Planning a girl’s getaway on Martha’s Vineyard?

We all know Martha’s Vineyard is a great destination for couples and families, but it’s just as ideal for friends who want to unwind, relax, and have a good time. With more and more weddings happening on Martha’s Vineyard we’ve seen more and more bachelorette parties and girls weekends happening here too. The Island really is the perfect place to assemble great friends and explore all that the Island has to offer.
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Here’s our top five suggestions for planning an unforgettable girls getaway on Martha’s Vineyard.

Photo: David Welch

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.

Photo: David Welch

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!

Photo: David Welch

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. 

Photo: David Welch

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.