On Your Way to Oak Bluffs

The village of Woods Hole, where the Martha’s Vineyard ferry departs from, is a world-renowned hub for marine research. Visitors can drop into the Ocean Science Discovery Center at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to learn about the exploration vessels and latest research, including the REMUS SharkCam, which follows a Great White Shark. Proceeds from the gift shop benefit WHOI's research, education, and outreach activities.

While you wait for the boat, stop by Pie in the Sky. This tiny bakery on the corner of Water Street and Railroad Ave is a beloved pit-stop for ferry goers seeking a strong cup of coffee, a sweet pastry, or a bit of lunch to bring on the boat. Try one of their roast beef roll ups or a famous “wonderbar.”

Welcome to Martha’s Vineyard! Start your trip by learning a bit about the island at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. This newly renovated museum occupies a former marine hospital with incredible views looking out over Vineyard Haven Harbor. Inside, the first-order Fresnel Lens, which was once installed in the Gay Head Lighthouse, is the centerpiece of the spacious museum. The permanent and rotating exhibits (including a few outdoors) are a great introduction to the island, its past, and its people.

Now that you've learned a little about Martha's Vineyard, it's time to hit the beach! Joseph Sylvia State Beach is one of the best free beaches on the island. While it does get crowded in summer, roadside parking is plentiful enough for patient drivers to find a spot. Lounge in the sun, search for seaglass along the shoreline, rent a kayak to paddle around Sengekontacket Pond, or take the big plunge from the famous “Jaws Bridge.”

There are a number of great restaurants to choose from in Oak Bluffs Harbor, but the best seat in the house is Coop de Ville, a laid-back waterfront joint with a small but scenic open-air patio. “Coop’s” is known for its chicken wings, but most other menu items fall into the classic seafood camp, like fried clams, a raw bar, and lobster rolls. There’s typically a sports game playing at the bar, but all eyes face west when the sun sets over the harbor.

Summercamp Hotel moved into the historic location of the former Wesley Hotel on Lake Ave in 2016 and brought with a twist of whimsy. As if to one-up it’s already stunning location on the harbor, Summercamp boasts brightly colored, cheerful rooms, games in an astro-turf lined rec hall, and a Camp Canteen with throwback snacks and sodas.