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.
Here’s our top five suggestions for planning an unforgettable girls' getaway on Martha’s Vineyard.
Rent/ book a suite at one of the Island’s top hotels and resorts, or a spacious rental home.
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. Many Vineyard homeowners make their houses available on AirBnb, VRBO and Homeaway.com. You can also browse the listings of local real estate and rental companies like Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Homes, Viewpoints Real Estate, and Point B Realty 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 Edgartown or Oak Bluffs, and consider a stay at one of our beloved Island hotels. The Harbor View Hotel, the Hob Knob Boutique Hotel, 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. Summercamp in Oak Bluffs is situated across from Oak Bluffs harbor, an exciting scene in the summer with waterside restaurants, bars and nearby nightlife on Circuit Avenue.
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. If a relaxing excursion is more your group’s speed check out Catboat Charters, which offers private sails for groups up to six from Edgartown harbor. 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 very interesting things, including tips, tricks, and techniques, making for countless hands-on learning opportunities. Featherstone Center for the Arts offers a wide variety of arts and craft classes, while Slough Farm and Farm Institute offer a wide variety of food and agricultural learning opportunities. Local oyster farmers, Cottage City Oysters, offer a floating raw bar experience where you can check out their oyster farm, learn more about the Vineyard’s rich aquaculture scene, and savor delicious shellfish straight from the sea! Up for a real challenge? Try Stand Up Paddling with Island Spirit Kayak and Paddle Board Tours on beautiful Sengekontacket Pond.
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 Wrap at the Mansion House Spa in Vineyard Haven, known for its therapeutic and detoxifying properties. Sea Spa Salon in Edgartown offers an impressive menu of a la carte spa services as well as a full day package with yoga, facials, massage, mani/pedi and more.
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. 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 low key dinner and drinking scene, try the Sweet Life Cafe in Oak Bluffs or Detente in Edgartown, both offer an extensive wine list and best in class fare.
Feeling inspired to book your girls getaway now? Check out our extensive Things To Do page to learn about even more great ideas and activities you can take advantage of while you’re here.