Martha’s Vineyard, with its storied lighthouses, iconic gingerbread cottages, and a coastline that runs for over 120 miles, is home to some of New England’s most cherished beaches. Whether you're searching for a secluded surf spot, a calm harbor ideal for children, or a family-friendly stretch with lifeguards and bike paths, the Vineyard’s diverse beach offerings provide something for everyone. This comprehensive guide explores the top beach destinations across the island’s six towns, ensuring your perfect island beach day is just a plan away.
Tisbury (Vineyard Haven)
The town of Tisbury, home to the bustling ferry port of Vineyard Haven, offers quiet, accessible beaches with an emphasis on calm waters and family convenience. Lake Tashmoo Beach, found at the end of Herring Creek, offers gentle waves and a peaceful setting for swimming. Nearby, Bayside Beach—located off Owen Little Way near the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club—offers occasional free swimming lessons and calm harbor waters.
For a central option, Owen Park Beach, just a short walk from downtown Vineyard Haven, is ideal for small children thanks to its shallow entry and minimal surf. Vineyard Haven Harbor Beach, located past the iconic Black Dog Restaurant, is limited to wading only, but remains popular for sunset strolls. Finally, Lagoon Bridge Park, located on the Vineyard Haven side of the lagoon, provides the unique experience of choosing to swim in either the lagoon or the harbor, though diving is not permitted.
Oak Bluffs
Lively and vibrant, Oak Bluffs offers a mix of scenic charm and popular beachfronts. Eastville Point Beach, open to all, delivers excellent views of the harbor and dramatic sunsets. Closer to town, Oak Bluffs Town Beach is a favorite among families and summer visitors, with lifeguards and swimming lessons available during peak season.
One of the most well-known beaches on the island, Joseph A. Sylvia State Beach, lies between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs along Beach Road. This open-access beach offers long stretches of sand, bicycle paths, and ample parking—ideal for a full day by the water.
Edgartown
Edgartown boasts some of the island’s most scenic and varied beach experiences. Bend-in-the-Road Beach offers a gentle Nantucket Sound surf, shallow water, and lifeguard presence—making it perfect for families. Near the historic harbor, Lighthouse Beach provides access to calm waters and scenic views, especially ideal for windsurfing and sailing. Note: shoes are recommended for walking the beach’s terrain.
Across the ferry to Chappaquiddick Island, Chappy Point offers two quiet beaches great for collecting seashells and sea glass. For those seeking serenity, East Beach, part of the Cape Pogue Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation, offers wide-open spaces with minimal crowds and opportunities for swimming and wading. Wasque Point, famous for its fishing, provides access to ocean waters, ponds, and Katama Bay, although strong currents make swimming risky.
Katama-South Beach, running along Katama Road, is one of the island’s premier surf destinations. With a powerful undertow in places, it is best suited for confident swimmers and surfers, though Katama Bay nearby offers a gentler alternative.
West Tisbury
West Tisbury offers a more remote, nature-forward beach experience. South Shore Town Beach, accessible with Trustee stickers, is well-known for its expansive shoreline and good surfing conditions. It includes the popular Long Point Fun Pond and appeals to those seeking isolation and natural beauty.
Chilmark
Chilmark, renowned for its private beaches and coastal cliffs, also has public access points that are well worth the visit. Moshup Beach, under Land Bank ownership, is accessible via a town lot parking fee and is popular for sunbathing with its soft sands and dramatic scenery. On the north shore, Lobsterville Beach offers a calm and quiet setting, though parking is limited.
West Basin, adjacent to Lobsterville, provides excellent fishing and swimming access via the West Jetty. Meanwhile, Menemsha Public Beach, located next to the harbor, is a quintessential Vineyard sunset spot—perfect for families and photographers alike. For a more adventurous outing, Chilmark Pond Reserve offers kayaking or canoeing access to a remote South Shore ocean beach, but you’ll need your own car-top craft to make the journey.
Plan Your Beach Day
Martha’s Vineyard’s beaches are as varied as the island itself, offering everything from tranquil harbors to wind-swept oceanfronts. Whether you’re staying in the bustling towns or exploring the remote reaches of the South Shore, this guide ensures you can find the perfect beach to suit your day. Be sure to check for beach access requirements—some require Trustee passes or parking permits—and always respect conservation rules.
