Despite being able to see Cape Cod on the U.S. mainland from Martha’s Vineyard, there are no bridges or tunnels connecting the island with the mainland. This means that while you can drive to Martha’s Vineyard, the only way it’s achievable is by taking a vehicle ferry for the final leg of your journey. Vehicle ferries depart to Martha’s Vineyard from Woods Hole on Cape Cod. Ferries depart regularly and arrive in Vineyard Haven on Martha’s Vineyard around 45 minutes later.
Martha’s Vineyard is an island situated south of the Cape Cod peninsula in the state of Massachusetts. Located west of its smaller neighbor of Nantucket, the island is situated in the Vineyard Sound. Measuring 22 miles in length and 9 miles in width, it covers an area of 96 square miles, double the area of the neighboring island of Nantucket. Martha’s Vineyard lies only 7 miles from the U.S. mainland.
Despite its proximity to the U.S. mainland, the island has no direct road connection. All visitors to the island will need to incorporate either air or boat travel into their plans.
Car – You can drive to Martha’s Vineyard, but only by using the vehicle ferry that departs from Woods Hole on Cape Cod. Arriving at Vineyard Haven, the ferry takes around 45 minutes and is operated by the Steamship Authority. There are multiple departures each day, and prices start at $180 for a return journey.
Boat – Martha’s Vineyard is exceptionally well connected by ferries to nearby locations. Alongside the car ferry, which travels to Vineyard Haven (as well as Oak Bluffs during the summer season), you’ll find a network of high-speed ferries. These ferries service New York, Rhode Island, and some ports on Cape Cod, including Falmouth and Hyannis. Ferries typically take 5 hours from New York, 1 hour 45 minutes from Rhode Island, or under an hour from Cape Cod.
Air – All flight arrivals come through Martha’s Vineyard Airport. Located in the island’s center, the airport serves domestic flights operated by American Airlines, Cape Air, Delta, and Jet Blue. Most of these flights connect Martha’s Vineyard with East Coast cities such as New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington DC. There are also flights to Nantucket and nearby Cape Cod peninsula locations.
You can drive on Martha’s Vineyard, and navigating this small island is easy. The biggest reason not to bring your vehicle onto the island is the cost and the limitation of only one car ferry. This ferry departs from Wood Hole on Cape Cod, making it a long journey if you’re traveling from New York or Rhode Island.
The island is set up well for visitors who arrive without a vehicle. There’s an excellent public transport network, plus car, bike, and moped rentals. You can also use a local taxi or Uber to get around. If you do choose to bring your own vehicle, it makes navigating the island easier but parking can sometimes be problematic. This is especially true over the summer months when the population increases tenfold.
Beaches, nature, and history typically bring visitors to Martha’s Vineyard. There’s a lot to see on such a small island, and here are 5 of the best things to do:
Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association (MVCMA) – Situated in Oak Bluffs, this historic landmark is home to the famous Gingerbread Cottages, Tabernacle and Cottage Museum. There are over 300 of these unique cottages, which are all decorated and detailed separately. It’s a great place to explore for an hour or two.
West Chop Lighthouse – Probably the prettiest of the five lighthouses on the island. The West Chop Lighthouse is unique because it’s now been converted into a home. It’s a pleasant stroll or bike ride in the Vineyard Haven area.
Cape Page Wildlife Refuge – This protected area is located on the island of Chappaquiddick, a 2-minute ferry ride from Martha’s Vineyard. This barrier beach is home to a salt marsh, pond, and plenty of wildlife. It’s a great place to have a tranquil walk and take in some of New England’s finest scenery.
Edgartown Lighthouse – One of Martha’s Vineyard’s remaining working lighthouses, it resides in a tranquil area outside Edgartown. It’s a pleasant walk to the lighthouse, and you can climb to the top to enjoy the views for $5.
Island Alpaca Company – A great little side trip for the family, this Alpaca farm allows you to get up close and personal with these furry creatures. Home to 50 colorful Huacaya Alpaca’s, it’s well worth a visit.
Much like Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard is a seasonal summer destination. The population swells from 17,000 residents in the winter to almost 200,000 residents over the summer months. This probably tells you everything you need to know about the best time to visit in terms of the climate. However, when balancing the weather, cost, and visitor numbers, it’s generally accepted that the best time to visit is outside this peak summer season. The shoulder season months of April and May and September and October are an excellent time to visit. These months allow you to enjoy the island’s history, beaches, and wildlife while still having your pick of accommodation and restaurant options.
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