24 Hours in Vineyard Haven

Vineyard Haven, a community within the town of Tisbury on Martha’s Vineyard, and previously known as “Nobnocket” by the Wampanoag people, and then as Holmes Hole by the first settlers, is a port town on island that receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, as well as being home to thousands of local islanders that live here year round. ​

Take the Steamship Authority Ferry into Vineyard Haven Harbor and step onto the most bustling town on Martha’s Vineyard, which is also a state-designated cultural district. The energy that Vineyard Haven exudes is catching and soon you’ll understand why people keep coming back for more. ​

Start with breakfast at any of the following places - we’ve also listed a few suggestions on what to order!
 

• Waterside Market, a popular hangout that even got some prime time on the TV show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, serves up some Blueberry Flapjacks that when drizzled with maple syrup make us smile instantly
• Black Dog Tavern, a classic spot in Vineyard Haven, serves up everything from scrambles, burritos, waffles, pancakes, eggs benedict over fishcakes, and so much more - this is the perfect breakfast spot if you’re visiting with a larger family or want a water view
• Little House Cafe, with big flavor! Amazing coffee and a breakfast wrap of 2 scrambled eggs with chevre, arugula, pickled red onion and harissa aioli in a warm pita is amazing! 

​Now, on to exploring Vineyard Haven and all it has to offer! Start with some local shopping - we love this blog by local boutique inn, the Nobnocket, where they list a few shopping favorites in Vineyard Haven. Main Street Vineyard Haven is packed to the brim with shops, restaurants, and cafes, there really is something for everyone. And if you’re an arts & culture lover, grab a copy of the Vineyard Haven Harbor Cultural District map from the Visitors Center at the Chamber of Commerce.

And on the note of coffee, this little town is also home to some incredible spots to grab coffee:

• Behind the Bookstore at Magnetic North - sip on a Lavender Latte
• Sweet Bites - order a Nobl Cold Brew Coffee
• Nat’s Nook – iced anything with their house-made coffee ice cubes, and a lovely outside seating area
• Not Your Sugar Mamas - drink up a healthy Matcha Latte
• Mocha Motts - discover what Yerba Mate is all about
• Scottish Bakehouse - perfect for that classic cup of brewed hot coffee

​Browse the offerings at the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, the historic Capawock Theater operating since 1913, or Martha’s Vineyard Film Center - and possibly catch a show before leaving the island, it’s one of our favorite activities! Walk down Williams Street and check out historical whaling captains’ houses, relax at Owen Park, take a longer walk around West Chop for gorgeous views of the waters and one of the island’s lighthouses, or just relax watching the boats come and go on Vineyard Haven Harbor. Whatever you choose to do in VH, we know you’ll have a fantastic day!