlooking Nantucket Sound. Serving lunch and dinner daily until 11 p.m. Come see why Lookout Tavern has been voted Best Sushi, Best Lobster Roll, and Waterview by Cape Cod Life magazine and the Vineyard Gazette’s Best of the Vineyard 12 years running. Lookout’s

vast menu features something for everyone, including a raw bar, sushi bar, fried and grilled seafood, sandwiches, half-pound burgers, lobster, steamers, and appetizers. No wonder it’s a favorite of tourists and locals alike!

MV Salads

55 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-338-7754

www.mvsalads.com

 MV Salads is your salad haven in Oak Bluffs, serving fresh, local ingredients, house-made beverages, and the famous basil sorbet with raspberries. Enjoy indoor or outdoor seating, or take away with easy online ordering.

Rooted in kindness, it’s more than a meal — it’s a VIBE! And everyone is talking about it.

Sand Bar & Grille

6 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs

508-693-7111

www.mvsandbar.com

info@mvsandbar.com

 Located on the docks of the scenic Oak Bluffs Harbor, Sand Bar & Grille is the island’s only “beach” bar and restaurant. Offering an array of seafood, burgers, salads, full kids’ menu, and much more. Guests can enjoy ice-cold cocktails, beer, wine, and delicious cuisine on the sandy beach patio overlooking the harbor.

From designer boutiques and vintage finds to farm stands and artisan markets, Martha’s Vineyard offers a shopping experience as distinctive as the island itself.

hopping on Martha’s Vineyard feels refreshingly personal. Shop owners greet customers by name, conversations flow easily across counters, and many purchases come with a story about the artist, maker, or farmer behind them.

Visitors expecting rows of national chains may be surprised to find something far more distinctive; in their place are plenty of independent shops, galleries, markets, and specialty retailers that give each town its own flavor of retail therapy. While there are well-known designer brands here — such as Prada, Ralph Lauren, Lululemon, Faherty, and Lilly Pulitzer — even these collections are thoughtfully curated with a Vineyard lifestyle in mind.

The island’s “buy local” culture runs deep. Family-owned businesses, some of which are multigenerational, anchor the retail landscape, run by the very artists, farmers, and craftspeople who supply many of the products found on quaint storefront shelves. Meeting

BUY LOCAL

Family-owned businesses, some of which are multigenerational, anchor the retail landscape.

the people behind the products — whether at a farm stand, outdoor market, or gallery — is part of the experience, as is discovering pieces that don’t exist anywhere else. This direct connection gives treasure hunting an unmistakable authenticity that visitors remember long after they leave.

On Martha’s Vineyard, there’s no need to search far and wide for something distinctive, as locally made goods, sustainable apparel, vintage finds, handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and one-of-a-kind keepsakes fill shops throughout the island. Fans of Jaws will also find plenty of movie-inspired collectibles and shark-themed souvenirs celebrating the film that helped put Martha’s Vineyard on the map. There are handcrafted shark charms, quirky souvenirs like The Spicy Shark hot sauce, and wearables from Barrel Apparel, a line of Jaws -themed clothing featuring the movie’s yellow barrel motif, available at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum.

VINEYARD HAVEN

Just a short walk from the ferry, CB Stark — voted the island's Best Jeweler every year since 1996 — is one of the must-visit landmark shopping destinations. The store specializes in fine jewelry inspired by the sea and island life, with rings, earrings, necklaces, and pendants crafted in gold, platinum, and sterling silver. New for 2026 is the official pINKWELL charm: a sterling-silver collectible with pink enamel accents celebrating pINKWELL, the annual Oak

Bluffs beach gathering hosted by the Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. With another location based in Edgartown, CB Stark is also known for its customizable island charm bracelets. Shoppers can choose from more than 300 charms that act as tangible memories, including ferry tickets, oyster shells, and Martha’s Vineyard silhouettes, creating a keepsake that can grow with each return visit.

DID YOU KNOW?

Meeting the people behind the products — whether at a farm stand, outdoor market or gallery — is part of the experience, as is discovering pieces that don’t exist anywhere else.

Head north on Main and cross Union to arrive at The Green Room, where casual coastal lifestyle clothing and shoes for men and women await in a brand-new in-store layout, complete with newly renovated floors and updated signage. Gauzy summer dresses, wide-leg jeans, cropped sweaters, and breezy eyelet

tops are just a few of the stylish pieces that draw women in; and for men, there are retro-inspired vacation prints and tailored shorts. As for shoes, joggers from Back 70 and Gola fly off the shelves here! The Green Room also stocks surfboards and skateboard equipment, making it a go-to for both style and sport.

Maxwell & Co.

Perfectly Unpredictable Style on Cape Cod

Since 1984, Maxwell & Co. has redefined access to fashion on Cape Cod with its signature mix of timeless style and quiet rebellion. Founded by Dan and Lori Maxwell, this destination boutique offers curated capsule collections for both men and women — a sophisticated blend of classic foundations and unexpected flair. The result? Timeless clothing that feels effortlessly wearable, endlessly versatile, and unmistakably individual.

Not a Store…

A Point of View

Maxwell & Co. forges its own trends. Together with a devoted team of talented, personable style consultants and gifted tailors, the Maxwells have cultivated an approach rooted in originality, experimentation, and authenticity. Every detail matters, and every piece stands alone — distinctive in design, luxurious in fabric, and crafted (mostly in Europe) with an artful edge.

A Space that Inspires

Located in the historic Elizabeth Theatre building at 200 Main Street in Falmouth, Maxwell & Co. is an experience. Both modern and timeless, the store is elegantly merchandised and ever evolving: a visual feast of clothing and style ideas, from globally acclaimed designers to lesser-known European finds — a collection considered among the very best in New England and beyond.

Style with Soul

“Style, classic or not, comes from a willingness to be open, to experiment, to find comfort,” says Dan. “It’s not just about what you wear — it’s about arriving at a place of ease in how you wear something.” This philosophy runs deep. Influenced by architecture, music, food, natural textiles, and the coastal beauty of Cape Cod, Maxwell & Co. invites customers to dress with intention — and with an emotional point of view. Whether dressing up or down, Maxwell’s unexpected wardrobe solutions help clients find individuality and confidence. “This does not mean possessing a lot of clothes; this is about owning clothes that possess a lot of meaning,” says Dan.

Four Decades of Defining Style

For over 40 years, Maxwell & Co. has stood apart — not just as a boutique but as a fashionable New England institution. It is

known for relentlessly thoughtful service, impeccable tailoring, and a bold yet refined aesthetic. A classic perspective that frequently collides with a modern edge — always presented with passion, heart, and soul.

Step Inside. Be Surprised. Be the One of Influence.

Today, the world is saturated with influencers. At Maxwell & Co., four decades of heartfelt service, global sourcing, and imaginative curation might just offer a different take on who is influencing whom. With a genuine, hard-earned perspective on elegance, Maxwell & Co. hopes only to guide and encourage its beloved clientele — so that by their own ingenious style, they become the ones of true influence. As the Maxwells say with deep sincerity, “Maxwell & Co. is not about us — it is about YOU.”

Enduring Originality

Discover why, after 40 years, Maxwell & Co. continues to inspire. In a world of fast fashion, dwindling service, and fleeting trends, Maxwell & Co. offers something rare: uncommon, enduring clothing — and an experience that feels true, personal, elevated, and undeniably original.

A little over a mile outside of town, at the intersection of State Road and Mechanics Street, Island Time offers a laid-back way to explore the island’s legal cannabis market. This locally owned recreational dispensary stocks a wide selection of state-tested products, including flower, pre-rolls, edibles, infused beverages, vape products, concentrates, and topicals. Here, there is something to suit every visitor’s taste, from classic strains to gummies, chocolates, and wellness-focused options.

Shopping in Vineyard Haven isn’t limited to its brick-andmortar stores either. From June through October, First Friday Vineyard Haven brings a vibrant art market to Beach Street Extension that features local painters, potters, textile artists, and jewelry makers. The Annual Tisbury Street Fair, another special market held each July

Main Street, transforms the downtown area into an open-air marketplace filled with islandmade jewelry, artwork, clothing, and souvenirs. Finally, from midNovember through Christmas

the World Market Holiday Pop-Up Shop at the historic Capawock Theatre offers a wide assortment of handmade gifts, vintage treasures, international goods, and festive holiday décor.

Charm Bar, where customers can design personalized accessories for totes, handbags, keys, and travel bags using a mix of charms, beads, and decorative accents.

OAK BLUFFS

This North Shore community combines classic Vineyard charm with tasteful shopping and dining, all set in a vibrant resort atmosphere. Just a five-minute walk from the Oak Bluffs ferry terminal, Stefanie Wolf Designs on Circuit Avenue has become a favorite stop for those looking for a unique Martha’s Vineyard keepsake. The boutique is best known for its colorful glass jewelry and coastal-inspired designs, all created with a handcrafted island feel. Beyond the jewelry cases, visitors can also create their own custom pieces at the popular Charm Bar or choose permanent jewelry that is fitted and welded on-site. New this season is the Bag

Just across the street and half a block north, Craftworks Gallery showcases the work of hundreds of artists from Martha’s Vineyard as well as across the United States. For more than 30 years, this colorful Oak Bluffs gallery has specialized in handcrafted jewelry, pottery, glass art, folk art, woodcrafts, and coastalinspired home décor. New for 2026 are fresh artisan collections, custom pet portraits, and expanded offerings from local and regional makers for visitors to enjoy, reflecting a growing interest in American handcraft and one-of-a-kind pieces.

For something extra special, plan a visit around one of the community’s popular shopping events. Every Sunday from late May through October, the Oak Bluffs Open Market fills Washington Park with a range of local artists, vintage

DID YOU KNOW?

For something extra special, plan a visit around one of the community’s popular shopping events.

This North Shore community combines classic Vineyard charm with tasteful shopping and dining, all set in a vibrant resort atmosphere.

vendors, specialty foods, and handcrafted goods. For those visiting later in the year, Tivoli Day, held each September on Circuit Avenue, turns downtown into a lively street fair complete with sidewalk sales, artisan crafts, food vendors, and live music. Finally, during the holiday season, the Featherstone Holiday Gift Show showcases handmade pottery, jewelry, photography, and other creations by more than 100 local artists.

EDGARTOWN

Edgartown is the kind of town where shopping is simply woven into the local experience. Along Main Street, North Water Street, and the surrounding side streets, visitors will find an inviting mix of upscale boutiques, locally owned shops, art galleries, specialty food stores, and home décor boutiques to peruse; and the harbor views, historic architecture, and beautifully maintained streets only add to the atmosphere. While fine jewelry is one of Edgartown’s most popular purchases, there is no shortage of designer fashions, unique gifts, and Vineyardinspired finds throughout the downtown district.

Be sure to stop by Claudia Jewelry, known for its carefully curated collection of jewelry across a wide range of styles and

price points as well as European perfumes, handbags, and distinctive gifts. A longtime favorite for special occasions, this boutique is just as well known for its beautifully presented gift wrapping. New for 2026 are gold and diamond barrel charms that slide onto necklaces and bracelets, adding a personalized touch to one’s favorite pieces.

The Edgartown Village Market, held on Main Street each Tuesday from mid-June through early September, is a great place to pick up local produce, specialty foods, and handmade goods. During the summer, Music in the Square adds live music to the mix, while nearby galleries, jewelers, and artisan vendors showcase local art, crafts, and one-of-a-kind finds in the beautiful weather.

OUT ON THE ISLAND

With so many offerings spread throughout Martha’s Vineyard, it is no surprise that there is even more spectacular shopping to be found outside these towns. In West Tisbury, the Vineyard Artisans Summer Festivals fill the Grange Hall grounds every Sunday from mid-June through September, while the Chilmark Flea Market draws shoppers on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer. Local honey, beeswax candles, handcrafted skin care products, soft alpaca blankets, and island-inspired candles that truly capture the scents of the Vineyard’s beaches, fields, and forests are just some of the treasured finds waiting to be discovered.

J. KEVIN FOLTZ (2)

SHOPPING GUIDE

VINEYARD HAVEN

CB Stark Jewelers

53A Main St., Vineyard Haven

508-693-2284

10 Main St., Edgartown (seasonal)

508-627-1260

www.cbstark.com

 Founded in 1966, CB

Stark Jewelers features an outstanding selection of fine jewelry, quality repairs, custom work, and friendly, professional customer service. Many of its handcrafted designs, available in gold, silver, and platinum, are inspired by the natural coastal beauty of Martha’s Vineyard.

The Green Room

65 & 71 Main St., Vineyard Haven

508-693-6888

www.greenroommv.com

 Founded in 1994, The Green Room is an island institution where you will find all you need for the beach and beyond!

Featured brands include Patagonia, Mother Denim, and Birkenstock, along with many more. Let its experienced staff help you to look your best.

Island Time Dispensary

15 Mechanics St., Vineyard Haven (2nd building on the right)

508-696-0420

www.islandtimemv.com

 Visiting Martha’s Vineyard and looking for cannabis?

Island Time is the only dispensary on the island. Locally owned, it offers a quality selection of flower,

edibles, tinctures, concentrates, vapes, and accessories from Massachusetts cultivators and manufacturers, as well as regional and national favorites — all manufactured under Massachusetts regulations and standards.

OAK BLUFFS

Craftworks Gallery

42 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-693-7463

www.craftworksgallery.com

 Craftworks Gallery has been a beloved fixture on Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard for over 35 years. Featuring hundreds of contemporary American artists, every piece is handmade and one of a kind… jewelry, pottery, glass, wood, and more. Open every day. Shop in store or online.

M&R Stylz

11 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-687-9624

www.mandrstylz.myshopify.com

 Offering a wide selection of ladies’ apparel and accessories in varying styles and sizes. From dresses and lingerie to handbags and necklaces. No shopping experience on Martha’s Vineyard is complete without a stop at M&R Stylz.

OSO Boutique

Clothing Store

33 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-207-2918

Instagram: @osoclothingmv

 OSO is a chic women’s boutique in Oak Bluffs, serving bold looks, coastal cool, and effortless glam. From flowy dresses to statement accessories, every piece is curated with style, sass, and sunshine in mind. Think Mediterranean soul meets Martha’s Vineyard vibes.

Fresh drops weekly. Come feel yourself at OSO.

Stefanie Wolf Designs

37 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

774-549-9526

https://stefaniewolf.com

 Step inside Stefanie Wolf Designs in Oak Bluffs and discover vibrant glass jewelry handmade right in her studio. Known for richly colored tile beads and signature Martha’s Vineyard charms, each piece is crafted with care. New this season, guests can explore the interactive Charm Bar to design their own jewelry or get customfit permanent bracelets, welded on with personalized accents. The shop also features a curated mix of local gifts, from ceramics to candles. Open year-round, this woman-owned business is a must-visit for meaningful, island-made treasures.

