Martha’s Vineyard is a destination that is always worth visiting year-round! As unique and exciting as the Island is, getting here can sometimes be intimidating, as it requires careful planning and consideration, but preparedness is key. We We’re here to tell you that it can be as easy as 1,2,3 if you know what to expect!
Although we have a dedicated webpage on how to get to the Island, whether it’s by plane or boat, we wanted to give you 10 tips for planning the ideal Martha’s Vineyard family vacation. These travel tips are tried and tested from recommendations of hundreds of travelers who have visited the Island over the years, along with insider travel tips from local Islanders themselves.
Travel Tip #1: Decide what season you’ll be visiting.
Martha’s Vineyard is a very seasonal destination - typically visited by the hundreds of thousands between June and September, but every season provides a special set of environments that are thoroughly enjoyable on the island. For young couples with babies, a great time to visit is in the spring (April and May), before the crowds arrive, or in the fall (September and October). It’s easier to get around the Island sidewalks with strollers when the crowds are minimal. For families with kids older than four, the height of summer is when all the fun activities abound, so think farm camps, beach outings, and so much more! Fall weekends also make for great trips once school starts, as there are still a number of Island events that take place in the fall, still making for a fun and festive time with less crowds.
Travel Tip #2: Plan how you’ll arrive.
You can easily fly into Boston’s Logan Airport and catch a Cape Air flight into the Martha’s Vineyard Airport (MVY), but do keep in mind these flights are on smaller aircraft, so if your family is on the larger size, just remember that you might be on separate flights. Other families prefer landing in Boston and either driving or taking a Peter Pan Bus or Plymouth Brockton Bus to Woods Hole, where they catch the Steamship Authority Ferry to the Island. Either way, look at schedules, timings, and book any tickets you can in advance. Both bus companies make it very easy to purchase tickets via mobile! If you intend on taking your car over on the Steamship Authority Ferry, it is of utmost importance that you book your reservation as early in advance as possible. Automobile reservations are required and often book up months in advance, especially for the summer.
Travel Tip #3: Book accommodations with separate sleeping areas.
Especially if you’re traveling with younger children, having a separate area like a small living room in your suite, will make it so much easier to put them to bed at their usual times. Better yet, suggest adjoining rooms where you can check on them easily but still have dedicated time to yourself to relax. Many families choose to rent a house from one of our local rental companies, like Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Rentals and Point B Realty.
Travel Tip #4: Lighten your load, rent baby equipment on the Island.
Instead of trying to bring every possible baby equipment you might need, larger items like strollers, high chairs, cribs, and more can be rented from MV Baby Rent for ease of travel.
Travel Tip #5: Before arriving, be sure to confirm your lodging reservation and request anything you might need (baby cribs, cots, extra towels).
A quick, two-minute confirmation call saves a lot of headaches before your arrival. Everything from if you’re planning to check in late night (avoids you from walking around an empty hotel looking for someone) to double checking they’ve put you in a room with the correct amount of beds. That quick call helps everything go smoothly the moment you arrive. If you’re staying in a rental home coordinate with the concierge to ensure the home is equipped with everything you will need once you arrive.
Travel Tip #6: Decide how you’ll be travelling around the Island.
The Island can be easy to get around even if you do not choose to bring your car. You can rent a car from local rental companies such as A-A Island Auto Rentals, and popular national companies including Hertz, Budget, and AVIS operate at the Martha’s Vineyard Airport. You can take a local cab company, ride a bike down the streamlined bicycle paths between the towns or even walk in the downtown areas. One of our favorite ways to get around Martha’s Vineyard affordably and conveniently is via bus with the Vineyard Transit Authority. All Island towns are serviced through multiple bus lines with convenient stops at the airport and ferry terminals, and are accessible and family (and dog!) friendly too.
Travel Tip #7: If visiting during the slower months (November through April), call ahead.
Due to our seasonality, some Island businesses change schedules once the fall begins, so just make sure to call ahead to confirm they’re open. Many of our local shops and stores take breaks during the winter, and some year-round restaurants tend to be closed on Monday or Tuesday, so plan your trip knowing this.
Travel Tip #8: Pack light.
This is a travel tip for any location you’re visiting, and especially for one that requires extra logistics. Traveling with just a carry-on is infinitely easier than traveling with checked luggage. Plus, the less you pack, the more space you’ll have for beach plum jelly, MV Sea Salt, Murdick’s Fudge, and any other locally made products we know you’ll fall in love with!
Travel Tip #9: Research tours and exhibits you’d like to visit.
Martha’s Vineyard is home to a variety of tours, cultural institutions, and local exhibits all year long - make sure to include some during your trip. Whether you’re looking to follow the MV African-American Heritage Trail or walk the haunted streets of Edgartown with a ghost expert, the Island has it all!
Travel Tip #10: Slow down.
“You’re on island time.” It might sound cliche but it’s true. Once the ferry docks or the plane lands, loosen up–you’ve just arrived at one of the most relaxing New England communities. Make sure to book yourself a massage, take daily walks on the beach, and read a good book!