After summer, some of the popular seasonal businesses shutter their doors until the following spring. Fortunately, there are a few good ones that stay open! Come on out to our island for a winter weekend getaway. You’ll find that there’s plenty of fun to be had during the off-season. Stay busy with these winter activities to do on Martha’s Vineyard.
Take A Stroll on the Beach
Pile on your layers and head out for a beachside stroll. Find peace and serenity on the empty shores free from summer crowds. Locals make the most of winter beach season by going to some of the restricted summer sands, like Lambert’s Cove Beach. Be sure to make time to see a sunset or two during your stay. Bring a blanket to sit on. Sit back and enjoy unobstructed views of the sun dipping into the rolling waves from sandy perch.
Ice Skating in Martha’s Vineyard

Did you know Martha’s Vineyard is home to a huge ice-skating arena? The recently renovated arena is managed by the YMCA and open to the public. Add ice skating to your list of winter activities to do on Martha’s Vineyard that are an absolute must! Enjoy hours gliding on the icy floors and perfecting your figure skating moves. Join a hockey players’ scrimmage and work on your trick shots. The whole family will enjoy some time on the rink.
Go Hiking on the Trails
See the Martha’s Vineyard landscape in all of its winter glory. Make your way through open fields and leafless tree-lined paths to gorgeous cliff views. The flat lands of the Vineyard make hikes easy for anyone to take on. That means you can take in the scenic landscape even if you haven’t done a hike in a while. Or bring the kids for a family day in nature. Menemsha Hills is an excellent option for a hike. The 211-acre preserve is full of scenic views and fantastic landscapes.
Birding in Martha’s Vineyard

Birders flock to Martha’s Vineyard throughout the year to experience the bird lover’s paradise. Over 300 species of birds inhabit the island or cross its shores during winter migration. During the winter, bring your binoculars. See if you can spot a rare Snowy Owl that tends to frequent the island’s southern shoreline. Keep your eyes up to the skies and see plenty of other species soaring overhead.
See a Movie
On the coldest days, you can still enjoy your time in Martha’s Vineyard. See a movie at Strand Theater Movie House & Grille. They play old classics and just released films while guests chow down on pub-style food. Enjoy a solo movie date with wine and appetizers. Bring the family out for a kid-friendly movie with plenty of pizza to go around.
Have a Martha’s Vineyard Dining Experience

Martha’s Vineyard is home to some of the most delicious eats on the shore. During a chilly day, head to some of the local favorites. Try the Lookout Tavern for great views of the ocean and fresh seafood and sushi. Their clam chowder or lobster roll paired with a foamy seasonal draft make for a delicious meal. Visit the Barn Bowl & Bistro for a unique dining experience that combines tasty food and drinks with bowling. Enjoy a casual homestyle meal and homemade beer at the cozy Offshore Ale. With everything from casual dining to upscale dining, you could spend your whole trip eating your way through the island.
Stay at Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel

When planning to visit Martha’s Vineyard during the chilly winter season, stay at Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel. Our property is conveniently located to the best winter activities to do on Martha’s Vineyard. Nestled in the heart of Oak Bluffs, our hotel is one of the premier Martha’s Vineyard hotels. Choose from a variety of accommodations that feature ocean view rooms, garden views, modern amenities, and enough space to bring the entire family.
Book your winter retreat with us today!


