
Edgartown Martha's Vineyard
Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard: A quintessential New England summer colony known for its traditional cottages, charming harbor, and elegant atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Edgartown Martha's Vineyard
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard: A quintessential New England summer colony known for its traditional cottages, charming harbor, and elegant atmosphere.
"Martha's Vineyard isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place that hugs your soul."

🚗 Rent a Jeep for Style
Consider renting a Jeep for a bougie weekend experience in Edgartown.
🚌 Utilize Island Buses
The public bus system is convenient for exploring the island and getting back to the ferry.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Edgartown Lighthouse
Edgartown Harbor
Iconic, picturesque lighthouse offering stunning harbor views and a glimpse into maritime history. You can even go inside!

Charming Edgartown Streets
Edgartown Village
Wander through streets lined with traditional New England cottages, boutiques, and art galleries. A true postcard-perfect town.

Atlantic Fish & Chophouse
Edgartown Harbor
Enjoy delicious seafood and cocktails with beautiful harbor views. A popular spot for lunch, dinner, and drinks.

Among The Flowers Cafe
Edgartown
A must-try cafe for quality, fresh, and tasty food, offering a welcome respite from tourist traps.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ferries & Accommodation Early
Island Transportation Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Jeep for Style
Consider renting a Jeep for a bougie weekend experience in Edgartown.
🚌 Utilize Island Buses
The public bus system is convenient for exploring the island and getting back to the ferry.
🍽️ Savor Fresh Oysters
Try the fresh oysters at places like @signatureoysterfarm in Edgartown for a true taste of the island.
☕️ Find Quality Cafes
Seek out cafes like Among The Flowers for delicious and fresh meals away from tourist traps.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Jeep for Style
Consider renting a Jeep for a bougie weekend experience in Edgartown.
🚌 Utilize Island Buses
The public bus system is convenient for exploring the island and getting back to the ferry.
🍽️ Savor Fresh Oysters
Try the fresh oysters at places like @signatureoysterfarm in Edgartown for a true taste of the island.
☕️ Find Quality Cafes
Seek out cafes like Among The Flowers for delicious and fresh meals away from tourist traps.
📸 Capture Lighthouse Views
Visit Edgartown Lighthouse for iconic photos; it's easily accessible and beautiful.
🛍️ Explore Local Boutiques
Edgartown offers charming small businesses and boutiques for unique shopping finds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Martha's Vineyard, and Edgartown specifically, for its breathtaking beauty, charming New England atmosphere, and relaxing vibe. The picturesque streets, historic architecture, and scenic harbor create a postcard-perfect setting. Many highlight the delicious seafood and the island's ability to offer a true escape from everyday life.
"Short day trip. We toured the area where the ferry came over from Hyannis and took the free bus down to another area but didn’t get to see the other parts of the island. Was end of season and lots of the shops were closed or closing. Glad we missed the crowds. Enjoyed touring the adorable cottages. Several people in our group did the $3 tour and highly recommended it. Wish we had taken the time to go to see where Jaws was filmed."
Candiece Barnthouse
"Beautiful place! Fun ferry ride, delicious lobster rolls, great bus system to take you where you want to go."
Elizabeth Henderson
"Visited Martha’s Vineyard by ferry from New Bedford (around $70–80 per person), and it was absolutely worth it. It’s a beautiful, walkable town with charming gingerbread houses, cozy cafés, and great restaurants. The vibe was quiet and relaxed when we visited, which made it even nicer. The public transport system is really convenient too — buses take you anywhere around the island and make getting back to the ferry easy. A perfect day trip!"
Jishnu Nair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Martha's Vineyard by ferry from several mainland ports, including Woods Hole, New Bedford, and Hyannis. From Boston, you can take a bus directly to the ferry terminals. Once on the island, the public bus system connects Edgartown to other towns.
Yes, the island has a reliable public bus system that services all the main towns, including Edgartown. This makes it easy to explore without a car, though renting one offers more flexibility.
The choice of ferry port depends on your starting location. Woods Hole is a popular option for those coming from Cape Cod. Ferries from New Bedford and Hyannis are also convenient. Booking ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, you can bring your car on some ferries, but it's often expensive and parking on the island can be limited and costly, especially in Edgartown during the summer. Many visitors opt to leave their cars on the mainland or rely on island transportation.
Ferry ride durations vary depending on the port and ferry type. From Woods Hole, the ferry to Vineyard Haven is about 30-45 minutes. Ferries from New Bedford can take around 1.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While many attractions in Edgartown don't require advance tickets, it's wise to book ferry tickets and popular accommodations well in advance, especially for summer visits. Some specific tours or events might benefit from pre-booking.
Edgartown Lighthouse is typically open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. It's a popular spot for visitors and offers great photo opportunities.
Edgartown itself does not have an entrance fee. You pay for ferry transportation to the island and any specific attractions, accommodations, or dining you choose.
Edgartown hosts various events, including the 4th of July parade, which is a significant local celebration. The island also has seasonal events and festivals throughout the year.
Costs vary greatly depending on your travel style. Ferry tickets can range from $30-$80 round trip per person. Accommodation and dining can be pricey, especially in peak season. Bringing your own food can help cut costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Edgartown Lighthouse, strolling through the charming streets lined with traditional New England cottages, and exploring the harbor. The town offers a quintessential Martha's Vineyard experience.
