Where to Catch the Best Sunset on Martha’s Vineyard
Photo by Michael Blanchard
Where to Catch the Best Sunset on Martha’s Vineyard
When the day winds down on Martha’s Vineyard, the sky puts on a show. Sunsets here aren’t just beautiful, they’re unforgettable. With sweeping ocean views, rugged cliffs, and serene harbors, the Island offers a variety of vantage points to witness the day’s golden finale. Whether it's your first time visiting or you're a regular, catching a sunset is an essential Vineyard experience.
This travel guide covers the top places to see a breathtaking sunset on Martha’s Vineyard, offering insider tips for where to sit back, relax, and take in nature’s nightly masterpiece. From iconic beaches to peaceful lakes, these sunset spots showcase the Island’s natural beauty in ways that linger long after the last light fades.
Photo by Jon Ashton
Menemsha Public Beach
Best for: Iconic Vineyard sunsets and seafood picnics
Nestled in the heart of the traditional fishing village of Menemsha, this beach is perhaps the Island’s most famous sunset spot, and for good reason. With a clear view of the sun setting over the water, Menemsha Beach delivers a picture-perfect experience night after night. As the sun dips into the horizon, the crowd often breaks into applause, recognizing the moment’s quiet magic.
Visitors often grab to-go seafood from nearby spots like Larsen's Fish Market or Menemsha Fish Market, and enjoy a casual beach picnic. Don’t forget, Chilmark is BYOB, so bring a bottle of wine or your favorite drink and settle in. Fishing boats bob gently in the harbor, and the sky transforms into a cascade of golds, pinks, and purples.
Parking can be tricky during the busy season, but the Vineyard Transit Authority runs a convenient shuttle from the Chilmark Community Center straight to the beach. Arrive early to claim a good spot, especially in July and August.
Photo by Jon Ashton
Lambert’s Cove Beach
Best for: Peaceful, romantic vibes
Located on the northern edge of West Tisbury, Lambert’s Cove Beach is a local favorite for a quieter sunset. While it's restricted and only for residents during the day, after hours it opens up to the public, perfect timing to catch the evening light.
Expect soft, powdery sand and calm, crystal-clear waters that glow as the sun goes down. The gentle curve of the shoreline and surrounding dunes create an intimate setting that feels worlds away from the crowds. It requires a short walk from the parking area, but the reward is well worth it. This is a lovely place for couples or anyone looking to escape the more popular spots.
Photographers will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and uninterrupted views, while beachgoers can savor the calm and the soothing sound of the waves.
Aquinnah Cliffs
Best for: Dramatic vistas and photo opportunities
Aquinnah Cliffs offers one of the Island’s most dramatic landscapes. Perched at the westernmost point of Martha’s Vineyard, this location is famous for its panoramic ocean views, colorful clay cliffs, and the iconic Gay Head Lighthouse.
At sunset, the cliffs themselves seem to glow, the rich layers of red, orange, and yellow intensifying under the warm evening light. Standing at the overlook feels like standing at the edge of the world, with sweeping views of the Atlantic and Elizabeth Islands.
This spot is popular with photographers and anyone looking to experience a truly majestic end to the day. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding shops and trails, and allow time to soak in the natural beauty. The light here is ever-changing, making every sunset a bit different and completely stunning.
Photo by Michael Blanchard
East Chop Lighthouse
Best for: Panoramic views and quiet reflection
Overlooking Vineyard Haven Harbor from the Oak Bluffs side, East Chop Lighthouse is an underrated sunset spot with a peaceful ambiance. The lighthouse itself adds a timeless New England feel, while the surrounding bluff offers wide-open views of the water.
On clear evenings, the setting sun reflects off the calm harbor waters, casting a golden glow over sailboats and the distant shoreline. It’s a more low-key option, perfect for a relaxing walk or a peaceful evening with minimal crowds.
Visitors can park nearby and enjoy a short stroll up to the lighthouse. Bring a blanket or beach chair and watch the colors unfold over the horizon.
Vineyard Haven & Edgartown Harbors
Best for: Harborside dining and waterfront strolls
The harbors of Vineyard Haven and Edgartown are excellent places to catch the sunset with a side of classic New England charm. In both towns, sailboats and yachts line the docks, their masts silhouetted against the vibrant sky as the sun sets behind them.
These areas offer many dining options with outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying a meal with a view. Consider grabbing an early dinner before sunset at one of the charming local restaurants, or time it right and dine at a waterfront restaurant while watching the sky light up over the harbor. In Vineyard Haven, Garde East offers a refined yet relaxed waterfront setting. In Edgartown, Atlantic and Seafood Shanty provide front-row seats to the harbor, pairing fresh seafood with stunning views.
For a unique perspective, book a sunset sail. Black Dog Tall Ships offers voyages aboard the Schooner Alabama out of Vineyard Haven, while Mad Max Catamaran departs from Edgartown for a lively evening on the water.
Strolling along the docks or lounging on a bench near the water, visitors can soak in the vibrant colors and the slow shift from day to night.
Photo by Marnely Murray
Lake Tashmoo
Best for: Tranquil waters and local charm
Lake Tashmoo, located just outside of Vineyard Haven, is a serene spot to watch the sunset away from the crowds. This saltwater lake opens to Vineyard Sound, offering a unique setting where calm inland waters meet the open sea. As the sun sets over the lake, the surface often mirrors the sky’s changing colors, creating a tranquil and dreamy scene.
There are a few access points around Lake Tashmoo, including the Tashmoo Overlook and the small town beach near the inlet. Bring a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy a quiet, peaceful end to the day surrounded by natural beauty and bird calls echoing through the air.
This location is especially lovely for families or those seeking a more meditative experience. The gentle sounds of nature and the mirror-like water make for a soothing close to the day.
Lobsterville Beach
Best for: Underrated views and gentle beauty
Tucked away in Aquinnah, Lobsterville Beach is a quiet and often overlooked gem for sunset seekers. Stretching along Vineyard Sound with views of the Elizabeth Islands, the beach offers a wide, pebbly shoreline perfect for evening strolls and quiet reflection.
With fewer crowds than nearby Menemsha or the Aquinnah Cliffs, Lobsterville Beach is ideal for those who want to enjoy the sunset in a peaceful, laid-back setting. The sun dips directly into the sound here, casting shimmering reflections across the water. Bring a beach chair, a light jacket, and a snack, and let the calm, expansive views wash over you.
A bike path leads to the beach, making it accessible for cyclists or those looking for a scenic pre-sunset ride. This is one of the best spots for soaking up the understated beauty of the Island’s evening light.
Experience the Magic of a Martha’s Vineyard Sunset
Sunsets on Martha’s Vineyard are more than just a daily event, they’re part of the Island’s rhythm and charm. Each location listed here offers its own take on the Island’s natural beauty, from dramatic cliffs and lighthouses to peaceful harbors and secluded beaches.
Whether enjoying a seafood picnic in Menemsha, taking a romantic walk along Lambert’s Cove, sailing at sunset out of Edgartown, or lounging lakeside at Tashmoo, each evening offers the opportunity to pause and savor the moment. Don’t leave the Island without witnessing at least one of these unforgettable sunsets, and be sure to bring a camera.
After all, the sun always sets, but on Martha’s Vineyard, it does so with unmatched style.