Activities on Martha’s Vineyard
Let’s face it, one of the main reasons for visiting the island is for the beaches. Martha’s Vineyard beaches are known for their unspoiled charm, scenic landscape, and beautiful views. Martha’s Vineyard is an island, so we’ve got plenty of beaches. From the thundering surf at the southern shore to the calmer waters of the northern shore, there is beach for all.
There are 19 named beaches on the island, with one designated as a national landmark and is off-limits (Gay Head Cliffs and Beach) and three located right here in Oak Bluffs near Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel.
- Eastville Beach – This public beach is located at the bridge between Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven and offers calm waves and beautiful sunsets.
- Joseph Sylvia State Beach – Enjoy two miles of clear warm waters and sandy shores, perfect for the entire family. Widely known for its appearance in the movie, JAWS, State Beach is one of the more popular beaches on the island.
- Oak Bluffs Town Beach – Also called Inkwell Beach, Oak Bluffs Town Beach is in the heart of town with warm calm waters and views of Nantucket Sound.
Other public Martha’s Vineyard beaches:
Aquinnah
- Aquinnah Public Beach – The perfect spot to enjoy views of the Gay Head Cliffs Beach, plus scenic walks, and public restrooms.
- Lobsterville Beach – A long stretch of beach featuring rolling dunes, a seagull nesting area, and excellent fishing.
Chilmark
- Menemsha Public Beach – Known for its sunsets and gentle waters, this beach is located next to Menemsha Harbor.
Vineyard Haven
- Lake Tashmoo Town Beach – popular with snorkelers, this beach has warmer and somewhat shallow waters.
- Owen Park Beach – Located near the ferry terminal in Vineyard Haven, this beach is best known for its calm warm waters.
- Tisbury Town Beach – Enjoy quiet warm waters, plus unique views of passing boat traffic.
Edgartown
- Fuller Street Beach – A beach for the entire family, enjoy calm waters and picnicking.
- Katama Beach – Also known as South Beach, Katama Beach is one of most popular spots on the island. A barrier beach with calm waters on one side and surf on the other.
- Lighthouse Beach – Popular for its accessibility from town, calm waters, and the Edgartown Lighthouse.
Note: Some beaches are open to the public and some require a beach permit. Permits can be obtained through the local town hall.