If you’re dreaming of classic New England beach days, Martha’s Vineyard totally delivers. These charming beaches on Martha's Vineyard, MA offer everything from family-friendly shores to quiet, windswept escapes. " In this post, I’ll share the enchanting beaches I discovered while living on Martha’s Vineyard—a coastal escape that perfectly blends natural beauty and island charm."
Highlights:
Recommended Beaches on Martha's Vineyard, MA:
1. Long Point Wildlife Refuge - 25 minutes from Oak Bluffs
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Long Point Wildlife Refuge, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts – Off Edgartown-West Tisbury Road, MA 02568Recommended For:
Families, nature lovers, history buffs, paddlers, and beachgoers seeking a scenic and ecologically rich escape on Martha’s Vineyard.What I Love: ♥
The peaceful dune and woodland landscapes, swimmable family-friendly beach, quiet nature trails, and a unique glimpse into both natural and cultural island history.- Visit the expansive Long Point Wildlife Refuge, one of Martha’s Vineyard’s largest public natural areas, preserving over 600 acres of beach, forest, and rare prairie-like habitats.
- Explore an ecosystem shaped during the Ice Age, including dunes, freshwater ponds, and coastal woodlands teeming with wildlife.
- Swim at one of the island’s most beloved family-friendly beaches or hike the two-mile nature trail through Long Cove, Middle Point, and Tisbury Great Ponds.
- Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards in season to explore calm waters, and enjoy the beach's picnic areas and bike racks for a full day of exploration and relaxation.
Cost:
Entry fees apply (typically $10/adult, $5/child). Free for Trustees of Reservations members. Rental and amenity fees vary by season.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for paddling, swimming, and hiking. Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching and trail walks.Local tips:
Bring binoculars for spotting osprey and shorebirds. Arrive early during peak summer for parking. Wear sturdy shoes if hiking wooded trails beyond the beach area.Distance:
Located centrally on Martha’s Vineyard—roughly 15–25 minutes by car from ferry terminals in Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs.How to Get to Long Point Wildlife Refuge:
Take Edgartown-West Tisbury Road and follow signage to the refuge’s entrance. Parking is available near the visitor area with trail access, rentals, and beach amenities clearly marked.2. Joseph Sylvia State Beach - 10-minute drive from Edgartown
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Location:
Joseph Sylvia State Beach, Edgartown–Oak Bluffs Road, Edgartown, Massachusetts 02539Recommended For:
Families, film buffs, swimmers, anglers, and anyone looking for a calm, scenic, and historically rich beach on Martha’s Vineyard.What I Love: ♥
Gentle, swimmable waters, iconic movie history, panoramic Nantucket Sound views, and its prime location between two of the island’s most popular towns.- Visit Joseph Sylvia State Beach, a two-mile-long beach along Martha’s Vineyard’s southern shoreline, famously featured in the 1975 film Jaws.
- Swim safely in shallow, calm waters created by the beach’s gradual slope—perfect for children, beginners, and relaxed ocean wading.
- Fish for striped bass, which are plentiful in warmer months and attract anglers to the area year after year.
- Explore scenic surroundings along Nantucket Sound and Sengecontacket Pond, offering peaceful views and a unique blend of saltwater and freshwater habitats.
- Note that parking fills up fast in summer—arrive early to claim a spot near the shore and maximize your beach day.
Cost:
Free beach access. Public roadside parking available along Beach Road. No entry fees required.Best time to visit:
Summer for swimming and fishing. Early morning or late afternoon for lighter traffic and more available parking.Local tips:
Bring a beach umbrella and chairs—shade is minimal. Watch for osprey nests near Sengecontacket Pond. Film fans should visit spots used in Jaws for photo ops.Distance:
Located between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown—approximately a 10-minute drive from either town via Beach Road.How to Get to Joseph Sylvia State Beach:
Take Beach Road from either Oak Bluffs or Edgartown. The beach runs along the road with direct access points and limited roadside parking along the dunes and Sound.Romantic Beaches on Martha's Vineyard, MA:
3. East Beach - Accessible from Edgartown via the Chappaquiddick ferry
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Location:
East Beach, Wasque Reservation, Chappaquiddick Island, Martha’s Vineyard, MA 02539Phone: 508-627-7689
Recommended For:
Nature lovers, anglers, birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone seeking seclusion, scenic views, and Cape Cod coastal history.What I Love: ♥
Remote beauty, pristine waters, wildlife-rich saltmarshes, access to Cape Poge Lighthouse, and 14 miles of peaceful trails to explore in near solitude.- Visit East Beach, a serene and secluded barrier beach located within the Wasque Reservation on Chappaquiddick Island, isolated from the mainland since 2007 by erosion.
