Weekend Guide to Martha’s Vineyard
If you’ve ever visited Martha’s Vineyard, you know how much of a sanctuary the island is. It’s the more laid-back of the Massachusetts islands, and there are amazing beaches, restaurants, shops, and views. When you’re “on island,” as the locals say, you will really feel like you’ve escaped your reality for a weekend. There is so much to see and do on the island’s less than 100 square miles, but we compiled a weekend guide that squeezes in as much as possible. Cheers to the perfect Vineyard weekend.
Friday Night
Grilling at home
Martha’s Vineyard is only accessible by boat or plane, so many choose to take the ferry from mainland Massachusetts. Once you get off the boat and step on island, you really feel like you’re on vacation. But, after all the traveling, it’s best to settle into wherever you’re staying, and have dinner at home.
Drinks in Edgartown - The Atlantic back patio
After settling in and eating at home, venture into Edgartown for dessert and drinks. My personal favorite aperitif spot is the back patio at The Atlantic.
Saturday Morning
Breakfast at Behind the Bookstore
Behind the Bookstore is a hidden little restaurant in downtown Edgartown that has delicious food and artisan lattes. The vibe is great!
Shopping in town
Take some time to walk around Edgartown and do some shopping. There are amazing boutiques with unique items that you might not have seen anywhere else. My favorites are Slate, Nell, Sea Legs, Salte, Sole, and Rags.
Beach day at South Beach
South Beach is a gorgeous beach in Edgartown that has soft sand and rolling waves. Perfect for a big beach day!
Saturday Night
Dinner at Atria
If you’re looking for a delicious, upscale dinner in a beautiful setting, Atria is perfect. We recommend the lobster mac and cheese, truffle fries, and the wok-fried lobster.
Sunday Morning
Bagels from Espresso Love
My favorite coffee and bagels that rival the ones we are used to in New York can be found at Espresso Love. I love The Islander, which is a bagel with veggie cream cheese, bacon, and crunchy cucumbers. Yum!
Jump the Jaws Bridge
This is an MV bucket list item. The bridge near state beach is featured in the movie Jaws, and it’s a tradition to jump off into the ocean below.
Drive onto Norton Point
A bit further down from South Beach is Norton Point, where you can drive onto the beach. It is so much fun and so much easier than lugging chairs and coolers from a parking lot onto the beach.
Sunday Evening
OB for dinner/drinks
If you’re staying in Edgartown like we did, it’s easy to just stay in Edgartown because it has everything you need. But, the town of Oak Bluffs is just ten minutes away and has an amazing, lively downtown. We recommend a chill dinner and drinks at Nomans, and then venture into downtown OB for a drink at the Sandbar, and a late night donut at Back Door Donuts, which is literally a bakery that sells fresh donuts out of their back door.
There will never be enough time in the weekend to explore all the Vineyard has to offer, but hopefully following this weekend guide will help you hit the best spots. But, I am willing to bet you will look into planning another MV trip by the time you leave Sunday.