Third World Trading Co.

52 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-693-5550

www.thirdworldtrading.com

 Third World Trading Co. offers a fine selection of world fashion, jewelry, handicrafts, toys, fragrant oils, incense, and home décor for the whole family. It also specializes in natural fiber (hemp, cotton, and linen) clothing and accessories.

EDGARTOWN

Claudia Jewelry

51 Main St., Edgartown

508-627-8306

www.claudia.jewelry

 Claudia Jewelry has been in business since 1975. It features smaller designers and local artisans. It also carries French perfume, hair accessories, handbags, wallets, and handblown American glass. Its larger store is located at 51 Main St., Edgartown. It also has a small store at 34 Main St., Vineyard Haven.

The Great Put-On

1 Dock St., Edgartown

508-627-5495

www.thegreatputonmv.com

Instagram: @thegreatputonmv

 Proudly celebrating 56 years

of business on Martha’s Vineyard, The Great PutOn offers an exclusive collection of European high-end men’s and women’s clothing. Known for its personalized styling services and commitment to building lasting client relationships, The Great Put-On continues to bring a thoughtfully curated shopping experience to both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re shopping for timeless staples or standout statement pieces, its team is dedicated to helping you look and feel your best.

Tesori Fine Jewelry

8 Dock St., Edgartown

774-549-6959

www.tesorimv.com

Instagram: @tesorimv

 Celebrating 11 years of bringing exceptional fine jewelry to Martha’s Vineyard, Tesori Fine Jewelry features a carefully curated selection of unique designers from around the world. Its collection includes 14k and 18k gold pieces as well as exquisite semiprecious stones. With personalized guidance and a passion for craftsmanship, Tesori is dedicated to helping each client discover that perfect, one-of-a-kind piece to treasure for years to come.

On Martha’s Vineyard, the island’s creative pulse comes alive through vibrant galleries, art walks, live performances, and museums filled with history, culture, and local talent.

People who return to Martha’s Vineyard year after year often have their favorite beaches, restaurants, and towns; but many also have a gallery they always visit, an artist whose work they continually seek out, or a summer performance they rarely miss. With so much creativity on display, first-time visitors catch on quickly.

It’s no surprise that Vineyard Haven alone, the island’s principal port of entry all year long with a population of around 2,000 year-rounders, ranked in the Top 100 Most Arts-Vibrant Communities of 2025, according to the 10th Anniversary SMU DataArts’ Arts Vibrancy Index.

Notably, Vineyard Haven is also one of just 22 communities nationwide to have appeared in the rankings at least three times since 2020, underscoring the island’s strong creative energy. Yet the arts stretch far beyond this hub, filling old barns, former churches, museums, historic buildings, and more all across the island with creativity and culture.

Island Inspirations

Martha’s Vineyard is home to more than two dozen galleries highlighting everything from classic maritime oils and impressionist landscapes to outdoor sculpture and contemporary photography. In Vineyard Haven, check out 51art Gallery on Union Street, just a leisurely quarter-mile walk from the ferry terminal. Inside are the works of professional photographer Teresa Kruszewski, known for her striking black-and-white photographs that capture the streets, architecture, and everyday moments of New York City, Boston, and Martha’s Vineyard. Using vintage 1950s and 1960s Leica film cameras along with digital processing, her

work has the look and feel of classic photojournalism, blending timeless city scenes with quiet island imagery.

All of the photography displayed in 51art Gallery is by Kruszewski, along with two lines of notecards designed with her eye-catching black-and-white images. There is also a small collection of gifts for sale, including North Country Wind Bells and lavender sachets made from flowers grown in Kruszewski’s own island garden. She

DID YOU KNOW?

Martha’s Vineyard is home to the African American Heritage Trail, which celebrates over 30 sites honoring the rich history and contributions of African Americans on the island. From historic churches to the legacy of Shearer Cottage, each stop tells a story of resilience, community, and cultural impact.

offers custom, high-quality, preservation-grade picture framing by appointment and earned her Certified Picture Framer certification earlier this year through the Professional Picture Framers Association.

From there, visitors don’t have to go far to explore more galleries. Union Street meets Main Street, where several of Vineyard Haven’s other galleries are clustered, along with those on nearby Beach Street Extension. Together, they offer an eclectic mix of fine art and coastal crafts rooted in the maritime heritage, island light, and coastal landscape of Martha’s Vineyard, offering highly localized, one-of-a-kind art pieces and immersive cultural experiences.

Art aficionados won’t want to miss First Friday Vineyard Haven. This celebration of the arts, food, and music takes place on the first Friday of the month from June to October, plus December, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The area is transformed as outdoor art markets, artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, waterfront performances, and late-night gallery openings span from the harbor to the town’s Harbor Cultural District in a lively street-fair atmosphere.

Six miles to the south in West Tisbury, the Granary Gallery — the island’s oldest, largest, and best-known gallery, instantly recognizable by its iconic red barn exterior — has unveiled its largest exhibition wall to date. Located in the main indoor gallery space and beautifully positioned beneath the barn’s rustic wooden beams, this space provides the ideal setting to showcase oversized canvases that make a statement. Several new acquisitions fill the other indoor walls, including many with quintessential New England character. At the same time, the

outdoor courtyard is a feast for the eyes, with plein-air works on display in the ever-shifting natural sunlight. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of rotating exhibitions by well-known local artists throughout the season.

The other locations under the Granary family on Martha’s Vineyard include the Field Gallery in West Tisbury Center and North Water Gallery in Edgartown. The Field Gallery feels more like an art-filled meadow than a traditional gallery. It’s best known for the giant white sculptures by Tom Maley scattered

across the lawn, while inside, visitors will find contemporary paintings, camerawork, ceramics, and jewelry crafted by local artists in a relaxed, easy-going setting. Meanwhile, the North Water Gallery is best known for its coastal and maritime artwork, especially paintings by acclaimed island artist Ray Ellis. The gallery’s mazelike rooms almost feel like a seaside treasure hunt, filled with nautical oils, photography, sculpture, and glassworks that capture the spirit of Martha’s Vineyard.

In Edgartown, galleries are tucked inside historic captains’ homes, former sail lofts, waterfront buildings, and elegant old inns throughout the village. Visitors will find impressionist paintings, contemporary island art, sculpture, photography, and antique nautical maps just steps from the harbor and downtown streets.

Galleries in Oak Bluffs reflect the town’s colorful creative spirit, with spaces tucked into historic gingerbread cottages and lively downtown streets. The Featherstone Center for the Arts, located just south of town, is a nonprofit creative hub that operates yearround, offering gallery exhibitions, art classes, workshops, outdoor performances, and artist studios across a scenic six-acre campus.

Stages & Sounds

Every summer, the arts take center stage on Martha’s Vineyard. Live music, theater, comedy, dance, and cultural performances fill the summer calendar at venues such as the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs, the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown, and the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center in Vineyard Haven, all of which host both nationally touring acts and local talent. The island’s arts calendar is extensive, ranging from intimate acoustic performances to large outdoor concerts and seasonal festivals.

Live music, theater, comedy, dance, and cultural performances fill the summer calendar.

Performing arts highlights include events such as the Built on Stilts Dance & Performance Festival that takes place in Oak Bluffs each August. Now in its 30th year, this free community festival features contemporary dance, music, and performance work by island artists alongside performers from leading mainland companies. In Chilmark, The Yard hosts creative residencies, open rehearsals, and public performances throughout the summer, with past collaborations including the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

Concerts range from headline performances at the historic Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs to can-

dlelight string quartet programs, jazz festivals, gospel concerts, and weekly community music events held across the island, offering the ideal musical experience for any and every listener. Popular recurring events include the MV Museum’s Global Rhythms Summer Concert Series in Vineyard Haven, which brings internationally known musicians and cultural performances to the museum’s outdoor courtyard, as well as Sundays in the Park at Ocean Park in Oak Bluffs, where locals and visitors alike gather with lawn chairs and blankets for free seaside concerts throughout the summer.

“ Mar tha’s Vineyard had a pr of ound ef fect on me.”

History & Heritage

Art, culture, and history converge in the island’s museums, where exhibits range from maritime artifacts and Wampanoag traditions to pastelpainted Victorian cottages and island-inspired artwork. In Vineyard Haven, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum explores the island’s connection to the sea with lighthouse lenses, whaling pieces, fishing tools, and rotating exhibits by local artists.

The Cottage Museum in Oak Bluffs allows visitors to step back in time, offering a glimpse into the 1800s with preserved “gingerbread” cottages, period furnishings, and stories tied to the island’s Methodist camp meeting roots.

HE CROSSROADS GALLERY

THE C

Featuring the Inspirational Photography of Michael Blanchard

My Gallery – The "Crossroads Gallery" Best Gallery on Martha's Vineyard in 2020 and runner up in 2021, by Martha's Vineyard Magazine

In Aquinnah, the Aquinnah Cultural Center shares the traditions and present-day life of the Aquinnah Wampanoag through basketry, pottery, and jewelry. Its exhibits are tied to the tribe’s long relationship with the island’s cliffs and shoreline.

The Crossroads Gallery came to life in May of 2017.

CROSSROADS

In the Spring of 2019 I moved from my Circuit Ave location in Oak Bluffs to our new home at 93 Dukes County Ave in Oak Bluffs. My gallery concept has transformed into a meeting place. Folks from my Facebook fanbase have come in to talk about healing from addiction and other of life’s challenges. We share stories, hug, laugh and cry. In addition to the selling of art it has become a spiritual place for me. Hope to see you there.

My Gallery

The "Crossroads

ROSSROADS GALLERY

Best Gallery on Martha's Vineyard runner up in 2021, by Martha's

The Crossroads Gallery came to

and

My two books Through a Sober Lens and Fighting for My Life both won the coveted Ben Franklin Award for most inspirational story and best Art and photography. A portion of each book sale directly supports addiction treatment on the Island.

In the Spring of 2019 I moved location in Oak Bluffs to our new County Ave in Oak Bluffs. My gallery concept a meeting place. Folks from my Facebook fanbase talk about healing from addiction and other We share and selling spiritual Hope

THE CROSSROADS GALLERY

www.blanchardphotomv.com

Featuring the Inspirational Crossroads 93 Dukes Oak

For more

ARTS & CULTURE GUIDE

51art Gallery

4 Union St., Vineyard Haven

508-338-7703

www.

theshoppewiththereddoor. com

 Artist and owner

Teresa Kruszewski is a fine art, black-and-white photographer. Available at the gallery are her images of Martha’s Vineyard, New York City, and beyond, as well as two lines of notecards she designed. Teresa is a Certified Picture Framer (CPF) and offers custom framing by appointment.

Alison Shaw Gallery

88 Dukes County Ave., Oak Bluffs

508-693-4429

www.alisonshaw.com

 The gallery’s primary focus is on Alison’s signature photography. From color seascapes on the island of Martha’s Vineyard to blackand-white editorial shots for the Vineyard Gazette, Alison’s work spans 40 years. Offering fine art photography prints and workshops (Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Maine).

Granary Gallery

636 Old County Rd., West Tisbury

508-693-0455

www.granarygallery.com

 Granary Gallery, located in the iconic red barn, is the oldest and largest art gal-

lery on Martha’s Vineyard. It is a fun adventure for the entire family and an essential destination for the serious art lover. The Granary features an indoor gallery and an art-filled courtyard gallery. The West Tisbury location is a magnificent setting to enjoy exquisite fine art paintings, drawings of landscapes, still-life compositions, and photorealism by well-known national, regional, and local artists alongside the work of exciting emerging artists.

Michael R. Blanchard

93 Dukes County Ave., Oak Bluffs 617-448-3934

www.blanchardphotomv.com www.facebook.com/ blanchardphoto mblanch601@mac.com

 Michael Blanchard is an acclaimed photographer, philanthropist, writer, and gallery owner. His books, Through a Sober Lens and Fighting for My Life , have both won prestigious Ben Franklin Awards. The Crossroads Gallery was named best gallery on Martha’s Vineyard in 2019 and runner-up in 2020 by Martha’s Vineyard magazine. His photography has been featured in numerous magazines, and he has been called the “Ansel Adams of Recovery Photography” by Recovery Today magazine. He has pioneered the use of imagery and the arts in healing. His podcasts, national radio shows, movie appearances, and seminars foster hope and understanding in dealing with addiction and mental health disease and using the arts as inspiration.

From cozy cottages and charming inns to luxury seaside retreats and peaceful campgrounds, Martha’s Vineyard offers accommodations as memorable as the island itself.

Few destinations capture the imagination quite like Martha’s Vineyard. Located just south of Cape Cod, this beloved island has enchanted generations of visitors with its scenic harbors, iconic lighthouses, rolling dunes, and postcard-worthy towns. Whether you’re strolling through Edgartown’s historic streets, admiring the colorful cottages of Oak Bluffs, or taking in the dramatic coastal beauty of Aquinnah, every corner of the Vineyard feels designed for slowing down and savoring the moment.

No matter your travel style, the island offers a wide range of accommodations to match. From rustic escapes surrounded by nature to upscale waterfront resorts, Martha’s Vineyard makes it easy to find a stay that feels uniquely your own.

Seaside Luxury

Travelers seeking a refined island escape will find plenty to love in Martha’s Vineyard’s upscale hotels and resorts, particularly around Edgartown. Here, elegant properties pair coastal New England charm with modern comforts, offering guests everything from spa services and fine dining to scenic pools and curated island excursions.

Many luxury accommodations are located near beloved landmarks like South Beach and the Edgartown Lighthouse, allowing visitors to enjoy easy access to both the shoreline and the town’s boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Spacious suites, manicured grounds, and sweeping ocean views make these stays especially popular for romantic getaways and elevated family vacations alike.

For those who enjoy attentive service and polished surroundings, the Vineyard’s high-end resorts provide a seamless blend of relaxation and sophistication.

Charming Bed-and-Breakfasts

For a more intimate and personal experience, the island’s bed-and-breakfasts deliver classic island hospitality in abundance. Scattered throughout towns like Vineyard Haven, Edgartown, and Oak Bluffs, these inviting properties range from historic captains’ homes to quaint cottages filled with character.

Guests can expect thoughtful touches throughout their stay, including homemade breakfasts, cozy common areas, and welcoming hosts eager to share recommendations for beaches, restaurants, and hidden gems around the island. Many B&Bs incorporate locally sourced ingredients into their morning menus, adding an authentic Vineyard flavor to the experience.

Perfect for couples or solo travelers, these smaller accommodations offer a warm, relaxed atmosphere that feels distinctly tied to the island’s history and culture.

No matter where you choose to unpack your bags, Martha’s Vineyard has a way of making visitors feel instantly at home.

