Things to do in Martha's Vineyard
Things to do in Martha's Vineyard range from walking through a harbor town to visiting protected coastal landscapes. The island has six towns, and distances and seasonal connections matter when choosing a day out. Start with a manageable area, check the return journey, and leave room for a walk rather than trying to fit every landmark into one itinerary.
Edgartown and Oak Bluffs offer distinct town walks, while Aquinnah and Chilmark introduce the more rural Up-Island part of the island. Vineyard Haven, in Tisbury, is a year-round ferry arrival point. Use our arrival guide to compare transport and the ferry guide for mainland crossings.
An island bus tour is another way to get an overview. The offered trip includes historical images on screens in an air-conditioned bus. Choose your stops and independent walks separately, with time for the connection back to your accommodation or ferry.
Our take: an island drive
For an overview of the island, this bus drive includes historical images on a screen.
Hand-picked tours, booked through Viator. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Island sightseeing
Explore the island by bus with historical images along the way.
Aquinnah Cliffs and Gay Head Lighthouse
The Aquinnah Cliffs and Gay Head Lighthouse bring together a coastal landscape and a long history of navigation. The Wampanoag community has an enduring connection to Noepe, the island. The cliffs are sacred: stay on permitted routes, do not climb them, and leave clay, plants and artifacts in place. Respect private property and posted access rules.
The lighthouse has seasonal visiting hours, so check the schedule before planning a climb. The first lighthouse was built in 1799; the light was moved inland in 2015. Read more about the community and the lighthouse in our island history guide.
Edgartown and Chappaquiddick
Walk through Edgartown before deciding whether to cross to Chappaquiddick on the small Chappy Ferry. Check its current operating hours and allow time for the return. The published winter schedule has a break late in the evening, so a missed departure can affect the rest of the day. Vehicle and passenger fares are separate considerations.
On Chappaquiddick, Cape Poge and Wasque have different access rules. Driving on sand requires a separate permit, and nesting bird protection can restrict vehicle access. At Wasque, changing currents and eroding edges call for particular care; the beach is unguarded. Do not plan a continuous sand route as a guaranteed connection.
Menemsha and nature trails
Menemsha is part of Chilmark, not a separate town. Combine a visit with a walk at Menemsha Hills, where marked trails lead through a protected landscape. The reserve is open from sunrise to sunset. Bring water, look out for ticks and poison ivy, and leave bicycles outside the trails.
Long Point uses different entrances by season. On 1 November 2026 the summer entrance was closed and the winter entrance was reached via Deep Bottom Road and Thumb Point Road. Check the current access arrangements before leaving, particularly when traveling by car.
Nature areas and protection rules
Follow marked paths and respect boundaries between public and private land. Some Land Bank paths can close during hunting periods, so read local signs before starting. Carry what you need and take waste away. If you encounter wildlife, give animals space and do not feed, touch or follow them.
Beaches have their own access, parking and safety rules. A walk-on permission does not automatically include a parking space, and an off-road permit is a separate matter. Consult local signs and lifeguards about conditions. Our where to stay guide explains how beach access can affect your choice of base.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see the island without a car?
Island buses connect the six towns, but check the day’s timetable and the return connection for your chosen walk.
Can I climb the Aquinnah Cliffs?
No. The cliffs are sacred and climbing or removing clay, plants or artifacts is prohibited.
Should I plan a return from Chappaquiddick?
Yes. Check the Chappy Ferry schedule for your travel date and leave time for the crossing back.
Are all beach permissions the same?
No. Access on foot, parking and permission to drive on sand are separate; check the rules for the specific beach.