Edgartown is known for its preppy, upscale, and picturesque New England charm, featuring beautiful architecture and a lovely harbor. Oak Bluffs offers a more colorful and whimsical vibe with its gingerbread cottages.
Activities include exploring boutiques and art galleries, enjoying waterfront dining, visiting the lighthouse, and simply soaking in the charming atmosphere. Biking and walking are also popular ways to see the town.
Yes, Edgartown is an excellent destination for a day trip from Boston or other parts of Cape Cod. You can enjoy its scenic beauty, shops, and restaurants within a few hours.
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for daytime exploration. Many visitors opt for a preppy or coastal style. Pack layers as the weather can change, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular dining spots include Atlantic Fish & Chophouse for seafood with harbor views, and @signatureoysterfarm for fresh oysters. Among The Flowers Cafe is recommended for quality breakfast and lunch.
Absolutely! Edgartown is known for its excellent seafood. Atlantic Fish & Chophouse and Signature Oyster Farm are great places to enjoy fresh catches and oysters.
While Edgartown can be pricey, looking for cafes like Among The Flowers for breakfast or lunch can be more budget-friendly. Packing some of your own snacks or picnic items can also help manage costs.
Many restaurants offer a variety of options. Cafes and restaurants focusing on fresh ingredients are more likely to have vegetarian and vegan choices. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff.
A lobster roll is a classic New England sandwich made with lobster meat, typically served on a toasted bun. You can find delicious lobster rolls at many seafood restaurants and casual eateries across Martha's Vineyard, including in Edgartown. [^Reviews]
📸 📸 Photography
The Edgartown Lighthouse, the charming streets with their traditional cottages, and the sailboats in the harbor are all incredibly photogenic. The colorful architecture and scenic waterfront offer endless photo opportunities.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the bright sun can also create a vibrant summer feel.
The Edgartown Lighthouse and the historic architecture of the town itself offer a glimpse into the island's maritime past. The Martha's Vineyard Museum in Edgartown also provides historical context and visual exhibits.
Yes, you can go inside the Edgartown Lighthouse and take photos. It's a unique experience that offers different perspectives of the structure and the surrounding harbor.
A versatile camera with a good lens is recommended. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing landscapes and architecture, while a telephoto lens can be useful for distant shots of boats or wildlife. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps and social media!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the traditional New England cottages and the picturesque streets make for delightful walks. While Edgartown itself might be more about strolling and window shopping, the proximity to beaches and other island towns with more kid-centric activities makes it a great base. Renting a vacation home with a kitchen can help manage food costs and provide more space for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the island's excellent public bus system instead of renting a car, which significantly cuts down on transportation costs. Pack your own snacks and picnic lunches, and look for casual eateries or cafes like Among The Flowers Cafe for more affordable meals. Many of the island's natural beauty, like beaches and scenic walks, are free to enjoy.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Explore the quaint shops and art galleries hand-in-hand, or rent bikes for a scenic ride through the picturesque island roads. The Edgartown Lighthouse offers a classic romantic photo opportunity. For a truly special experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for a more tranquil and intimate getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Edgartown's Architectural Charm
Many of these historic homes have been converted into charming inns and bed and breakfasts, offering visitors a chance to stay in a piece of history. The Harbor View Hotel and The Charlotte Inn are examples of accommodations that embody this architectural elegance. The overall aesthetic is one of refined, understated beauty, making Edgartown a photographer's and admirer's delight.
Beyond the private residences, the Edgartown Lighthouse stands as a beacon of the town's maritime heritage. Its classic design complements the surrounding harbor, where sailboats bob gently. The town's commitment to preserving its historical character is evident in every corner, offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era of New England coastal life.
Experiencing Edgartown's Culinary Scene
Beyond the seafood focus, Edgartown also boasts charming cafes that serve up quality fare. Among The Flowers Cafe has been highlighted by visitors for its fresh, tasty food, providing a welcome alternative to potentially overpriced tourist options. This cafe is a great spot for breakfast or a casual lunch, offering a more intimate dining experience.
While Edgartown is known for its upscale dining, visitors can also find more casual options and are encouraged to explore the variety of eateries. Packing some of your own food or opting for picnic lunches can be a way to manage costs, especially during peak season. Regardless of your budget, Edgartown promises a delightful gastronomic journey, celebrating the flavors of the sea and the island's bounty.
Edgartown's Coastal Beauty and Activities
While Edgartown is more about refined relaxation than high-octane adventure, activities revolve around enjoying the coastal environment. Strolling along the waterfront, exploring the beaches, or even taking a short ferry ride to nearby Chappaquiddick Island for its Japanese gardens and beaches are popular pursuits. The island's public bus system makes it easy to access these different coastal areas.
For those seeking a more active experience, biking is a fantastic way to explore the scenic roads and coastal paths around Edgartown and the wider island. The Martha's Vineyard Museum in Edgartown also provides insights into the island's rich history, including its seafaring past and the stories behind its iconic landmarks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit