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Hannah Burlingame

A woman biking on a Martha's Vineyard vacation.

If you’re dreaming of a coastal getaway destination that’s known for its laid-back atmosphere, abundance of natural beauty, and array of activities, Martha’s Vineyard should be at the top of your list. The popular New England spot is the ideal place to go when you need to recharge your batteries. If your upcoming Martha’s Vineyard vacation to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites is your first time to the Vineyard, keep reading to learn more about what to do on your visit.

How Do You Get to Martha’s Vineyard?

Before diving into things to do while you’re here, let’s first discuss how to not only get to Martha’s Vineyard but also get around once you’re here. The most popular way to reach the Vineyard is by ferry. There are several services departing from different ports, so you can easily find one that’s close to you. Once you reach the island, there are a number of modes of transportation to get you from our Edgartown hotel to your adventures, including public transportation and bikes.

Where to Dine?

There’s no shortage of restaurants to try during your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. If you’re looking to try some of the best lobster rolls the island has to offer, stop by Square Rigger Restaurant or The Seafood Shanty. For a sweet treat, check out The Scoop Shack, Rosewater Cafe, or Mudrick’s Fudge. Head to Alchemy to try the risotto balls, or make reservations to dine at Chesca’s Restaurant, found right at our hotel. Our local and knowledgeable staff can provide even more recommendations on their favorite places to dine.

Must-See Sights

There’s something to see everywhere you look. Visit the oldest operating carousel in the country by heading to Oak Bluffs to ride the Flying Horses Carousel. Learn about local history at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, which is filled with local artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to the Egartown Lighthouse, which you can climb when it’s open for the season. One of the best ways to see a number of attractions is on a bus tour, like the Martha’s Vineyard Sightseeing Bus.

What to Do?

When researching what to do on Martha’s Vineyard, it won’t take long to discover the wealth of adventure. One of the best things about a Martha’s Vineyard getaway is that you can do as much or as little as you want. Check out one of our complimentary bike rentals and explore the island on two wheels. If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love sailing with Pirate Adventures Martha’s Vineyard. For an adventure-filled day on the water, book your spot with a local fishing charter. Spend a day exploring the charming nearby Chappaquiddick Island, home to the 200-acre Wasque. Our blog is a great place to turn for ideas of things to do during your stay at our Edgartown hotel.

Make Our Edgartown Hotel Your Go-To Home Base

A sitting area of an Edgartown hotel room to book for a Martha's Vineyard vacation.

As you start planning your first Martha’s Vineyard vacation, where you stay can make all the difference. Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites is the perfect home base for everyone from solo travelers to families and every group in between. Our boutique hotel has everything you need to relax and unwind during your stay. 

Our accommodations include one-bedroom suites, dog-friendly rooms, harborview rooms, and more. Having such an array means we can host groups big and small. Our hotel also features a number of amenities, like concierge services, a fitness center, afternoon treats, and more. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more about what makes us one of the best hotels on Martha’s Vineyard and our current special offers.

A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at Cafes in Edgartown
Cast Your Line with Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Charters
The Best Places to Eat on Martha’s Vineyard for Sweet Treats
A couple planning their Martha's Vineyard vacation.

When Martha’s Vineyard starts to slow down for the off-season, it’s time to turn your attention to planning next year’s memorable escape. From booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites to researching memorable things to do, there are plenty of things to do before your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. To help you get ready, we’ve put together a guide to frequently asked questions travelers have before they arrive.

How Do You Get to Martha’s Vineyard?

The best way to reach Martha’s Vineyard is by ferry. There are several service options available, and your best one will depend on where you are departing from. For example, the Steamship Authority is a great option for those departing from Woods Hole and bringing their car. There’s also Seastreak, which has fast ferry service from New Bedford. If you’re visiting between May and September, check out the Rhode Island Fast Ferry, which is a seasonal and passenger-only ferry.

Another great option that not everyone knows about is flying. Cape Air, Delta, and JetBlue all offer in-season flights.

Pro Tip: Book your ferry reservations early, especially if you are visiting during the peak season.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around the Island?

While you can bring your car, there are plenty of other ways to get from our Edgartown hotel to your adventures. Public transportation courtesy of the Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority is a great option. Some routes connect you to every town on the island. 

