the vineyard blog

New England is well known for our cold winters, so those of us that live here, along with visitors to the island, are often looking for ways to warm up during those brrrr days. 
 
First, let’s talk about the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate. Although sometimes used interchangeably, they are two different things: 

• Hot cocoa is made with a powdered chocolate, whether it’s a mix of chocolate and sugar, sometimes along with spices, or just pure ground chocolate, hot cocoa will always start with a dry powder. It’s usually sweetener and thinner than hot chocolate; 
• Hot chocolate is made with a ganache, solid chocolate or chocolate syrup, meaning that hot milk is mixed with a chocolate/cream/sugar syrup or a ganache of chocolate and cream. Due to the high fat content of chocolate, it is a richer beverage than it’s counterpart, hot cocoa. 

Below we have listed ten coffee shops on island that you can get your hot cocoa or hot chocolate fix, alongside baked goods and other treats that one would want paired with their hot, chocolate infused drink: 
 

1. Espresso Love - Espresso Love in Edgartown uses chocolate syrup mixed with hot milk to create a lovely chocolate drink. 
2. Not Your Sugar Mamas - using their own NYSM superfood chocolate mix, NYSM cashew milk, and dates, they are creating one of the healthiest and creamiest hot chocolates in town! Everything they make  is also dairy free and refined sugar free. 
3. Mocha Motts - they are one of the few places that make real whipped cream to top their drinks - and who doesn’t love freshly whipped cream?!
4. Nat’s Nook - they make their hot chocolate with a sweetened chocolate syrup but the important thing is that you pair that drink with a delicious crepe! 
5. Waterside Market - grab a seat at Waterside Market and indulge in a delicious hot chocolate. 
6. Little House Cafe - they make their hot chocolate with a chocolate syrup (not Hershey’s) of high quality, resulting in a rich and creamy drink. 
7. Behind the Bookstore - open during the season, BTB makes their own ganache syrup to create their hot chocolate drinks and espresso mocha drinks and it really makes a difference! 
8. Black Dog Bakery - using a powdered Baker’s Chocolate mix, they create a flavorful drink that is even better when paired with a slice of their cakes. 
9. Edgartown Meat and Fish Market - with it being the only Starbucks location, it’s safe to say they use the Starbucks Mocha Sauce resulting in a delectable beverage to warm up with. 
10. Beetlebung Cafe - open during the season, this coffee shop in Oak Bluffs serves up everything from espressos to lattes and hot chocolate in between!       

Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Company located in Oak Bluffs -  one of the most distinctive clam chowder on island, this chowder has won awards throughout the years. It’s packed with a secret blend of herbs, celery, potatoes, and SO many clams. There is no flour, butter, or pork in this chowder - ingredients traditional in chowder but the lack of them do not affect how delicious this clam chowder is. The texture is just right - not too thin nor too thick. 

Offshore Ale Company located in Oak Bluffs - one of the island’s local breweries, Offshore Ale is a great spot to grab a cup of clam chowder and a tall glass of locally made beer. Their chowder is on the thinner side, made with all the traditional chowder ingredients. This cup also had a TON of clams in it - not diced, but larger chunks of clams, making it for a good bite. 

The Wharf Pub in Edgartown - the most recent first place winner of the island’s Annual Great Chowder Contest,  this chowder is a bit thicker so if you’re looking for a thicker chowder this is it. It’s quite rich and buttery, with bits of bacon and celery within the cup. Another delicious option on Martha’s Vineyard! 

​Discovering Martha’s Vineyard in the off season is such a treat and we think it’s just such a gorgeous time to explore the snow covered island. Martha’s Vineyard in the winter is filled with activities such as trail walking, local shopping, and quite honestly - the island is also the ideal winter retreat for creatives like artists and writers.
 
As you plan your winter getaway to the island, make sure to read a few of the articles below to get you ready to explore:
Unexpected pleasures of Martha’s Vineyard in the winter by the Boston Globe
Martha’s Vineyard, off-season by the New York Times
The Vineyard in Winter by Smithsonian Magazine
Top Ten Things About Vineyard Winters by Martha’s Vineyard Magazine
What to Do on Martha’s Vineyard in the Off-Season by We Are Not Martha 

Runners from all over will descend on Martha’s Vineyard once again for the Martha’s Vineyard 20 Miler on Saturday, February 16. Their motto is “no weenies” and they mean it. While the race is open to runners of all levels it is not for the faint of heart, it’s twenty miles after all! Highly competitive die-hard runners, marathoners, and dedicated recreational runners compete alongside one another for the chance to bask in the glory. While multiple award levels exist, every last runner receives a finisher medal and an official MV 20-Miler long sleeve t-shirt. After all the real reward is just being here and being able to compete!
 