Historic Cottage Living

One of the Vineyard’s most iconic lodging experiences can be found in Oak Bluffs, home to the island’s famous gingerbread cottages. Originally established in the 19th century as part of a Methodist camp meeting community, these brightly painted homes remain one of the Vineyard’s most photographed attractions.

Mansion House (2)

Today, many of the cottages are available as vacation rentals, offering guests the opportunity to stay inside these whimsical historic

homes. Decorative trim, cheerful colors, wraparound porches, and blooming gardens create an atmosphere that feels straight out of a storybook.

Beyond Oak Bluffs, cottage rentals across the island provide additional options for travelers seeking a comfortable, home-like stay. Full kitchens, private outdoor spaces, and multiple bedrooms make these rentals especially appealing for families and larger groups.

GOOD TO KNOW

Martha's Vineyard has served as a presidential retreat for decades. During his presidency, Barack Obama’s Vineyard vacation home was often referred to as the "Summer White House," and both Obama and Bill Clinton spent many summers on the island. So, if you’re staying on the Vineyard, you never know whose footsteps you might be following.

Boutique Inns with Island Character

Boutique inns offer yet another distinctive way to experience Martha’s Vineyard. Many occupy restored historic homes or scenic waterfront properties, blending timeless architecture with carefully curated décor and modern amenities.

Some inns overlook rolling farmland or quiet coastal landscapes, while others place guests steps away from bustling town centers and ferry docks. Thoughtful extras such as fireplaces, private gardens, yoga classes, or art-filled interiors help create a memorable and highly personalized stay.

With their smaller scale and attention to detail, these inns strike a balance between upscale comfort and relaxed island living.

A Night beneath the Stars

For travelers who prefer nature to luxury, camping on Martha’s Vineyard offers a peaceful way to experience the island’s quieter side. The Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground provides tent and RV sites tucked among the trees, along with rustic cabins for those who want a little extra comfort without sacrificing the outdoor experience.

Evenings here are often spent gathered around campfires, roasting marshmallows beneath clear night skies, while mornings begin with birdsong and fresh coastal air. Camping allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty, from wooded landscapes to nearby shoreline views.

It’s an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to disconnect from the rush of daily life.

An Island Stay to Remember

Though Martha’s Vineyard spans only a relatively small stretch of coastline, its accommodations are remarkably diverse. Whether you envision a luxury suite overlooking the ocean, a cozy cottage in a historic neighborhood, or a campsite surrounded by nature, the island offers a stay suited to every kind of traveler.

No matter where you choose to unpack your bags, Martha’s Vineyard has a way of making visitors feel instantly at home — and eager to return long after the trip has ended.

Natural beauty, coastal charm, and a strong sense of community continue to make Martha’s Vineyard one of New England’s most sought-after real estate markets.

For many people, owning a home on Martha’s Vineyard is more than a real estate goal — it’s a lifestyle aspiration. With its scenic coastline, historic villages, beautiful beaches, and unmistakable sense of place, the island has long captured the imagination of homebuyers from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to the quiet charm of a waterfront neighborhood, the energy of a harbor town, or the privacy of a tucked-away retreat, Martha’s Vineyard offers a setting that feels both timeless and uniquely its own.

That said, purchasing property here comes with its own set of considerations. The Vineyard is not just an island — it’s a way of life. Its unique geography and character mean that real estate is both highly desirable and distinctly competitive, especially in 2026. While you may have heard that getting to the island isn’t always easy, those who make the journey often say that’s part of the magic. The sense of seclusion, paired with a strong year-

round community and world-class amenities, continues to draw homebuyers from near and far.

If you’re thinking about making this coastal haven your home, here are a few important things to know before diving into the Martha’s Vineyard real estate market.

After several years of rapid price growth, the real estate market appears to be stabilizing. The median home price now hovers above $1.5 million, marking a modest increase from the previous year. However, inventory remains limited throughout much of the year, making timing — and local expertise — essential.

Working with a knowledgeable local buyer’s agent can make all the difference, especially if you’re not on the island full time. They can serve as your eyes and ears, helping you stay ahead of new listings and guiding you through the process of crafting a competitive, well-prepared offer.

As a primarily seasonal destination, the Vineyard’s market ebbs and flows with the calendar. If you don’t find the right property during the busy spring and summer months — which attracts

more buyers because the island is in full bloom — consider returning in the fall. Buyer competition tends to ease after peak season, and the quieter winter months can offer greater negotiating power. Sellers who keep their homes on the market into the offseason are often more open to price reductions — giving savvy buyers a potential advantage.

Short-term rentals play a significant role in Martha’s Vineyard’s economy, especially during the high-demand summer season, which presents lucrative opportunities for homeowners. If you’re planning to rent out your property, it’s essential to work with an agent who is well versed in both the sales and rental markets on the island. Location is key — where your property is situated will greatly influence both the rental rate you can command and the number of weeks it’s likely to be booked.

The luxury real estate market remains robust, with strong interest in properties that offer historic character or unique design elements — especially among the artistic community. Whether it’s a secluded waterfront estate offering total privacy or a stylish retreat where you can blend in effortlessly with the locals, the Vineyard continues to attract high-end buyers.

This summer is already shaping up to be an active season. One standout listing is the iconic Blue Heron Farm, offered at $39 million — famously known as the summer getaway of President Obama during his time in office. If you are looking for something a little more affordable, there are more accessible opportunities, like a fully furnished 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home in Vineyard Haven, just a half-mile from the beach, shops, restaurants, and ferries —

offered at $2,495,000. For buyers seeking entry into the market, condominiums and campground cottages under $1 million are also available.

Whether you’re seeking a luxury estate or looking to get your foot in the door, navigating the Martha’s Vineyard market requires a seasoned local expert. A knowledgeable real estate agent can walk you through the buying process, help you interpret current trends, and offer insight into competitive pricing and strategic negotiations. Local agents also have access to off-market listings and a deep understanding of the island’s many distinct neighborhoods — helping you find a property that fits your needs. With its competitive landscape, especially at the high end, insider knowledge is not just helpful — it’s essential.

Martha’s Vineyard is known for its close-knit, welcoming — yet subtly private — community. Purchasing a home here means becoming part of a distinctive island lifestyle that goes well beyond real estate value. New homeowners are encouraged to engage in the island’s rich social and cultural offerings, from Vineyard tours and art festivals to local fundraisers and neighborhood gatherings.

While summer is the island’s busiest season, the offseason holds its own charm. As many residents head south for the winter, those who remain — the dedicated “year-rounders” — enjoy a deeper sense of community through thoughtfully planned local events and traditions that make island life feel even more connected.

Purchasing a home on Martha’s Vineyard presents a unique opportunity to become part of an exclusive island community surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. That said, it’s a decision that

requires thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of the island’s specific challenges. For those ready to make the financial investment and embrace the seasonal nature of Vineyard life, it can easily become one of the most rewarding investments you’ll ever make.

Lisa Lucier is the owner/broker at Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard in Oak Bluffs. For more information about real estate opportunities on the Vineyard, call 508-696-7777 or visit its website at www.anchorrealtymv.com

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

Sandpiper Realty, Inc. 60 Winter St., Edgartown 508-627-3737

www.sandpiperrealty.com

 Sandpiper Realty, Inc., founded in 1969, has a history of service that has gained it recognition for integrity and professionalism. An established independent agency with a long-standing reputation, it also has a very personal interest in, and commitment to, its clientele and to the Vineyard community. Sandpiper has been a market leader of Vineyard sales and rentals, in all price ranges, for decades.

From breezy seaside ceremonies to sophisticated receptions, Martha’s Vineyard offers an unforgettable backdrop for couples ready to begin their next chapter.

There’s a reason couples continue to fall in love with Martha’s Vineyard as a wedding destination. The island combines breathtaking coastal scenery with historic charm, relaxed sophistication, and a sense of escape that transforms every celebration into something unforgettable. Whether the vision is a grand black-tie affair, an intimate countryside gathering, or a barefoot ceremony overlooking the Atlantic, the Vineyard provides the perfect backdrop.

What truly sets the island apart is its versatility. Every town offers a different atmosphere, from the polished harborfront elegance of Edgartown to the pastoral beauty of Chilmark and West Tisbury. Paired with talented local photographers, caterers, florists, and wellness experts, Martha’s Vineyard makes it easy to create a celebration that feels both seamless and deeply personal.

Coastal Weddings & Celebrations

For couples dreaming of a classic seaside wedding, the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown remains one of the island’s most iconic venues. Located beside Lighthouse Beach with sweeping views of Edgartown Harbor and the lighthouse beyond, the historic property captures quintessential New England charm. Ceremonies on the Great Lawn feel effortlessly romantic, while receptions inside the Edgartown Ballroom bring a polished elegance to the evening. An experienced planning team ensures every detail unfolds smoothly from start to finish.

Nearby, the Winnetu Oceanside Resort offers a more relaxed coastal atmosphere without sacrificing sophistication. Situated near South Beach on 11 scenic acres, the resort features multiple ceremony and reception locations, including the West Lawn and the Dunes Outdoor Deck. Vintage wood-paneled vehicles shuttle guests around the property while also doubling as charming photo props that add a nostalgic Vineyard touch.

The Boathouse & Field Club in Edgartown embraces the island’s maritime heritage with yacht-club-inspired architecture and waterfront views. Couples can even arrive by boat before celebrating with cocktails overlooking the harbor. The venue balances nautical charm with refined coastal style, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly Martha’s Vineyard.

DID YOU KNOW ?

East Chop Lighthouse is a beloved spot for intimate sunset wedding ceremonies. Couples can tie the knot with sweeping views of the Vineyard Sound and the distant Elizabeth Islands right behind them. It’s a picture-perfect moment!

Neck Golf Club in Oak

offers another stunning option for waterfront weddings. Expansive greens, ocean views, and flexible event spaces make it ideal for celebrations of all sizes. From intimate ceremonies on the back porch to elegant tented receptions beneath the stars, the property blends natural beauty with understated sophistication.

Rustic Charm & Countryside Romance

Beyond the beaches, Martha’s Vineyard’s rural landscapes provide equally enchanting wedding settings. In Menemsha, The Beach Plum Inn offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by 30 acres of rolling scenery and harbor views. Quaint cottages, lush gardens, and a restored hayloft suite create a warm and intimate atmosphere ideal for smaller gatherings. The venue’s secluded location gives weddings here a quiet, personal feeling that perfectly complements the Vineyard’s slower pace.

Lambert’s Cove Inn in West Tisbury delivers a similarly serene setting with wooded meadows, colorful gardens, and expansive lawns spread across seven scenic acres. The property can host larger celebrations while still maintaining a relaxed and secluded feel. Couples planning outdoor ceremonies or tented receptions are especially drawn to the venue’s picturesque natural surroundings.

For those seeking history and timeless character, the Captain R. Flanders House in Chilmark offers a setting steeped in Vineyard heritage. Built in the 1700s, the lovingly preserved farmhouse sits on 60 acres overlooking Bliss Pond. Antique furnishings, colonial architecture, and sweeping pastoral views give the estate a sense of oldworld romance that feels both elegant and authentic.

Perched atop the dramatic cliffs of Aquinnah, The Outermost Inn delivers one of the island’s most unforgettable ceremony backdrops. This intimate seven-room property features panoramic Atlantic Ocean views, a wraparound porch, and a celebrated farmto-table restaurant. Sunset weddings here feel especially magical, with the natural landscape becoming part of the celebration itself.

Capturing the Celebration

With scenery this beautiful, photography becomes an essential part of preserving the experience. Martha’s Vineyard is home to talented photographers who specialize in documenting weddings with authenticity and artistry.

Jeremy Driesen Photography is known for a quiet documentary approach that captures intimate moments naturally as they unfold. His unobtrusive style results in timeless images filled with genuine emotion.

Tim Correira Photography focuses on storytelling through candid, emotion-driven imagery. Meaningful glances, spontaneous laughter, and small in-between moments become the heart of his work.

For couples drawn to a more editorial aesthetic, Isabella Chimes Photography blends fashion-forward composition with a soft bohemian style. Her images feel modern yet timeless, with a strong emphasis on detail and atmosphere.

Flowers, Food & Finishing Touches

Martha’s Vineyard also shines when it comes to florals and catering, with local businesses drawing inspiration directly from the island’s

natural beauty. Flowers on the Vineyard, led by Louise Sweet, creates organic arrangements using blooms often gathered from local gardens. Based in Makonikey, the studio is known for bouquets and tablescapes that feel fresh, natural, and deeply connected to the landscape.

Donaroma’s, the beloved family-run business with multiple island locations, offers fully customized floral designs ranging from understated coastal elegance to lush statement installations. Many of the flowers used in its arrangements are grown directly in the company’s own nurseries.

On the culinary side, V. Jaime Hamlin and Sons has earned a reputation as one of the Vineyard’s premier caterers, handling everything from intimate dinners to celebrity weddings. Seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood, and inventive takes on New England classics define the company’s menus.

Annie Foley Catering & Special Events specializes in highly personalized dining experiences tailored to each couple’s style and vision. Whether serving a casual rehearsal dinner or a sophisticated reception beneath a sailcloth tent, the team creates menus that celebrate the flavors of the island.

Relaxation Before “I Do”

Preparing for a Vineyard wedding also means embracing the island’s laid-back atmosphere and wellness offerings. Sea Spa Salon at the Vineyard Square Hotel in Edgartown provides salon services, massages, facials, and holistic treatments ideal for bridal parties looking to relax before the big day.

For beauty services delivered directly to accommodations, Island Aesthetics MV offers luxury skin care and aesthetic treatments throughout the island. Founded by a boardcertified physician and licensed RN, the company provides everything from HydraFacials and IV vitamin therapy to advanced skin care services designed to leave clients glowing.

From ferry rides at sunset to final dances beneath the stars, Martha’s Vineyard transforms weddings into unforgettable experiences. More than simply a beautiful backdrop, the island becomes part of the story itself — a place forever tied to one of life’s most meaningful celebrations.

Here are some practical tips and useful information for navigating our island.

Population

According to the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce, almost 23,000 people live here year-round; but in the peak summer season, that number can increase to about 200,000.

Local Language

Up Island refers to the western areas of Aquinnah, Chilmark, Menemsha, and West Tisbury; while Down Island refers to Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown.

Climate

Thanks to its island location, Martha’s Vineyard enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round. Summers are typically cooler than mainland Massachusetts, with average highs in the upper 70s to low 80s and lows around 60°F. Spring temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-60s, while fall brings comfortable days in the 60s and 70s along with vibrant foliage that often peaks from late October into early November. Winters are relatively moderate, with average highs in the low 50s and lows around 40°F.