You can also go for a scenic ride on a rental bike. While we do offer complimentary bike rentals to our guests, we only have a limited number. If ours are all checked out, stop by Wheel Happy Bike Shops and Edgartown Bicycles.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning on riding the bus, purchase a multi-day pass.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

The best time to visit can vary greatly depending on what you want to do during your stay. Summer is peak season and has great water and lively events. Soak in the sunshine at local beaches like Lighthouse Beach, or go on a sailing tour with Nauti Girl Excursions.

For a more relaxed and less crowded visit, plan your stay for late spring or early fall. For those visiting in the spring, you can enjoy popular natural attractions like the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest or the Island Alpaca Company without worrying about large crowds.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in the off-season, many businesses close or operate on shorter hours, so be sure to check websites for up-to-date information.

What Amenities Do We Offer?

A group of people on bikes on their Martha's Vineyard vacation.

Our hotel offers you more than a well-appointed room. We also have a number of amenities, all designed to enhance your stay. This list includes complimentary in-season continental breakfast, a fitness center, free bike rental, complimentary off-site parking, free use of beach chairs, board games, and afternoon treats.

Pro Tip: Be sure to stop by our front desk to ask our friendly staff for recommendations on where to eat and things to do during your Martha’s Vineyard vacation.

When Should You Book Your Stay at Our Edgartown Hotel?

Now! Winter is the best time to plan your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. Booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites early means you can get your top choice of lodging. Reserving your accommodation early means you have one less thing to worry about as your trip draws closer. Learn more about our hotel on Martha’s Vineyard and how to save by calling 508-627-4711.

A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at Cafes in Edgartown
Cast Your Line with Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Charters
The Best Places to Eat on Martha’s Vineyard for Sweet Treats
Someone with the best lobster roll on Martha's Vineyard.

Despite its small size, Martha’s Vineyard is filled with endless adventure and incredible amenities. This includes fantastic places to eat. When staying at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, get your fill of sweet treats from local bakeries, enjoy a delicious sandwich at local cafes, or fuel up at a coffee shop. During your next stay at our Edgartown hotel, discover where to find the best lobster roll on Martha’s Vineyard.

7 Places to Try Lobster Rolls Near Edgartown

Our boutique hotel is surrounded by some of the best places to eat on Martha’s Vineyard, including several places to try lobster rolls. Operating hours can vary depending on the season, so be sure to check each restaurant’s site or call for up-to-date information.

1. Found in a former sea captain’s home, Square Rigger Restaurant is often considered home to one of the best lobster rolls in Egartown. The classic roll features fresh lobster meat that’s lightly dressed and served on a toasted bun.

2. Head to Dock Street and dine at The Seafood Shanty. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed waterfront setting as you enjoy a roll that they claim is the biggest in town.

3. Find both cold lobster salad rolls and hot buttered versions at the Edgartown Seafood Market. This is a great option if you’re looking for something you can take to-go and bring with you on your adventures.

4. If you’re on Main Street, check out The Wharf Pub. Enjoy a roll with lettuce, mayo, or your choice as you sip on a local craft brew.

5. Locals and visitors alike love the dish found at Quarterdeck. The classic, no-frills lobster-roll shack in Edgartown serves up an “old-fashioned” roll that’s the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

6. Choose from a jumbo roll or sauteed roll at Rockfish. Both options feature claw and knuckle meat on a grilled brioche roll.

7. Katama General Store is more than a beach bodega. It’s also a great to-go option if you’re hoping to enjoy your lunch by the beach. The rolls here are dressed in brown-butter mayo.

Plan Your Unforgettable Martha’s Vineyard Escape

An Edgartown hotel close to the best lobster roll on Martha's Vineyard.

The off-season is the ideal time to plan your next trip to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. After booking your well-appointed accommodation, turn your attention to researching things to do and places to visit during your stay. This includes looking up where to find the best lobster roll on Martha’s Vineyard or where to take breathtaking photos.

As you get started planning your next getaway, take time to look at our Martha’s Vineyard hotel deals. These special offers enhance your vacation and can help you save money along the way. Our reservationists are here to answer any questions you have about these cost-saving deals or why we are one of the best places to stay on Martha’s Vineyard. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more.

A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at Cafes in Edgartown
Cast Your Line with Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Charters
The Best Places to Eat on Martha’s Vineyard for Sweet Treats
A view of Martha's Vineyard, a popular vacation destination debated vs Cape Cod.

When planning New England vacations, you have your choice of several incredible destinations. However, two spots are often at the top of the list, but in the debate of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard, which one comes out on top? While both are excellent options, the experience on each is quite different. To help you see why Martha’s Vineyard should be the next trip you take, the Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites team has put together this guide highlighting the similarities and differences of these charming coastal spots.

