Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook
Iconic red clay cliffs on Martha's Vineyard, offering stunning Atlantic views and a historic lighthouse. A must-visit for natural beauty and sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the sunset crowds
Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook
Best Time
Beat the sunset crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red clay cliffs on Martha's Vineyard, offering stunning Atlantic views and a historic lighthouse. A must-visit for natural beauty and sunsets.
"The most beautiful place! So worth the ride from the ferry."
🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive early for sunset to secure parking; it fills up fast!
🚌 Bus Travel Tips
The #5 bus is hourly. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Cliffs
Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook
Witness the breathtaking, multicolored clay cliffs, a National Natural Landmark shaped by glaciers over millennia.
Gay Head Lighthouse
Adjacent to the overlook
A historic beacon offering panoramic views of the Atlantic. Entry to climb the lighthouse has a fee.
Moshup Beach
Below the cliffs
Accessible via a path from the cultural center, this expansive beach offers a more secluded experience.
Artisan Shops
Path to the overlook
Browse unique crafts and souvenirs from local artists lining the scenic walk to the cliff edge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Getting to Aquinnah
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive early for sunset to secure parking; it fills up fast!
🚌 Bus Travel Tips
The #5 bus is hourly. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit.
🍦 Treat Yourself
Don't miss a delicious Yommi pop from the first shop on the right!
📸 Sunset Photo Prep
Arrive well before sunset for the best photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive early for sunset to secure parking; it fills up fast!
🚌 Bus Travel Tips
The #5 bus is hourly. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit.
🍦 Treat Yourself
Don't miss a delicious Yommi pop from the first shop on the right!
📸 Sunset Photo Prep
Arrive well before sunset for the best photo opportunities.
💧 Restroom Info
Bathrooms are available until 5 PM; port-a-potties are on-site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of the Aquinnah Cliffs, calling them a must-see on Martha's Vineyard. The vibrant colors, expansive ocean views, and the historic lighthouse are consistently praised. While the sunset is a popular draw, many advise arriving early due to crowds and parking limitations. Some note that shops and facilities have limited hours.
"Arrive early if you want sunset photos. Parking lot fills up quickly. Bathrooms available until 5pm down the hill. Port a potties on site. Lots of little shops but close ay 5pm."
Michelle C
"Arrived mid afternoon after a very rainy morning. To get here by bus from Vineyard Haven requires two buses and is a bit lengthy, but the buses are timed well so we didn’t have to wait too long for the transfer and we had some very nice conversations with locals and tourists alike on the journey. Note that the #5 bus that goes to Aquinnah only comes once per hour, so you either are staying for 1 or 2 hours. Due to the foggy weather, we could barely see the cliffs and couldn’t see the lighthouse at all from the Overlook upon our arrival. And, only one of the little shops as well as the snack stand were open – the cultural center was also closed. We greatly enjoyed an hour+ walk to and on the beach (access to the beach is through a field from beside the cultural center and is the only beach access that we could find). The cliffs should definitely be seen from the water level, not just from the overlook. We were fortunate that by the time we returned from our beach walk, the fog had lifted and we had a better view from the overlook. We also walked to the lighthouse, which unfortunately was also closed due to the weather."
Scott Scheleur
"A beautiful stop to take if your looking for a picture perfect scenary on the island. There is a nice trail of locals artisan shops as you head to the overlook! Be sure to get you a Yommi pop from the first store on the right. Locally made, real ingredients, and delicious! There's not much to do other than take pics, but there is a huge field. So if your taking the waiting for the bus with a group bring a Frisbee or ball to throw around in the large field. We didn't go down to the beach area but that looked nice as well. Also, it's $6 per pers[over 12] to enter the light house. We opted not to, as the scenary was beautiful from the overlook."
Lucia Hassell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook by car, bus, Uber, or Lyft. The #5 bus from Vineyard Haven is a popular option, running hourly. Renting a car offers flexibility, but parking can be challenging during peak times.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it fills up very quickly, especially for sunset. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, the #5 bus route services Aquinnah. Be aware that it runs hourly, so plan your visit duration accordingly.