- Access the beach only by boat or ferry—public service is available from Edgartown to Chappaquiddick, making this a true off-the-beaten-path escape.
- See the Cape Poge Lighthouse, first constructed in 1801 and still operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, visible from the beach’s shoreline.
- Observe coastal wildlife, including the endangered piping plover, nesting shorebirds, and marine nurseries for finfish and shellfish in the calm northern waters.
- Fish for bluefish and striped bass or hike over 14 miles of trails that weave through sandy dunes, marshes, and windswept coastal forest within the reservation.
Cost:
Entry to Wasque Reservation is free. Ferry fees apply. Over-sand vehicle permits available with restrictions. Tours and lighthouse visits may have additional fees.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for wildlife sightings, fishing, and hiking. Mornings and evenings offer the best light and solitude.Local tips:
Wear sturdy footwear for hiking trails. Bring binoculars for birdwatching. Plan ahead with ferry schedules, and pack food and water—amenities are limited on the island.Distance:
Accessible from Edgartown via the Chappaquiddick ferry—just a few minutes across the channel, followed by a drive or bike ride along Dike Road.How to Get to East Beach:
Take the Chappaquiddick ferry from Edgartown. Follow Dike Road east to Wasque Reservation and East Beach. Parking is available near the trailheads, with beach and trail access nearby.4. Lake Tashmoo Town Beach - 15 minutes by car from the ferry terminal in Oak Bluffs
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Location:
Lake Tashmoo Town Beach, Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts – End of Herring Creek Rd., MA 02568Recommended For:
Families, snorkelers, swimmers, locals, and those in search of a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path beach on Martha’s Vineyard.What I Love: ♥
Dual waterfront charm with access to both the lake and the ocean, calm shallow water, local vibe, and uncrowded sands perfect for relaxing and snorkeling.- Visit Lake Tashmoo Town Beach, a quiet and scenic spot where Lake Tashmoo meets the Atlantic Ocean, nestled at the northern tip of Vineyard Haven.
- Swim and surf in your choice of waters—enjoy calm lake conditions or head to the Vineyard Sound side for gentle ocean waves and coastal breezes.
- Snorkel in warm, shallow water ideal for beginners, kids, and families looking for easy aquatic exploration close to shore.
- Note that access is via a dirt road and the beach can be hard to find—GPS or local directions are helpful. Arrive early to secure limited parking.
- Use available public restrooms and enjoy added safety with lifeguards on duty during peak summer season.
Cost:
Free public access. No fee to enter. Limited free parking is available near the beach access trail.Best time to visit:
Summer for warm water and full lifeguard coverage. Early morning for parking availability and a tranquil start to your day.Local tips:
Bring your own snorkeling gear and supplies—there are no concessions nearby. This beach is a favorite among locals, so weekdays are especially quiet and relaxing.Distance:
Located just north of Vineyard Haven center—approximately 10–15 minutes by car or bike from the ferry terminal.How to Get to Lake Tashmoo Town Beach:
From Vineyard Haven, take Franklin Street to Daggett Avenue and continue on to Herring Creek Road. Follow the dirt road to the end; limited parking is available at the beach access point.Family Beaches on Martha's Vineyard, MA:
5. Lobsterville Beach - 45-minute drive from Vineyard Haven
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Location:
Lobsterville Beach, Lobsterville Rd, Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard, MA 02535Recommended For:
Families, swimmers, anglers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a quiet, scenic shoreline with calm waters and long beach walks.What I Love: ♥
Calm, shallow waters ideal for all ages, serene natural beauty, excellent fishing, and quiet dunes home to nesting birds—all with stunning Vineyard Sound views.- Visit Lobsterville Beach, a peaceful, family-friendly stretch of sand along Menemsha Pond in Aquinnah, offering a two-mile shoreline of calm beauty and island charm.
- Swim in the shallow and calm waters, perfect for beachgoers of all ages, especially children or those new to ocean swimming.
- Fish along the shore—this beach is a popular summer destination for anglers and surf-casters targeting striped bass and other species.
- Snorkel in the clear, gentle waters near the beach's edge, ideal for spotting underwater life without battling strong currents.
- Birdwatch near the dunes where gulls and terns nest during the warmer months, offering a peaceful retreat for nature observation.
