Which Towns Fit Your Vacation Style?
When planning your next vacation to Martha’s Vineyard, you may have lots of questions about the six towns on the island. The towns are: Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, West Tisbury, Chilmark and Aquinnah. Each town offers something special. Where you stay depends on what’s most important to you on your vacation. Here we’ve compiled some of the most popular questions about what to do and where to stay.
Where can you find the most shopping and dining on Martha’s Vineyard?
You’ll want to visit the “down-island” towns: Edgartown, Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. Here you’ll be treated to a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, historic homes and art galleries, sure to please every member of the family. Many travelers consider Edgartown to be the most attractive choice for scenery, as well as things to do. Once a whaling port, Edgartown is a lively place that’s perfect for summer sightseeing. When you’ve browsed the shops for a while, take a short walk to the famous Edgartown Lighthouse and beach. It gets pretty busy in the summer, but it’s a must-see!
The other two towns aren’t to be outdone, though. You have to visit Oak Bluffs to see the oldest operating carousel in the United States. If you go to downtown Oak Bluffs, you’ll be amazed by the views of Nantucket Sound, and the awe-inspiring Victorian homes in Ocean Park.
Do all of the restaurants serve alcohol?
Vineyard Haven is a dry town, so you’ll find more restaurants in the other two towns. But you’ll want to spend some time enjoying the quaint scenery and walkable attractions of this scenic town, too.
Where can you find a quieter, less touristy, experience on the island?
If you don’t care as much about shopping and dining, or if you’re done visiting shops and restaurants, you’ll want to visit the “up-island” towns of Chilmark, West Tisbury and Aquinnah. Here you’ll discover a more rural experience in these smaller towns surrounded by countryside. You can go hiking and biking, and enjoy trails that lead to miles of beautiful beaches. Chilmark is also the spot for the weekly Farmer’s Market, and the Agricultural Fair is in West Tisbury. There are also fishing ports and the famous Gay Head Cliffs in Aquinnah.
Where can you find the best beaches?
You’ll enjoy ocean views and access to many different beaches no matter which town you visit. For surfers looking for huge waves, you’ll want to go to Gay Head Public Beach in Aquinnah. If you like a family-friendly beach with gentle waters, visit Menemsha Public Beach in Chilmark near the scenic Menemsha Harbor.
No matter what your vacation preference, you’ll find so much to see and do in all of the six towns on Martha’s Vineyard! Keep checking our blog for more tips and top picks around the island.
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