Not only does the race offer a USA Track & Field (USATF) certified course but it’s on Martha’s Vineyard so you know it’s beautiful. The course is described as mostly flat, with some rolling hills, and circles through the varied terrain of three iconic Island towns. The race starts at Vineyard Haven harbor, home to the Steamship Authority ferry terminal. From there runners pass by the historic Gingerbread Cottages of Oak Bluffs, work their way along picturesque Beach Road, where they can admire Nantucket Sound to their left and Sengekontacket Pond to their right (it’s a beautiful sight but may be windy and cold in February so plan accordingly).
 
Runners continue along toward downtown Edgartown including a section of the town’s farming community, and finish back at the Oak Bluffs School after a trek through the State Forest. The course includes mile markers, water stations, and fun post race festivities. Think music and food, including none other than New England clam chowder, and yummy hot chocolate. Sounds pretty amazing, right?
 
Amazing but exhausting. So don’t worry, if you want in on the action but can’t commit to the full 20 miles grab a partner and enter the Amity Island Relay. In the relay both partners complete 10 miles instead of 20. The relay is split into 3 categories, regardless of age: All-Male, All-Female, and Co-Ed. A shuttle bus will transport relay runners from the start to the relay area at mile 10 and back to the finish.
 
Ready to sign up? Head on over to the MV20 website and get started. Act fast! The number of runners is restricted to 600 Individual 20 Milers, and 2x10 Mile Relay athletes. Relay Teams must register online with a team name. Individual runners are encouraged to sign up in advance but day of registration is possible with cash payment only, but no event swag is guaranteed. Those that sign up in advance will be rewarded with a race t-shirt, finisher medal, bag check at the starting line, post race meal at the finish, access to showers (towels are not provided), a bus back to the boat, and an experience to treasure forever. Need another reason to enter? All proceeds from this event benefit Martha's Vineyard Youth Hockey, and other Island youth organizations.
 
If you really want to make the most of your experience stay the weekend! A day trip to Martha’s Vineyard is always worth it but a couple extra days is even sweeter. Plus you’ll deserve some rest and relaxation after a race like that! Check out our local lodging options and ideas on other things to do while you’re on-Island. Be sure to plan appropriately for the weather, it may be an Island but it’s still winter in New England and anything is possible.  

Be sure to save the date for our other great races, including the Martha’s Vineyard Marathon on May 18 and the Chilmark Road Race. 
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If you’re considering a trip to Martha’s Vineyard this winter you’re likely wondering what activities are available this time of year. While the events calendar isn’t as busy as the summer months, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the natural beauty of Martha’s Vineyard. There are still plenty of ways to spend your time enjoying the landscape of the Island, from the rolling hills of Chilmark to the vast woods of the West Tisbury State Forest. If you’re an active traveler plan to bundle up and head outdoors during your stay. Here’s some ways to get your heart rate up and your stress level down during a winter stay on Martha’s Vineyard. ​

Walking the Beach. This is a no-brainer. No matter the time of the year a walk along our shoreline is an absolute must. On nice winter days locals flock to some of the restricted summer beaches, including Lambert’s Cove Beach in West Tisbury and Lucy Vincent Beach in Chilmark. Be sure to enjoy a stroll on the sand while you can as these beaches and some others require resident passes in the summer.
 
Birding. Throughout the year more than 300 species of birds inhabit and frequent the Island, including the European cuckoo, Blackburnian warbler, Magnolia warbler, Baybreasted warbler, Canada warbler and the Black-throated blue warbler. One of the most magical birds to spot is the Snowy Owl, which frequents the south shoreline of the Island in the winter. Don’t be surprised to see some other amazing species still flying around this time of year while you’re out and about. During the warmer months enjoy a truly unique Guided Birding Tour with the Island’s own Robert Culbert of Nature Watch, by calling 508-560-5294. 

​Surfing. For the brave! Believe it or not Martha’s Vineyard has some greatsurf. Die hard surfers hit the south side of the Island at beaches like Squibnocket to catch the best terrain the Island has to offer. While the surf here is  inconsistent, as it is in most of the Atlantic, when it’s spot on it can be pretty epic. Seasoned Island surfers claim that when we get a good swell it can be world class. If you’re not brave enough to ride the waves it’s still a treat to witness those that do, and it’s not uncommon to see surfers out in the middle of winter waiting for the perfect wave. If you’re up for trying head to the Green Room in Vineyard Haven where you can get hooked up with a surfboard and gear. Like any water sport be sure to be careful and well informed before heading in to the sea.
 
