Beaches

The beaches of Martha’s Vineyard are some of the most popular vacation spots on the East Coast.  Whether you are looking for a family friendly beach with calm surf, a majestic view of the sunset, or the exhilarating waves of the Atlantic Ocean, the beaches of Martha’s Vineyard offer an escape for everyone.

Some of the island beaches are private or only open to residents or rental guests of the town. Some are owned by conservation organizations such as the Trustees of Reservations and require permits or a fee. But many of the islands beaches are free and open for all to enjoy.

In Edgartown, Bend-in-the-Road Beach (Joseph Sylvia State Beach) is a very popular beach for families, particularly with young children. Here you’ll find two miles of calm beach along Beach Road between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. There are lifeguards at the beach in season (from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend).

Also in Edgartown, MA there are three miles of barrier beach on the South Shore at the end of Katama Road, known as South Beach. The surf can be rough, and is often favored by surfers, body boarders and beach volleyball lovers. Lifeguards are on duty in season at this popular Martha's Vineyard beach.

By taking a short one-minute ferry ride to the Island of Chappaquiddick, also known as Chappy, one can find breathtaking beaches and nature walks throughout this quiet little island.  Chappaquiddick’s East Beach is the home to the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation as well as the Cape Poge Lighthouse, owned by the Trustees of Reservations. A daily fee or over-sand vehicle permit is required for access to this remote beach at the tip of the island. Tours of the lighthouse and beach are also available through the Trustees of Reservations.

One of the most loved island beaches is Long Point Wildlife Refuge Beach, located off Edgartown-West Tisbury Road. This beach requires a daily parking and entrance fee. It combines the best of both worlds with the surf of the Atlantic on one side and a calm fresh water pond on the other with beautiful barrier beach in between. It is perfect for families with kids of all ages and is a great way to spend the day on the island of Martha’s Vineyard.