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Should You Bring a Car to Martha’s Vineyard? Your Complete Guide!

How to Get a Car to Martha’s Vineyard

Let’s start with the basics. If you decide you do want to bring your car, your only option is the Steamship Authority , which runs ferries between Woods Hole and Vineyard Haven. This is the only ferry service that transports vehicles, and reservations are required—especially during the busy summer season, when space can fill up months in advance.

Car ferry tickets can be purchased on the Steamship Authority website, and rates vary based on the season and vehicle size. Be sure to book as early as possible if you're planning to travel between April and October.

What If You’re Not Bringing a Car?

Good news: If you're traveling to Martha’s Vineyard without a vehicle, you have plenty of options. Passenger-only ferries operate seasonally from several locations across the Northeast:

The Steamship Authority also offers year-round passenger service from Woods Hole. Whether you're coming from Boston, Providence, New York City, or somewhere in between, it's easy to find a ferry that fits your route and schedule.

Do You Really Need a Car on Martha’s Vineyard?

Here’s where things get personal. Whether or not to bring your car depends on a few important factors:

1. Where Are You Staying?

If you're staying in one of the three main towns - Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, or Edgartown - you may not need a car at all. These downtown areas are:

  • Walkable: With boutique shops, waterfront restaurants, ice cream stands, and historic homes all within easy reach
  • Bike-friendly: You can rent bikes or e-bikes from local shops and use dedicated bike paths to explore the area
  • Well-served by public transit: Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) bus system runs between all six Island towns and operates from early morning until late evening.

If you’re flying into the Martha's Vineyard Airportt, you can also use the VTA, taxis, or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft to get to your accommodations and explore nearby areas.

2. How Long Are You Staying?

The length of your visit is another key factor in your decision.

  • Day trip or short weekend stay? A car is typically unnecessary. Spend the day exploring one or two town centers, take a scenic walk along the harbor, or rent bikes to get around.
  • Extended visit (3+ days)? If you’re staying longer and want to see more of the Island - including the quieter up-Island towns - a car may be more convenient and cost-effective.

The Island is about 22 miles long and 9 miles wide, with some areas more spread out than others. For example, a trip from Edgartown to Aquinnah Cliffs can take around 45 minutes by car, longer by bus with transfers.

3. What Are You Planning to Do?

Ask yourself: are you mostly planning to relax in one town, or do you want to explore the Island’s remote beaches, farms, and scenic spots?

If your itinerary looks like this:

  • Hanging out in town
  • Walking to the beach
  • Visiting restaurants, galleries, and shops
  • Renting a bike or joining a guided tour Then you’re all set without a car.

But if you’re hoping to:

  • Explore Chilmark and Menemsha
  • Visit Lucy Vincent Beach or Long Point Wildlife Refuge
  • Hike the Great Rock Bight Preserve
  • Drive out to the Gay Head Cliffs in Aquinnah Then having a car may be well worth the convenience, especially for travelers who prefer flexibility over fixed bus schedules.

4. Are You Traveling with Kids or a Lot of Gear?

Families with small children or groups carrying lots of luggage, beach gear, or groceries may find it easier to have a car on hand.

That said, if you’re trying to pack light or avoid the hassle of driving, there are excellent on-Island rental services. MV Baby Rent, for example, offers delivery of strollers, car seats, cribs, high chairs, and more right to your hotel or vacation rental.

And if you’re renting a home, many local concierge services can help arrange grocery delivery and other essentials so you don’t have to haul it all yourself.

Our Recommendation: Should You Bring a Car?

To put it simply:

If you’re visiting for just a day or staying near downtown Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, or Vineyard Haven, we recommend skipping the car.

If you’re staying longer, traveling with kids, or planning to explore up-Island, bringing a car can make your trip more convenient.

In either case, careful planning goes a long way. Booking ferry tickets early, researching the VTA routes, and checking out rental options will ensure a smooth trip.

Renting a Car on Martha’s Vineyard

If you decide not to bring your own vehicle but still want the freedom of having a car while you’re on the Island, renting a car once you arrive is a fantastic option. Martha’s Vineyard has several local rental companies that cater specifically to visitors, offering everything from compact cars to SUVs, Jeeps, and even electric vehicles.

Two of the most convenient places to find rental options are:

  • MV Auto Rental – With multiple locations across the Island including Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs, MV Auto Rental offers a wide variety of vehicles to suit different group sizes and trip needs. They also provide easy online booking and flexible rental durations. Some of their vehicles even come equipped with beach access stickers, allowing you to drive on designated sand trails—perfect for a beach day off the beaten path. These vehicles are limited, so be sure to reserve early if that’s on your wishlist.
  • Martha’s Vineyard Airport Auto Rentals – If you’re flying into the Vineyard, several rental companies operate right at the airport for maximum convenience. This is a great choice if you want to hit the ground running and start exploring right away.

Booking early is essential, especially if you're traveling during peak season (June through September). Rental vehicles on the Island are limited and tend to sell out quickly, particularly during holidays and summer weekends. Whether you're picking up your rental at the airport or in town, reserving in advance ensures you get the type of vehicle you want—and avoids last-minute stress.

Renting a car can be a smart alternative if you’re flying in, traveling with a group, or planning day trips to more remote parts of the Island like Aquinnah or Chilmark. It also gives you flexibility without the hassle of bringing your own vehicle on the ferry.

Another thing to keep in mind is that parking can be quite challenging during the summer months, especially in the busy town centers like Edgartown and Oak Bluffs. Limited space and heavy demand mean you might spend more time than expected looking for a spot. This is definitely something to weigh when deciding whether to bring a car or rely on other transportation.

Tips for Getting Around Martha’s Vineyard Without a Car

Worried about how you’ll get around if you don’t bring a car? Don’t be. Here are the best options for car-free transportation on the Island:

Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA)

  • Affordable and reliable - be sure to check the VTA website to see if they are running their fare-free program!
  • Serves all six towns
  • Bike racks available on all buses
  • Real-time tracking available via the Transit app

Taxis, Uber & Lyft

  • Available in town centers and at the airport
  • Great for quick trips or late-night rides
  • Note: rideshare availability can be limited in peak season or rural areas

Bike & E-Bike Rentals

  • Eco-friendly and fun
  • Great way to explore the scenic bike paths between Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven

Sightseeing Tours

  • Perfect for first-time visitors
  • See all the major sights in a single day with guided insight
  • Options range from group bus tours to private Jeep excursions

No matter how you get here - or how you get around once you arrive - Martha’s Vineyard is a place where time slows down, nature takes center stage, and each town has its own personality to discover. Whether you're strolling the streets of Edgartown, biking along Ocean Park, or catching the sunset in Menemsha, your Vineyard experience is sure to be unforgettable.

If you do decide to bring your car, be sure to book with the Steamship Authority well in advance. If you go car-free, relax knowing you can still get everywhere you need to go with ease.

Note: From now through September 2025, the Vineyard Transit Authority is excited to offer fare-free rides across Martha’s Vineyard, making it easier than ever for visitors to explore the island. This initiative encourages both convenience and sustainability, allowing tourists to ride the VTA’s clean, efficient fleet (including electric buses) completely free of charge. Whether you're heading to the beach, downtown shops, or a local event, you can hop on and off without worrying about fares or parking. It's a stress-free, eco-friendly way to see the island while supporting reduced traffic and emissions. Let the VTA take you there, ride for free, explore more! 

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