Hunting. Hunting on Martha’s Vineyard is almost as popular among locals as fishing, with deer hunting being the favorite. The deer population on Martha’s Vineyard is well into the thousands and it’s estimated there are currently about 40 deer per square mile of habitat on -Island. With no natural predators here deer hunting is an important way to control the population of deer and the harmful ticks they can carry. The archery season for deer generally takes place in October and November and the shotgun and firearm season takes place throughout December. Interested in giving it a shot? Check out the Martha’s Vineyard Rod & Gun Club to brush up on your skills.  
 
Ice Skating. Martha’s Vineyard boasts a newly renovated ice arena for those that want to lace up and hit the ice. Skating is a fun, healthy activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family, and at only $5 for admission it’s one of the cheapest paid activities too. The Martha’s Vineyard Ice Arena in oak Bluffs offers open skating sessions as well as ice skate rentals, and ice walkers for beginners. 

We’ve heard Virginia is for lovers but we’re pretty sure Martha’s Vineyard has it beat. First off it’s an island after all, and island’s are notoriously romantic. You have to take a boat or a plane to get here so it’s remote by nature, which only adds to the appeal for couples of all kind. Despite being located only seven miles from Cape Cod it feels a world away and the natural beauty of the Island is sure to fill anyone with that loving feeling.
 
Then there’s the fact that Valentine’s Day is on February 14 when the Island has settled into its winter calm. The slower pace and welcomed peacefulness adds another layer of romanticism. If you’re considering a whimsical weekend getaway to Martha’s Vineyard this Valentine’s Day here’s some tips on making it even more magical.

Where to stay?
 
For a truly romantic experience take advantage of the Island’s quaint inns and bed and breakfasts.
Nobnocket Boutique Inn is located a short distance from the Vineyard Haven ferry terminal, so it’s convenient, while also being both comfortable and modern. It prides itself on offering “luxury with a twist” and does not disappoint. For the most romantic room in the house ask them about the Luxury Grand Room (with fireplace) or a Deluxe Room and add some champagne and strawberries for an extra special touch.

Isabelle’s Beach House in Oak Bluffs is known for its panoramic ocean views from the sprawling front porch. Just minutes walking from downtown Oak Bluffs, this seaside inn offers a convenient location while allowing inn guests to enjoy the relaxing water views and ocean breezes of Nantucket Sound.

For the most walkable option, stay at the Mansion House Hotel and Spa, located just steps from the Vineyard Haven ferry terminal and walking distance to several year round restaurants. This historic property offers a whole host of amenities including a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and full service spa.
 
Where to eat?
 
Beach Road, Vineyard Haven. Aptly located on Beach Road, this sophisticated space serves modern American cuisine with an emphasis on seafood, while offering water views while you dine. Nothing is fresher than their local oysters which are available for only $1 each, at the bar Wednesdays through Saturdays. It’s a great deal and a no-brainer–oysters are known to be an aphrodisiac after all…
 
Alchemy, Edgartown. Cuddle up to your honey inside the airy dining room or bustling bar of this new American spot that’s been an Edgartown staple for over twenty years. The space is elegant and charming and the menu invokes culinary styles of Italy, France and Spain. They’re food features locally sourced ingredients from land and sea, and a whole lot of love.
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Rockfish, Edgartown. Warm up inside this casual upscale bar and restaurant that boasts a beautiful wood-fired pizza oven. People flock to Rockfish for craft cocktails expertly poured across their two full bars, tasty American bites, and their popular flatbreads perfect for sharing with that special someone.
 
What to Do?
 
Share a relaxing day de-stressing and detoxifying. Join your partner for an invigorating massage or body treatment at one of Martha’s Vineyards finest spas this Valentine’s Day. The Mansion House Spa offers couples massages, as well as hot stone and aromatherapy massages. Sea Spa Salon in Edgartown offers treatments specifically tailored to him and her, including customized facials. Try one of their signature body scrubs and leave feeling softer and more rejuvenated than ever.  
 
Enjoy a show at one of the Island’s local entertainment hubs. John Stetson America’s Master Mentalist, comes to the the Comedy Lounge at the Barn Bowl and Bistro on February 16. Share some laughs with your partner while John blends the art of mystery with the study of psychology, and a disarming sense of humor. Film buffs? Head to the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center for the best in independent films, movie classics, documentaries, and world cinema or check out what’s on stage at the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse.
 
Take a long walk along one of the Island’s most beautiful beaches. February may not make for a hot day under the sun, but a bundled up stroll along the sand with your partner is one of the most romantic ways to spend some time together. Plus you can access some of the Island’s most beloved beaches like Lucy Vincent Beach and Lambert’s Cove Beach, which are restricted to town residents in the summer.