the vineyard blog

Travelers can be divided into two types of people: those that love to pack and those that hate it. It can be a tedious activity, but below we’ve put together our best 10 tips for packing for a Martha’s Vineyard summer vacation. Everything you’ll need (and won’t need) is here - we hope our top ten tips make your next packing adventure a short and sweet one! Make sure to read our getting here and getting around posts for more information! ​

1. Make a list - and check it twice!
Making a list is the only way we can get organized, because once it’s on a list, you’ll definitely remember to pack it! They sell those nifty pre-listed packing lists, but nothing quicker and more affordable than just grabbing a sheet of paper and starting your own list, unique to you and your family. 

2. Research the weather - it's still New England
Even though you’re planning a vacation in the middle of the summer, Martha’s Vineyard is still New England and can surprise you with cooler temperatures than you’d expect at times. Knowing this beforehand will help you pack the correct outfits. 

3. Create outfits and an overall theme
Talking about outfits - plan around specific outfits or even “themes” so that you’ll pack less and more efficiently. During the summer on MV, you’ll just need a few outfits: exercise outfit if you plan on working out on the beach, beachwear such as swimsuits and coverups, casual outfits for meals or just hanging out, and a few “nicer” outfits if you plan on dining out. Have a golfer in your pack? Make sure to pack correct outfits such as collared shirts and pants, since most golf clubs have strict dress codes. 
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 4. Think layers - light scarves, sweaters, the works
Because the weather might be chilly some nights and because it's often breezy by the water, it’s safe to say that bringing a lightweight sweater or cardigan is a must, no matter the season. These, along with a summer scarf, will keep you warm on nights when the temperatures drop but you’re still enjoying some outdoor dining or events. 

5. Stick to three pairs of shoes - maximum! 
Shoes are the one thing people tend to overpack - but let’s be real, between a pair of flip flops for the beach or pool, sneakers if you plan on working out, and a nice pair of sandals (or dress shoes for men). Plus, shoes tend to weigh more and if you’re checking a bag it’s something to consider! 

 6. Don't pack towels or beach blankets
This might be an obvious thing, but just a reminder - most hotels will provide you with beach towels and the fun of a trip is getting a great souvenir and we love some of the local shops that carry MV beach blankets. They’re perfect not just for the beach, but for picnics and chilly nights around a firepit. 

7. Roll it, don't fold it! 
A time-tested trick of rolling your clothes instead of folding them will give you more room. And more room doesn’t essentially mean more room for stuff to pack. We suggest leaving that extra room for the souvenirs you’ll bring back from your island vacation! 

8. Have a ready-to-go health and first-aid kit
Taking preventative measures is always a good idea and having a small kit with the essentials like bandaids and such will make your vacation go smoother. You don’t want to be caught on the beach needing a bandaid and having to leave the sunny sands for it. A small enough kit that fits in your beach bag is just the thing you need. 

9. Use dryer sheets to keep things fresh
Before leaving home, throw a few dryer sheets between your clothes and shoes in your luggage to keep everything fresh smelling! Such a simple thing - even more preparedness, bring a few more in a ziplock bag to include on your flight back. 

10. Pack half of what you think you'll need
Once you have laid out everything you think you’ll need to pack - remove half the clothing! When on vacation, we tend to reuse clothes more than usual, plus it’s a casual community where you can definitely repeat outfits on the beach! 

If you’re a book lover, this post is for you! We’ve compiled a list of Martha's Vineyard authors and books that take place on Martha's Vineyard. Some of these authors live on the island, while others visit and write about the island. Martha’s Vineyard has the power to enthrall visitors and authors alike, captivating their senses and thousands of words surge from their trips, their experiences, their island moments. For the authors that live on island, they come from a variety of different worlds, but all come together with love for this island. Which will you be adding to your summer reading list this year? All books are available to purchase on-island at Bunch of Grapes Bookstore in Vineyard Haven; Edgartown Books in Edgartown; or online at Amazon. 