Getting Here & Around

Located about seven miles from Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is only accessible by boat or airplane. There are no bridges connecting it to the mainland. However, there are several ferries that transport people to and from the island.

Ferries

Avoid the traffic and frustration and hop on a relaxing one-hour luxury ferry from New Bedford to Martha’s Vineyard aboard Seastreak. Take in the views from the open-air top deck, grab a drink at the full-

Our self-guided tour around Martha’s Vineyard allows you to catch the island’s highlights at your own pace without the hassle of waiting for a tour bus or ride share. Spend the day leisurely exploring the island and creating lifelong memories.

service bar, or relax inside the temperature-controlled cabin. It offers seasonal departures throughout the day (800-BOAT-RIDE; www.seastreak.com).

The Steamship Authority ferries operate year-round from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, and they’re the only ones that transport both vehicles and passengers (508-477-8600; www.steamshipauthority.com).

Other ferries run seasonally. Ferries to the island typically depart from Woods Hole, Hyannis, Nantucket, New Bedford, and Falmouth, MA; Quonset Point, RI; Northern New Jersey; and Metropolitan New York. Check the schedules before you depart for the most up-todate information.

Inter-island service is also available from Hyannis to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard via a high-speed ferry operated by Hy-Line Cruises (508-693-0112; www.hylinecruises.com/marthas-vineyard-ferries).

Flights

There are a few airlines that offer flights directly into Martha’s Vineyard Airport. Cape Air (800-CAPE-AIR; www.capeair.com) offers year-round direct flights from Boston’s Logan Airport and New York’s JFK Airport. Seasonal flights are also available from other gateway cities on the East Coast. American Airlines, Delta, Jet Blue, and Elite Airways offer seasonal flights as well.

Martha’s Vineyard Airport is located at the center of the island and has facilities available for private planes. Taxis and car rental companies are available at the airport.

Car Rentals

DISCOVER

Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape

Scan to see more

Scan the QR code found throughout the pages of this visitors’ guide to download the indispensable Discover Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape app while on the go.

Renting a car on the Vineyard is a great way to see the island at your own pace. Contact Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals (508-627-6800; www.mvautorental.com) or Budget Martha’s Vineyard (508-693-1911; www.budgetmv.com) with four convenient locations.

Public Bus

If you’re looking for something economical and convenient, a year-round public bus system can help you get around the entire island. Learn more at www.vineyardtransit.com

You can also rent bicycles from various companies to explore the Vineyard on your own or book sightseeing tours that take you around the island to discover all the towns.

Visitor Information

The Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit, professional organization made up of business members located on the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard (508-693-0085; 800-505-4815; www.mvy.com).

The Martha’s Vineyard Lodging Association represents the licensed and inspected properties across the island, including boutique hotels, inns, and hotels in Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Chilmark, Aquinnah, and West Tisbury (www.marthasvineyardlodging.org).

USEFUL INFO GUIDE

TRANSPORTATION

Budget Martha’s Vineyard

MV Airport Main Terminal

Oak Bluffs, 1 block from all ferries

Vineyard Haven, 1 block from ferries

Edgartown, at the Triangle 508-693-1911

 Budget Martha’s Vineyard is a family-owned and -operated business that has been serving the island’s visitors and community for almost 30 years. It specializes in fun vehicles such as Jeeps and convertibles like Corvette, Mercedes, Audi, and Mustang, along with sedans, minivans, and SUVs. With Budget Martha’s Vineyard, you will be in your car within minutes of arriving on the island!

Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals

12 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs 508-627-5700

www.mvautorental.com

 The company’s self-guided tour around Martha’s Vineyard allows you to catch the island’s highlights at your own pace without the hassle of waiting for a tour bus or rideshare.

Spend the day leisurely exploring the island and creating lifelong memories. Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals has three offices conveniently located in Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown.

Seastreak

49 State Pier, New Bedford 800-262-8743 www.seastreak.com

contactnb@seastreak.com



Seastreak provides luxury, high-speed ferry services connecting New Bedford to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Enjoy the many amenities on board, including spacious seating, an open-air top deck, and full-service bar. Car valet services are available at the New Bedford ferry terminal.

Here, coastal charm, rich history, and natural beauty blend effortlessly. Whether you’re drawn to sandy shores, scenic bike paths, fresh seafood, or quaint village strolls, the Cape invites you to explore, unwind, and create memories in a place cherished for generations.

From historic landmarks and scenic overlooks to shark cams, vintage trains, and unforgettable adventures, Cape Cod offers far more than a single visit can cover.

There’s more to Cape Cod than most people expect — and most people already expect quite a bit.

“The Cape” draws visitors for the obvious reasons — beaches, seafood, and salt air — but keeps them coming back for everything else. Historic lighthouses, great white sharks patrolling the shallows, a working vineyard housed in a 19thcentury farmhouse, a pirate museum built atop the world’s only authenticated pirate treasure, and countless other attractions reveal a destination filled with surprises. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Stretching 65 miles into the Atlantic, you’d naturally expect the Cape to deliver on the water — and it does, in every direction. But beyond its 550 miles of coastline lies an equally diverse landscape of pine forests, cranberry bogs, open grasslands, and protected dunes. Biplanes offer a bird’s-eye view

of the peninsula, while cyclists, runners, and walkers experience it at ground level along scenic trails built atop former railroad beds.

Keep your camera close. Cape Cod has earned national recognition for its scenery; in fact, photography company Mixbook ranked Nauset Beach in Orleans No. 8 on its list of the 100 most breathtaking views in the United States. In your search for the perfect view, don’t overlook Scargo Tower in Dennis and Race Point in Provincetown, both worth the trip for the panorama alone. Wherever your travels take you, you’ll find no shortage of memorable sights and unexpected discoveries.

THE UPPER CAPE

Dinner in Motion

Travel forward — and a little back in time — aboard the Cape Cod Central Railroad, where vintage dining cars evoke the elegance of early 20th-century rail travel while serving a memorable five-course meal. From May through October, these threehour culinary journeys depart from Hyannis, Buzzards Bay, and Falmouth, pairing scenic Cape Cod landscapes with menus featuring dishes such as Chateaubriand, pan-seared scallops, and basil pesto gnocchi.

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Ocean Science Discovery Center lets visitors encounter great whites up close through the REMUS SharkCam.

Inside, candlelight flickers and attentive service set the tone, while dunes, forests, and cranberry bogs drift past the windows. For a shorter outing, two-hour daytime excursions along the Cape Cod Canal offer a different — but equally picturesque — perspective. While the dinner train is reserved for guests ages 12 and older, the railroad also offers a variety of familyfriendly excursions designed with younger travelers in mind.

The Great White Way

Kids can’t get enough of sharks, so why wait for Shark Week? The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Ocean Science Discovery Center lets visitors encounter great whites up close — not in the water but through the institution’s REMUS SharkCam, an underwater robot that tracks the animals in their natural habitat. The center also covers the discovery of the Titanic and the Ocean Twilight Zone, a little-known deep-sea region that harbors the planet’s highest concentration of animal life. It’s a full afternoon for curious visitors of any age.

The Art of Glass

All that glimmers is glass at the Sandwich Glass Museum, which marks 200 years of glassmaking in Sandwich in 2025. Glassblowing is a precise business — heat, chemistry, and hard-won skill — and the museum’s working demonstrations make that clear. Exhibits span historical pieces and contemporary work alike. Hour-long hands-on classes, where an expert glassblower guides you through making an ornament or paperweight, are available for families and adults. It’s one of those activities that sounds low-key and turns out to be genuinely absorbing.

Up & Away

For a different view of the Cape altogether, Cape Cod Airfield in Marstons Mills offers rides in an authentic 1930s biplane. One or two passengers ride in the open front cockpit on 15-, 25-, and 35-minute flights over lush forests, sandy beaches, the Cape Cod Canal, and the historic bridges spanning it. Whale sightings are occasional but not rare. There’s no age limit — grandparents and grandchildren are equally welcome — and tours run throughout summer from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Bring sunglasses. J.

THE MID CAPE

A Summer White House

Hyannis and Hyannis Port hold a particular place in American history as the Kennedy family’s summer home for generations. The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, housed in a graceful 1921 town hall building, offers an intimate look at the 35th president that feels different from the grander Kennedy libraries elsewhere. Exhibits follow his arc from carefree Cape Cod youth — football games on the lawn, sailing expeditions, family snapshots — to national leader, ending at the moment Walter Cronkite delivered the news of his assassination. Open year-round, with longer hours in summer.

Summer Stock, Seriously

The Cape Playhouse in Dennis has been producing theater since 1927, and its reputation has never really dimmed. The New York Times once called it “the place where Broadway goes to summer” — over the decades, Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart, Henry Fonda, and Jane Fonda have all taken the stage here. Nearly a century later, the playhouse still mounts world-class productions created for its stage, alongside the Playhouse Palooza summer series for younger audiences.

Two Wheels, 25 Miles

Built along the Cape’s old railway corridor, the Cape Cod Rail Trail runs 25 fully paved miles through six towns, from Yarmouth to Wellfleet, passing cranberry bogs, rivers, open prairies, and pine forests, as well as meandering through the wooded 1,900 acres of Nickerson State Park in Brewster. The trail’s wellmaintained pavement makes it accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels, with bike rental and repair shops located along the way; but it’s equally good for walking and running. An offshoot route, the Old Colony Rail Trail, extends south to Chatham.

The Real Pirates of Cape Cod

On April 26, 1717, Captain Sam Bellamy’s ship, the Whydah Gally, went down in a violent storm off the Cape Cod coast, taking all hands with it. Rumors of treasure circulated for years, but it wasn’t confirmed until 1984, when the wreck was discovered. The Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth now houses the world’s only authenticated pirate treasure alongside thousands of artifacts recovered from the ship and a walk-through partial replica. Kids are reliably riveted.

DISCOVER

Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape

Scan to see more

Scan the QR code found throughout the pages of this visitors’ guide to download the indispensable Discover Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape app while on the go.

Paws on the Cape

| Cape Cod offers plenty of

ways to explore with your four-legged companion.

THE CAPE IS A GENUINELY GOOD DESTINATION FOR DOGS

— more accommodating than most coastal areas — as long as you know the ground rules and plan accordingly.

Pack the basics before you leave: leash, waste bags, fresh drinking water, a travel bowl, a towel, food, and treats. If you forget something, the Falmouth Pet Center in the Upper Cape town of Falmouth carries everything from holistic pet food to supplies for dogs, cats, and smaller animals. Dog-friendly lodging is easy to find across the Cape, including vacation rentals, inns, motels, and hotel chains that welcome pets.

On the Beach: There’s nothing quite like watching a dog hit the beach for the first time, in a full sprint of absolute joy. Most public and town-managed beaches restrict dogs from May 15 to September 15, but the Cape Cod National Seashore is open to leashed dogs yearround, with a few rules and regs. Watch for temporary closure signs at beach entrances, posted when shorebirds are nesting nearby. Near the tip of the Cape, Provincetown Dog Beach offers off-leash hours from 6 to 9 a.m. and again from 6 to 9 p.m. In the Lower Cape, Jackknife Harbor Beach allows dogs before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. during the summer months.

Off the Leash: Dog parks are scattered across the Cape for when your buddy needs a proper run. Brewster Dog Park in the Mid Cape has separate areas for small and large dogs. In the Upper Cape, both Falmouth Dog Park and Mashpee Dog Park offer fenced, shaded spaces. Out on the Outer Cape, Pilgrim Bark Park in Provincetown made HGTV’s 2018 list of the “10 Ideas You’ve Got to Add to Your Dog’s Bucket List” — which, rankings aside, is a great park.

On the Trail: Hathaways Pond Trail near Barnstable is a 1.4-mile loop around a lake, moving through both hilly and flat terrain with interpretive signs along the way, creating a manageable, pleasant outing. The trailhead is marked by a pet waste station. Nearby in South Yarmouth, the Cape Cod Rail Trail offers 22 miles of walking through open landscape, with a few old railroad relics visible along the route. Beyond the trails, many of the Cape’s main streets welcome well-behaved dogs, and a good number of restaurants — particularly those with outdoor seating — go out of their way for four-legged guests, providing water bowls, treats, and in some cases, a dedicated pet menu. J.

THE LOWER & OUTER CAPE

Where the Cape Stays Wild

The Cape Cod National Seashore is one of the lasting gifts of the Kennedy presidency: In 1961, JFK signed legislation protecting more than 43,000 acres of sand, dune, and shoreline that might otherwise have been developed for housing and tourism. Stretching from Provincetown south to Eastham — with sections in Orleans and Chatham — it encompasses 40 miles of beach, six public beaches (Coast Guard, Nauset Light, Marconi, Head of the Meadow, Race Point, and Herring Cove), six lighthouses, 12 self-guided hiking trails, and three biking trails.

Two visitor centers are the starting point for ranger-led programs that include canoe trips on Salt Pond, guided walks to spot sharks and seals, and lighthouse tours. Note: Coast Guard Beach has frequently been named one of the top 10 beaches in the United States by coastal geologist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach.

The Lavender Fields

In late June and early July, Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich is a fragrant stop, when the fields are in full bloom and the scent carries. As the ancients knew, lavender is a remarkable plant — simultaneously a flower, herb, and shrub — and has been used as perfume and natural medicine for centuries. This three-generation family farm produces nearly two dozen products made from what they grow on-site, from essential oils and sachets to body butters and scented candles.

Flying between Lighthouses

Wellfleet is considered one of the region’s best spots for hang gliding and paragliding, and the conditions explain why: Steady 10- to 12-knot east-northeast winds carry riders on flights of up to 20 miles between two iconic lighthouses. The season runs October through April, before the summer crowds arrive on the beaches. The New England Paragliding and Hang Gliding Club provides safety information and guidance for anyone new to the sport.

Wine with a Splash of Sea Air

At Truro Vineyards, a pioneer of maritime grape growing on Cape Cod, the sea and soil work together to create wines that reflect their coastal surroundings. Set within a beautifully restored 1830s farmhouse, the vineyard produces distinctive wines shaped by grapes grown in close proximity to the Atlantic.

Complimentary tours are offered Monday through Friday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Afterward, visitors

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1961, JFK signed legislation protecting more than 43,000 acres of sand, dune, and shoreline that might otherwise have been developed for housing and tourism.

can reserve a two-hour private tasting featuring five wines paired with artisanal cheeses and guided by a dedicated host who tailors the experience to individual tastes.

The property is also home to a distillery producing smallbatch spirits, including handcrafted rums and gin, making it a worthwhile stop for both wine and spirits enthusiasts.

The Last Drive-In

The Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre is the only drive-in left on Cape Cod, and Frommer’s has included it on its list of “500 Places to See Before They Disappear.” The format is timeless: a double feature, sound through the car radio, and the particular pleasure of watching a movie under the open sky. Before the show, there’s a round of mini golf to play or a trip to the concession stand for popcorn. Older visitors tend to get nostalgic; younger ones tend to want to come back. Open mid-May through Labor Day.

