Cycling
The island’s bike paths connect Oak Bluffs to Edgartown and beyond. Rent bikes nearby and explore at your own pace.
Things To Do
Explore Martha’s Vineyard
Beaches, lighthouses, harbor strolls, island bike paths, farm stands, and seasonal events — all easy from the Inn.
Beaches
Inkwell Beach: 5 min walk • State Beach: 3 min driveInkwell Beach and State Beach are minutes from the Inn. South Beach and Menemsha are easy day trips with stunning scenery. Whether you prefer calm harbor-side swimming or open-ocean waves, the island has a beach for every mood.
Inkwell Beach
A beloved Oak Bluffs gem with calm waters, perfect for families. Just a short walk from the Inn.
State Beach
A two-mile stretch of gentle surf along Beach Road between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown.
South Beach
Wide, dramatic Atlantic-facing beach in Edgartown. Great for bodyboarding and long walks.
Menemsha Beach
Famous for its sunsets and laid-back fishing village vibe on the western shore.
Lighthouses
East Chop Light: 5 min drive • Edgartown Light: 15 min driveMartha’s Vineyard is home to five historic lighthouses, each with its own character and stunning coastal views. They’re among the most photographed landmarks on the island.
Edgartown Lighthouse
Walk the sandy path to this iconic harbor lighthouse. Open for tours seasonally.
East Chop Light
Perched on the bluffs of Oak Bluffs with panoramic views of Vineyard Haven Harbor.
Gay Head Lighthouse
At the Aquinnah Cliffs, this is the island’s most dramatic lighthouse setting.
West Chop Light
A quiet, scenic spot in Vineyard Haven, perfect for a peaceful afternoon drive.
Island Villages
Edgartown: 15 min • Vineyard Haven: 10 min • West Tisbury: 20 minEach of the island’s six towns has its own personality. From the whaling-captain elegance of Edgartown to the rural charm of West Tisbury, exploring the villages is one of the best ways to experience Martha’s Vineyard.
Edgartown
White-captain houses, upscale shops, fine dining, and the harbor waterfront.
Vineyard Haven
The year-round port town with independent bookshops, galleries, and a lively Main Street.
West Tisbury
Home to the famous Farmers’ Market, Alley’s General Store, and rolling farmland.
Aquinnah
The island’s western tip, known for the clay cliffs, lighthouse, and Wampanoag heritage.
Oak Bluffs
Circuit Ave: 5 min walk • Ferry Terminal: 8 min walkThe Inn’s home town and the heart of island fun. Oak Bluffs is famous for its colorful gingerbread cottages, the historic Flying Horses carousel, and the vibrant energy of Circuit Avenue.
Circuit Avenue
The main drag for shops, restaurants, ice cream, and people-watching all summer long.
Gingerbread Cottages
Over 300 colorful Victorian cottages in the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association.
Flying Horses Carousel
The oldest platform carousel in America (1876). A must-ride for kids and adults alike.
Harbor & Pier
Browse the harbor shops, grab lobster rolls, and watch the ferries come and go.
Fishing & Boating
Charter a fishing trip, kayak the harbor, or join a sunset sail. The front desk can help arrange outings.
Farm Stands & Markets
Morning Glory Farm, the West Tisbury Farmers’ Market, and roadside stands with fresh island produce all summer long.
Seasonal Events
Grand Illumination Night, the Agricultural Fair, fireworks, concerts at the Tabernacle, and off-season charm through autumn.
What’s Happening
Seasonal Highlights
Summer
Grand Illumination Night, beach days, outdoor concerts at the Tabernacle, farmers’ markets, fireworks over the harbor, and the longest days on the island.
Autumn
The Agricultural Fair, quieter beaches, stunning fall foliage, harvest festivals, and cozy evenings with fewer crowds and warm island light.
Winter
Christmas in Edgartown, peaceful off-season walks, local restaurant weeks, and a chance to experience the island like a true Vineyarder.
Spring
Daffodil season, the island waking up, early wildflowers, migratory birds, and the excitement of a new season beginning.
From Our Team
Staff Picks
Our front desk team’s favorite things to do on the island — the spots we send our own friends and family.
Sunset at Menemsha
Drive out to Menemsha Beach for the best sunset on the island. Grab a lobster roll from Larsen’s Fish Market and eat it on the jetty.
Morning at the Farmers’ Market
The West Tisbury Farmers’ Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and the best people-watching on the island.
Bike the Beach Road
Rent bikes and ride the paved path from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown along the coast. Stop at State Beach for a swim halfway through.
Back Door Donuts
After dinner, walk to Back Door Donuts on Circuit Avenue for warm apple fritters. There’s always a line — it’s worth it every time.
Aquinnah Cliffs
The clay cliffs at Aquinnah are unlike anything else in New England. Walk the boardwalk, visit the shops, and take in the views from Gay Head Lighthouse.
Morning Glory Farm
Pick up fresh-baked pies, local produce, and flowers at this beloved farm stand. The breakfast sandwiches are a local secret.
Plan Your Visit
Useful Resources
Steamship Authority
Car and passenger ferries from Woods Hole
Hy-Line Cruises
Passenger ferries from Hyannis
MV Online
Island events, news, and local info
Bike Rentals
Rent bikes for the island bike paths
MV Commission
Trail maps and conservation areas
Vineyard Gazette
Island newspaper and event listings
Ready to Explore?
Your Island Adventure Starts Here
Book your stay at the Island Inn and make Martha’s Vineyard your home base for beaches, lighthouses, villages, and everything in between.