Geraldine Brooks, author of “Caleb’s Crossing”
In 1665, a young man from Martha's Vineyard became the first Native American to graduate from Harvard College. Author Geraldine Brooks takes us on a journey through the “crossing”, with emotions soaring for all corners. ​
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Thomas Dresser, author of “Hidden History of Martha’s Vineyard”
Popular local historian Thomas Dresser uncovers the little-known stories that eventually became part of the fabric of Martha’s Vineyard and its community. Thomas is an island personality and you can catch him around town or during one of his many talks he gives to locals and visitors. Dive into the rich history this island has and discover the Vineyard through a new set of eyes. 
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Crispin Haskins, author of “Pretty Vineyard Girls”
Nothing like a local mystery to get you enthralled in a book and that’s what author Crispin Haskins achieves - you’re hooked from Chapter One. The way the author creates that image in your mind, whether you’ve visited the island or not, is incredible. A story that takes you straight to OB, where a group of friends open a shop right on Circuit Avenue. Little do they know what awaits around the corner. 
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David Kinney, author of “The Big One”
An incredibly popular tourist destination, where hundreds of thousands of people come to enjoy the beaches during the summer month, becomes the ultimate fishing destination for locals on island come September. The tourists are mostly gone and the island’s obsession with the annual fishing derby comes alive. Anyone can win and the competition will have you face teenage girls, retired veterans, and everyone in between! 
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Susie Middleton, author of “Simple Green Suppers”
If you’re looking to create more plant-based, vegetable forward meals, this is the book for you! Local author Susie Middleton showcases how to make seasonal vegetables shine and divides her book into sections like noodles, grains, beans, greens, toast, tortillas, eggs, and broth. 125 recipes make up this book of delightful vegetarian meals - the perfect cookbook to get before spring produce is all around and ready to be cooked! 
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Lara O’Brien, author of “Chesca and the Spirit of Grace”
An Irish tale of talking animals, a magical mountain and galloping sideways - it’s a great children’s book by local author Lara O’Brien. A story of determination and imagination, it will captivate not only your little ones, but you as well! 
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Nelson Sigelman, author of “Martha’s Vineyard Outdoors: Fishing, Hunting, and Avoiding Divorce on a Small Island”  
Before there was Jaws and US Presidents visiting the island, there was a combination of outdoor activities that the locals took part of, whether it was fishing or hunting, a focus on small communities and how to survive them was the theme. Written by former Martha’s Vineyard Times editor, it’s a must read even if you’re not a lover of the outdoors. 
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Sarah Waldman, author of Feeding a Family: A Real-Life Plan for Making Dinner Work
Local nutritionist and mom, Sarah Waldman shares with readers the tips, tricks, and tools you’ll need to get dinner on the table every night, inspiring you to get creative with the seasons, despite juggling your work, family, and home.  Picky eaters? No worries, Sarah also tackles those and along with tips on feeding the youngest of babies. Recipes like Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken with Sweet Peas and Lemon-Pecan Shortbread Cookies are perfect as she gives you an entire menu for a complete meal to serve up! 
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1. Edgartown Lighthouse
There are five lighthouses on Martha’s Vineyard and without picking favorites, we recommend heading over to the Edgartown Lighthouse for some incredible photos - a sunny day with blue skies turnout for that ideal New England feel. 

2. Menemsha Beach sunset
Everyone has their favorite beach sunset on island, but most can agree that the one over Menemsha Beach is surreal. So incredible that boats honk their horns and beachgoers clap when the sun sets. The colors are a variety of reds, pinks, and golden orange hues that your camera will likely capture - but there’s nothing like the real thing. 

3. Lucy Vincent Beach
The rock formations on Lucy Vincent Beach are some of the most impressive, sitting on the soft sand just a few feet from the water. The gorgeous red clay colors make for the perfect photo! 

4. Sailing on the Tigress with Catboat Charters
Once you see the American flag sail, you’ll want to get on the water with Captain Kurt of Catboat Charters! Their American Flag sail is a nod to the charter catboat Cleopatra that once sailed the same water in the 1800’s. 

5. Alley’s General Store
Alley's General Store in West Tisbury opened in 1858 and is the oldest operating business on Martha's Vineyard - their eclectic decor makes for an interesting photo, whether you’ve decided to photograph the inside or outside of the store! 

6. Beach Plum Sunset dinner
Imagine dining in one of the island’s most prestigious restaurants with a focus on farm to table, while enjoying sunset with a glass of wine. Dinner at the Beach Plum Restaurant in Menemsha is an experience - capture the sun as it sets, maybe by placing your glass of chardonnay over it to capture the best of both worlds! 