The Similarities

Both Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard are home to stunning coastal beauty. You can enjoy classic New England charm, scenic lighthouses, and pristine beaches at both. Thanks to their coastal location, you can easily enjoy fantastic seafood. For guests at our Edgartown hotel, we recommend Chesca’s Restaurant and Atlantic Fish and Chop House. Both destinations are comprised of quaint villages and towns, including Edgartown and Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard.

The Differences

While Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard share many similarities, they are truly distinct and unique destinations.

1. You can easily reach Cape Cod by car, while Martha’s Vineyard can only be reached by ferry or plane. This adds to its exclusive, tucked-away feel.

2. As previously stated, both spots are comprised of charming towns and villages. However, Martha’s Vineyard is smaller, making it easier to explore.

3. Martha’s Vineyard has more of a secluded, relaxed, and upscale atmosphere.

4. Even during peak season, Martha’s Vineyard is generally less crowded. Enjoy a more intimate and less commercialized experience. 

Experience the Magic of Martha’s Vineyard for Yourself

A guestroom at an Edgartown hotel to relax in when researching Cape Cod vs Martha's Vineyard.

Overall, in the debate of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard, the latter provides the tranquility, charm, and exclusivity of a true island getaway. It is the perfect place for a memorable escape, and there’s no better place to stay than Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites.

Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, you’ll find our Edgartown hotel is the ideal home base. This is in part thanks to our array of accommodations. We have lodging options perfect for groups of all sizes, and our reservationists can help you book the one that’s right for you. In addition, our on-site amenities help make us one of the best hotels in Edartown. For more information on our Martha’s Vineyard hotel or special offers, call 508-627-4711.

A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at Cafes in Edgartown
Cast Your Line with Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Charters
The Best Places to Eat on Martha’s Vineyard for Sweet Treats

Martha’s Vineyard is not only known for its laid-back atmosphere and endless adventure, but it’s also home to an abundance of natural beauty. Whether taking in views from the water as you cast your line fishing or visiting local farms, there are plenty of ways to surround yourself with stunning sights when staying at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. During your next stay at our Edgartown hotel, explore some of the places on Martha’s Vineyard that provide postcard-worthy backdrops for your photos.

Attractions and Backdrops to Capture on Martha’s Vineyard

From recognizable landmarks to colorful attractions, there’s no shortage of places to visit on your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. Capturing these spots on “film” is the perfect way to make sure you can look back on the fun you had for years to come.

1. Make a visit to the Aquinnah Cliffs at sunset. Also known as the Gay Head Cliffs, the red and white clay cliffs overlooking the ocean are especially beautiful at this time of day.

2. No stay at our Edgartown hotel is complete without visiting the Edgartown Lighthouse. Capture the classic New England Lighthouse with sweeping harbor views.

3. Spend some time in Oak Bluffs so you can take photos of the Gingerbread Cottages. The whimsical and brightly colored Victorian cottages make for vibrant, playful shots.

4. Martha’s Vineyard is home to the oldest carousel in the U.S. The Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs adds a touch of nostalgia to your scrapbook.

5. If you’re planning a day trip to Chappaquiddick, better known as Chappy, check out the Mytoi Japanese Garden. This peaceful space features flowering trees, bridges, and ponds.

6. Go for a walk through Edgartown Harbor and Main Street. Take photos of the charming shops and white-clapboard houses.

7. For stunning sunset photos, head to Lambert’s Cove Beach, East Chop Lighthouse, or Menemsha Harbor. All three spots provide you with unbelievable views.

Enjoy the Slower Pace of Life on a Martha’s Vineyard Vacation

From taking photos at Martha’s Vineyard landmarks to enjoying a cozy cafe, there are plenty of things to do that combine relaxation and adventure. Start planning your break from everyday life by booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Found in downtown Edgartown, our boutique hotel is the ideal home base for anyone looking to enjoy a bit of R&R. 
Our expansive lodging options include one-bedroom luxury suites, harborview rooms, dog-friendly options, and more. We also provide you and all our guests with fantastic amenities, like free bike rentals, afternoon treats, a fitness center, and in-season continental breakfast. See why we are one of the best hotels in Edgartown by reserving your stay today. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more about booking your visit or how to save.

A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at Cafes in Edgartown
Cast Your Line with Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Charters
The Best Places to Eat on Martha’s Vineyard for Sweet Treats