Martha's Vineyard Travel Guide: How to Get There, Where to Stay, Do You Need a Car & the Best Places to Eat
If you're dreaming of a classic New England summer, Martha's Vineyard should be at the top of your travel list. Picture charming coastal towns, colorful gingerbread cottages, fresh lobster rolls, bike rides to the beach, and unforgettable sunsets over a working fishing village.
After visiting, I completely understand why so many people return year after year. Here's everything you need to know before planning your first trip—including my absolute favorite place to eat fresh seafood.
How to Get to Martha's Vineyard
The first thing to know: you can't drive directly to Martha's Vineyard. The island is located about seven miles off Cape Cod, so you'll arrive either by ferry or by plane.
By Ferry (The Best Option)
Most visitors take the ferry from Woods Hole on Cape Cod.
Ferry ride: about 45 minutes
Foot passengers do not need reservations on the year-round ferry.
If you're bringing a vehicle, reserve months in advance—car spots sell out quickly in summer.
If you're staying only a few days, I'd recommend leaving your car on the mainland.
Do You Need a Car?
Honestly? Probably not.
The island has an excellent public bus system connecting Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Aquinnah, and Menemsha, and it's easy to rent bikes or grab an Uber for shorter trips. Many repeat visitors skip bringing a car altogether.
Bring a car if:
You're staying a week or longer.
You're visiting multiple beaches every day.
You're traveling with young kids and lots of gear.
Skip the car if:
It's your first visit.
You're staying in Oak Bluffs or Edgartown.
You enjoy walking and biking.
Where to Stay on Martha's Vineyard
Each town has its own personality. If it was my first time, I would do two nights in each one to get the feel.
Edgartown
Perfect for first-time visitors. Very elegant feels almost presidential.
Expect:
Beautiful historic homes
Boutique shopping
Upscale restaurants
Walkable downtown
Easy access to beaches
Great places to stay include The Christopher, Harbor View Hotel, and Winnetu Oceanside Resort.
Oak Bluffs
The liveliest town on the island. It feels a little like Florida meets opening of Full house.
Great for:
Families
Nightlife
Harbor views
The famous Gingerbread Cottages
Flying Horses Carousel
Consider staying at The Oak Bluffs Inn or The Dockside Inn.
Vineyard Haven
A quieter, more local feel with great shopping, cafés, and easy ferry access. Cute easy town and enjoyed the motel.
My Favorite Place to Eat: Menemsha Fish Market
If you only eat at one place on Martha's Vineyard, make it Menemsha Fish Market.
This little seafood market sits right on the docks in the tiny fishing village of Menemsha, where the boats unload the day's catch. The seafood couldn't be fresher.
Order:
Lobster roll
Clam chowder
Oysters
Fresh shrimp
Steamers
Whatever fish was caught that day
Then walk a few minutes to Menemsha Beach and enjoy your meal while watching one of the most beautiful sunsets in New England. The market is known for serving seafood straight from the local fishing boats.
It's easily my favorite meal on the island.
Other Great Restaurants
If you're staying a few days, don't miss:
Beach Road — creative seafood in Vineyard Haven.
Detente — one of Edgartown's best date-night restaurants.
Chilmark Tavern — perfect after exploring Up-Island.
L'étoile — elevated dining in Edgartown.
Don't Miss These Martha's Vineyard Experiences
Besides eating your way around the island, make time for:
Watch sunset in Menemsha.
Visit the colorful Aquinnah Cliffs.
Walk through Edgartown's charming downtown.
Explore Oak Bluffs' Gingerbread Cottages.
Bike between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown.
Stop by Morning Glory Farm for fresh baked goods and local produce.
Final Thoughts
Martha's Vineyard somehow manages to feel both sophisticated and laid-back. Whether you're strolling through Edgartown, biking along the coast, or eating lobster on the docks in Menemsha, life simply slows down here.
If I had one recommendation, it would be this: skip the packed dinner reservations one evening, head to Menemsha Fish Market, grab the freshest seafood you can find, and watch the sunset from the beach. It's the kind of travel moment you'll remember long after the vacation ends.