The Best Things to Do on Martha’s Vineyard in High Summer

Some destinations are seasonal. Martha's Vineyard is transformative.

Summer is when the island settles fully into itself. Harbor towns buzz with energy. Farm stands overflow with local harvests. Sailboats trace the coastline from morning to sunset. Long beach days give way to golden evenings spent lingering over dinner.

Whether you're planning your first island escape or returning to a favorite summer tradition, these are some of the best things to do on Martha's Vineyard, and the experiences that define the season.

Discover the Best Beaches on Martha's Vineyard

With more than 120 miles of coastline, Martha's Vineyard offers a beach for every kind of summer day. From Atlantic surf to quiet coves and iconic sunset views, exploring the shoreline is one of the essential Martha's Vineyard summer activities.

South Beach, Edgartown

For many visitors, South Beach is the quintessential Martha's Vineyard beach experience.

Stretching along the island's southern shore, this expansive Atlantic beach offers rolling waves, sweeping views, and plenty of room to spread out. Arrive early for a peaceful morning walk or settle in for a full day by the ocean.

Menemsha Beach, Chilmark

If your perfect beach day ends with a sunset, make your way to Menemsha.

Located beside one of the island's historic fishing villages, this beloved beach is known for its calm waters and extraordinary evening light. Pick up fresh seafood nearby, find a spot in the sand, and watch the sun disappear into Vineyard Sound.

Joseph Sylvia State Beach

Connecting Oak Bluffs and Edgartown, State Beach remains one of the most accessible and family-friendly beaches on the island.

Gentle waters, scenic bike path access, and views of the iconic "Jaws" Bridge make it a favorite for both visitors and locals throughout the summer.

Aquinnah & Gay Head Cliffs

At the western edge of the island, the Gay Head Cliffs rise above the sea in remarkable layers of red, orange, and gold clay.

Managed by the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), this landscape is one of Martha's Vineyard's most iconic destinations. Visit in the late afternoon when the light brings the cliffs to life.

Explore the Island's Six Distinct Towns

One of the best things to do on Martha's Vineyard is simply explore. Each town offers its own personality, pace, and perspective on island life.

Edgartown

Elegant and timeless, Edgartown pairs historic sea captain's homes with boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and one of the island's most picturesque harbors.

For a quieter adventure, take the short Chappaquiddick ferry and spend the day exploring beaches, nature preserves, and hidden corners of the island.

Oak Bluffs

Colorful, vibrant, and full of character, Oak Bluffs is home to the famous gingerbread cottages and the Flying Horses Carousel, the oldest operating carousel in the United States.

The town's lively harbor, restaurants, and cultural events make it a favorite summer destination.

Vineyard Haven

As the island's primary ferry port, Vineyard Haven offers a welcoming introduction to Martha's Vineyard. Independent shops, bookstores, galleries, and a working harbor create an authentic year-round community feel.

West Tisbury

For a glimpse of the island's agricultural roots, head to West Tisbury.

Rolling fields, local farms, and the beloved Saturday Farmers Market at Grange Hall showcase a quieter side of Martha's Vineyard in summer.

Chilmark

Known for its natural beauty and understated charm, Chilmark offers winding country roads, spectacular coastal views, and some of the island's most coveted landscapes.

Aquinnah

Remote and breathtaking, Aquinnah rewards visitors with dramatic scenery, cultural history, and some of the most memorable views on Martha's Vineyard.

Get Out on the Water

No visit to Martha’s Vineyard is complete without experiencing the island from the water.

Sail the Coastline

A sunset sail is one of the most memorable Martha's Vineyard summer activities. Charter a classic schooner or join a harbor cruise to experience the island's coastline from a new perspective.

Paddle the Island's Coastal Ponds

Kayaking and paddleboarding provide a peaceful way to explore Martha's Vineyard's unique ecosystems. Sengekontacket Pond, Lagoon Pond, and Menemsha Pond are especially beautiful during the morning hours.

Experience Vineyard Fishing Traditions

From striped bass to bluefish, summer fishing remains a treasured island tradition. Charter excursions depart from several harbors and offer opportunities for anglers of every experience level.

See the Island by Bike

Martha's Vineyard's extensive network of bike paths makes exploring easy and enjoyable.

Ride between Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown along scenic coastal routes, including the stretch beside State Beach. Early mornings offer cooler temperatures, quieter paths, and some of the island's most beautiful light.

Savor the Flavors of Summer

Dining is woven into the fabric of summer on Martha's Vineyard.

Fresh seafood, local farms, and a deep connection to seasonal ingredients shape menus across the island.

Enjoy freshly shucked oysters overlooking the harbor. Pick up a lobster roll from a seafood market in Menemsha. Browse local produce and artisan goods at the West Tisbury Farmers Market. Or reserve a table for a memorable evening in Edgartown, where some of the island's most celebrated dining experiences await.

The best meals here are often the simplest: local ingredients, beautiful surroundings, and plenty of time to enjoy both.

Summer Events Worth Planning Around

Illumination Night

Each August, Oak Bluffs transforms during one of Martha's Vineyard's most beloved traditions.

Hundreds of colorful lanterns illuminate the historic gingerbread cottages, creating a magical atmosphere unlike anything else on the island.

Martha's Vineyard Agricultural Fair

A cherished summer tradition since 1859, the Agricultural Fair celebrates the island's farming heritage with livestock exhibitions, local competitions, food, and community events.

First Light Bike Ride

For an unforgettable summer memory, join cyclists who make the pre-dawn journey to Aquinnah to watch the sunrise over the cliffs. It's a uniquely Vineyard experience that rewards every early wake-up call.

Discover the Island's Quieter Side

Some of the most meaningful Martha's Vineyard summer activities happen away from the crowds.

Walk the trails at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore Long Point Wildlife Refuge. Visit Cedar Tree Neck Preserve. These protected landscapes offer peaceful moments and a deeper connection to the island's natural beauty.

Or spend an afternoon on Chappaquiddick, where Mytoi's Japanese-inspired garden, remote beaches, and slower pace feel worlds away from the summer bustle. Faraway Martha’s Vineyard is located only a two-minute walk from the Chappaquiddick Ferry.

Your Martha's Vineyard Summer Starts Here

The best Martha's Vineyard in summer balances iconic experiences with unexpected discoveries.

A morning bike ride along the coast. An afternoon on the beach. A sunset sail across the harbor. A long dinner shared with friends after a day spent exploring the island.

At Faraway Martha's Vineyard, we're here to help you experience the island like an insider, connecting you to the places, traditions, and moments that make summer on Martha's Vineyard unforgettable.

Book your summer stay today.

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