Luxury Travel: Our Guide to Martha’s Vineyard

by Editorial
Imagine basking in the sun on one of Martha’s Vineyard’s beautiful, secluded beaches with a cool breeze rustling through your hair; or sailing through Edgartown harbor into the Island Sound on a voyage to Nantucket or Block Island. Whether it’s relaxing, shopping or dining — we steer you in the right direction with our top picks to enjoy this favorite summer home for discerning Washingtonians.
By Liz Weiss
Aquinnah Cliffs, Martha's Vineyard. Courtesy of Peter Simon Photography.

Aquinnah Cliffs, Martha's Vineyard. Courtesy of Peter Simon Photography.

Where to Dine:

1. The Homeport: Ran by DC Native Sarah Nixon, this restaurant is an extraordinary viewing place for the island’s dazzling sunsets on the water and serves quality traditional seafood in Menemsha’s peaceful and historic harbor.

The Homeport Restaurant
512 North Road, Menemsha, MA 02252
Tel: (508) 645-2679

The Black Dog Tavern. Courtesy of Martha's Vineyard Vacation Tips.com

The Black Dog Tavern. Courtesy of Martha's Vineyard Vacation Tips.com

2. The Black Dog Tavern: You’ve probably seen the infamous Black Dog imprinted on t-shirts scattered around DC. Grab a souvenir and order from the wide range of specialty dishes at the original restaurant located in Vineyard Haven.

The Black Dog Tavern
3 Water Street, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Tel: (508) 693-9223

3. Mediterranean Restaurant: This tasty Mediterranean cuisine tucked away on the outskirts of Oak Bluffs uses only the freshest ingredients cooked to perfection. Headed by executive chef Douglas Hewson, the unique, zesty recipes combined with the modern decor are aimed to please.

Mediterranean Restaurant
15 Island Inn Road, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
Tel: (508) 693-1617

Inside Lure Grille's Lively Dining Room at the Winnetu Ocean Side Resort

Inside Lure Grille's Lively Dining Room at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort

4. Lure Grill at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort : Hip and decadent, this restaurant serves delicious food and cocktails in a lively, yet relaxed ambiance overlooking the waterfront from South Beach. Tip: Take the complimentary water taxi from Edgartown to Lure at 6p.m–you’ll be glad you saw the stunning views of the harbor from the sea.

 Lure Grill at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort
25 Dunes Road Edgartown, MA 02539
Tel: (508) 310-1733

Outdoor Seating at Lure Grill at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort

Outdoor Seating at Lure Grill at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort

Delectable Entrees at Atlantic Restaurant

Delectable Entrees at Atlantic Restaurant. Courtesy of www.atlanticmv.com.

5. Atlantic Restaurant: Fresh seafood, delectable cocktails, and dazzling views are boundless at this festive restaurant and bar situated in the heart of Edgartown’s harbor.

Atlantic Restaurant
2 Main Street, Edgartown , MA 02539
Tel: (508) 627-7001

View of the Atlantic from Edgartown Harbor

View of the Atlantic from Edgartown Harbor. Courtesy of www.atlanticmv.com.

Where to Stay:

View of Harbor View Hotel & Resort Edgartown Harbor

Harbor View Hotel & Resort Edgartown Harbor. Courtesy of www.harbor-view.com

  1. The Harbor View Hotel & Resort: Recognized as a fortress overlooking Edgartown’s beautiful harbor, Chappaquiddick Island, and the Edgartown Lighthouse, this hotel in essence is the perfect location and resort for summer visitors. Spacious rooms and family friendly.

The Harbor View Hotel & Resort
131 North Water Street, Edgartown, MA
Tel:(508) 627-7000

Spacious Seating and Scenic Views From the Patio of the Harbor View Hotel & Resort

Scenic Views From the Patio of the Harbor View Hotel & Resort. Courtesy of www.harbor-view.com

Exterior of Mansion House Inn, Health Club, & Spa

Exterior of Mansion House Inn, Health Club, & Spa. Courtesy of www.mvmansionhouse.com

2. Mansion House Inn, Health Club, Spa: Offering a wide variety of spa and fitness options, Mansion House balances the right amount of activity with relaxation. Ideally located in the center of Vineyard Haven, this inn will leave you detoxed and wanting to linger on the island longer.

Mansion House Inn
9 Main Street, Vineyard Haven, MA, 02568
Tel: (508) 693-2200

Views From the Roof of Mansion House Inn

Views From the Roof of Mansion House Inn, Health Club, & Spa. Courtesy of www.mvmansionhouse.com

3. The Charlotte Inn: The elegant inn is nestled on one of Edgartown’s quaint side streets and exudes a traditional lavish New England decor in a comfortable and relaxed environment.

The Charlotte Inn
27 South Summer Street, Edgartown, MA, 02539
Tel: (508) 627-4751

Luxurious Bedroom Inside Hob Knob Inn

Luxurious Bedroom Inside Hob Knob Inn. Courtesy of www.hobknob.com

4. Hob Nob: As an eco-friendy boutique hotel centrally located in Edgartown, this hotel’s luxurious rooms and houses available for stay strikes the right balance of relaxation and tranquility in a quiet environment.

Hob Nob Inn
128 Main Street, Edgartown, MA, 02539
Tel: (508) 627-9510

5. The Beach Plum Inn: A charming inn overlooking Menemsha’s stunning harbor. With outstanding facilities, hospitality, and spectacular views of the island, this inn reserves the status as a spectacular place to stay on the island. Don’t miss out on the inn’s specialty restaurant.

The Beach Plum Inn
50 Beach Plum Lane, Menemsha, MA 02552
Tel: (508) 645-9454

Where to Visit:

Wasque Beach. Courtesy of the Trustees of Reservations.

Wasque Beach. Courtesy of the Trustees of Reservations.

  1. Chappaquiddick (Chappy): Only a ferry ride away from Edgartown, this serene and charming island oasis provides the perfect harmony of relaxation and beauty for anyone in pursuit of seclusion from the busy island mainland. Be sure to check out Wasque, the quiet, natural beach tucked away at the end of the road.
  2. Aquinnah: Overlooking bellowing red-cliffs on the island’s edge, this historic reservation provides panoramic views of the island’s natural scenic landscape.
  3. Menemsha: Ideal for island fisherman, this town boasts the best view of the sunset on the beach. Be sure to get there enjoy a cup of Clam Chowder from the Homeport before the sunset.
Dazzling View of Edgartown Lighthouse From the Harbor. Courtesy of TC Palm.

Dazzling View of Edgartown Lighthouse From the Harbor. Courtesy of TC Palm.

4. Edgartown: Beautiful residential haven for sailors, islanders, and visitors alike, this town centered in the heart of the island features a unique boutique shopping scene and offers an interesting array of original stores including the Original Vineyard Vines. For a great cup of coffee before hitting the town (or beach), don’t miss Espresso Love.

Espresso Love's President Obama Muffin

Espresso Love's President Obama Muffin. Courtesy of Obama Foodorama.

5. Vineyard Haven: This lively and eclectic island town offers unique stores interlaced with a natural and refreshing laid-back island vibe. Among the many island stores, look out for Carly Simon’s eclectic home décor and luxurious clothing boutique: Midnight Farm and charming island bookstore: Bunch of Grapes.

Outside Midnight Farm's Chic Boutique. Courtesy of Farmhouse Musings.

Outside Midnight Farm's Chic Boutique. Courtesy of Farmhouse Musings.

Bunch of Grapes Bookstore, Vineyard Haven

Bunch of Grapes Bookstore, Vineyard Haven

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