By Coshandra Dillard
Martha's Vineyard sightseeing is a must-do when you visit. This picturesque island has plenty of activities and events that will have you frolicking with adventure, whether relaxing on sun-kissed beaches or admiring the history and culture. Each of its six rural coastal towns holds its own character and pace, making it easy to find things to do in Martha's Vineyard. From guided tours and seaside excursions to museums and quintessential architecture, you are guaranteed to delight in the time spent there.
In This Article:
- Gay Head Lighthouse
- Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail
- Ben and Bill's Chocolate Emporium
- The Gingerbread Cottages
- Flying Horses Carousel
- Menemsha
- Jaws Filming Sites
- Mytoi Japanese Gardens
- Martha's Vineyard Museum
- Island Alpaca
- Where to Stay in Martha's Vineyard
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Gay Head Lighthouse and Cliffs
Gay Head Lighthouse, built in 1799 and first lit in 1856, is an emblematic fixture on the island. Here, you can climb the lighthouse for unrivaled views of the Aquinnah red clay cliffs and the ocean. The lighthouse is open to the public daily from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. In addition, you can peruse the heritage exhibit to learn about the history and culture of the Wampanoag, the first inhabitants of Aquinnah.
- Location: 15 Aquinnah Circle, western tip of Martha’s Vineyard
- Open: Tours offered during the spring and summer
- Admission: $6 for adults; free for children under 13, military, and Aquinnah residents
- Key Highlights: Cliff views, island history, and day trips
Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail
Visitors can’t get enough of Oak Bluffs, a major tourist hub in close proximity to our vacation rentals. It’s rich in African American history, as it is connected to prominent community leaders, entrepreneurs, and writers. This history is preserved through the heritage trail, which includes the famous Inkwell Beach. Choose from a driving tour, a walking tour, or other options to find one that fits your interests. There are 41 sites on the trail across all six Martha’s Vineyard towns.
- Location: The meeting place for the driving tour is the Oak Bluffs Ferry Terminal, and for the walking tour, the junction of Chapman Avenue and Wayland Avenue by Washington Park.
- Admission: Tours start at $50
- Contact: (508) 693-4361
- Key Highlights: Home of Dorothy West, Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, Gingerbread Cottages
Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium
If you are in need of a fancy treat, make a stop at Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium. Try the lobster ice cream, an unconventional vanilla ice cream with bits of buttered lobster. It might sound unusual, but the combination delights adventurous travelers.
- Location: 20A Circuit Avenue, Oak Bluffs
- Open: Daily, 9 am to 11:30 pm
- Key Highlights: Ice cream, assorted chocolates, and caramels
The Gingerbread Cottages
Also in Oak Bluffs, the famous Gingerbread Cottages will make you feel as though you’re walking through a vibrant-colored storybook. Sitting on 34 acres, the 318 cottages, located on what is known as The Campground, have magical appeal. Fashioned in the beloved Carpenter’s Gothic architecture, the cottages were built after a group of Methodists began holding religious retreats on the island in the early 1800s.
On the third Wednesday of August each year since 1869, the homes are lit with paper lanterns for Grand Illumination Night. Take a guided tour by the Matha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, the religious non-profit that maintains The Campground. At the center of this community is The Tabernacle—a hub for religious and cultural activities on the island. To see interiors of the homes, book with the Cottage Museum, which is open six days a week, Memorial Day through mid-October. Check out their brochure to plan your visit.
The Flying Horses Carousel
Find your whimsy or relive childhood memories with this iconic carousel—the country’s oldest, built in 1876. Another Oak Bluffs favorite, the carousel features brightly painted hard-carved wooden horses with manes and tails of real horsehair. Have fun trying to grab a brass ring as you zip by, or pose for a photo at this national landmark. You can also host an event, from birthday parties to weddings.
- Location: 15 Lake Avenue, Oak Bluffs
- Hours: Open daily, 10 am - 9 pm
- Event rental availability: April - mid-June from 5 pm to 6:30 pm | End of June – early September from 8 am to 9:30 am or 9 pm to 10:30 pm
- Contact: (508) 627–4440
Menemsha
Snuggled in the town of Chilmark, enjoy sailing or stroll through the fish markets at Menemsha. This authentic fishing village is the perfect place for both experienced and beginner anglers to cast a line in the waters. Need more guidance with an excursion? Book a fishing charter to create a memorable fishing trip for your family. End your day witnessing the perfect view of the sunset.
