Martha’s Vineyard Summer Packing List: What to Bring for a Perfect Island Getaway

Written By Emily Potempa

Packing for Martha’s Vineyard is all about embracing the island lifestyle: relaxed beach days, bike rides through charming towns, seafood dinners by the water, and breezy evenings watching the sunset.

The key? Pack less than you think you need. Martha’s Vineyard style is effortless—think linen layers, comfortable sandals, beach essentials, and outfits that can easily go from the beach to dinner.

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or a full summer escape, this is everything you need to pack for your Martha’s Vineyard vacation.

Clothing Essentials

Easy Daytime Outfits

Martha’s Vineyard days are casual and comfortable. You’ll want pieces that work for exploring, shopping, and grabbing lunch by the harbor.

Pack:

  • Lightweight linen shirts

  • Cotton dresses

  • Casual shorts

  • Tank tops and breathable tops

  • Comfortable matching sets

  • Lightweight sweaters or cardigans

  • A denim jacket or sweatshirt for cool evenings

  • A casual button-down shirt

  • A swimsuit cover-up that doubles as an outfit

Island style tip: Choose pieces you can mix and match. A linen dress can work for morning coffee, beach walks, and dinner with the right accessories.

Beach Bag Essentials

A perfect Vineyard day usually includes time near the water.

Pack:

  • Swimsuits (at least 2)

  • Beach towel (or check if your rental provides them)

  • Beach bag or tote

  • Sunscreen

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat

  • Hair clips or a beach-friendly hair tie

  • After-sun lotion or aloe

  • Water bottle

  • Beach blanket

  • Book or Kindle

  • Waterproof phone pouch

Don’t forget a light sweatshirt or oversized shirt—the island breeze can feel chilly once the sun goes down.

Shoes to Bring

You don’t need a lot of shoes on Martha’s Vineyard.

Bring:

  • Comfortable walking sandals

  • Flip-flops for the beach

  • Sneakers for biking or exploring

  • One nicer sandal or casual shoe for dinner

Skip uncomfortable heels—you’ll spend more time walking cobblestone streets, sandy paths, and charming downtowns than dressing up.

Dinner & Evening Outfits

Martha’s Vineyard evenings are relaxed but stylish.

Think:

  • Linen pants with a pretty top

  • A simple sundress

  • A lightweight sweater over a dress

  • A casual button-down with shorts or chinos

  • Minimal jewelry

  • A woven bag or crossbody

Perfect for seafood dinners, sunset drinks, and strolling through towns like Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Menemsha.

Accessories That Make the Trip

Small items that make a big difference:

  • Straw hat

  • Beach tote

  • Crossbody bag

  • Sunglasses

  • Simple jewelry

  • Hair accessories

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Small backpack for day trips

  • Camera or extra phone storage for photos

For Exploring the Island

Whether you’re biking, walking, or taking the bus around the island, bring:

  • Comfortable sneakers

  • Lightweight backpack

  • Portable charger

  • Map or downloaded directions

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket

Great island activities include:

  • Exploring the Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs

  • Visiting Aquinnah Cliffs

  • Walking around Edgartown

  • Watching sunset in Menemsha

  • Biking coastal roads

Beach & Outdoor Extras

If you have room:

  • Beach chairs

  • Umbrella

  • Picnic blanket

  • Cooler bag

  • Beach games

  • Snorkel gear

  • Portable speaker

Many rentals provide some of these, so check before packing bulky items.

Toiletries & Beauty Essentials

The island vibe is natural and low-maintenance, but don’t forget:

  • SPF face sunscreen

  • Body sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hydrating moisturizer

  • Hairbrush and detangler

  • Leave-in conditioner (salt water can dry hair)

  • Dry shampoo

  • Hair clips and claw clips

  • Bug spray

  • Any medications

Martha’s Vineyard beauty tip: Embrace the beachy look—air-dried hair, a little glow, and simple makeup are perfect for island days.

What to Wear on the Ferry

Your travel outfit matters because getting to Martha’s Vineyard is part of the experience.

Wear:

  • Comfortable sneakers or sandals

  • Layers

  • Sunglasses

  • A light jacket

  • A crossbody bag

You’ll likely be walking, carrying bags, and spending time outside while waiting for or riding the ferry.

Martha’s Vineyard Packing Checklist

Must-Haves

☐ Swimsuits
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Sunglasses
☐ Hat
☐ Comfortable walking shoes
☐ Sandals
☐ Light sweater
☐ Beach bag
☐ Water bottle
☐ Casual dinner outfits

Nice-to-Haves

☐ Bike-friendly outfit
☐ Picnic blanket
☐ Camera
☐ Beach games
☐ Portable charger
☐ Cooler bag

The Secret to Packing for Martha’s Vineyard

Don’t pack for a fancy vacation—pack for an unforgettable summer day.

The best Vineyard moments usually look like:

  • Coffee in a quiet harbor town

  • A bike ride with the ocean breeze

  • Fresh seafood by the water

  • Bare feet in the sand

  • A sweatshirt at sunset

Bring comfortable clothes, a good book, and room in your suitcase for memories (and maybe a few island treasures).

That’s all you really need for the perfect Martha’s Vineyard summer.

Emily Potempa
Next

The Ultimate Summer Weekend Packing List