Nomad
Massachusetts

Martha's Vineyard

4.7
2.3M

A picturesque island off the coast of Massachusetts, Martha's Vineyard is a charming summer destination known for its pristine beaches, hist...

Best Time

Peak: June-August

Daily Budget

€120-200/day

Recommended Stay

4 days

Getting Around

Bike-friendly

Language

English

Currency

USD (United States Dollar), $

Essential Phrases

City Overview

Discover Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard by the Numbers

Live
Active now

12 travelers

Total visitors

2.3M

Average rating

4.7/5

This week

47 trips planned

12 travelers are viewing this guide right now

About Martha's Vineyard

M

artha's Vineyard is an iconic island located south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, offering visitors a quintessential New England coastal experience. The island is divided into six distinct towns, each with its own unique character and charm, ranging from the gingerbread-style cottages of Oak Bluffs to the elegant whaling era homes of Edgartown.

The island boasts stunning natural beauty, with miles of pristine sandy beaches, rolling farmlands, and scenic lighthouses. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs to dense forests and pastoral countryside. The island's commitment to preserving its natural environment and historic character makes it a haven for those seeking a peaceful and authentic coastal retreat.

Martha's Vineyard offers a wide range of activities for travelers, including beach relaxation, cycling along scenic paths, exploring local art galleries, enjoying fresh seafood, and experiencing the island's rich maritime history. The destination attracts a mix of vacationers, from wealthy summer residents to day-trippers seeking a tranquil escape from mainland life.

Key Information

Location

Massachusetts

Population

N/A

Stay

4days

Affordability
expensive
BudgetLuxury
Experiences

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Travel Costs in Martha's Vineyard

Budget Comparison

Plan your daily budget for Martha's Vineyard

Budget

Backpacker style

Accommodation
€15-30/night
Meals
€15-25/day
Activities
€10-20/day
Total
€40-75/day

Includes

  • Hostels & dorms
  • Street food
  • Free attractions
  • Walking

Mid-Range

Comfortable travel

Accommodation
€60-120/night
Meals
€30-50/day
Activities
€20-40/day
Total
€110-210/day

Includes

  • 3-star hotels
  • Local restaurants
  • Paid attractions
  • Public transport
MOST COMMON FOR MARTHA'S VINEYARD

Luxury

Premium experience

Accommodation
€200+/night
Meals
€80-150/day
Activities
€50-100/day
Total
€330+/day

Includes

  • Luxury hotels
  • Fine dining
  • Private tours
  • Taxis & rentals

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary by season, location, and personal preferences. Exchange rates as of 2026.

Cost Overview

Martha's Vineyard can be relatively expensive, especially in tourist areas and popular districts.

Affordabilityexpensive
BudgetAffordableModerateExpensiveLuxury

Money-Saving Tips

  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or during weekdays
  • Use public transportation or walk instead of taxis
  • Consider staying in neighborhoods just outside the center
  • Look for lunch specials and eat at local restaurants

Currency Information

Currency: USD (United States Dollar), $

Typical Costs

Local pricing information for Martha's Vineyard

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Hostel Dorm
Budget Hotel$100-200
Luxury Hotel$500-800
Mid Range Hotel$250-400
Airbnb Apartment$150-350

Note: These prices are approximate and may vary by season, location, and personal preferences. Tourist areas typically have higher prices.

Travel Essentials

Everything You Need to Know

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Martha's Vineyard has a limited but functional public transportation system primarily serving seasonal tourists and residents. The Martha's Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) operates buses that connect major towns and popular destinations during peak season. During summer months, transportation is relatively convenient, with frequent bus routes and shuttle services. However, winter months see significantly reduced public transit options, making personal transportation or taxi services more essential. - Airport: Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) - Located centrally on the island - Shuttle buses and taxi services available - Airport transfer costs: $15-30 per person - Flight connections to major northeastern cities - Public transport: - VTA bus system covers most island routes - Seasonal frequency (high in summer, limited in winter) - Day passes: $8-12 - Cash and contactless payment accepted - Walking: - Highly walkable in town centers - Typical walking distances: 1-3 km between attractions - Bike rentals widely available - Taxis/Rideshare: - Uber/Lyft available - Local taxi services operate - Typical rates: $10-25 per trip depending on distance - Higher rates during peak tourist season
Local Insights

Discover Local Culture

Local Cuisine

Martha's Vineyard's food culture is deeply rooted in its maritime heritage and New England coastal traditions, featuring an abundance of fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. The island's cuisine reflects a blend of traditional New England cooking with modern farm-to-table approaches, emphasizing fresh, seasonal produce from local farms and daily catches from surrounding waters. Dining experiences range from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, with a strong emphasis on community, seasonal ingredients, and sustainable food practices.

The island's culinary landscape is characterized by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, with seafood playing a central role in local dining. Restaurants and home cooks alike celebrate the region's maritime bounty, preparing dishes that showcase local fish, shellfish, and traditional cooking methods passed down through generations of island residents. Seasonal variations significantly influence the local food scene, with summer months bringing an influx of tourists and expanded culinary offerings.

food visual

Local Cuisine

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