📍What's the difference between the 6 towns on Martha's Vineyard? Which town is best to visit on MV?
📍What's the difference between the 6 towns on Martha's Vineyard? Which town is best to visit on MV?
pros/cons of the island's six towns and recommendations on the best one for your visit
Martha's Vineyard, an idyllic island located just south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, is a world-renowned vacation destination. Easily accessible from Boston and less than 30 miles away from Nantucket, the Vineyard offers a unique blend of New England charm and coastal beauty. Unlike its neighbor Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard boasts a larger land area with diverse towns each offering distinct experiences to visitors. In this post, we'll dive into the differences between the island's six towns, helping you decide which might be the best fit for your visit.
Vineyard Haven (aka Tisbury)
Vibe: Vineyard Haven serves as the island's year-round port, so downtown is constantly busy. Its walkable downtown area is full of shops, art galleries, and eateries. It’s not for partiers, but still has tons to offer.
Pros of Staying Here: Access to ferry services makes it convenient for arrivals and departures, or convenient for public transit to travel for day trips to other towns. The town is also home to a rich arts scene and historical architecture. Most places to stay are within walking distance of small beaches.
Cons of Staying Here: It can be busier and more crowded, especially near the ferry terminal. It’s also not ideal for drinkers because of the early curfew.
Population / Geography: A population of around 4,000, Vineyard Haven sits on the northern shore, offering both harbor views and a cozy, community feel.
Main Attractions: The Martha's Vineyard Film Center, Martha's Vineyard Museum, West Chop Lighthouse, and the historic Capawock Theatre.
Oak Bluffs
Vibe: Known for its whimsical gingerbread cottages and lively waterfront, Oak Bluffs has a youthful, inclusive energy.
Pros of Staying Here: Offers a plethora of dining and entertainment options right on the harbor, diverse culture, fun nightlife, family friendly, within walking distance of beaches.
Cons of Staying Here: Can feel touristy and crowded in peak summer months.
Population / Geography: With a population of about 5,000, Oak Bluffs is on the northeastern coast, featuring beautiful beaches and historic sites.
Main Attractions: Ocean Park, the oldest operating carousel in the U.S., the Flying Horses, the MV Camp Meeting Association (gingerbread houses) Circuit Avenue for shopping and dining, and many stops on the African American History Trail.
Edgartown
Vibe: Edgartown exudes a preppy, old-world elegance, with its well-preserved whaling captain's homes and quiet, picturesque streets.
Pros of Staying Here: Offers luxury accommodations and fine dining options. Its harbor is a beautiful spot for sailing, there’s incredible shopping and nightlife, and it’s close to beaches.
Cons of Staying Here: Can be expensive, with a more exclusive atmosphere.
Population / Geography: The largest town by population (around 4,500) and area, Edgartown is located on the eastern side of the island, featuring both harbor and Atlantic Ocean frontage.
Main Attractions: The Edgartown Lighthouse, The Carnegie Museum, Chappy, and South Beach for pristine sandy beaches.
Note that Chappaquiddick is a part of Edgartown (not accessible by road) and requires taking a short ferry to get to it.
West Tisbury
Vibe: West Tisbury is the rural heart of the island, with rolling farmlands, artisanal producers, and a slower pace of life.
Pros of Staying Here: It's ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature. The weekly farmers market is a highlight.
Cons of Staying Here: Fewer dining and shopping options than other towns.
Population / Geography: A smaller population of about 3,000, it lies in the center of the island, offering a mix of inland tranquility and coastal beauty.
Main Attractions: The Agricultural Hall, Polly Hill Arboretum, and Lambert's Cove Beach.
Chilmark
Vibe: Chilmark is known for its secluded beaches, pastoral landscapes, and a sense of exclusive tranquility. Menemsha harbor is a fishing village with local fresh seafood markets and takeout counters.
Pros of Staying Here: Offers privacy and stunning natural beauty. Home to some of the island's most beautiful beaches.
Cons of Staying Here: Less accessible and has very limited commercial activity.
Population / Geography: With just over 1,000 residents, it occupies the western part of Martha's Vineyard, featuring rugged coastline and rolling hills.
Main Attractions: Lucy Vincent Beach, Menemsha Fish Market, and the scenic views from Menemsha Hills, Chilmark General Store.
Aquinnah
Vibe: Famous for its clay cliffs and quiet, untouched landscapes, Aquinnah is the most remote town on the island, known for its natural beauty and cultural significance to the Wampanoag tribe.
Pros of Staying Here: Spectacular scenic views and less crowded beaches. Rich in Native American history.
Cons of Staying Here: Farther from the main hubs of activity, with fewer amenities.
Population / Geography: Aquinnah has a small population of under 500, located at the western tip of the island.
Main Attractions: The Aquinnah Cliffs, Gay Head Lighthouse, and Moshup Beach.
Each town on Martha's Vineyard offers its own unique charm and reasons to visit. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, cultural richness, or pastoral beauty, you'll find a town that suits your preferences.
Ask MVacay! Where should I stay?
I’m looking for family-friendly… stay near Oak Bluffs
I’m coming for a bachelorette party…stay in Edgartown or Oak Bluffs
I’m coming for a romantic weekend…stay in Edgartown
I want to learn about Black History…stay in Oak Bluffs
I care about the history of Martha’s Vineyard…stay in Vineyard Haven
I want to go to the beach every day…stay near Oak Bluffs
I want a budget friendly trip…go to Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven
I am coming for a day trip only…go to Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven
I’m bringing a dog…stay in Vineyard Haven
I want to explore farms or a rural getaway…stay in West Tisbury