Taking the bus is a common and cost-effective method. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, but confirm with your driver about waiting times if you plan to stay for an extended period.
The journey from Oak Bluffs Ferry to Aquinnah Cliffs can take around 30-40 minutes by car or taxi. Bus routes will take longer due to transfers and stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the Aquinnah Cliffs themselves is free. However, there is a fee to climb the Gay Head Lighthouse, typically around $6 per person for those over 12.
The overlook is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the artisan shops and snack stands typically close around 5 PM, and restrooms are available until then.
No, tickets are not required for the Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook itself. If you wish to climb the lighthouse, you can purchase tickets on-site.
Access to Moshup Beach is typically free, though there might be parking fees if you drive directly to a beach access point. The main access from the cultural center area is usually free.
The local artisan shops and food stands generally close around 5 PM. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day if you plan to shop or dine.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers dramatic lighting and is incredibly popular for photos. However, early mornings provide softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the cliffs' colors without many people in the frame.
Yes, photos from Moshup Beach offer a unique perspective looking up at the cliffs, showcasing their scale and grandeur. The view from water level is highly recommended.
Generally, photography is allowed at the overlook and on the beach. Be mindful of any private property or specific rules set by the Wampanoag Tribe.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cliff views and the ocean. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the lighthouse or distant boats. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset shots.
The overlook provides a classic view. For a different perspective, walk down to Moshup Beach. The lighthouse also offers great photo opportunities.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning cliffs, visit the Gay Head Lighthouse, explore the artisan shops, walk on Moshup Beach, and learn about the Wampanoag Tribe at the museum.
Yes, there is a small museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Wampanoag Tribe, the original inhabitants of the island.
Restrooms are available until 5 PM, and portable toilets are also on-site. There are also snack stands and artisan shops.
The walk from the parking area to the overlook is relatively short and easy, with shops along the way. There are no benches directly on the path to the lookout, but some may be found near the shops.
Yes, there is access to Moshup Beach from the area near the cultural center. It's a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the ocean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Accessing Moshup Beach can be a fun adventure for kids, allowing them to play in the sand and explore the shoreline. While the lighthouse climb has a fee and may not be suitable for very young children, the overlook and beach provide plenty of enjoyment. Remember that restrooms close at 5 PM, so plan accordingly for little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider bringing a tripod for stable shots, particularly during sunset when light levels decrease. For unique perspectives, venture down to Moshup Beach to photograph the cliffs from sea level. The Gay Head Lighthouse also provides a picturesque subject. Don't forget to capture the details of the artisan shops and the vibrant atmosphere of the overlook.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of the Cliffs
Visitors can admire the cliffs from the overlook, but for a truly immersive experience, descending to Moshup Beach offers a unique perspective. From sea level, the sheer scale and vibrant colors of the cliffs are even more impressive. The contrast between the rugged cliffs and the vast Atlantic Ocean creates a dramatic and unforgettable landscape.
It's important to respect the natural environment and the cultural significance of this site. While the cliffs are a popular attraction, their preservation is paramount. Understanding their formation and the history of the Wampanoag people enhances the appreciation of this extraordinary natural wonder.
Navigating to Aquinnah: Options and Advice
For those who prefer more independence, renting a car or a Jeep at the port offers the most flexibility. However, rental cars are typically rented by the day, which might not be cost-effective for a short visit. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but it's crucial to communicate with drivers about waiting times. Some drivers may be hesitant to wait for extended periods due to the long drive back without a return fare.
Many visitors opt for a combination of transport, perhaps taking the bus to a central point and then arranging a ride-share. If you're traveling with a group and have downtime while waiting for transportation, the large field near the overlook is a great spot for activities like throwing a frisbee.
Experiencing Aquinnah: Beyond the View
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the museum dedicated to the Wampanoag Tribe is highly recommended. Learning about the original inhabitants of the island adds a significant layer of understanding and appreciation to the visit.
Beyond the immediate overlook area, Moshup Beach offers a chance for relaxation and exploration. It's described as a vast, almost private beach experience by some, perfect for a leisurely stroll or simply enjoying the coastal scenery.
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