Joseph Sylvia State Beach
A picturesque 2-mile sandy beach, famous as a "Jaws" filming location, offering calm waters and the iconic Jaws Bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More sand, less crowded
Joseph Sylvia State Beach
Best Time
More sand, less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque 2-mile sandy beach, famous as a "Jaws" filming location, offering calm waters and the iconic Jaws Bridge.
"Wonderful beach to take the kids to, very calm surf and a dedicated lifeguard area."
Carry-In, Carry-Out ♻️
Help keep this beautiful beach clean by taking all your trash with you.
Jaws Bridge Jump 🦈
For a thrill, jump off the Jaws Bridge! Just be mindful of the water temperature.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jaws Bridge
Between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown
Recreate iconic "Jaws" movie scenes by jumping off this famous bridge. A thrilling experience for film buffs and adventurers alike!
Calm, Shallow Waters
Main beach area
Perfect for families, the gentle surf and shallow depth make it ideal for swimming and playing without worry.
Scenic Beach Walk
Along the entire 2-mile stretch
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the path adjacent to the beach, offering lovely ocean views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Jaws Vibe
+1Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry-In, Carry-Out ♻️
Help keep this beautiful beach clean by taking all your trash with you.
Jaws Bridge Jump 🦈
For a thrill, jump off the Jaws Bridge! Just be mindful of the water temperature.
Beach Shoes Recommended 👟
The beach can be narrow at high tide and the water can be cold.
Free Street Parking 🚗
Parking is available along the road with easy access points to the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry-In, Carry-Out ♻️
Help keep this beautiful beach clean by taking all your trash with you.
Jaws Bridge Jump 🦈
For a thrill, jump off the Jaws Bridge! Just be mindful of the water temperature.
Beach Shoes Recommended 👟
The beach can be narrow at high tide and the water can be cold.
Free Street Parking 🚗
Parking is available along the road with easy access points to the beach.
Lifeguard Coverage Limited ☀️
Only a small section has a lifeguard, so swim with caution.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Joseph Sylvia State Beach for its family-friendly calm waters and the iconic Jaws Bridge, offering a unique cinematic connection. While parking is convenient and free, some find the beach narrow at high tide and the water quite cold. The 'carry-in, carry-out' policy is appreciated for cleanliness but requires visitor diligence.
"Wonderful beach to take the kids to, very calm surf and a dedicated lifeguard area.
Beach is carry in carry out, please take your trash with you and help keep the beaches clean!"
Gray
"Great beach, good vibes, jumping off Jaws Bridge is fun. But, water is cold at times. Enjoy!"
Thomas Mendelson
"Very narrow beach at high tide. Came across only two people who were avid fishermen. Too cold and windy to stay and enjoy. Nice long walking/ biking path that runs along the beach right across the road."
K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Joseph Sylvia State Beach is located between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown on Martha's Vineyard. You can drive and find free parking along the road. If you're not driving, local buses also service the area.
Yes, the Martha's Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) buses run routes that stop near Joseph Sylvia State Beach, making it accessible without a car.
Access points are readily available from the road where you can park. The walk from the road to the beach is typically very short.
While parking is close, the beach itself is sandy. Access points are generally flat, but navigating the sand with strollers or wheelchairs might require some effort.
Absolutely! There's a nice long walking/biking path that runs along the beach right across the road, making it a great destination for cyclists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Joseph Sylvia State Beach is free to enter and enjoy. Parking along the street is also complimentary.
The beach is open year-round from dawn until dusk. Lifeguard hours are limited to a specific section and time, so check locally for details.
There's no need to book tickets as it's a public beach with free access. Just show up and enjoy!
The main rule is 'carry-in, carry-out' for all trash. Otherwise, it's a typical public beach with no major restrictions.
It can be busy during peak summer periods, especially on weekends. Visiting during weekdays or low tide can offer a more relaxed experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the calm waters, sunbathe, walk or bike along the adjacent path, and for the adventurous, jump off the Jaws Bridge! It's also a great spot for beachcombing.
Yes, it's wonderful for kids! The surf is very calm and shallow, and there's a dedicated lifeguard area for added safety.
The water is generally calm and clear, with shallow depths. However, the Atlantic water can be quite cold at times. +1
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms directly on the beach. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
Yes, fishing is permitted, and you might see avid fishermen enjoying the waters.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Jaws Bridge, the expansive sandy shores, and the serene ocean views. The beach is also known for seaglass and interesting stones.
The beach faces east, making it a good spot for sunrise. Sunset views are also lovely from the adjacent path.
Absolutely! Many visitors love to recreate iconic shots from the movie "Jaws" at the Jaws Bridge and along the beach.
Keep an eye out for seaglass, jellyfish, spider crabs, and rounded beach stones – great subjects for close-up photography.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Martha's Vineyard Park & Recreation Commission for current rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember the 'carry-in, carry-out' rule for trash, so pack snacks and drinks in reusable containers and be prepared to take all waste with you. The adjacent walking path is also great for a stroller-friendly stroll with scenic views.
🎬 Film Buffs & "Jaws" Fans
+2Take photos and soak in the atmosphere of this historic filming location. It's a chance to connect with cinematic history while enjoying a beautiful coastal setting.
+1🚶♀️ Beach Walkers & Cyclists
This path provides a great way to experience the length of the beach and the surrounding coastal scenery without having to navigate the sand, especially if the tide is high.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Jaws" Connection
+2This connection draws many film enthusiasts to the beach, eager to walk in the footsteps of the movie's characters. The relatively calm and shallow waters, while perfect for families, also provided a controlled environment for the film's production. It's a unique aspect that sets Joseph Sylvia State Beach apart from other coastal destinations.
+1Beach Conditions and Comfort
The water temperature here, being part of the Atlantic, can be surprisingly cold, even during the summer months. While this keeps it refreshing on hot days, some visitors find it bracing. The beach is known for its calm surf and shallow waters, making it exceptionally family-friendly and safe for children.
It's important to note that Joseph Sylvia State Beach operates on a 'carry-in, carry-out' policy for trash. This means visitors are responsible for packing out everything they bring in, helping to maintain the beach's natural beauty. While there's a dedicated lifeguard area, it's only a small section, so general swimming requires awareness.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit