10 Travel Tips on Getting to (and Around) Martha's Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts that has become the prefered summer destination to hundreds of families for decades. For those of you visiting us for the first time, you might be a little confused as to how to get to the island and eventually, how to get around said island while on vacation. We’re here to tackle all your questions, concerns, and overall comments - so here are our top ten travel tips to getting to (and around) Martha’s Vineyard! ​

1. There are only TWO ways to get to Martha’s Vineyard: you can fly into the MVY Airport or take one of the many ferries from the mainland. Check out Vineyard Ferries for details on all the ferries you can take to Martha’s Vineyard. If you’re flying, carrier options include Cape Air, JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines - more details on getting to MV by plane.
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2. If you want to bring your car on island, you must take the ferry. No, there are no bridges connecting the island to the mainland. Driving from the mainland to the island and back is a dream for islanders, but still not a reality. 

Photo: Budget/Avis Martha's Vineyard

3. If you still want to fly in and need a car, there are many car rental businesses on island ready to rent you a car, SUV, Jeep, or van. Car renting is common for visitors spending a few weeks on island at a time!
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4. Ask your hotel if they provide parking for your car. Depending on the town and the time you are on island, parking in town might be difficult, as the main streets do get very crowded during prime times. 

5. Don’t want to bring a car? Rent a moped! When renting a moped, ask as many questions as possible. It’s a big responsibility as you will be on the rode with automobiles, so safety first. Always wear helmets, close toed shoes, and respect the rules of the road at all times. When riding at night, make sure to wear extra lights and bright clothing. 

6. Don’t want to rent a moped? Rent a bicycle! There are so many locally owned bicycle shops on island and you can’t go wrong with any of them! Renting a bike will cost you between $20-45 a day - check out bike rental rates and ride safely! The island has some fantastic bike paths between towns, so it’s the perfect way to explore.
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7. Don’t want to rent a bicycle? Buy a Vineyard Transit Authority Bus Pass! Buying a bus pass is a great way to get around the island comfortably. The daily bus pass cost is $8 (2018 rate) and gets you to every town. Here’s a great informational article from the VTA on how to explore the entire island in one day. 

8. Don’t want to ride the bus? Walk/run! There are great walking trails and running paths in every town, and it’s a great way to burn all those calories from eating daily ice cream cones and lobster rolls. 

9. Take a tour of the island! Whether you're here for the day or for the season, don't miss anything Martha's Vineyard has to offer and take a tour. From tour buses and vans, walking tours, food tours, lighthouse tours, and on-the-water tours, there's a tour for all guests.

10. Don’t want to do any of the above? Call a local taxi company! Locally owned taxi companies are a great way to support island economy and they are very helpful. Call a cab to go from the airport to your hotel and during the ride ask your driver for information on what to do on island! Here is a listing of taxi cabs on Martha’s Vineyard. Uber and Lyft during peak season are on island, but not as much as you’re used to in your hometown.