7. Island Hydrangeas
Once spring is in full bloom, the gorgeous hydrangeas on Martha’s Vineyard will be in full force. Walk down North Water Street in Edgartown, Main Street beyond the shops in Vineyard Haven or in Ocean Park in Oak Bluffs, and capture the colorful flowers with a stately homes and water views in the background.  

8. Steamed Lobster on Oak Bluffs Harbor
Head on over to Coop De Ville in Oak Bluffs for a steamed lobster dinner on Tuesdays during their lobsterfest, order the whole steamed lobster with corn and butter, and strategically place the lobster on the harbor’s edge, crouch down and get the harbor and boats in with the lobster! 

9. Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs
Over 300 cottages make up the campgrounds, reminiscent of the days when it used to be a Methodist campground right here in Oak Bluffs. The brightly painted and whimsically decorated cottages are the perfect setting for a fun Instagram photo - if you’re a fashion blogger, this is the spot to coordinate your outfits to! 

10. Ferry Arriving
This is a great photo in either the daytime or at night. Capturing the Steamship Authority boat arriving not only looks great, but excites emotions of vacation!

11. Goat Yoga at Native Earth Teaching Farm
This might just be the one that breaks Instagram - bring a friend to capture your downward dog while the baby goats climb up your back. It’s an experience unlike any other - and the perfect formula for hundreds of likes: baby goats + yoga! 

12. Gay Head Cliffs
Last but certainly not least  — and quite possibly most captivating — are the Gay Head Cliffs, a magical location where you’ll snap dozens of photos because of its grandeur and magnificence. The quiet, natural serenity is something that your photos will capture. 

Visiting new places is always a fun experience, but if you’re living a vegan lifestyle, it might be a little more complicated than just walking into a restaurant and ordering a meal. For those that are plant-based and planning a trip to the Vineyard, we have the top ten tips for vegans - where to eat and shop, plus a few local tips from vegan islanders! ​

1. Visit local island farms
The island is has dozens of local farms (seen here in this handy MV Farm Map) and they are the best place to stock up on ingredients, produce, and vegan snacks. If you are lucky enough to have rented a summer home or Airbnb and have a kitchen, purchasing local ingredients is an easy way to stay vegan while on vacation while supporting the local farming industry.
 
2. Take a cooking class with local cookbook authors
Martha’s Vineyard is a wealth of information and one of the best things about it is that we have some incredible chefs and cookbook authors right on island hosting some incredible cooking classes. Catherine Walthers is one of them and her cooking classes aren’t just vegan - she offers a variety of classes, so there’s bound to be one that you’ll love! 

3. Eat locally made chocolate
If you’re a chocolate lover, you’re in for a treat because award-winning chocolate can be found right on island, made by the ladies of Not Your Sugar Mamas. This vegan, dairy free, refined sugar free chocolate is some of the best you’ll ever taste - plus if you’re craving something more than chocolate, swing by their organic cafe in Vineyard Haven for vegan breads, snacks, and meals to-go!
 
4. Order an Iced Mint Latte (with almond milk!)
Nothing is more refreshing in the summer than walking own Main Street Edgartown with an iced mint latte from Behind the Bookstore. Order it with almond milk and you’ll know what we mean - the combination of strong espresso, fresh mint syrup, and creamy almond milk is just the thing! 

5. Discover the deliciousness of the farmer’s plate at Lighthouse Grill
Lighthouse Grill, the restaurant located inside the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown, is led by chef Richard Doucette and is a great place to dine if you’re looking for a creative vegan dish. Their farmer’s plate is chef inspired and focuses on local produce.
 
6. Wake up to acai breakfast bowl at Smooth Moves
Nothing will energize you more than stopping by Smooth Moves and having one of their acai bowls while chatting with one of the owners is always a fun way to kick off the day.

​7. Indulge in a chef-led tasting at Red Cat Kitchen
Call Red Cat Kitchen ahead and order the chef tasting courses - make sure to mention you’re vegan and the chef will delight you with carefully crafted courses that will entice your senses. Just make sure the entire table orders the tasting - it’s worth it!
 
8. Stock up on vegan baked goods at Scottish Bakehouse
Scottish Bakehouse’s head baker is one of the most creative culinary geniuses on island and her and her team always have a few vegan baked goods in the case ready to be devoured. Perfect to bring to a beach day!

