By Jennifer Jeffcoat
Jennifer writes for Sandcastle Realty, sharing travel tips and the best things to see and do on Martha's Vineyard to help guests plan unforgettable vacations.
Looking for things to do on Chappaquiddick during your Martha's Vineyard vacation? Just a short ferry ride from Edgartown, Chappaquiddick Island feels like a completely different world. There are no busy downtown streets, large crowds, or packed attractions. Instead, you'll find protected beaches, scenic nature preserves, peaceful ponds, and some of the most beautiful landscapes on Martha's Vineyard.
Whether you're planning a family beach day, hoping to spot local wildlife, or just want to explore a quieter side of the island, Chappy offers plenty of ways to spend a memorable day outdoors.
In This Article:
- How to Get to Chappaquiddick Island
- Know Before You Go
- Explore Mytoi Gardens
- Visit Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge & Lighthouse
- Spend the Day at East Beach
- Walk Across the Dike Bridge
- Paddle Through Poucha Pond
- Play a Round at Royal & Ancient Chappaquiddick Links
- Things to Do on Chappaquiddick With Kids
- Where to Stay on Martha's Vineyard
How to Get to Chappaquiddick Island
The Chappy Ferry carries passengers, bicycles, and vehicles between Edgartown and Chappaquiddick Island in about one minute, making it one of the shortest ferry rides you'll ever take. During the summer season, the ferry operates continuously from 6:30 a.m. until midnight, weather permitting. Winter service runs from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with an additional late-night crossing from 11:00 PM to 11:15 PM.
Current round-trip fares are $5 for passengers, $8 for bicycles and riders, and $17 for a car and driver, making it an easy and affordable addition to your Martha's Vineyard itinerary.
Know Before You Go
It’s important to note Chappaquiddick has a year-round population of under 200 people. The only shop is a general store, the only restaurant is a food truck extension of Edgartown’s Blackbird Café. When you come for the day, be prepared to spend time outdoors in nature—that’s the draw and what makes it so incredibly worth the visit.
Explore Mytoi Gardens
One of the most unique attractions on Chappaquiddick Island is Mytoi Gardens, a peaceful 14-acre retreat managed by the Trustees of Reservations.
This Japanese garden features winding paths, wooden bridges, gorgeous plants, and a central pond surrounded by a pine forest. As you explore, you’ll almost forget you’re actually at the beach.
Families love visiting Mytoi because it's easy to experience at your own pace. Kids can spot turtles in the pond while adults take in the quiet atmosphere and beautiful landscaping. It’s a great mid-trip addition when you need a day dedicated to R&R.
Visit Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge
Located on the northeastern end of Chappaquiddick Island, Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge protects hundreds of acres of beaches, dunes, marshes, and coastal habitats. It’s an exceptional spot for spotting animals like seals, deer, red foxes, and a variety of shorebirds, from ospreys and gulls to egrets and oystercatchers.
When you visit, you can purchase a permit for an over-sand vehicle so you can access areas that would otherwise be out of reach. Don’t forget to visit the swimming beach, check out some of the 10 miles of hiking trails, and stop by the Cape Poge Lighthouse before you leave!
The refuge is open from 9 AM to 5 PM from Memorial Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day and is free for pedestrians.
Spend the Day at Wasque Reservation
At the southeastern corner of the island, Wasque Reservation offers one of Chappaquiddick's most dramatic coastal landscapes.
This protected area is constantly changing due to shifting tides, storms, and erosion, making each visit feel different as the terrain evolves.
While swimming here is strongly discouraged due to strong currents and unpredictable surf, folks love to spend an afternoon walking the shore, picnicking, and taking in the magnificent scenery.
Ready to Explore Chappaquiddick This Summer?
If you’re planning a Martha’s Vineyard getaway, now’s the time to secure your stay. Browse Sandcastle Realty's vacation rentals and find the perfect home base for your summer fun on Chappaquiddick Island.