Jaws Filming Sites
If you’re a fan of the 1975 classic movie Jaws or just enjoy visiting scenes of any famous movie site, you’re in for a treat. Guides at Explore Martha’s Vineyard Tours take you on an immersive four-hour journey through behind-the-scenes details, the film’s history, and access to specific film locations in Edgartown, which served as the fictional Amity Island. You’ll also have a chance to take photos in the exact locations of your favorite movie scenes.
- Contact: (508) 939-1359
Mytoi Japanese Gardens
Embrace the slow life at this serene 14-acre Japanese garden managed by the Trustees of Reservations. Walk, hike, or picnic in this lush garden, which features a pond, wooden bridges, a stone garden, and footpaths amid a pine forest. Located on Chappaquiddick Island — a quieter, more secluded section of Martha’s Vineyard — you’ll appreciate the slower side of life.
- Location: 41 Dike Road, Edgartown
- Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset.
- Admission: $10 per adult; Children 12 and under are free. Free to all from November through April.
- Key Highlights: Winding footpaths, gardens, and a pond
Martha’s Vineyard Museum
Dig into the Island’s history at Martha’s Vineyard Museum in Vineyard Haven. This site examines the island’s whaling history, fishing traditions, and showcases photography, art, and island culture. Rotating displays offer a mix of exhibits each season.
- Location: 151 Lagoon Pond Road, Vineyard Haven
- Popular exhibits: Maritime artifacts, historic photographs, lighthouse lens display
- Average visit time: 1–2 hours
- Nearby: Vineyard Haven shops, restaurants, and ferry terminal
Island Alpaca
Meet the gentle and adorable alpacas at Island Alpaca. The social herd animals are known for their charisma and soft fleece. You’ll love the time you spend here, and it’s special enough to host birthday parties or even weddings. Get immersed in this farm’s world with private tours where guides highlight how they care for the alpacas, shear them, and harvest fiber. Choose a farm tour that best fits your group. This farm also offers Alpaca Walk & Talk and Alpaca Yoga.
- Location: 1 Head of the Pond Road, Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard
- Contact: (508) 693-5554
- Admission: $8 per person, May 1 through November 1. Prices vary for individual tours and experiences. Free admission for all from November 1 through April 30.
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Homes Add to Your Blissful Experience
Featured Property: 1823 Oak Bluffs
At Sandcastle Realty, we offer an impressive selection of homes for you to choose from, ranging from simple to elegant. With more than 250 properties, you’ll delight in knowing you have a comfortable space to return to after enjoying the many activities and attractions during your getaway. We make it easy for you. Once you’ve selected the perfect vacation home, just fill out the guest details and submit a reservation inquiry to book direct using the button below.
We think you’ll love 1823 Oak Bluffs. This four-bedroom, three-bath home accommodates nine. The laid-back family room is perfect for games, reading books, or relaxing after a day of Martha’s Vineyard sightseeing. The quaint and inviting kitchen features an island for gathering and cooking family dinners.
Bedrooms are cozy and bright, with a queen-size bed on the first floor and a full bath, and the other rooms on the second floor, including a king-size bed with an en suite bath. The outdoors is just as warm. Overlooking a luscious yard, you can enjoy an evening on the deck with a gas grill, outside shower, and screened porch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get around Martha’s Vineyard without a car?
Biking, rideshare, taxi, or tour services are popular ways people get around the island. There is also a public bus, and the Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority connects all six towns.
If you want more flexibility and ease, you can bring your car to the Steamship Authority or rent a car on the island.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Any time is a good time to revel in Martha's Vineyard attractions, but summer — June through August — is the peak season on the island. More visitors are drawn to the beaches, water activities, and events during this time. However, there are plenty of things to do during the fall and spring. You’ll still have opportunities to hike, fish, kayak, and take part in the island's arts and cultural scenes.
How much time do I need to explore Martha’s Vineyard?
At least three to four days will give you ample time to explore attractions at multiple places without feeling rushed. Stretching out your stay allows you to get a good mix of outdoor excursions and laid-back explorations.