- Walk the long, sandy stretch along Vineyard Sound for miles of beachcombing and solitude with panoramic sea views.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Parking is restricted to residents only, so alternative transportation (bike, walk, or drop-off) is recommended for non-residents.Best time to visit:
Summer for the best fishing and swimming conditions. Early mornings or sunset for birdwatching and peaceful beach walks.Local tips:
Pack light and be prepared to walk in from nearby access points if you’re not a local resident. Bring your camera—this is one of the island’s most photogenic and peaceful beaches.Distance:
About 25 miles west of Vineyard Haven—roughly a 45-minute drive across the island.How to Get to Lobsterville Beach:
From Vineyard Haven or Edgartown, drive west toward Aquinnah, following signs to Lobsterville Road. Non-resident visitors should park in nearby public lots or use bikes to access the beach.6. Menemsha Beach - 40-minute drive from Vineyard Haven
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Location:
Menemsha Beach, Chilmark, Martha’s Vineyard, MARecommended For:
Families, sunset lovers, foodies, and travelers looking to experience a traditional New England fishing village vibe with safe swimming and charming local flavor.What I Love: ♥
Safe swimming conditions, small-town charm, incredible seafood, and one of the best sunset views on Martha’s Vineyard.- Visit Menemsha Beach, a beloved family-friendly swimming beach nestled within the island’s last working fishing village, easily reached by car, bus, or bike from Chilmark.
- Enjoy delicious local eats from food vendors offering everything from coastal classics to sweet treats—plus quick access to restaurants nearby famous for fried clams and lobster rolls.
- Swim in warm, calm waters perfect for all ages, with lifeguards on duty during the summer season into early evening for added peace of mind.
- Gather at dusk to experience one of the island’s most magical activities—sunset watching from the shoreline, with crowds settling in for postcard-worthy views.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Parking may be limited in peak season—early arrival recommended.Best time to visit:
Late afternoon through sunset in summer for ideal swimming and unbeatable views. Arrive early to claim a good sunset spot.Local tips:
Bring a blanket and picnic dinner or grab takeout to enjoy on the beach. Don’t forget your camera—sunsets here are stunning. Portable restrooms and limited amenities are available on-site.Distance:
About 22 miles west of Vineyard Haven—approximately a 40-minute drive by car or shuttle across the island.How to Get to Menemsha Beach:
Drive or take the island shuttle to Chilmark and follow signs to Menemsha. Parking is available near the harbor and beach, with overflow lots nearby during summer.Unique Beaches on Martha's Vineyard, MA:
7. Oak Bluffs Town Beach - just a short walk from the ferry terminal in Oak Bluffs
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Location:
Oak Bluffs Town Beach (Inkwell Beach), Seaview Avenue, Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, MARecommended For:
Families, history lovers, ferry travelers, and those looking for a convenient, calm-water beach right in the heart of Oak Bluffs.What I Love: ♥
Walkable from downtown Oak Bluffs, gentle waves perfect for young swimmers, rich cultural history, and peaceful views of Chappaquiddick Island across Nantucket Sound.- Visit Oak Bluffs Town Beach, also known as Inkwell Beach, a centrally located beach stretching on either side of the ferry wharf and just steps from Ocean Park and downtown shops.
- Swim in calm, shallow waters ideal for children and families, with soft sand and a gentle shore that’s easy to access from the town center.
- View the peaceful expanse of Chappaquiddick Island across the north-facing beach, with the sparkling waters of Nantucket Sound as your backdrop.
- Park for free along Seaview Avenue, and use public restrooms located nearby—making this one of the most convenient beaches on the island for quick visits or all-day relaxation.
- Note that lifeguards are not on duty, so visitors should use caution when swimming and always supervise young children closely.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Free street parking available along Seaview Avenue on a first-come, first-served basis.Best time to visit:
Summer for swimming and family outings. Early mornings or evenings for quieter stretches and gentle sea breezes.Local tips:
Bring beach gear and snacks—shops are nearby but the beach itself has no concessions. This beach is rich in African American history; ask a local about its historic nickname, “Inkwell Beach.”Distance:
Located directly within downtown Oak Bluffs—just a short walk from the ferry terminal and Ocean Park.How to Get to Oak Bluffs Town Beach:
From the Oak Bluffs ferry terminal, walk north or south along Seaview Avenue. Beach access is available on both sides of the pier, with public restrooms nearby and parking along the road.8. Katama Beach - 15 minute drive or bike ride from Edgartown
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Location:
Katama Beach (South Beach), Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard, MA – approximately 4 miles south of Edgartown via Katama RoadRecommended For:
Surfers, adventurous swimmers, families, college students, and anyone looking for a dynamic beach day with great waves and ocean views.What I Love: ♥
Intense surf, wide sandy expanses, scenic dunes, and the way the beach naturally divides into zones for both families and adults.- Visit Katama Beach, also known as South Beach, a three-mile barrier beach with Atlantic-facing surf just minutes from Edgartown.