From whale watching and harbor cruises to fishing trips, kayaking, paddleboarding, and seal tours, the shores of Cape Cod offer endless ways to get out on the water.

Some visitors come hoping to spot humpback whales breaching just offshore, while others set out in search of striped bass and bluefish. Many choose to spend the day cruising the coastline, sailing across Nantucket Sound, or paddling through the Cape’s sheltered bays, tidal creeks, and salt marshes. However you prefer to experience the water, Cape Cod offers countless opportunities for both relaxation and adventure, with activities available from spring through fall.

Summer is undoubtedly the busiest season on the water, when long, sunny days make boating, fishing, and sightseeing especially appealing. Ask a local, however, and many will tell you that September and October are among the Cape’s best-kept secrets. Warm days, crisp evenings, fewer crowds, and calm seas create ideal conditions for exploring the coastline.

From spring through fall, whale-watching excursions venture offshore in search of humpbacks, finbacks, minke whales, and other marine giants. The waters off the Outer Cape are also renowned for their thriving seal population, which attracts great white sharks between late spring and fall. Anglers, meanwhile, can enjoy excellent fishing throughout the year, whether casting from shore, heading offshore, or exploring the Cape’s productive bays and estuaries. Whether your perfect day involves wildlife encounters, reeling in a memorable catch, or simply soaking up the salt air from the deck of a boat, Cape Cod offers endless ways to connect with the sea.

From Harbors to High Seas

Step aboard the Schooner Liberté for a two- to three-hour sail from Falmouth Harbor aboard a classic three-masted schooner. Powered by wind and guided by the tides, the vessel glides past Nobska Lighthouse and the waters off Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven before returning to port, offering a memorable perspective on some of the region’s most iconic scenery. Live music adds to the atmosphere, while a cash bar serves drinks, and the option to bring your own picnic makes for a relaxing afternoon on the water. For a shorter excursion, the one-hour Hyannis Harbor Cruise showcases local landmarks including the Kennedy Compound, Point Gammon Light, the Kennedy Memorial, Squaw Island, and St. Andrews-by-the-Sea. Narrated tours share stories about the

area’s history and notable residents, including the waterfront home once owned by Taylor Swift. Specialty departures such as sunset cocktail cruises, ice cream float cruises, and musical bingo sailings add a fun twist to the experience.

GOOD TO KNOW

Opened in 1875, the Woods Hole Science Aquarium is the oldest public aquarium in the United States. The beloved attraction is currently undergoing a major renovation and is expected to welcome visitors back in 2027 with updated exhibits and facilities.

From May through October, whale-watching vessels depart Provincetown and Barnstable for Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world’s premier whale-feeding grounds. Humpback, finback, and minke whales are frequently spotted here, along with the occasional pilot whale. Modern excursions often incorporate real-time whale-tracking technology and hydrophones that allow passengers to listen to whale vocalizations beneath the surface. Naturalists provide engaging commentary throughout the three- to four-hour journeys aboard comfortable vessels complete with indoor seating, outdoor decks, and onboard refreshments. Many operators also participate in the Whale SENSE program, which promotes responsible whale-watching practices and marine conservation.

For a different kind of wildlife encounter, shark-watching excursions depart from Chatham for the waters surrounding Monomoy Island and the Outer Cape, where they gather to feed on gray seals. Spotter planes assist captains in locating sharks, increasing the chances of sightings while providing guests with a fascinating look at one of the ocean’s most misunderstood predators. Shared-ticket and citizen-science

Beyond Jaws | Discover the real story behind Cape Cod’s most famous marine creature.

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

FEW FILMS HAVE SHAPED PUBLIC PERCEPTION of sharks more than Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster Jaws. Yet the real story of Cape Cod’s great white sharks is far different from Hollywood fiction. Once uncommon along the U.S. North Atlantic coast due to overfishing and trophy hunting, great whites have made a remarkable comeback in recent decades thanks to conservation efforts and the recovery of gray seal populations.

Today, Cape Cod is recognized as one of the premier locations in the world to study and observe great white sharks in the wild. Researchers with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC), based in Chatham, have documented hundreds of individual sharks in the waters surrounding the Cape. These impressive predators typically measure 8 to 16 feet in length, though some can grow considerably larger.

The growing shark population has also fueled interest in shark-focused excursions. From July through October, several operators offer educational offshore tours that provide opportunities to observe great whites in their natural habitat. Most departures take place from Chatham, and while sightings can never be guaranteed, many captains work with spotter pilots to improve viewing opportunities. Polarized sunglasses are recommended for the best chance of spotting sharks beneath the surface.

For an even deeper dive into shark science, the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy offers educational research tours and operates the Shark Center in Chatham, where interactive exhibits, videos, and displays explore the biology, behavior, and conservation of these remarkable animals. Visitors can also follow shark activity through the organization’s popular Sharktivity app, which maps recent sightings and tracks tagged sharks throughout the region.

excursions have also made these outings more accessible.

Seal-watching cruises offer another opportunity to experience Cape Cod’s remarkable marine life. Departing from Harwich and Chatham, these 1.5to 2-hour excursions visit some of the Cape’s most productive wildlife-viewing areas. Boats from Harwich travel to Monomoy Island, where thousands of gray seals gather along beaches and shoals, while Chatham departures explore Pleasant Bay, Chatham Harbor, North Beach, and Chatham Light. Naturalist narration enhances the experience, and lucky passengers may even spot a great white shark patrolling offshore.

Hook, Line & Cape

It should come as no surprise that fishing is woven into the fabric of life on Cape Cod. Deep-sea fishing charters depart from harbors throughout the region, including Falmouth, Harwich, Chatham, Eastham, Truro, and West Dennis. Anglers can choose between large party boats carrying dozens of passengers or private charters designed for smaller groups seeking a more personalized experience.

Excursions typically range from four to eight hours, with target species varying by season. Depending on the time of year, anglers may reel in striped bass, bluefish, black sea bass, flounder, cod, tuna, and mackerel. Modern vessels are equipped with advanced sonar and fish-finding technology that helps captains locate productive waters more efficiently, while warming ocean temperatures have led some charter operators to report increased catches of bonito and even mahi-mahi in recent years.

Beyond the fishing itself, some charters offer a glimpse into

Cape Cod’s maritime heritage by hauling lobster traps during the trip, providing passengers with a firsthand look at one of the region’s traditional industries.

Visitors planning to fish on their own should check current Massachusetts fishing regulations and licensing requirements before casting a line. Freshwater and saltwater rules, seasonal restrictions, and catch limits are updated regularly and can be found through the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and MassFishHunt.

Paddle & Explore

Cape Cod’s sheltered bays, winding rivers, and protected estuaries offer some of the region’s most rewarding opportunities for exploring by kayak or paddle board. Gliding across calm waters provides a unique perspective on the Cape’s natural beauty, from salt marshes and sandy shorelines to osprey nests and hidden coves often missed by those traveling on land.

In Mashpee, paddlers can explore the tranquil waters of Popponesset Bay and the Popponesset River on a selfguided outing or join a guided two-hour tour. Several outfitters even deliver equipment directly to vacation rentals, making it easy to launch an adventure right from your doorstep.

The Bass River is another favorite spot, offering gentle currents and scenic surroundings ideal for beginners and families. Farther east, Pleasant Bay beckons with miles of protected waterways perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also try their hand at sailing, with Hobie Cat rentals and lessons available for beginners looking to catch the wind and experience the bay from a different perspective.

Cape Cod offers more than beaches and boats.

Discover the active side of the Cape through biking, golf, racket sports, and peaceful outdoor escapes.

Water defines Cape Cod in obvious ways — on parts of this 65-mile peninsula, the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Cod Bay are separated by little more than a short walk. But the landscapes between those shorelines deserve attention, too. Dunes, forests, wetlands, and lakes create a quieter side of the Cape, rewarding those willing to step out of the car and explore. Whether you’re seeking an invigorating workout, a leisurely bike ride, or a peaceful afternoon in nature, you’ll find plenty of ways to get outside and experience the Cape beyond the beach.

Riding the Rail Trail

The Cape Cod Rail Trail follows the old railroad bed of the former Boston line for more than 25 paved miles, connecting South Dennis to Wellfleet and, along the way, revealing stretches of the Cape that look much as they always have. Deep ponds, wooded landscapes, and, depending on the season, cranberry bogs heavy with floating red berries all pass by at a pace that actually lets you take them in.

Several shorter trails branch off the main route, including the Old Colony Trail to the town of Chatham and bike and mountain bike trails running through Nickerson State Park in Brewster.

In the Lower Cape town of Orleans, the trail passes through Depot Square, where bike shops handle quick repairs and rentals; and a short walk down Main Street turns up a handful of good lunch spots — including Friends’ Marketplace, where you can grab a drink and a sandwich before heading back out or relax with a menu of comforting favorites at the Homeport Restaurant.

The trail also winds through conservation land that supports a surprising amount of wildlife: wild turkeys, foxes, squirrels, and turtles making their unhurried way towards the nearest pond. These protected areas are part of the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, which permanently preserves land to protect wildlife habitats and maintain the watersheds that keep the Cape’s freshwater healthy.

If the cranberry bogs along the route raise questions — Why are some flooded? Why are the berries floating? — Cranberry Bog Tours in Harwich has the answers, tracing the fruit’s journey from flower to Thanksgiving table.

In the Upper Cape, the Shining Sea Bikeway offers a different ride altogether. Also built on a former rail bed, this 10.7-mile path winds along Vineyard Sound through four villages, from Woods Hole to North Falmouth. A recent renovation repaved and widened portions of the trail, making this scenic coastal route even more enjoyable for riders.

Fairways in Fair (or Any) Weather

The ocean and bay waters that wrap around Cape Cod moderate its winters enough to extend the golf season well beyond what inland courses can offer. Some courses stay open year-round, weather permitting; and the Cape’s 40-plus courses offer something for every skill level, from the occasional weekend player to the serious competitor.

In Brewster, Ocean Edge Golf Club is widely considered among the best in the area, home to Cape Cod’s only Nicklaus Design course, where significant elevation changes and tight, tree-lined fairways make for a genuinely challenging round.

Also in Brewster, The Captains Golf Course runs two championship 18-hole experiences, with holes named for the sea captains of old. Resident PGA pros offer lessons for anyone looking to sharpen their game, while a full restaurant and banquet facilities make it a popular choice for private events.

On the border of Harwich and Brewster, the Cape Cod National Golf Club is a par-72 championship course that has hosted USGA and Mass Golf events since the 2010s, including the U.S. Amateur Championship and a U.S. Women’s Open qualifier.

Out on the Outer Cape, Highland Links in Truro dates to 1892 and sits dramatically above the Atlantic, with views that compete with the golf for your attention. On the other end of the peninsula, Cape Cod Country Club in Falmouth frames its 18-hole course around a serene, lake-dotted landscape. In Yarmouth, Blue Rock Golf Course has earned national recognition as one of the country’s premier par-3 layouts.

TEE TIME ON THE CAPE

Whether you’re chasing birdies or simply soaking in the scenery, these notable courses offer exceptional golf across the Cape.

Blue Rock Golf Course

48 Todd Rd. South Yarmouth, MA 02664

508-398-9295

www.bluerockgolfcourse.com

3,000 yards/par 3/18 holes

Architect: Geoffrey Cornish

Cape Cod Country Club

48 Theatre Dr. East Falmouth, MA 02536

508-563-9842

www.capecodcountryclub.com

6,429 yards/par 72/18 holes

Architects: Devereux Emmet and Al Tull

Ready to Rally?

Tennis and pickleball are popular pursuits across Cape Cod, and finding a place to play couldn’t be easier. With tennis courts throughout the region and facilities designed specifically for pickleball enthusiasts, your next match is never far away.

The Mid-Cape Athletic Club in South Yarmouth has nine indoor tennis courts and four pickleball courts, with lessons and clinics available alongside a full fitness facility that includes a spinning room, two free-weight rooms, and a FreeMotion circuit.

On the Outer Cape, Wellfleet Recreation maintains six dedicated outdoor hard courts for pickleball at Baker’s Field, across from beautiful Mayo Beach. In addition, Brooks Park in Harwich accommodates both tennis and pickleball, while Mashpee Pickleball Park in the Upper Cape attracts players from across the region.

Staying on the Wellness Track

The Captains Golf Course

1000 Freemans Way Brewster, MA 02631

508-896-1716

www.captainsgolfcourse.com

6,675 yards and 6,776 yards/ par 72/36 holes

Architect: Brian Silva

Highland Links

10 Highland Light Rd. Truro, MA 02666

508-487-9201

www.highlandlinkscapecod.com

5,331 yards/par 70/18 holes

Architect: J. Henry McKinley

Ocean Edge Golf Club

832 Villages Dr. Brewster, MA 02631

774-323-6021

www.oceanedge.com/golf

7,011 yards/par 72/18 holes

Architect: Jack Nicklaus

A vacation on Cape Cod doesn’t have to mean putting your wellness routine on hold — the Cape makes it easy to stay active. Beaches and trails serve as natural venues for yoga, walking, and running; and you’ll find plenty of company doing the same.

Every town from Falmouth to Provincetown has fitness centers and yoga studios. Here’s a sampling: The YMCA in West Barnstable covers swimming and general fitness in a central location. CrossFit Hyannis welcomes drop-ins for high-intensity workouts. West Barnstable’s Hot Yoga offers Hot Pilates and Yin Yoga, and in North Falmouth, the Yoga Collaborative welcomes walk-ins for in-studio classes.

Discover the Cape’s Wild Side

Several wildlife centers and refuges across the Cape offer a closer look at the natural world that makes this region so special.

On the Outer Cape, the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary spreads across salt marshes and pine woodlands laced with hiking trails. Its Nature Center has received national recognition, with exhibits offering close-up views of native fish, crabs, and turtles.

In Barnstable, the Birdsey Cape Wildlife Center runs a wildlife hospital for sick, injured, and orphaned animals, alongside an education center that offers programs for students and visitors.

On the Upper Cape, the Mashpee Wildlife Refuge covers more than 5,000 acres of varied habitat — Atlantic white cedar swamps, freshwater wetlands, ponds, and rivers — supporting songbirds, migratory waterfowl, raptors, and white-tailed deer. Conservation programs are available for those who want to dig deeper into the area’s ecology.

