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edgartown hotel

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 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.

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
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.

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
A person stocking the bakery case at one of the best places to eat on Martha's Vineyard for something sweet.

Not only is Martha’s Vineyard home to an abundance of adventure, but it is also home to an incredible culinary scene. From charming local coffee shops to a delicious food and wine festival, the New England island is the perfect foodie escape. If you’re craving something sweet during your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, you’re in luck. You can easily find an array of sweet treats like ice cream, chocolate, and more near our Edgartown hotel. To help you satisfy your cravings, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to eat on Martha’s Vineyard for when your sweet tooth strikes.

Many of the spots on our guide are open seasonally. Remember to check their websites or call ahead if it’s early or late in the season to confirm their hours.

Where to Find Ice Cream

If you’re staying with us over the summer, cool off with a cup, cone, or sundae from a nearby ice cream shop. The Scoop Shack is known for its small-batch creations, while Mad Martha’s has been a Martha’s Vineyard staple since 1971. For a quick yet delicious option, check out Vineyard Scoops, found only a few blocks from our Edgartown hotel.

Where to Find All Kinds of Goodies

For a variety of treats all in one place, check out some of the decadent bakeries on Martha’s Vineyard. Rosewater Cafe has an extensive selection of scratch-made baked goods. Espresso Love is a great place to relax with a cup of coffee and a sweet treat like a cookie or a Magic Bar. If your ferry ride ends at Vineyard Haven, stop by Sweet Bites to grab something to enjoy when you get to our hotel.

Where to Find Creamy Chocolate

Martha’s Vineyard is also home to several places that satisfy any chocolate craving you may have. Mudrick’s Fudge has a case full of decadent fudge in a range of flavors, while Enchanted Chocolates in Oak Bluffs has everything from chocolate-covered espresso beans to chocolate bars.

Treat Yourself on a Martha’s Vineyard Escape

The bedroom of a Martha's Vineyard hotel close to some of the best sweet places to eat.

Stopping by some of the best places to eat for sweets on Martha’s Vineyard isn’t the only way to treat yourself on vacation. When booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, reserve one of our luxury rooms. These accommodations offer extra privacy and relaxation. Relax watching the sunset from your private balcony, or relax in your spa-like bathroom. Learn more about this lodging style or other accommodations at our hotel in Edgartown by calling 508-627-4711. Be sure to ask about our 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