​9. Slurp on green juices from Blissed Out
The original juice and smoothie bar on island, Blissed Out has smoothies, juices, and shots to get you ready to take on the day. They focus on all organic produce, making their juices some of the best on island.
 
10. Join the “Vegan on the Vineyard” Facebook group
Do your research before even setting foot on island by joining the Vegan on the Vineyard Facebook group. Connect with local vegans, ask questions on where to make dining reservations, and share recipes using local ingredients! 

​Give careful consideration to the factors above before determining which option is best for you. Each island town offers it’s own character and charm and we recommend seeing as much as you can.
 
If you decide on taking your car then get in touch with the Steamship Authority as soon as you know your travel dates to make a reservation, as their summer schedule books up months in advance. If you opt to just walk on, there are many ferry services available seasonally including the Island Queen, Patriot Party Boat, and Falmouth-Edgartown ferry from Falmouth; Hyline Cruises from Hyannis, the Seastreak from New York or New Bedford, or the Martha’s Vineyard Fast Ferry from Rhode Island. Note that the Steamship Authority also offers passenger tickets and is the only ferry service that operates year round.
 
Check out our additional resources on getting around the Island! 

Rent a beach bungalow or book a suite at one of the Island’s top hotels and resorts. First you want to think about the size of the group you’re looking to host and the type of experience your girlfriends are hoping to have. If a more, relaxed, laid back vacation sounds ideal we recommend renting a house near the beach, where your group can come and go at their leisure and enjoy a quieter stay. Browse the listings of local real estate and rental companies like Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard, Martha’s Vineyard Seacoast Properties, Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Rentals, or Martha’s Vineyard Rentals for vacation rentals. Want a more active getaway? You’ll want to be more centrally located to one of the Island’s bustling downtowns, like Oak Bluffs or Edgartown. The Harbor View Hotel, the Hob Knob Inn, and Vineyard Square Hotel all offer quality lodging in the heart of downtown Edgartown, where you have easy walking access to local restaurants, nightlife and shopping. Additionally, many Vineyard homeowners make their houses available on AirBnb, VRBO and Homeaway.com.

Charter a boat If you’re visiting Martha’s Vineyard you must get out on the water! For those girls wanting a more adventurous time at sea try one of the Island’s popular fishing charters that depart from our busy harbors, such as The Skipper in Oak Bluffs, or Done Deal Charters in Vineyard Haven. If a relaxing excursion is more your group’s speed check out the Mad Max, a catamaran that departs from Edgartown harbor offering afternoon and sunset sails. Want to unleash your inner pirate? You and your girls can charter your very own pirate ship with MV Pirate Adventures. Enjoy a cruise out of Oak Bluffs harbor, through Nantucket Sound, aboard the Sea Gypsy X in search of the “Golden Light.” Call ahead for reservations and details for all charters, many allow BYOB and BYOF for a picnic on board!

Take a class or try something new Martha’s Vineyard is home to many interesting people sharing some very interesting things, making for countless hands on learning opportunities. Like to cook? Try taking a bread baking class with the Vineyard Bread Project or curate your own cooking class with private chef Catherine Walthers or the Food Minded Fellow. Up for a real challenge? Try Stand up Paddling with Wind’s Up, Island Spirit, or Aloha Paddle MV, which offers a paella package for you and your girlfriends to enjoy a seafood dinner on the beach after your lesson.
Day at the Spa No girls getaway is complete without a trip to the spa. Luckily our little Island boasts world class spas offering a wide range of services from your basic mani and pedi to the most luxurious facials and body treatments. Try the Moshup Mud Bath at the Mansion House Spa in Vineyard Haven, known for its therapeutic and detoxifying properties. Sea Spa Salon in Edgartown offers a full Ladies Night Out package complete with champagne, lunch and a driver if you’re too relaxed to get yourself home. 

