So, what is Oak Bluffs famous for? Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard is one of the island’s most colorful and lively towns. From its historic gingerbread houses to its legendary beaches, there is much in our small community that brings to life the spirit of the Vineyard and what makes it a popular destination.
Flying Horses Carousel
The Flying Horses Carousel is one of the most notable landmarks, and Oak Bluffs is famous for it. Located across from Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel, the carousel is the centerpiece of Oak Bluffs and a must-see. Built in 1876, the original carousel operated on Coney Island and was eventually moved to Oak Bluffs in 1884. The hand-painted stationary horses have been carefully cared for over the years with continued preservation of original features, including natural horse-hair manes and tails, inset glass eyes, and brightly painted details.
The beaches
Oak Bluffs is home to three of the most popular beaches on Martha’s Vineyard – Eastville Beach, Joseph Sylvia State Beach, and Inkwell Beach. Eastville Beach is a public beach located at the bridge between Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. It offers calm waves and beautiful sunsets. The Joseph Sylvia State Beach offers two miles of clear, warm waters and sandy shores for those picturesque beach scenes. As one of the more popular beaches on the island, State Beach is best known for its appearance in the movie JAWS. And finally, Oak Bluffs Town Beach also referred to as Inkwell Beach, is in the heart of town with warm, calm waters and views of Nantucket Sound.
East Chop Lighthouse
Can you even visit Martha’s Vineyard without at least seeing one lighthouse? One of the most recognizable lighthouses on the island, the East Chop Lighthouse, rests on the other side of the harbor in Vineyard Haven in Oak Bluffs, near Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel. It is the site of the first telegraph signals used in 1828, thus Telegraph Hill. Today, it remains an active lighthouse for coastal navigation.
Gingerbread houses
Probably the most photographed attraction in Oak Bluffs is the colorful gingerbread cottages. Officially named the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, these whimsical cottages were built in the late 1800s and are an island icon. There are about 300 cottages that remain with colorful paints, picket fences, decorative trims, and cozy front porches. While you can visit them any time of year, the famed gingerbread houses are the most beautiful in the spring, with all the fresh floral blooms and new spring greens popping up.
Back Door Donuts
While there are many notable dining options in Oak Bluffs, a visit to Back Door Donuts is considered a right of passage when visiting the island. For the true “back door” experience, come through the back door at 7:00 p.m. to taste one of the best donuts around!
Ocean Park
Ocean Park in Oak Bluffs is a large, beautiful green space with ocean views that is a common meeting area for locals and visitors alike. It is home to a historic gazebo, beautiful gardens in the summer, and a long list of local events. It is the perfect spot to grab a picnic lunch and fly a kite.
Stay at Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel
Hopefully, we answered your question about what is Oak Bluffs famous for and now you’re ready to start planning your Martha’s Vineyard vacation! Complete your getaway and book a room at Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel.
Nestled in the heart of Oak Bluffs, our dog-friendly hotel is one of the premier lodgings in the area. Choose from accommodations with ocean-view rooms, garden views, modern amenities, and enough space for the entire family. We are a short four-minute walk from Ocean Park and a convenient location for exploring the rest of the island!
Our seaside accommodations are proud to be family-owned and operated since 1987. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to your home away from home at Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel. Book your vacation with us today!