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Best Hotels in Edgartown

A seal in the water, which is wildlife you can see in Massachusetts.

Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect place to escape to when you’re craving the slower pace of life. The popular New England vacation destination is known for its laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, there is no shortage of things to do that’ll have you exploring the island’s beauty while taking it easy. In fact, some of the best things to do also give you a chance to get an up-close look at the wildlife found in Massachusetts.

Before getting into where you can see wildlife, it’s important to know what to look for. The Vineyard and surrounding water are home to an array of animals, including harbor seals, over 300 species of birds, deer, blue crabs, and so much more.

Visit a Wildlife Refuge or Nature Area

Some of the best places to see animals that call Martha’s Vineyard home are wildlife refuges and nature areas. The Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is a top destination for wildlife and bird watching. It also offers guided walks and seasonal wildlife programs. There’s also the Long Point Wildlife Refuge, which is over 600 acres of dunes, woodland, beachfront, and trails.

Go on a Boat Tour

Book your spot on wildlife-centric boat tours to explore marine life like seals and seabirds. Plan Sea Adventure Charters, which departs from Edgartown, is excellent for scenic sailing and wildlife watching. Another great option is Sail the Vineyard, a Vineyard Haven-based charter whose tours include wildlife viewing and scenic ocean experiences. 

Other Opportunities

There are countless other ways to spot animals on your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. Grab a pair of binoculars and head to Wasque or Cape Poge in the fall or winter to look for seals. Wait for low tide and look for crabs and shells in tidepools. For a unique animal encounter, check out the Island Alpaca Company, which hosts events like alpaca yoga and alpaca walks.

Enjoy Some R&R on a Martha’s Vineyard Vacation

Bike rentals an Edgartown hotel to use to search for wildlife in Massachusetts.

You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to plan a getaway to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Now is the perfect time to pack your bags and treat yourself to a break from everyday life by planning a getaway to our hotel in Edgartown. During your stay, enjoy encounters with wildlife in Massachusetts, search for the best lobster roll, and so much more.

When you make us your preferred home base, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable stay. Choose from our selection of well-appointed accommodations, including luxury suites and even pet-friendly rooms. Take advantage of our incredible amenities, like in-season continental breakfast, concierge services, free bike rentals, and afternoon treats. 

See for yourself why we are one of the best hotels in Edgartown by reserving your stay today. Learn more about our Martha’s Vineyard hotel or how to save on your stay by calling 508-627-4711.

Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
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
A group of people exploring a popular attraction on their Martha's Vineyard weekend getaway.

Sometimes all you need to recharge your batteries is three days and an unforgettable destination. With its salty sea air, charming cobblestone streets, and a slower pace of life, Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect place to head for a weekend getaway. Whether you arrive by ferry or plane, the New England island feels like a world away from ordinary life the minute you arrive. Position yourself to enjoy the best the Vineyard has to offer by booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. To help you plan a vacation that’s equal parts relaxing and adventurous, we’ve put together this sample Friday to Sunday itinerary. 

Friday: Arrive & Explore Edgartown

While you can’t check in to your room until 3 p.m., that doesn’t mean you have to wait until then to start having fun. Stop by to drop off your bags, then set off to explore Edgartown. Treat yourself to some retail therapy at local shops, like The Black Dog and Edgartown Books. Go for a walk to Edgartown Lighthouse, one of the best spots to enjoy golden-hour views over the harbor. Enjoy a delicious meal at Chesca’s Restaurant, which is found right at our Edgartown hotel. We recommend turning in early so you can rest up for a Saturday full of fun.

Saturday: Discover the Magic of the Vineyard

Saturday is likely your only full day on the Vineyard, which means it’s the perfect time to explore some of the attractions and sights the island has to offer. Before you get too far into your adventures, fuel up at a local coffee shop like Espresso Love. Once you’re properly caffeinated, set off on memorable adventures. Popular options include:

1. Seeing the famous colorful clay cliffs in Aquinnah

2. Going on a sightseeing tour with Martha’s Vineyard Sightseeing Bus

3. Fishing with a local charter

4. Going for a ride on the Flying Horses Carousel

5. Exploring the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest

6. Taking in the colorful gingerbread cottages that make up part of the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association

7. Taking in the sunset on a cruise with Mad Max Charters 

You’re sure to get hungry throughout your adventures. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible places to eat all over the Vineyard. Try some of the best lobster rolls at Square Rigger Restaurant, or stop by a cafe like Rosewater Market. End your day with a nightcap at nearby Rockfish.

Sunday: A Slow Farewell

On your final day, enjoy a delicious breakfast at Edgartown Diner before going for one last walk along the shoreline at Joseph Sylvia State Beach, which was a main shooting location in Jaws. As you head out of town, swing by any of the above attractions you didn’t get to visit on Saturday.

Book Your Martha’s Vineyard Vacation in Edgartown

A place to relax at a Martha's Vineyard hotel on a weekend getaway.

Before you can create your own perfect Martha’s Vineyard weekend getaway itinerary, you need to book your accommodations. There’s no better place to stay than Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Our boutique hotel features well-appointed accommodations that are perfect for groups of all sizes. With fantastic on-site amenities and cost-saving special offers, we have everything you could want from a home away from home. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more.

Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
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
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.

Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
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
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.

Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
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

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.

Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
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