Feeling the love on Martha’s Vineyard for Valentine’s Day

Vintage Valentine, MV Museum Collection

Ah, is there anything more lovely than being swept away to a romantic island for Valentine’s Day? We think not. Martha’s Vineyard oozes with charm and beauty, plus it’s an island after all, so it’s inherently romantic. No bridges or tunnels to get here, so the added treat of a boat or plane is alluring to couples of all kinds.  Mid-February on Martha’s Vineyard is calm and quiet, the perfect setting to actually relax, reflect and appreciate your Valentine. The slower pace and welcome peacefulness adds another layer of romance. If you’re considering a jaunt to Martha’s Vineyard this Valentine’s Day here are some tips on making it even more magical.

Bettini Restaurant at the Harbor View Hotel / Photo: Christine Sargologos

Where to Stay?
For a truly romantic experience take advantage of the Island’s quaint inns and luxurious hotels.
Nobnocket Boutique Inn is located a short distance from the Vineyard Haven ferry terminal, so it’s convenient, while also being elegant 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.

In Edgartown, The Harbor View Hotel is as spectacular as ever this time of year. With sweeping views of the ocean and Chappaquiddick and only steps from the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse, this newly renovated historic hotel is where glamour meets comfort. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Island while cozied up in one of their impressive suites. Book their Valentine’s Day package and cruise in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz while exploring the Island then end the day with a delicious dinner at their on-site restaurant, Bettini. The package includes chilled Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries delivered to your room upon arrival.

Just up Main Street in Edgartown you’ll find the Edgar Hotel, a newly updated boutique hotel that operates as a member of Choice Hotels International in the Ascend collection. The Edgar Hotel Martha’s Vineyard delivers Island elegance, comfort, and impeccable accommodations to travelers. It boasts on on-site bar and restaurant, Town MV, with live entertainment and nightly specials. You won’t even have to leave the property! 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?
This year the Martha’s Vineyard Museum is the place to be for Valentine’s Dinner. Enjoy water views while dining atop the Linnemann Pavilion at the Museum, where you can admire the beautiful 1854 Fresnel Lens. The Lens, which was first installed in the Gay Head Lighthouse, now occupies the Museum like a suspended jewel adorned with 1,008 glass prisms.  Enjoy a four-course Valentine's Dinner prepared by Island chefs Kyle Anderson (Kitchen Porch), Kevin Crowell (Detente), Regina Stanley (Art Cliff Diner), and Sean Yancey (West Chop Club) while listening to the enchanting music of Jeremy Berlin and Rose Guerin. Limited tickets available. Reservations required. Members $80, Non-Members $90. Reserve here.

Whether you choose the stay at the Harbor View Hotel or not, the Hotel's own Bettini Restaurant is a must visit during your stay. Their four-course Valentine’s Day dinner includes such scrumptious selections as Cured Hamachi Sashimi, Duck Tournedos, Pumpkin Ravioli, Bitter Cacao Crusted Beef Filet, Yuzu-Kosho Crusted Tasmanian Salmon and more. Dinner is served from 5:30PM-9PM and is offered at $95 per person. Reservations are recommended, call 508-627-3761 or book online here.

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 some of the Island’s most talented musicians for live entertainment that will get you on your feet. Beloved performer Mike Benjamin will be playing acoustic covers of classic hits at the Newes from America Pub in Edgartown from 7 to 9PM. Be sure to grab a seat at the bar and score one of their iconic wooden nickels. The lively duo, Brothers McMahon will steal your heart at the Ritz, where they’ll be performing a mix of rock, pop and classics at the Island’s most storied dive bar.  
 
The real treat this Valentine’s Day (and every day on Martha’s Vineyard!) is the natural beauty of the Island which makes it the most picturesque location for romantic walks along the beach. 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 now’s the time that 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.