From just-landed seafood and waterfront shacks to steakhouses, breweries, and cozy cafés, Cape Cod serves up memorable meals across the peninsula.

eafood lovers will find plenty to savor at Cape Cod’s seafood shacks, seaside restaurants, and seasonal eateries. While New Bedford, on the Massachusetts mainland, is the most valuable commercial fishing port in the United States, the ports of Chatham on the Lower Cape and Barnstable on the Mid Cape rank among the top five towns in the state for the value of seafood landed, according to the Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance. Not far behind are Wellfleet and Provincetown on the Outer Cape and Sandwich on the Upper Cape, which also rank among Massachusetts’ top 10 most valuable seafood ports.

Scallops, lobster, and shellfish such as oysters and surf clams are among the region’s most prized catches, coming fresh off the boats and onto plates, pan seared, steamed with drawn butter, raw on the half-shell, or fried. There’s also an abundance of Atlantic cod, haddock, and flounder, served as fish and chips, hearty chowders, and seafood-stuffed specialties. From casual, family-friendly seafood shacks with waterfront views to elegant fine-dining restaurants with white tablecloths, nearly every corner of the Cape boasts a menu rich with just-caught coastal flavors.

Beyond the surf, Cape Cod’s dining scene offers plenty of turf options, too. Steakhouses serve everything from barrel-cut filets and prime rib to Wagyu beef and tomahawk chops, while smoked ribs, pulled pork, and perfectly roasted half-chickens also appear on menus across the region. Vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy as well, from cozy cafés serving noodle bowls to inventive dishes such as Peking oyster mushroom tacos and tofu vindaloo.

Hungry between meals? That’s rarely a problem on Cape Cod. One town may have a bakery turning out warm muffins before sunrise; the next might offer a pizza counter, an ice cream stand, or a food truck parked near the beach. There are winery tastings, brewery taprooms, and plenty of places to linger over a drink on a sunny afternoon. In summer, it’s not unusual to find someone strumming a guitar in the corner while friends gather over food and conversation. What follows is just a sampling of the food and drink experiences that await across Cape Cod.

Eating Out in the Upper Cape

Restaurants near Sandwich, at the eastern end of the Cape Cod Canal, serve the kind of food people come to the Cape to eat. Lobster rolls, oysters, steamers, clam chowder, baked scallops, and fried seafood are common fare, while some menus branch out with sushi, fish tacos, and burgers. The setting is all about the water. Diners gather on decks, patios, and beside large windows overlooking marinas, fishing boats, and ships moving through the canal. Casual seafood shacks and relaxed waterfront restaurants make up much of the scene.

Farther south, Falmouth offers no shortage of seafood favorites. A bowl of clam chowder, a stuffed quahog, a dozen oysters, or lobster tacos are all easy to come by. In nearby Woods Hole, restaurants sit close to the docks where ferries arrive and depart throughout the day. Main Street offers a broader mix of dining options, from oyster

bars and seafood restaurants to spots serving steak, pasta, and locally caught fish. Many have been part of the community for years and draw both visitors and locals.

In Falmouth and Woods Hole, delis and markets go well beyond sandwiches and chips. Find lobster bisque, smoked bluefish pâté, stuffed quahogs, fish tacos, smoked brisket, pulled pork, fresh clam chowder, and more. Other Cape comfort-food favorites include Bacon Bombs — sausage and cheese wrapped in a woven bacon crust — marinated steak tips, house-made chicken salad, and scratch-baked breads.

Memorable Meals in the Mid Cape

Dining in the Mid Cape covers a lot of ground, from busy downtown streets lined with restaurants to laid-back seafood spots overlooking the water. Luckily, it’s hard to go hungry. The towns of Hyannis and Dennis are both vibrant culinary centers, each offering its own delicious take on the Cape’s food scene.

Hyannis draws diners with its walkable Main Street. Dozens of restaurants, pubs, cafés, and bakeries sit within a few blocks of one another. Visitors can feast on everything from oysters and local seafood to Mexican, Italian, Asian, and South American fare, including birria tacos, spicy tuna poke, lobster ravioli, and authentic lomo saltado. Harborfront restaurants serve catch-of-the-day specials sourced from the docks just steps away. Save room for dessert. Two of the most decadent treats are warm sticky toffee pudding and a towering five-pound chocolate cake. In the fall, many eateries add cranberry-apple crisp to the menu.

Less than 10 miles to the north, Dennis offers a distinctly different experience. The town stretches from Cape Cod Bay on the north side to Nantucket Sound on the south, creating two unique dining personalities. In Dennis Port, the atmosphere revolves around beachfront dining and sweeping waterside views. Order a seafood tower piled high with Dennis oysters, local lobster tail with confetti corn relish, jumbo shrimp, littleneck clams, and poached mussels. Along Route 6A, quiet village charm, historic settings, and farm-focused menus take center stage, with dishes such as short-rib grilled cheese, duck cassoulet, and scratch-made pasta tossed with locally harvested greens. Together, the two sides make Dennis and Hyannis among the Mid Cape’s most diverse dining destinations, whether the mood calls for a picnic table by the harbor or a memorable night out.

The Deck at The Coonamessett: Small Plates, Big Views & Easy Cape Cod Vibes

Fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and easygoing Cape Cod charm come together at Falmouth’s newest dining spot.

By Carol M. Bareuther, RD

SETTLE INTO a quintessential Cape Cod setting overlooking Jones Pond and enjoy shareable plates paired with summery cocktails at The Deck at The Coonamessett in the heart of Falmouth. The 50-seat restaurant’s waterside location is part of its charm, nestled on the seven-acre grounds of The Coonamessett, a historic New England inn dating to the late 1700s. Once a landmark that welcomed generations of guests, the property today blends old-school charm with modern coastal comfort as an upscale, nautical-inspired boutique hotel.

“We wanted to create an outdoor restaurant for cocktails and light bites that our guests and the local community could enjoy during the season,” says Brie Barstow, general manager. Open daily from 3 to 8 p.m., The Deck debuted over Memorial Day weekend and will operate through Labor Day, with plans for indoor seasonal offerings in the future.

A Taste of the Lower & Outer Cape

Fresh seafood shapes menus across both the Lower and Outer Cape. On the Lower Cape, favorites include oysters on the half-shell, served chilled over crushed ice with fresh lemon, red wine vinegar, shallot mignonette, and cocktail sauce, along with entrees such as day-boat scallops pan seared over risotto and blackened striped bass.

The Outer Cape doubles down on classic Cape fare with Wellfleet oysters, clam chowder, and lobster served in bisque, rolls, and mac and cheese. Provincetown adds another layer with its Portuguese heritage. Look for Portuguese kale soup, linguiça, Portuguese-style fish dishes, and rich seafood stews that reflect the town’s long fishing tradition.

Seven Must-Try Foods

Cape Cod is famous for its beaches, but its food tells just as much of the story. From lobster, oysters, and clams pulled from local waters to cranberries grown on the Cape for generations, these seven signature foods capture the region’s flavors and keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more.

Clam Chowder: After a day at the beach, few dishes are more satisfying than a bowl of New England clam chowder. This creamy soup combines chopped clams, potatoes, clam juice, and salt pork with milk or cream, creating the rich flavor that has made it a New England classic. Traditionally served with oyster crackers, it differs from Manhattan clam chowder, which features a tomato-based broth.

The light menu is crafted for alfresco dining, featuring fresh, unfussy small plates. Raw oysters on the half-shell are a classic starter.

The Watermelon & Tomato Salad combines two summer favorites with crispy cucumber, aromatic mint, sesame seeds, and a ginger-lime vinaigrette. Fish tacos deliver a taste of the Cape, with crispy fried cod and citrus cabbage slaw tucked into flour tortillas and topped with cilantrolime aioli and pico de gallo. The Deck Burger, topped with aged cheddar and pickles on a soft potato bun, is already

proving to be a guest favorite.

The Deck is also one of several inviting gathering spaces on the property, joining The Coonamessett’s collection of venues for weddings, receptions, company retreats, and special events.

Combining picturesque views, approachable cuisine, and classic Cape Cod hospitality, The Deck offers a dining experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

Cranberries: This tart red fruit, native to the region and commercially cultivated on Cape Cod since the 19th century, remains one of the area’s signature agricultural products. Beyond juice and sauce, local chefs incorporate cranberries into dishes such as cranberry-pecan chicken salad, pot roast, salsa, baked goods, and even cranberry margaritas.

Fried Clam Platter: Surf clams, a large hard-shell species harvested off Cape Cod, are a staple of the classic fried clam platter. Chopped and lightly breaded, they are served hot and crispy at seafood shacks throughout the region, often alongside French fries and coleslaw. Surf clams are also used in clam strips, stuffed clams, clam pie, and clam chowder. Some establishments serve wholebelly fried clams as well — soft-shell clams cooked intact with their dark bellies, sweet muscles, and neck siphons still attached.

Jonah Crab: Larger than a stone crab and found along the U.S. East Coast, Jonah crab is prized for its sweet, delicate meat and texture similar to snow crab. Visitors will find it featured in appetizers, crabcakes, seafood platters, and surf-and-turf combinations. Local seafood markets often sell live Jonah crabs, making them a great option for vacation-rental guests with kitchens.

Lobster Roll: A true Cape Cod lobster roll lets the lobster do the talking. Large chunks of sweet claw and knuckle meat are lightly dressed with just enough mayonnaise to hold them together, then tucked into a buttered, toasted split-top bun. Most are served simply with fries, coleslaw, and a pickle on the side.

Stuffed Quahogs: Nicknamed locally as “stuffies,” these baked hard-shell clams are a Cape Cod must-try. The word quahog comes from a Native American term meaning “hard-shelled clam.” Chopped clam meat is mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and

seasonings, then baked right in the shell. Many recipes add sausage, bacon, onions, garlic, or peppers; and nearly every restaurant has its own version.

Wellfleet Oysters: Raised in the nutrient-rich waters of Cape Cod Bay, Wellfleet oysters are prized for their plump texture and distinctive flavor — a burst of briny ocean saltiness followed by a clean, slightly sweet finish. The classic way to enjoy them is freshly shucked on the half-shell with lemon, mignonette, or cocktail sauce. Increasingly, Cape chefs are also serving them grilled or roasted, topped with ingredients such as garlic-herb butter, smoked chili-lime butter, or Parmesan and chorizo.

DINING GUIDE

The Coonamessett

311 Gifford St., Falmouth

508-548-2300 www.larkhotels.com stay@thecoonamessett.com

 Nestled in the heart of Falmouth, The Coonamessett offers elegant accommodations, exceptional dining, and memorable gatherings yearround. Enjoy seasonal dining on its charming outdoor deck restaurant, perfect for summer evenings. From intimate celebrations to grand weddings, corporate events, and special occasions, its experienced team creates unforgettable experiences in every season. Conveniently located near Cape Cod’s beaches, ferries, and attractions, the inn is an ideal destination for visitors and locals alike.

311 Gifford Street, Falmouth

From bustling village centers and waterfront boutiques to artisan markets and galleries, Cape Cod offers a shopping experience filled with local flavor, coastal charm, and one-of-a-kind discoveries.

Shopping on Cape Cod is as much about the experience as it is the discoveries. Throughout the Cape, independently owned boutiques, art galleries, specialty food shops, and gift stores offer a welcome alternative to the familiar chain-store experience. Better yet, the shop owners are often eager to share local tips, favorite hidden gems, and recommendations for exploring the area.

A stroll through one of the Cape’s charming village centers might lead you to a gallery showcasing the work of local artists, a boutique filled with handcrafted goods, or a market stocked with products made just down the road. But no matter where your shopping journey takes you, there’s no need to rush — the real joy lies in wandering, browsing, and uncovering unexpected treasures along the way.

Upper Cape: Markets, Makers & Local Flavor

A shopping excursion on the Upper Cape often becomes an adventure in its own right. Throughout the year, seasonal events add even more opportunities to browse, discover, and connect with local makers. In spring, outdoor markets and sidewalk sales bring a lively energy to destinations like Mashpee Commons. Summer fills the calendar with farmers markets, craft fairs, and the Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow, where Native artists and craftspeople share and sell their work directly to visitors.

As fall arrives, cranberry harvest season takes center stage. Festivals and bog tours offer a closer look at one of the Cape’s most iconic crops, while local shops stock everything from chocolatecovered cranberries to handcrafted jellies, preserves, and chutneys. During the holiday season, festive markets and craft fairs showcase handmade goods, specialty foods, and one-of-a-kind gifts, making it easy to take a piece of the Cape home with you.

Mid Cape: Inspired by the Coast

The Mid Cape’s shopping scene reflects its strong connection to the sea. Throughout Hyannis, Yarmouth, and Dennis, you’ll find shops filled with handcrafted sea-glass jewelry, traditional wampum pieces made from quahog shells, coastal artwork, nautical home décor, and gifts inspired by Cape Cod’s beaches, harbors, and maritime heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts can browse specialty surf shops stocked with boards, wet suits, paddle boards, and other gear designed for making the most of life on the water.

Main Street in Hyannis adds even more variety to the mix, with locally owned boutiques, specialty food shops, galleries, and unique retailers lining its walkable downtown. Whether you’re searching for a meaningful keepsake or simply enjoying a leisurely afternoon of browsing, the Mid Cape offers plenty of opportunities to bring a little piece of the coast home with you.

Lower & Outer Capes: Creativity around Every Corner

Art has long been woven into the fabric of the Lower and Outer Cape. At the very tip of the peninsula, Provincetown is recognized as the nation’s oldest continuous art colony; and today it remains a vibrant hub of galleries, working studios, museums, and art schools. Hours pass by in a flash while strolling along Commercial Street, where paintings, photography, sculpture, and handcrafted works spill from gallery doors.

Orleans offers a different, but equally vibrant, creative spirit. Home to a thriving community of artists, designers, and makers, the town’s cultural district hosts exhibits, performances, workshops, and special events throughout the year, including the popular spring Art Week. Each April, visitors can tour studios, meet local artists, and experience the area’s creative energy firsthand.

Beyond the galleries, the Lower and Outer Cape offer a diverse shopping scene, with everything from handcrafted jewelry, coastalinspired gifts, and locally made foods to clothing, books, beach gear, antiques, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Many shops showcase the work of Cape Cod artisans, making it easy to find a meaningful keepsake to remember your visit.

For cannabis enthusiasts, Brewster and Provincetown are home to Haven Center, a boutique recreational cannabis dispensary known for its welcoming atmosphere and personalized service. Locally owned and operated by lifelong Cape Cod residents, Haven Center was voted Best Dispensary on Cape Cod in the Community’s Choice Awards. Its knowledgeable staff helps both first-time and experienced consumers navigate a selection of premium flower, pre-rolls, vapes, edibles, concentrates, THC-infused beverages, tinctures, and CBD products, creating an experience that feels more neighborhood shop than retail chain.

