What is Martha's Vineyard Known For? | Hy-Line Cruises (2024)

If you’ve never been to Martha’s Vineyard, you may be curious what the hype is all about. Yes, it’s a novelty to take a ferry to an island, and that’s fun, but what is the big deal once you get there? And what drives thousands and thousands of visitors there each year? While we would be happy for you to just enjoy our ferry ride, we obviously want you to have fun at your destination as well so here are the things that MV is most widely known for. If any of these things interest you, you should definitely check out the island!

What is Martha's Vineyard Known For? | Hy-Line Cruises (1)4 Things Martha’s Vineyard is Known For

Martha’s Vineyard is a mid-sized island, 23 miles long and 9 miles wide, with six unique towns and plenty of different things to see and do while you’re there. While the downtown areas are great with amazing shopping and dining options, what Martha’s Vineyard is truly known for is its natural beauty. With cliffs, pristine beaches, marshland, and two wildlife sanctuaries there is so much to explore.

1. The Beaches

The beaches are all very different, with shells, seaweed, rocks, soft sand, and different tides and wave patterns, they are all a different experience. The Aquinnah Cliffs are a breathtaking natural formation on the westernmost tip of the island that will leave you speechless, especially if you go at sunset. Not all of Martha’s Vineyard is taken up by homes and towns and that leaves plenty of room for nature to take over and show off her wild side. If you love biking, walking, or even just driving past nature’s wonders, the Vineyard is a great place to go!

2. Locally Produced Goods

Much of the roughly 100 square miles of Martha’s Vineyard is rural, with a significant portion of land is used for farming. At last count, there were over 40 working farms on Martha’s Vineyard and there are plenty of farmer’s markets and shops filled with the local goods that are produced on them. Additionally, one of our favorite spots is the Island Alpaca Company in Vineyard Haven where you can see, pet, and learn lots about alpacas. They also have special experiences on the calendar if you are looking for something a little more exclusive. It’s a great place to stop!

What is Martha's Vineyard Known For? | Hy-Line Cruises (2)3. The Architecture

When most people think of the Vineyard, they think of the iconic gingerbread Victorian-style homes that make up most of Oak Bluffs’ architecture. Some of these gingerbread cottages are in the Camp Meeting Association’s grounds, where you can stroll through a shady labyrinth of beautiful trees and these colorful unique dwellings. In the center of the area is the Tabernacle, which is a large amphitheater with beautiful stained-glass windows and amazing woodwork. While this may be a small part of your trip to Martha’s Vineyard, it will definitely leave an impression.

4. The Celebrities

Another thing that Martha’s Vineyard is well known for is the number of celebrities who either have summer homes or vacation there. It is super common to see celebrities, and for some people that is enough of a reason to make the journey out! Spike Lee, Meg Ryan, Diane Sawyer, and Michael J. Fox are among the stars who own homes on the Vineyard, while regular visitors include Barack and Michelle Obama, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Jake Gyllenhaal, Amy Schumer, Jennifer Lawrence, Larry David, and Seth Meyers. Walk around the island long enough, and you may just spot a famous person in the wild!

​Martha’s Vineyard has so much to offer and is known for a variety of reasons. We personally love to explore Oak Bluffs, relax in Ocean Park, and then grab a great meal at one of the dockside restaurants, but then again, we live here!

Why wouldn’t you visit?

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What is Martha's Vineyard Known For? | Hy-Line Cruises (2024)

FAQs

What is Martha's Vineyard Known For? | Hy-Line Cruises? ›

The beaches on Martha's Vineyard are unmatched, and there is amazing shopping, history and fun for all ages around every corner. If you're coming for the day, there is plenty to do within a short walking distance from the boat.

What is so special about Martha's Vineyard? ›

Martha's Vineyard is renowned for its stunning scenery – with rolling hills, wildflower fields, and miles of pristine coastline. It also has some of the best seafood restaurants in New England and numerous activities and attractions that cater to all types of interests.

Do cruise ships stop at Martha's Vineyard? ›

Cruise ships dock at Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs, two of Martha's Vineyard's six communities. From the dock in Vineyard Haven, it's about a half-mile walk to the heart of town. A visitor information kiosk at the base of Union Street across from the Steam Ship Authority Terminal dispenses tourist information.

