This probably doesn’t come as a surprise, but our internal compasses are pretty much always pointed towards the beach. Few things are as craveable or satisfying as warming your skin in the hot sun or letting your feet sink deeper and deeper beneath the surface of the sand. No matter what the season, a Martha’s Vineyard beach getaway should always be on the schedule.
5 Martha’s Vineyard Beaches To Explore
South Beach
Known also as Katama Beach, this gorgeous three-mile stretch of sand and ocean is located just three miles away from the Square. Hop aboard your bike or take a stroll down to the water — you’ll find continuous paths the entire length of your journey. Plus, if you travel with your surfboard, ride Katama’s rough waves into surfing glory. Maybe we’re biased because it’s our neighborhood beach, but if you can only hit the sand at one spot on the island, be sure to stop at South Beach on your Martha’s Vineyard beach getaway.
Wasque Beach & East Beach
Though our neighboring island, Chappaquiddick, is only a few miles away, it feels like it’s a world apart. Take your bikes or your car across the ferry to Chappy and head to Wasque Beach, located in the Wasque Reservation. Relatively uncrowded and easily accessible, you can enjoy gorgeous, unobstructed views of sand, sea, and sky. Looking for a little more privacy? Make the trek to East Beach, only accessible by bike, hike, or car with four-wheel drive (or minivans with a lot of heart).
Menemsha Beach
It’s not a Martha’s Vineyard beach vacation without a lobster roll on the beach (and a good, solid sunburn). Just steps from Menemsha Beach, you’ll find food vendors in tiny grey houses selling everything from ice cream to shrimp cocktail. Menemsha just happens to be a working fishing village, so, trust us, you’re in for a treat no matter which vendor you visit. Take your spoils down to the beach during sunset and soak in the colors of the island at this family-friendly spot.
Joseph A. Sylvia State Beach
Conquering the island via bike? Joseph A. Sylvia State Beach (aka State Beach) just happens to run along the paved bike path between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs. Ditch the car and pedal to this popular stretch of Martha’s Vineyard beach (some would argue it’s too popular, but trust us, it’s a dream in the shoulder seasons). With smooth waters and (relatively) warm waters, State Beach makes an ideal stop when you’re craving a dip in the ocean. Plus, if you happen to be a movie buff, you can jump off of Jaws Bridge and swim in the Great White’s waters (if you dare).
Lobsterville Beach
This Aquinnah Beach certainly lives up to its name — a quiet, two-mile stretch of Martha’s Vineyard beach, this spot boasts ample wildlife from sea critters to birds. There’s no parking available on-site, so while it’s not ideal for every Martha’s Vineyard beach-goer, it makes a lovely end to a bike ride or hike to its shores. Wade into the shallow, calm waters of Lobsterville Beach and take in the rainbow colored cliffs of Aquinnah.
Your Martha’s Vineyard beach vacation shouldn’t be just sand and surf. After a day warming yourself in the sun, breathing in the salt air, and swimming in the island’s crisp waters, take shelter and relax inside Vineyard Square Hotel. Recharge in your room and then head out for another day of beach fun with our complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas in tow.