Whether you’re browsing a bustling village main street, meeting local artisans at a seasonal market, searching for the perfect piece of coastal décor, or simply wandering from shop to shop without a plan, shopping on Cape Cod is about more than what you take home. It’s about discovering the people, traditions, and creative spirit that make each corner of the Cape unique.

SHOPPING GUIDE

BREWSTER

Haven Cannabis

4018-4019 Main St., Brewster 774-561-2854

www.havencenter.me

 The Haven Center offers exceptional products and an unparalleled shopping experience to all cannabis enthusiasts and newcomers. Committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, it aims to be the premier destination for diverse, premium cannabis products and personalized guidance.

FALMOUTH

Falmouth Pet Center

112 Davis Straits, Falmouth 508-457-4420

www.facebook.com/falmouthpet

 Falmouth Pet Center is your

one-stop pet shop since 1989. It specializes in dog and cat nutrition while offering expert advice. Its dog and cat product selection ranges from highquality treats; supplies; frozen raw, gently cooked, freeze-dried raw, human-grade canned food; and premium kibble. Small animal, reptile, bird, and aquarium supplies are also available, along with a fully functioning freshwater fish department.

Maxwell & Co.

200 Main St., Falmouth 508-274-8752

www.maxwellandco.com

 Maxwell & Co. is known for breaking New England fashion rules. Since 1984, this creative clothing store for men and women has been internationally revered by those seeking wearable yet uncommon clothing. Whether dressing up or down, a passionate team of wardrobe consultants and tailors will ensure an unrivaled experience.

Maxwell & Co.

Perfectly Unpredictable Style on Cape Cod

Since 1984, Maxwell & Co. has redefined access to fashion on Cape Cod with its signature mix of timeless style and quiet rebellion. Founded by Dan and Lori Maxwell, this destination boutique offers curated capsule collections for both men and women — a sophisticated blend of classic foundations and unexpected flair. The result? Timeless clothing that feels effortlessly wearable, endlessly versatile, and unmistakably individual.

Not a Store…

A Point of View

Maxwell & Co. forges its own trends. Together with a devoted team of talented, personable style consultants and gifted tailors, the Maxwells have cultivated an approach rooted in originality, experimentation, and authenticity. Every detail matters, and every piece stands alone — distinctive in design, luxurious in fabric, and crafted (mostly in Europe) with an artful edge.

A Space that Inspires

Located in the historic Elizabeth Theatre building at 200 Main Street in Falmouth, Maxwell & Co. is an experience. Both modern and timeless, the store is elegantly merchandised and ever evolving: a visual feast of clothing and style ideas, from globally acclaimed designers to lesser-known European finds — a collection considered among the very best in New England and beyond.

Style with Soul

“Style, classic or not, comes from a willingness to be open, to experiment, to find comfort,” says Dan. “It’s not just about what you wear — it’s about arriving at a place of ease in how you wear something.” This philosophy runs deep. Influenced by architecture, music, food, natural textiles, and the coastal beauty of Cape Cod, Maxwell & Co. invites customers to dress with intention — and with an emotional point of view. Whether dressing up or down, Maxwell’s unexpected wardrobe solutions help clients find individuality and confidence. “This does not mean possessing a lot of clothes; this is about owning clothes that possess a lot of meaning,” says Dan.

Four Decades of Defining Style

For over 40 years, Maxwell & Co. has stood apart — not just as a boutique but as a fashionable New England institution. It is

known for relentlessly thoughtful service, impeccable tailoring, and a bold yet refined aesthetic. A classic perspective that frequently collides with a modern edge — always presented with passion, heart, and soul.

Step Inside. Be Surprised.

Be the One of Influence.

Today, the world is saturated with influencers. At Maxwell & Co., four decades of heartfelt service, global sourcing, and imaginative curation might just offer a different take on who is influencing whom. With a genuine, hard-earned perspective on elegance, Maxwell & Co. hopes only to guide and encourage its beloved clientele — so that by their own ingenious style, they become the ones of true influence. As the Maxwells say with deep sincerity, “Maxwell & Co. is not about us — it is about YOU.”

Enduring Originality

Discover why, after 40 years, Maxwell & Co. continues to inspire. In a world of fast fashion, dwindling service, and fleeting trends, Maxwell & Co. offers something rare: uncommon, enduring clothing — and an experience that feels true, personal, elevated, and undeniably original.

From maritime history to marine life, these enriching experiences reveal the many different sides of Cape Cod.

Cape Cod’s cultural landscape is as rich and varied as its coastline. Throughout the peninsula, visitors can explore museums, art galleries, historic homes, working glass studios, beautiful gardens, maritime landmarks, and hands-on attractions that bring the region’s heritage to life. Some experiences tell the stories of fishermen, whalers, and early settlers, while others celebrate local artists, marine life, and the natural beauty that has inspired generations. Better yet, many are designed to appeal to both children and adults, making them easy additions to a family itinerary. Whether you’re drawn to art, history, nature, or maritime traditions, these cultural experiences offer a deeper look at the people and stories that have shaped Cape Cod.

UPPER CAPE

Sandwich Glass Museum

This museum is where glassmaking history and artistry meet, offering exhibits that trace the craft from early industry to today’s studio artists. New this season is the interactive Discover GlassRoom, where children can try simulated glassmaking activities, and the Glass Roots exhibition, which connects Cape Cod’s historic glass industry with its modern community of studio artists. Live glassblowing demonstrations and hands-on classes add further to the experience. Special America at 250 displays woven throughout the galleries highlight artifacts and stories from the nation’s past, including a local Civil War soldier’s knapsack and other regional historical treasures. Sandwich, MA. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 1 through December 30, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., February 1 through March 31. Adults: $15; children (ages 6 to 14): $5. www.sandwichglassmuseum.org

Mashpee Wampanoag Museum

The story of the Mashpee Wampanoag people unfolds at this museum, the only one in the world dedicated to the tribe. Housed in a historic 1793 home, exhibits here span centuries of history, ranging from ancient artifacts and traditional tools to a major display on Mashpee Wampanoag whalers. New and expanded programming highlights the Wôpanâak Language Reclamation Project, traditional ecological knowledge workshops, and heritage walking tours. Outside, visitors can explore a traditional wetu (a domed hut made of natural materials), a replica dugout canoe, and a Three Sisters garden planted with corn, beans, and squash.

Mashpee, MA. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through December. Adults: $15; children: $10. www.mashpeewampanoagtribe-nsn.gov/museum

Heritage Museums & Gardens

A ride on the fully restored 1908 Looff Carousel is just the start at this nearly 100-acre destination. New this season are the nation’s largest cranberry collection, a major American Revolution exhibition, and additions to the North American Hydrangea Test Garden. Visitors can also explore antique automobiles dating all the way back to an 1899 Winton motor carriage, wander the specialty gardens, and let the kids loose in Hidden Hollow’s nature play area. Summer brings car shows, hydrangea events, pollinator programs, behind-the-scenes garage tours, and daily family activities, providing something for everyone.

Sandwich, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May through October. Adults: $26; children (ages 3 to 17): $16. www.heritagemuseumsandgardens.org

Woods Hole Historical Museum

Boatbuilding, marine science, and village life come together at this museum celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. A new summer exhibit called ReTERN to Sea: A History of Collecting Boats in Woods Hole explores the history of local collecting vessels, including the 1958 boat Tern Within the same area, visitors can also tour the Small Boat Museum’s collection of historic watercrafts, observe restoration projects underway at the Community Boat Shop, and join guided walking tours of the village. Permanent exhibits trace Woods Hole’s history from the 1600s to the present through artifacts, timelines, and a detailed scale model of the town as it was in 1895.

Woods Hole, MA. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., mid-June through late September. www.woodsholemuseum.org

Through photographs, films, and personal stories, visitors can follow President John F. Kennedy’s life on the Cape.

MID CAPE

John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum

Few places capture the Kennedy family’s connection to Cape Cod quite like this museum. Through photographs, films, and personal stories, visitors can follow President John F. Kennedy’s life on the Cape, where the nearby Kennedy Compound served as the nation’s “Summer White House.” New this year is an updated Kennedy Family Tree Wall that makes tracing the generations of this famous family easier than ever. The museum has also continued its popular We Remember JFK, Jr. exhibit, featuring personal photographs, a short film, and artwork celebrating the life of John F. Kennedy Jr. The exhibit also explores Kennedy’s unforgettable influence on the Peace Corps, the space program, and the creation of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Hyannis, MA. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., April through November. Adults: $14; children (ages 6 to 17): $8. www.jfkhyannismuseum.org

Cape Cod Maritime Museum

A walk through this waterfront museum reveals just how closely Cape Cod’s history is tied to the sea. Here, exhibits cover everything from lighthouses, shipwrecks, and scrimshaw to the women who played important roles in the region’s maritime economy. A recently refreshed sailing exhibit also highlights local boatbuilding traditions and innovations, with an interactive station where visitors can design and test a virtual sailboat. Throughout the season, lectures explore topics ranging from marine life to climate science and local history. From late June through October, visitors can also head out on Hyannis Harbor aboard the replica 1886 catboat Sarah Hyannis, MA. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m., yearround. Adults: $10; children (ages 6 to 17): $5. www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org

GOOD TO KNOW

Whether you’re drawn to art, history, nature, or maritime traditions, these cultural experiences offer a deeper look at the people and stories that have shaped Cape Cod.

Whydah Pirate Museum

Real pirate treasure is the big draw at this museum built around the story of the Whydah Gally, the slave ship turned pirate vessel that sank off the coast of Cape Cod in 1717. Here, visitors can step aboard a full-scale replica of the 110-foot ship and see historic gold and silver coins, pistols, sword hilts, and other artifacts recovered from the wreck site. New discoveries are added regularly as divers continue excavating the ship offshore and processing finds in the museum’s SeaLab. Exhibits also tell the story of pirate captain Samuel “Black Sam” Bellamy, the man who captured the Whydah Gally, and one of the world’s only authenticated pirate shipwrecks.

West Yarmouth, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., late May through September; Friday through Sunday, January through March; and Wednesday through Sunday in April. Adults: $24; children (ages 5 to 15): $16. www.discoverpirates.com

LOWER & OUTER CAPE

Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Families can easily spend half a day here without even coming close to running out of things to do. As of June 1, the Butterfly House is back for the season, giving visitors a chance to observe native butterflies up close among the plants they depend on. New this year are exhibits on spacecraft design and nature-inspired inventions, as well as a walk-through replica of a gray whale. Inside, the aquarium features more than 80 species of local marine life, including blue, pumpkin, and calico lobsters. Outside, naturalists regularly lead walks through marshes, tidal pools, and along Cape Cod Bay, while handson activities like the Mud Kitchen will keep younger visitors happily occupied.

Brewster, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the summer; visit their website for additional dates throughout the year. Adults: $16; children (ages 3 to 12): $10. www.ccmnh.org

Chatham Railroad Museum

Train lovers of all ages will find plenty to explore at this museum located inside Chatham’s distinctive Railroad Gothic depot dating back to 1887. New this season is the return of a handcrafted Hudson locomotive model, built over a span of two decades and now on display in miniature operation. Visitors can climb aboard a fully restored 1910 caboose, complete with authentic railroad sounds, and even try hands-on activities in the Communications Room, where

vintage rotary phones, a typewriter, and a Morse code simulator re-create the days before digital communication. The thousands of artifacts on display here, from telegraph equipment and lanterns to tickets, timetables, and model trains, help tell the story of rail travel on Cape Cod.

Chatham, MA. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., June through September 5 (closed Fourth of July); and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m., September 6 to mid-October. Admission is free; donations only. www.chathamrailroadmuseum.com

Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum

The climb — or elevator ride — to the top of the 252-foot Pilgrim Monument rewards visitors with one of the best views on Cape Cod, stretching across Provincetown, the harbor, and beyond. At the base of this famous site, the museum tells the story of the Pilgrims’ first landfall in 1620, the Mayflower Compact, Provincetown’s maritime heritage, and its long history as an artists’ community. New this season is Salvador Vasques: A Lifetime of Collecting Provincetown, a fascinating look at decades of Cape Cod memorabilia gathered by a local collector. Throughout the summer, visitors can also enjoy outdoor concerts, lectures, films, and harbor views from the museum’s lawn.

Provincetown, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., year-round. Adults: $23; teens (ages 13 to 17): $18; children (ages 4 to 12): $10. www.pilgrim-monument.org

From luxury resorts and charming inns to cozy cottages and spacious vacation rentals, Cape Cod offers accommodations to match every kind of getaway.

There’s a reason travelers return to Cape Cod year after year. With its windswept beaches, iconic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and postcard-perfect villages, this beloved stretch of the Massachusetts coastline delivers a timeless New England escape. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a relaxing solo vacation, where you stay becomes part of the experience itself.

Across the Upper, Mid, and Outer Cape, visitors will find an impressive range of lodging options — each offering its own unique take on coastal comfort and hospitality.

Luxury along the Coast

For travelers looking to indulge, Cape Cod is home to several upscale resorts that combine refined accommodations with stunning waterfront scenery. Elegant guest rooms, ocean views, championship golf, fine dining, and full-service spas create an atmosphere designed for complete relaxation.

One standout is Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club in Brewster, a sprawling property known for its private beach access, luxurious spa, tennis courts, and acclaimed 18-hole golf course. The resort’s blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes it equally popular for romantic escapes, weddings, and laid-back luxury vacations.

Throughout the Cape, highend resorts offer opportunities to unwind in style while remaining close to beaches, shops, and outdoor recreation.

Splash into Family Fun

Families searching for a lively and activity-filled stay will find plenty to enjoy at Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod. Conveniently located near the airport in Hyannis, the resort combines relaxed coastal energy with modern comforts and entertainment for all ages.

At the center of the experience is Fins Up! Water Park, a large indoor water park that keeps guests entertained regardless of the weather. Beyond the slides and splash zones, the property also features multiple dining venues, a

fitness center, and a full-service spa where adults can relax while kids enjoy the resort’s recreational offerings.

The resort’s event facilities also make it a popular choice for weddings, conferences, and multigenerational gatherings. Whether you’re planning a weekend family getaway or a larger celebration, the atmosphere balances fun with convenience.

Laid-Back Coastal Living

For many visitors, the classic Cape Cod vacation involves staying in a cottage near the shore. These cozy accommodations offer a slower pace of life, where mornings begin with ocean air and evenings end with sunset walks along the dunes.

Kalmar Village, located between Truro and Provincetown on the Outer Cape, captures this timeless coastal spirit. With easy access to beaches, lighthouses, and nearby seaside towns, it provides the kind of peaceful setting travelers often picture when imagining an authentic Cape escape.

Beach cottages and village rentals are especially popular with couples and families seeking privacy, flexibility, and a more residential feel during their stay.

DID YOU KNOW?

Cape Cod has one of the oldest continuously operating inns in America. The Orleans Inn, established in 1875, has welcomed travelers for over 150 years, blending rich history with modern charm.

Charming

Bed-and-Breakfasts

Cape Cod’s historic character makes it a natural home for bed-and-breakfast inns. Found throughout the region’s quaint villages and harbor towns, these intimate accommodations offer personalized hospitality and plenty of local charm.

Many B&Bs occupy restored historic homes filled with antique details, cozy sitting rooms, and inviting porches. Guests are often treated to homemade breakfasts featuring locally inspired ingredients, while innkeepers happily share recommendations for hidden beaches, seafood spots, and scenic drives.

Whether tucked along a quiet side street or overlooking the water, these properties provide a welcoming atmosphere that feels distinctly Cape Cod.

Room for Everyone

Traveling with extended family or a larger group of friends? Vacation rentals remain one of the most practical and popular ways to experience the Cape. Rental homes can be found across the peninsula, ranging from modest cottages and woodland retreats to expansive waterfront estates.

Having access to full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and shared living spaces allows travelers to settle in comfortably and enjoy more flexibility during their stay. It’s easy to picture evenings spent grilling fresh seafood, gathering around outdoor fire pits, or enjoying morning coffee with views of the bay.

For many families, rentals offer both convenience and value, especially during the busy summer season when booking several hotel rooms can become costly.

Comfort without Compromise Cape Cod getaways don’t have to come with luxury-level price tags. The region also offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodations that combine comfort, convenience, and easy access to many of the Cape’s most popular attractions.

The Quality Inn in Bourne, located near Buzzards Bay, is one example of an affordable stay that still places travelers close to beaches, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities. Smaller inns and motels throughout the Cape also provide economical alternatives, particularly for visitors willing to stay just slightly inland from the waterfront.

Choosing a more affordable accommodation option can leave extra room in the vacation budget for whale watches, fresh lobster dinners, ferry rides, and all the memorable experiences that make Cape Cod such a beloved coastal escape.

The Perfect Escape

One of Cape Cod’s greatest strengths is the sheer variety of experiences it offers — and that extends to its accommodations as well. Whether you’re seeking luxury by the ocean, a charming inn filled with history, a cozy beach cottage, or a practical rental for the entire family, the Cape has a stay suited to every traveler.

No matter your budget or vacation style, the right accommodations help transform a simple trip into something unforgettable. On Cape Cod, comfort comes not only from where you sleep but from the atmosphere, scenery, and sense of escape that surrounds you from the moment you arrive.

ACCOMMODATIONS GUIDE

Iris Hotel Cape Cod

291 Jones Rd., Falmouth 508-540-2000 www.irishotelcapecod.com

 Iris Hotel Cape Cod is a newly reimagined coastal retreat in the heart of historic Falmouth. Enjoy modern accommodations, an on-site restaurant, year-round indoor pool, spa services, and flexible gathering space. Conveniently located near beaches, downtown shopping, waterfront dining, scenic bike trails, and ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard.

COASTAL ESCAPE

Thoughtfully

with

retreat, or a family vacation, Iris provides the perfect home base for exploring all that Cape Cod has to offer

From waterfront estates and historic villages to cozy cottages and modern retreats, Cape Cod offers a home for every lifestyle.

Cape Cod has a way of slowing life down. Cross the Bourne or Sagamore Bridge over the Cape Cod Canal and the pace immediately feels different. The salty air drifts in through the windows, the scenery shifts from highways to harbors, and everyday stresses begin to fade. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, spending the summer, or searching for a place to call home, it’s easy to understand why generations of families have been drawn to the Cape’s unique blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and relaxed lifestyle. Feel the sand between your toes and dive into the refreshing Atlantic — there’s nothing quite like a swim after a busy day. While Cape Cod’s beaches and ocean views are iconic, the region also boasts serene lakes and ponds perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply unwinding. Many properties offer pools for added fun — and yes, some even sit right on the ocean. For generations, families have found joy and relaxation on “ole Cape Cod,” returning year after year to vacation homes or to visit grandparents for a few memorable weeks with cousins. Whether it’s a new adventure or a return to tradition, the Cape is the place to truly unwind.

Living near the Cape Cod Canal means residing in Bourne — the gateway to the Cape. Located on the Upper Cape, Bourne is joined by the towns of Falmouth, Sandwich, and Mashpee. Residents value the convenient access from Boston, Logan Airport, and Providence Airport, making it easy to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway or enjoy a performance at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Despite its accessibility, the Upper Cape is all about laid-back charm, with beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, a wide range of restaurants, and outstanding boating opportunities.

As you travel farther down the Cape, you’ll arrive in Barnstable, Dennis, and Yarmouth — collectively known as the Mid Cape. This region is home to beautiful beaches along Nantucket Sound and includes the

Cape’s largest commercial and industrial areas. Not long ago, Barnstable was the go-to destination for shopping; but today, nearly every Cape town offers its own unique selection of shops and boutiques, many featuring one-ofa-kind items and local flair.

Continue on to the Lower Cape — often referred to as the Outer Cape — and you’ll discover the charm of Harwich, Brewster, Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown. A must-see is the breathtaking Cape Cod National Seashore, a protected stretch of coastline dotted with iconic lighthouses, country roads, and classic ice cream stands. Enjoy world-class fishing, some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere, and unforgettable whale-watching excursions. The Cape also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, museums, and playhouses throughout. And for those drawn to the sea, boating, ferry rides, and day trips to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are always just a short trip away.

Home styles on the Cape are as diverse as the landscape itself, ranging from classic ranches and stately Colonials to custom-built waterfront estates and

DID YOU KNOW?

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, spending the summer, or searching for a place to call home, it’s easy to understand why generations of families have been drawn to the Cape’s unique blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and relaxed lifestyle.

everything in between. Among the most iconic is the Cape Cod–style home — typically a one- or two-story residence with a pitched roof and central chimney. While this traditional design has evolved over the years, its timeless appeal endures across all Cape towns. Add a front porch with a couple of Adirondack chairs and a porch swing and you’ve found the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

The Cape also offers a wide range of housing options to suit every stage of life, from charming condominiums and active over-55 adult communities to campgrounds and seasonal getaways. Even U.S. presidents have found their sanctuary here: Grover Cleveland was fond of his summer White House along the Cape Cod Canal, where he enjoyed fishing, while John F. Kennedy famously sought refuge from the Washington, D.C., summer heat at the family compound in Hyannis. Whether you’re looking for year-round living or a seasonal retreat, the Cape has a home style and setting to match your vision.

Cape Cod may only stretch 65 miles in length, but it offers more than 550 miles of breathtaking coastline. This extraordinary landscape is a major reason why people from across the globe either choose to call it home or flock here during the summer and fall. Picture yourself strolling barefoot along the beach, tucking a seashell into your pocket, napping on your porch, kayaking through tranquil marshes, or savoring a lobster roll as the sun dips below the horizon. Let the Cape work its quiet magic — you just might discover that you never want to leave.

Colleen Kilfoil is a native Cape Codder with a passion for real estate. As the broker/owner of ACapeHouse.com, she offers the highest levels of service. Her expertise lies in her knowledge of the community, her great perception and communication abilities, and her true enjoyment of her career and love for Cape Cod.

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

ACapeHouse.com Real Estate

770 MacArthur Blvd., Pocasset 774-283-0546

www.acapehouse.com

 ACapeHouse.com Real Estate was founded in 1997 with a goal to deliver exceptional service to buyers and sellers of Cape Cod houses. Its goal is not to be the biggest… just to be the best for each individual client it serves. It considers it a privilege to stand beside its sellers and buyers during one of their most important life decisions.

Coldwell Banker Realty

477 Route 6A, Yarmouth Port 781-635-4601

www.vasvatekis.com

 Clients trust George and Mara Vasvatekis for their breadth of knowledge on Cape Cod and nearly two decades of real estate experience. With Coldwell Banker Realty, they bring a fullservice real estate brokerage offering year-round sales and advisory services. Local expertise. Trusted relationships. Global reach.

Cape Cod’s wedding season stretches well into the fall. Many couples choose September or October, when the weather is crisp, the crowds thin out, and the cranberry bogs are ablaze with color, giving weddings a uniquely stunning backdrop.

From shoreline ceremonies to elegant receptions, Cape Cod offers everything couples need for a wedding celebration and honeymoon filled with coastal charm and unforgettable memories.

Everything that makes Cape Cod a beloved New England getaway — beautiful shorelines, exceptional dining, historic charm, and inviting accommodations — also makes it an ideal place to say, “I do.” From elegant waterfront resorts to rustic gathering spaces tucked among the dunes, the Cape provides endless possibilities for couples planning their dream celebration. And once the wedding is over, there’s no need to leave. Cape Cod transitions effortlessly into a romantic honeymoon destination filled with quiet beaches, scenic drives, and cozy seaside escapes.

With picturesque villages and centuries of history woven throughout the peninsula, couples can find venues that suit nearly every style. Some choose sophisticated resorts overlooking Cape Cod Bay, while others opt for intimate vineyard ceremonies, waterfront restaurants, or open-air pavilions beneath the stars. Whether planning a grand reception or a smaller gathering with close family and friends, the Cape offers a backdrop that feels both timeless and distinctly coastal.

Scenic Settings

For many couples, however, the beach remains the ultimate wedding venue. Corporation Beach in Dennis is a favorite for ceremonies thanks to its sweeping bluff views and breathtaking sunsets over Cape Cod Bay. Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, frequently ranked among the country’s best beaches, offers rolling dunes and a dramatic Atlantic shoreline perfect for a classic oceanside wedding.

Marconi Beach in Wellfleet is another soughtafter location, known for its towering dunes and natural beauty within the Cape Cod National Seashore. Because the beach is managed by the National Park Service, couples planning ceremonies there will need to obtain a special use permit in advance. Local town halls and chambers of commerce can also help couples navigate permitting requirements for public beach weddings throughout the Cape.

Bringing the Vision to Life

Once the venue is chosen, the planning continues with photographers, florists, caterers, and beauty professionals ready to help bring every detail together. Cape Cod’s local vendors specialize in creating celebrations that reflect the relaxed elegance of the region, from coastal-inspired bouquets to fresh seafood menus and sunset wedding photography along the shore.

Beyond the Wedding Day

One of the best parts of a Cape Cod wedding is what comes afterward. Newlyweds can spend their honeymoon exploring charming seaside towns, enjoying candlelit dinners overlooking the harbor, biking scenic trails, or simply relaxing on the beach together. Whether seeking adventure or quiet relaxation, the Cape offers the perfect blend of romance and coastal beauty.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and wide selection of venues and local talent, Cape Cod creates weddings that feel both meaningful and unforgettable. From the ceremony to the honeymoon, every moment becomes part of a beautiful beginning.

Here are some practical tips and helpful information to get the most out of your visit to Cape Cod.

Population

Cape Cod and Barnstable County generally refer to the same region and have a yearround population of approximately 233,000 people. During the summer months, however, that number swells significantly as visitors flock to the Cape to enjoy its beaches, coastal charm, outdoor activities, and picturesque seaside towns. (www.census.gov)

Towns

Cape Cod boasts 15 towns within four regions: Upper, Mid, Lower, and Outer Cape. Upper Cape has Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth, and Mashpee; Mid Cape has Barnstable, Yarmouth, and Dennis; Lower Cape has Harwich, Brewster, Chatham, and Orleans; and Outer Cape has Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown.

Getting Here

By Car: The most common way to reach Cape Cod is by car. From Boston, take I-93 South to MA-3 South, which leads directly to the Cape Cod Canal and the Sagamore Bridge, the gateway to the peninsula.

By Ferry: Ferries run frequently from Boston and Rhode Island to various points on the Cape and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. The Steamship Authority offers ferries from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard and from Hyannis to Nantucket (508-477-8600; www.steamshipauthority.com).

By Flight: Cape Air (800-CAPE-AIR) and JetBlue (800-JET-BLUE) offer flights to Cape Cod. Cape Cod Gateway Airport (HYA) in Hyannis offers flights from major hubs such as Boston and New York. Additionally, the Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket airports provide access to those specific islands with connections to the Cape.

By Bus: Peter Pan and Plymouth & Brockton buses offer scheduled service from Boston, Providence, and New York City directly to various towns on the Cape. Peter Pan also provides convenient connecting service to The Steamship Authority ferries in both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

Peter Pan: 800-343-9999; www.peterpanbus.com

Plymouth & Brockton: 508-746-0378; www.p-b.com

Getting Around

Car Rentals: Major car rental companies operate at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport and in larger towns like Hyannis, making it convenient for visitors to explore the region.

Public Transportation: The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus service throughout the Cape (800-352-7155; www.capecodrta.org). Routes cover major towns and popular destinations, with seasonal trolleys enhancing connectivity during the summer months.

Biking: Cape Cod is bike-friendly with numerous bike trails, including the scenic 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail, which runs from Dennis to Wellfleet.

Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce

The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce offers a wealth of information for visitors, including upcoming events and festivals (5 Patti Page Way, Centerville, MA 02632; 508-362-3225; www.capecodchamber.org).

Other Important Details

Weather: Cape Cod enjoys a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, moderate summers. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Beach Stickers: Many of Cape Cod’s public beaches require a beach sticker for parking. These can usually be purchased at local town halls or beach offices.

Accommodations: From charming bedand-breakfasts to luxury resorts and vacation rentals, Cape Cod offers a range of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets. It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially for summer stays.

Dining: The Cape is known for its seafood, with numerous restaurants offering everything from casual clam shacks to fine dining. Many establishments feature outdoor seating to enjoy the coastal views.

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

MARTHA’S VINEYARD

51Art Gallery MV73

Alison Shaw Gallery ................................................................................... MV69

Back Door Donuts MV45

Budget Martha’s Vineyard MV91

CB Stark Jewelers MV53

Claudia Jewelery MV61

Craftworks Gallery MV57

El Barco MV35

Eleven Circuit Restaurant & Bar MV41

ESH Back Cover

Fishbones Bar & Grille MV39

Granary Gallery MV71

The Great Put-On 1

The Green Room .......................................................................................... MV55

Island Alpaca Company MV31

Jetty Beach House MV41

Kingswood Homes MV83

Lookout Tavern ............................................................................................MV39

M&R Stylz MV58

Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals MV89

Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports MV19

Maxwell & Co. MV63

Oso Boutique Clothing Store MV59

Quitsa Kitchen MV34

Rockfish Restaurant MV37

Sand Bar & Grille MV45

Sandpiper Realty, Inc. MV81

Seastreak MV92

Stefanie Wolf Designs MV57

Tesori Fine Jewelry Inside Front Cover

Third World Trading Co. MV59 Woodland Variety & Grill MV36

CAPE

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