- Surf or watch the pros take on some of the island’s heaviest waves—this beach is one of the top surfing destinations on Martha’s Vineyard.
- Swim with caution—lifeguards are on duty in most areas, but it’s always smart to check posted conditions before entering the surf.
- Explore the beach’s unique vibe: the left side is popular with families and kids, while the right side draws a younger crowd of adults and college students.
- Enjoy beautiful views of sweeping sand dunes and open ocean, with public restrooms and seasonal lifeguard services available on-site.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Public parking lots available nearby, with overflow parking during peak season.Best time to visit:
Summer for the best surf and people-watching. Mornings offer quieter shores while afternoons buzz with activity.Local tips:
Bring your own umbrella and snacks—shade and services are limited. This beach can get windy, so secure your gear. Surfboards and boogie boards are popular here for a reason.Distance:
About 4 miles south of Edgartown—approximately a 10–15 minute drive or bike ride via Katama Road.How to Get to Katama Beach:
From Edgartown, head south on Katama Road. Follow signs for South Beach. Parking lots are available along the beach’s main access points with trail walkways leading over the dunes.If you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Wasque Beach - 30 minutes from Edgartown
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Location:
Wasque Beach, Wasque Reservation, Chappaquiddick Island, Martha’s Vineyard, MARecommended For:
Nature lovers, anglers, swimmers, and those seeking a serene, uncrowded beach experience with breathtaking coastal views and rich wildlife.What I Love: ♥
Seclusion, dramatic natural beauty, excellent surf fishing, and the chance to see iconic New England shorebirds and butterflies in a peaceful, preserved environment.- Visit Wasque Beach, a 200-acre nature preserve on Chappaquiddick Island, named one of New England’s most beautiful beaches by Travel + Leisure and other global outlets.
- Escape the crowds—this half-mile beach is more tranquil than many mainland Vineyard spots, with a ferry from Edgartown offering easy access to Chappaquiddick.
- Swim in the beach’s family-friendly waters or fish for bluefish, bonito, and striped bass, known to be abundant just offshore.
- Spot native wildlife like blue herons, ospreys, egrets, and migrating monarch and sulphur butterflies throughout spring and fall migration seasons.
- Note that a parking fee is collected by The Trustees of Reservations, and additional fees apply for driving over sand with a permitted vehicle.
Cost:
Daily parking fee applies (free for Trustees of Reservations members). Over-sand vehicle access requires a permit and additional fee.Best time to visit:
Late spring through fall for mild weather, peak wildlife sightings, and active fishing conditions. Early mornings offer the most serene experience.Local tips:
Bring binoculars and a camera for birding and wildlife photography. Pack food and water—amenities are limited. Ferry schedules to Chappaquiddick can vary, so plan accordingly.Distance:
About 4 miles from downtown Edgartown by ferry and road—approximately a 20–30 minute trip depending on timing and traffic.How to Get to Wasque Beach:
Take the Chappaquiddick Ferry from Edgartown and follow signage to Wasque Reservation. Parking is available at the main lot near the trail and beach access points.10. Eastville Beach - 10 minute drive from Vineyard Haven
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Location:
Eastville Beach, 351 Beach Road, Vineyard Haven, Martha’s Vineyard, MA 02568Recommended For:
Families, swimmers, early risers, anglers, and those seeking a quieter, low-key beach with a loyal local following.What I Love: ♥
Calm waters perfect for kids, scenic views of Vineyard Haven Harbor, uncrowded ambiance, and gorgeous sunrise and sunset moments tucked between two popular towns.- Visit Eastville Beach, a hidden gem located near the border of Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven, quietly cherished by locals who fill its small parking lot every summer weekend.
- Swim and play in calm, kid-friendly waters—this beach is ideal for young families looking for a stress-free day at the shore.
- Walk the short coastal path to Vineyard Haven Harbor or relax and take in a stunning sunrise or sunset over the harbor and open water.
- Watch for local birds, or bring your gear for some fishing—this spot is both scenic and functional for nature lovers and casual anglers.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Parking is limited, so arrive early, especially during summer weekends and holidays.Best time to visit:
Early mornings for quiet beach strolls or sunrises; late afternoons for harbor views and soft lighting. Summer for peak swimming and birdwatching.Local tips:
Bring your own supplies—there are no concessions or restrooms. Perfect for quick dips and scenic photography, especially during the golden hours of the day.Distance:
Less than 2 miles from both Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs ferry terminals—about a 5–10 minute drive or bike ride.How to Get to Eastville Beach:
Located on Beach Road between Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. Look for the small parking lot near the Lagoon Pond Bridge. Parking is limited but convenient for quick access.Plan Your Trip