Hit the Town Most ladies love to indulge in a night of delicious food, tasty cocktails, and some great dancing. The towns of Oak Bluffs and Edgartown offer the most happening night life, while you’ll find more intimate restaurants nestled up-Island and more relaxing restaurants in Vineyard Haven. In Oak Bluffs, Donovan’s Reef is a popular frozen drink bar on the harbor. They’re famous for their Dirty Banana, it’s like a mudslide with the addition of banana, and available without alcohol. A short walk up Circuit Avenue and you’ll find The Ritz, a beloved local dive bar with live music and a packed dance floor every night of the week. In Edgartown, the Port Hunter is the place to be for great food and live entertainment. They don’t take reservations for parties less than eight so get their early or try your luck at grabbing some seats at the bar. Make your way over to the Atlantic or Seafood Shanty, both located on the harbor and known for their late night dance parties. If you’re a group of female foodies looking for a more sophisticated dinner and drinking scene, try the Sweet Life Cafe in Oak Bluffs or Detente or Alchemy in Edgartown, which all offer an extensive wine list and best in class fare. 

Feeling inspired to book your girls getaway now? Check out our extensive Visit page to learn about even more great ideas and activities you can take advantage of while you’re here. 

Martha’s Vineyard is home to five iconic lighthouses, built between 1799 and 1869, and strategically positioned at different locations along the shore. Beacons in history and navigation, these lighthouses once saw more ships sail through Vineyard Sound and Nantucket Sound than any other place in the world except the English Channel. Each lighthouse is integral to the coastal character of Martha’s Vineyard and provides sweeping views over Vineyard Sound, Nantucket Sound, Edgartown Harbor, and Cape Poge on Chappaquiddick. Visitors flock to the Vineyard’s lighthouses to appreciate their historical significance, take beautiful photos, and in some cases, attend weddings and special events on their property. ​

The West Chop Lighthouse is located on the north end of “West Chop,” the peninsula surrounded on the north and west by Vineyard Sound and on the east by Vineyard Haven Harbor.  The West Chop Lighthouse is positioned on the north side of the chop and is accessible by driving straight north on Main Street in Vineyard Haven. The West Chop Lighthouse was the Island's last manned light. Originally built in 1817, and in 1838 the wooden building was replaced by the present brick structure. It was moved back from the edge of the 60-foot-high bluff in 1848 and again in 1891. In recent times, the small caretaker's cottage at its foot has been occupied by Coast Guard personnel and is not open to the public. ​

The East Chop Lighthouse in Oak Bluffs is located on “East Chop,” the peninsula surrounded on the west by Vineyard Sound and on the east by Nantucket Sound. The lighthouse stands on Telegraph Hill, accessible by East Chop Drive, on the former site of one of the first telegraph signals, set up in 1828. In the mid-1800s, Captain Silas Daggett built a privately owned lighthouse on East Chop, funded by local merchants who sailed in the area and by some of the ships passing through. In 1875, the U.S. government bought the lighthouse and its land for $6,000 and the present cast-iron structure was built on the cliff 79 feet above the sea. Until 1988, when it was painted white, the East Chop Light was fondly called the Chocolate Lighthouse, for its brown-red color. The East Chop Lighthouse is available for private rental through the Martha’s Vineyard Museum for weddings and special events, during the times that it is not open to the public. The lighthouse is located on a residential area and parking is limited so we suggest renting a bus or car to access it, or riding your bike up East Chop Drive from Oak Bluffs harbor. ​

​The Cape Poge Lighthouse is located on Chappaquiddick or “Chappy,” a small island on the east end of Martha’s Vineyard, accessible by the Chappy Ferry. The lighthouse is by far the Island's most remote and was built in 1801 when an Act of Congress appropriated $2,000 for it. A 4-acre site was purchased for $36 from Marshal Jenkins, Martin Pease, and Joseph Huxboro. The original lighthouse was made of wood and had a small caretaker's cottage. By 1838, the building was destroyed by the ravaging sea and rebuilt farther inland. It lasted only 50 years before the sea again claimed it and it was rebuilt, with a change from reflector lamps to red and white revolving prisms.
 
The sea reclaimed the lighthouse in 1892 and it was rebuilt as a 33-foot-tall tower that lasted only another 35 years.The present white wooden structure was built in 1922, 55 feet high with a light visible for a distance of 12 miles. In 1985 it gained the distinction of being the first entire lighthouse to be moved by helicopter; in 1997 the lantern was again moved by helicopter for repairs. The lighthouse's present site is only 300 feet from the ever-hungry sea. The Trustees of Reservations offers tours of the Cape Poge Lighthouse, including transportation from the Chappy Ferry.