What can you expect on your Martha’s Vineyard day trip? Guests often have questions when traveling to Martha’s Vineyard from Cape Cod. It’s just one of the treasures you’ll find on a visit to our historic inn. Be sure to ask us about other ideas for day-tripping around Cape Cod.
Is it Worth it to Go to Martha’s Vineyard for a Day?
Absolutely! Martha’s Vineyard, an offshore island 40 miles off the southern coast of Cape Cod, attracts visitors and dignitaries from around the globe. Its pristine beaches, miles of bike paths, and charming villages appeal for many reasons.
Encompassing a bigger area than its neighboring island of Nantucket, “the Vineyard,” as the locals call it, offers a wealth of natural beauty. Rent a car to drive around the island. Hop on a local bus from the ferry landing at Oak Bluffs to the enchanting village of Edgartown. Or book a tour with a local tour operator to learn more about the island’s history.
What’s So Special About Martha’s Vineyard?
Lush with vegetation, the island’s diverse landscape lends itself to an explorer’s imagination. The stunning cliffs at Aquinnah, the inspirational view from the Gay Head lighthouse, and the tiny fishing village of Menemsha make a road trip around the island a delightful experience.
For those wanting to stay close to the ferry landing, Oak Bluffs offers a wealth of shops and boutiques to wander through. The historic Flying Horses Carousel begs visitors to hop on board and capture the brass ring. Edgartown, the island’s central hub, features an abundance of shops and plenty of cafes and bistros to satisfy your taste buds.
How to Get to Martha’s Vineyard
The simple answer is by ferry. But you have choices.
- Drive to Woods Hole and hop on a traditional ferry to Vineyard Haven, a quick 45-minute ride across Nantucket Sound.
- Or take the fast ferry from Hyannis to Oak Bluffs, a one-hour journey aboard a high-speed vessel.
- Choose your transport based on how much time you want to spend in the car and how much you want to pay for a round-trip ticket.
- The traditional ferry from Woods Hole is significantly less expensive than the fast ferry. However, driving there takes about an hour, while driving to Hyannis takes less than 20 minutes.
Unique Attractions on Martha’s Vineyard
The rural feel of the Vineyard offers an abundance of unique attractions. From historic lighthouses to charming gingerbread cottages to incredible natural beauty, the island easily earns its reputation as a beautiful destination.
Historic Lighthouses
Lighthouses warned sailors of approaching dangers and shone their light upon the sea to bring them safely to shore. Today, those lighthouses remain an iconic emblem of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard’s long maritime history.
Five lighthouses stand tall above the white sandy shores of Martha’s Vineyard. Gay Head Light, one of the most stunning, opens daily for tours. Situated on the Vineyard’s westernmost point, the lighthouse’s familiar red brick façade offers panoramic views from the lookout platform. Visit one or all five if time allows.
- West Chop Lighthouse – Vineyard Haven
- East Chop Lighthouse – Oak Bluffs
- Edgartown Lighthouse – Edgartown
- Gay Head Lighthouse – Aquinnah
- Cape Poge Lighthouse – Edgartown
Historic Gingerbread Houses
If you land in Oak Bluffs, take a tour of the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association in the heart of the village. Admire the historic Victorian cottages with colorful architecture, whimsical gardens, and iconic iron Tabernacle. They have been well-preserved for more than 160 years. Guided tours depart the Tabernacle every Tuesday and Thursday in July and August.
Explore Chappaquiddick
If you spend most of your time in Edgartown, take the Chappy Ferry to the neighboring island across the channel, Chappaquiddick. The ferry runs continuously in the summer from 6:30 AM to midnight. A four-minute ride lands you on this infamous islet.
Walk to the public beach and look back to view the whole expanse of Edgartown Harbor. Three large conservation areas, owned and operated by the Trustees of Reservations, offer visitors a quiet respite in nature’s beauty.
Come Home to the Charms of Captain Farris House
Once you’ve learned what to expect on your Martha’s Vineyard day trip, come home to the comforts of our charming bed and breakfast on Cape Cod. Our location offers easy access to many area attractions and provides the perfect retreat for your next getaway.
Updated May 2024
Photo Credit © DenisTangneyJr via canva.com
