Famous for its scenic beauty and beautiful sunny days, Martha’s Vineyard is an excellent place for a domestic post-wedding trip. The 100-square-mile island is in Southeastern Massachusetts, near Cape Cod. A Martha’s Vineyard honeymoon is ideal for couples who want to soak up the sun in a low-key setting.
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Is Martha’s Vineyard a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Newlyweds interested in a less-traditional New England getaway will love Martha’s Vineyard.
Though it carries “vineyard” in its name, this haven also has thriving farms, charming hamlets, and breathtaking beaches to offer. Because it’s small, you and your new spouse can easily explore the highlights of this island in just a few days.
The summery colony has a range of casual and fine dining restaurants and quaint shops to visit to complete your experience.
What Activities Can You Do on Martha’s Vineyard?
- Relax on sandy beaches. Edgartown’s South Beach, West Tisbury’s Lambert Cove Beach, and Chilmark’s Menemsha Public Beach are just some of Martha’s Vineyard’s best beaches. Apart from the usual water activities, have a romantic beach picnic for an unforgettable honeymoon.
- Take a boat tour. A sunset sail is always a good idea for honeymooners visiting an island destination. You can also hop on a ferry from Edgartown and enjoy a quick escape to Chappaquiddick Island to go kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching.
- Bike, bike, bike. A bike tour will let you see the beauty of Martha’s Vineyard from a different perspective. If you want to go the extra mile and go mountain biking, popular trails include the Aquinnah Headlands Preserve, Bittersweet Hill in Edgartown, and Phillips Preserve in Vineyard Haven.
- Check out top tourist spots. Sightseeing is a rewarding experience when on Martha’s Vineyard. Popular and important tourist attractions include the Edgartown Lighthouse and Aquinnah Cliffs, which offer sweeping sea views.
- Dine and shop. Main Street in Vineyard Haven is the place to be if you want a romantic stroll. While there, you can browse various local shops and try New England-style lobster rolls and homemade ice cream.
- Attend a festival or an important event. Visiting in May? Head to the Winnetu Oceanside Resort and attend the annual Martha’s Vineyard Wine Festival. If you’re there in July or August, you can attend the MV Cup Regatta at the Vineyard Haven harbor or the Agriculture Fair in West Tisbury.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Martha’s Vineyard?
Martha’s Vineyard is a seasonal honeymoon destination. The best time to visit is during summer, from May to September. However, it’s also the peak travel season.
If you want to avoid big crowds and enjoy slightly lower rates, consider going there in early May or late September.
How Many Days Should You Spend on Martha’s Vineyard?
Three to four days are enough to experience Martha’s Vineyard. Many opt to spend a few days for a mini-moon and go to other New England destinations such as Cape Cod and Nantucket. Nonetheless, you can always stay longer to immerse yourselves in the island’s charm and heritage.
Is a Honeymoon on Martha’s Vineyard Expensive?
A Martha’s Vineyard honeymoon typically costs $3,000 to $3,500 for one week. If you want a luxurious post-wedding vacation, you should set aside at least $5,000.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon on Martha’s Vineyard
- Mind the timing of your visit. As mentioned, you can visit in early May or late September to enjoy pleasant weather with lower travel expenses.
- Opt for a ferry ride rather than a flight when heading to the island. Once there, renting a bike is one of the cheapest and best ways to get around Martha’s Vineyard.
- Look for cost-effective accommodations like budget hotels and bed and breakfasts (b&bs).
- Research the menu and prices of restaurants before deciding where you will eat.
- Take advantage of free activities. Visiting the beach, Edgard Lighthouse, and Aquinnah Cliffs, among others, are the best free things to do on the island.
5 Best Towns to Stay On Martha’s Vineyard
Edgartown
Edgartown is a picturesque town in southeastern Martha’s Vineyard. The county seat has several soaked-in-history attractions, including the Edgartown Lighthouse, the Old Whaling Church, and the Vincent House Museum. Apart from exploring these structures, you can relax at South Beach.
You can also visit the nearby town Oak Bluffs (once a district of this town) and be in awe of its 19th-century gingerbread houses and public parks.
Vineyard Haven
Also called Tisbury, Vineyard Haven serves as the main port of entry to the island, alongside the ferry terminal in Oak Bluffs. Vineyard Haven is the only year-round port on the island.
Apart from its scenic views, especially in its bustling harbor area, you will be kept busy by the shops and dining hubs along the popular Main Street. You can also spend quality time at Owen Park, located off Main Street. There, you can swim, have a picnic, or soak up the sun.
West Tisbury
Southwest from Vineyard Haven, you will find West Tisbury. This is one of the three towns that comprise the so-called Up-Island region of Martha’s Vineyard. The other two are Chilmark and Aquinnah.
In West Tisbury, the go-to spots to visit are the Polly Hill Conservatory and the Cedar Tree Neck Wildlife Sanctuary. If you want to cozily relax in front of calm seas, head to Lamber’s Cove Beach. It’s also home to the landmark Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair, held every August.
Chilmark
Stunning coastlines and rolling hills characterize the beauty of Chilmark. Head to the north shore of the town, and you’ll be rewarded with mesmerizing views of the Elizabeth Islands chain. From the south, you’ll breathe in the town’s rural charm and see pastures of sheep grazing in verdant fields.
Chilmark is also popular as the home of the Menemsha fishing village. You can taste mouthwatering seafood dishes here and treat yourselves to dainty shops and majestic sunsets.
Aquinnah
Chilmark’s neighbor, Aquinnah, is on the island’s western edge. Tourists should never miss the opportunity to visit the colorful and dramatic Gay Head Cliffs, which house the Gay Head Lighthouse.
Aquinnah also has a great heritage, home to the first federally-recognized North American tribe: the Wampanoag Tribe. If you want your trip to have cultural immersion, this is the town to stay in.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Martha’s Vineyard?
You and your loved one can arrive on the island by air or sea.
If you come by plane, you will fly into Martha’s Vineyard Airport in West Tisbury. Several direct flights are available from Boston or New York City.
If you hop on a ferry, you will depart from Falmouth or Hyannis on Cape Cod.
Traveling Within Martha’s Vineyard
One of the most popular transport options is renting a bike. Apart from bike rentals, you can also bring your car or rent one and self-drive. If you prefer getting around via public transportation, you can take the Vineyard Transit Authority public buses.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available on Martha’s Vineyard?
Martha’s Vineyard offers several accommodation options, including hotels and resorts, boutique lodging, vacation rentals, and B&Bs.
One of the most popular hotels is the 117-room Harbor View Hotel. If you’re looking for a chic and romantic hotel offering unobstructed ocean views, choose Winnetu Oceanside Resort, which has its own pools and a fitness center. The charming Pequot Hotel is an excellent choice for a boutique hotel.
For properties with old-world charm, consider The Mansion House, which was first built in the late 1700s. The Sydney of The Edgartown Collection, a former Victorian home, is also an interesting place to book.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon on Martha’s Vineyard
I recommend packing lightly for your trip to Martha’s Vineyard to help you travel more conveniently. While casual beachwear is the best attire during the daytime, night activities call for fancier outfits (e.g., summer dresses, polo shirts, and khakis).
Don’t forget to bring swimsuits and coverups, sandals and comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (e.g., sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and insect repellant. To keep you warm from the cool sea breeze, pack light layers.
Is Martha’s Vineyard Safe to Visit?
Martha’s Vineyard is known for being a safe and peaceful community. However, petty crimes can happen anywhere. Here are some tips to keep in mind during your Martha’s Vineyard honeymoon:
- Secure your valuables in a safe deposit box.
- When going out, always lock your lodging’s door and windows.
- If you rent a bike or a car, always double-check they’re locked.
- Never leave valuables on your blanket whenever you’re out on the beach. Also, always assess your capacity to swim, and don’t go too far.
- While Martha’s Vineyard has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, don’t walk home alone late at night.