The Cape and Islands are buzzing all summer long. Crowds of day trippers, residents and visitors make their way down to this New England enclave from June to August. However, us locals know that the season doesn’t end on Labor Day. Early fall is also an amazing time to visit Martha’s Vineyard. Read our guide to visiting Martha’s Vineyard for tips on where to stay, what to do and where to eat on MVY!
Getting to Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is a small island located off the coast of Massachusetts, about 9 nautical miles from Wood’s Hole in Falmouth. The drive down from Boston to Falmouth is usually over 2 hours in the summertime, but in the shoulder season it should not be longer than 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Falmouth, there are a few ferry options to choose from. Choosing which one to take will depend on if you are bringing a car and which town you want to end up in, there are ferries that go to Vineyard Haven, Edgartown and Oak Bluffs. Once you are on the island, there is actually a great bus system that can bring you back and forth between the towns and popular beaches, and there are many bike rental shops as well. So, a car on island is not necessary.
Where to Stay in Edgartown, MVY
Our favorite places to stay on Cape Cod and in the islands are Lark Hotels. On Martha’s Vineyard there are a few to choose from and on our recent trip we tried the Sydney. Located on Winter Street, it is in the heart of Edgartown close to shopping, dining and the Chappy Ferry.
Like all Lark Hotels, the Sydney is a renovated historic home, filled with lots of quirky, fun details. The interior and exterior design of the Sydney make you feel right at home. The spaces are cozy, yet light and airy. It truly a very pleasant place to be.
Each room features a beautifully modern bedroom and bathroom. And waking up to their signature small plates breakfast is the perfect way to start the day.
What to Do on Martha’s Vineyard
On our recent trip to Martha’s Vineyard we really wanted to explore the island so we went all over, here are a few can’t miss spots:
- Aquinnah and Gay Head Light: Located on the other side of the island, head out early to Aquinnah to enjoy the bluffs and the lighthouse.
- Menemsha for sunset: This is THE sunset spot on the island. So, get to the beach about an hour before sunset, grab some lobster rolls at Larsen’s and get cozy to enjoy the views.
- Chappaquiddick: If you are staying in Edgartown this is an absolute must. Rent some bikes, hop on the Chappy Ferry and enjoy the day at the beaches and parks on Chappy Island. If you really want to unplug, this is the place to do it. The Trustees manage the MyToi park and the nearby beach, be sure to check out both!
- Edgartown: Edgartown is my favorite town on the island, the classic New England feel is just the vibe you want on a trip to Martha’s Vineyard.
- Behind the Bookstore: Behind the Bookstore is a chic café just around the corner from the Sydney and the lobster roll here is like none that you have seen before. Just trust me, you have to go here!
A weekend in the shoulder season on Martha’s Vineyard is the chance to unplug, unwind and take in the last few pleasant days in New England before winter hits. So head down the Martha’s Vineyard this fall!
For more ideas for New England destinations to visit anytime of year, read our blog posts on Camden, Maine, Nantucket and Cape Cod.