Why do celebrities go to Martha's Vineyard? ›

Fox, Spike Lee, Diane Sawyer and Barak and Michelle Obama, and hundreds more A-listers that visit the island each year. They flock to the Martha's Vineyard because the residents are very discrete and treat them like royalty, and now you can live in the same homes they do and enjoy the same kind of treatment.

Is it worth going to Martha's Vineyard? ›

If you're considering a trip to Martha's Vineyard, you may be wondering if it's worth the effort. The answer is a resounding yes! This charming island off the coast of Massachusetts is a popular summer vacation destination for good reason. First of all, Martha's Vineyard is absolutely beautiful.

What is the hype with Martha's Vineyard? ›

While the downtown areas are great with amazing shopping and dining options, what Martha's Vineyard is truly known for is its natural beauty. With cliffs, pristine beaches, marshland, and two wildlife sanctuaries there is so much to explore.

What is the main part of Martha's Vineyard? ›

Residents often divide the Vineyard into up-Island and down-Island. Up-Island is the western area, which comprises the three rural towns of Aquinnah, Chilmark and West Tisbury. Down-Island is the eastern portion, home to the larger historic villages of Edgartown, Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven.

Can regular people go to Martha's Vineyard? ›

Some of the best sights on Martha's Vineyard are open to the public, and don't cost a thing! If you're looking to explore the Island, these are some of the best spots to have on your list: Making the trek out to Aquinnah can take a bit of time, whether you have a car, or are taking the bus.

Can anyone vacation at Martha's Vineyard? ›

Martha's Vineyard welcomes visitors throughout the year. Come in summer and enjoy our world class beaches, cultural events, fresh seafood, farm fresh produce and laid back lifestyle.

Do cruise ships go to Cape Cod? ›

Cape Codder Cruise

Adorned with gray shingle cottages, serene beaches, and colorful clam shacks, Cape Cod is the perfect getaway destination. Begin and end your journey in Boston, a city brimming with history and character.

Does Lady Gaga own a house on Martha's Vineyard? ›

The only problem is Gaga doesn't own the place. After attaining the property's address, a review of Edgartown property records revealed that a Mr. Nicholas Burgin, not Stefani Germanotta, is the legal owner of the property, having purchased it for $4.08 million from Martin L. and Donna Ritter on July 15, 2009.

Why is Martha's Vineyard so popular for black families? ›

After the economy shifted towards more efficient forms of energy, Martha's Vineyard was reborn as a vacation destination. And since Massachusetts was one of the first states to abolish slavery, the state served as one of the safer places for free Black folks to find their fortunes in a rapidly changing society.

What famous person lives in Martha's Vineyard? ›

Barack and Michelle Obama

The most famous people who live on Martha's Vineyard are Barack and Michele Obama. It's no secret that presidents have a soft spot for Martha's Vineyard. Ever since the Kennedys (and before that, even!), Martha's Vineyard became known as a presidential hangout.

What is the best month to visit Martha's Vineyard? ›

Weather-wise, it's best to visit Martha's Vineyard in the spring (April, May) or fall (September, October).

Is Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard better to visit? ›

Martha's Vineyard is the larger of the two islands and is also far busier. Its population swells to over 200,000 in summer, so you could run into some crowds. Nantucket is smaller and doesn't get as busy. If you're looking to relax and hit up a secluded trail or beach, it's worth considering.

Is Cape Cod or Martha's Vineyard better? ›

Cape Cod is suited more for families looking for activities that fit all ages; Martha's Vineyard makes the best spot for a peaceful and serene vacation. Both offer beautiful views and entertaining activities to spend your vacation in the best possible way.

How many millionaires live in Martha's Vineyard? ›

Including taxpayers living out-of-state, the number is more than 17,000. They total nearly $62 billion in earnings between them, according to data from the state Department of Revenue. There are about 50 millionaires living on Martha's Vineyard, according to the data.

Is Martha's Vineyard expensive? ›

Survey: Martha's Vineyard is the most expensive summer destination in New England. Martha's Vineyard lands at most expensive, Nantucket #2, Newport #19.

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