See All Martha's Vineyard Vacation Homes
Relax at East Beach
Heading north from Wasque Point, you’ll arrive at East Beach. Also known as Leland Beach, this stretch of sand is popular among surfers and fishermen for its wild waters. Spend the day lounging in the sun, taking a dip in the cold water, or catching a wave or two – especially in fall and winter when storms bring excellent conditions.
Walk Across the Dike Bridge
The Dike Bridge is one of Chappaquiddick's most recognizable landmarks and connects Poucha Pond to Cape Poge Bay.
Infamously known as the site where Senator Ted Kennedy crashed his car, resulting in the death of campaign worker Mary Jo Kopechne, the bridge remains a popular photo-op for visitors to this day.
Beyond historical relevance, the bridge is easy to access from East Beach and is a great spot for fishing, where anglers can cast a line for striped bass and bluefish.
Paddle Through Poucha Pond
If you’d rather get a look at the bridge and other sights from the water, Poucha Pond offers one of the most peaceful paddling experiences on Martha's Vineyard.
Kayaks and paddleboards let you explore protected waters, salt marshes, and quiet coves that are difficult to see from land. Paddling beneath the Dike Bridge and into the surrounding waterways provides a closer look at the island's wildlife and coastal ecosystems.
Early mornings are popular thanks to calmer water. That’s also when your chances are best for spotting nesting birds and other wildlife.
Play a Round at Royal & Ancient Chappaquiddick Links
If you’re looking to hit the golf course during your Martha’s Vineyard summer vacation, the Royal & Ancient Chappaquiddick Links is worth the visit. Prioritizing the authentic origins of the game, the course features unirrigated fairways that challenge with blind shots and plenty of hazards, but that only makes it all the more enjoyable.
Course Stats:
- 9 holes
- Established in 1887
- Yardage: ~1300
- Par 29
- Rating: 27.3
Things to Do on Chappaquiddick with Kids
To many visitors’ delight, Chappaquiddick is one of the most kid-friendly destinations on Martha's Vineyard.
Kids can search for wildlife at Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, explore the ponds around Mytoi Gardens, build sandcastles at East Beach, and watch the Chappy Ferry shuttle passengers across the harbor.
The island's slower pace makes it easy to spend an entire day outdoors without feeling rushed. Pack a picnic, bring binoculars, and allow plenty of time for exploring. It’s often these simple experiences that become the most memorable part of a family vacation.
Discover the Quieter Side of Martha's Vineyard
Featured Property: 1697 Edgartown
Some come to Chappaquiddick Island for the beaches. Others for the wildlife and quieter spaces. No matter what brings you to the island or how you choose to spend your day, Chappy is sure to become one of your favorite places in Martha’s Vineyard.
Planning your Martha's Vineyard getaway? Sandcastle Realty offers vacation rentals throughout Martha’s Vineyard, making it easy to explore Chappaquiddick while enjoying convenient access to Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and beyond. Browse our collection of homes and contact our local team to reserve your stay today.
FAQs About Chappaquiddick Island
How much time do you need on Chappaquiddick Island?
Most visitors spend at least half a day exploring Chappaquiddick, but a full day allows enough time to visit Mytoi Gardens, relax at East Beach, explore Wasque Reservation, and enjoy a picnic.
Can you drive on the beaches at Chappaquiddick?
Yes, certain areas allow beach driving with the proper permits and vehicle equipment. Over-sand vehicle permits are required, and drivers must follow seasonal restrictions designed to protect wildlife habitats.
Is Cape Poge Lighthouse open to visitors?
The Cape Poge Lighthouse can typically be visited through seasonal guided tours offered by the Trustees of Reservations. Availability varies throughout the year.
Is Chappaquiddick good for families?
Yes. Families often enjoy the beaches, wildlife sightings, the ferry ride, Mytoi Gardens, and outdoor recreation opportunities found throughout the island.
What is the difference between Chappaquiddick and Martha's Vineyard?
Chappaquiddick is a smaller island connected to Martha's Vineyard by the Chappy Ferry. While technically part of Edgartown, it feels much more remote and undeveloped than other areas of the Vineyard.
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