vineyard-hero
Home-Slider4-K1-20180605-VSH-EmilyOBrienPhoto-294-Edit_LUXONEBEDLOCKOFF_LIVINGRM_FACINGBALCONY2
Home-Slider3-20180605-VSH-EmilyOBrienPhoto-1353-Edit_BREAKFAST_FOODDETAIL_FROMABOVE2
Home-Slider5-20180605-VSH-EmilyOBrienPhoto-934-Edit_FRONTPORCH_GUESTS2

Hotels in Martha’s Vineyard

The view of Martha's Vineyard which is often in a debate vs Nantucket.Picking the perfect vacation destination can involve a lot of pro and con list making. Two of the most popular New England spots both reside off the southern coast of Cape Cod. Both Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard have been attracting countless vacationers for years, and for good reason. However, there are differences between these two Massachusetts hot spots. To help you in your decision-making process, the Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites team has put together a Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket cheat sheet. 

The Differences

One of the first main differences between these two islands is their size. Martha’s Vineyard is almost twice the size of Nantucket, measuring in at 96 square miles. Because of its larger size, Martha’s Vineyard is home to several towns, each with their own unique personality.  While both islands are home to stunning scenery, there are noticeable differences in what you can expect to see. Martha’s Vineyard features rolling hills and high cliffs, while Nantucket is flatter. If you’re looking to spend time on the beach, both New England spots are home to incredible beaches. However, because of its larger size, there is more coastline on Martha’s Vineyard. Some of the best beaches near our Edgartown hotel include Lighthouse Beach and South Beach, which are the perfect places to enjoy incredible beach activities

The Similarities

While the two islands have plenty of differences, there are also several similarities.
  • Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are great places to enjoy outdoor activities, like kayak tours with Island Spirit Kayak through Martha’s Vineyard waterways.
  • Both are home to lighthouses that serve as landmarks to their maritime past, including the Edgartown Lighthouse.
  • Summer is the main tourist season.
  • Both are great to explore on bike rentals, like those available to our guests or from local shops like Edgartown Bicycles.
  • Both are the perfect destination for everyone, from families to couples looking to make lifelong memories.

Plan Your Martha’s Vineyard Vacation

The view of an Edgartown hotel to stay at when deciding on Martha's Vineyard vs Nantucket.As a boutique hotel in Edgartown, our vote in the Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket debate will always be Martha’s Vineyard. See for yourself why we feel our New England island is the better vacation destination by planning a memorable visit. Overlooking the Edgartown harbor, our hotel is the perfect home base for your stay. Be close to all that makes this area unique while having a relaxing place to call home. We offer several accommodation styles, which means you can choose the one that fits your group best. Learn more about our hotel and Martha’s Vineyard by calling 508-627-4711. We can also answer questions about current special offers.
Spend a Day at the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
See the Next Big Thing at a Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival
A Guide on How to Get to Martha’s Vineyard
A Look at the History of Our Edgartown Hotel
Celebrate the Season | A Guide to Christmas in Edgartown
Where to Get the Best Lunch in Edgartown
Go Exploring with the Best Martha’s Vineyard Tours
Treat Yourself to Fine Dining at the Top Edgartown Spots

A photo of a lighthouse in one of the various Martha's Vineyard towns.Just off the coast of Cape Cod sits an island that, while small, is full of adventure to be had. While Martha’s Vineyard is only about 100 square miles, there are six quaint towns that each have their own identity. Let Edgartown and Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites serve as your home base. Located in the heart of town, this charming hotel is the ideal place to lay your head after exploring everything these adorable destinations have to offer.

The Six Towns of Martha’s Vineyard

Whether you visit one town or all six, you can find something unique to do or see in every location.

Aquinnah

As the westernmost town, Aquinnah is the perfect place to see the sun sink into the water. Visit the Aquinnah Cultural Center, which looks to preserve and document the Aquinnah Wampanoag history and culture, or explore local shops like Bowen’s Arrow in the cultural district. This town is also home to Gay Head Lighthouse, one of the most iconic locations on the island. 

Chilmark

Known for its rolling hills and the authentic fishing village of Menemsha, visitors to Chilmark need to stop by the Chilmark General Store. This Martha’s Vineyard institution is only open seasonally, so be sure to check its website before arriving. This town is a must-stop for those visiting in the spring when the town hosts The Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival

Edgartown

Home to Vineyard Square, Edgartown is the perfect blend of old-world charm and open spaces. Explore landmarks around town by visiting the Edgartown Lighthouse or The Carnegie. Don’t forget to spend time just wandering historic Main Street. 

Oak Bluffs

Known as the liveliest town, Oak Bluffs is home to colorful gingerbread cottages, which are iconic to Martha’s Vineyard. Be sure to stop by the Flying Horses Carousel, the oldest continuous carousel in the country. 

Vineyard Haven

This working harbor village in Tisbury is the year-round port for the island. Vineyard Haven has a diverse cultural district full of interesting landmarks like the mural on the second-floor gallery of the Katharine Cornell Theatre or the whaling and industry captains’ homes on Williams Street. If you get hungry during your adventure, stop by Black Dog Tavern, which is a great spot to grab a meal or logo-ed gear.

West Tisbury

From the white church steeple to small farm stands, West Tisbury screams quintessential New England. Take a step back in time by stopping into Alley’s General Store. Watch stunning artwork come to life at Martha’s Vineyard Glassworks

Enjoy a Relaxing Martha’s Vineyard Escape

A photo of a room at a hotel in Edgartown, one of the various Martha's Vineyard towns.The best way to truly understand what makes Martha’s Vineyard such a unique vacation destination is to explore the towns that make it up. Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites offers the perfect place to relax after a long day of fun. Overlooking Edgartown Harbor, our hotel is the right mix of comfort and luxury. When booking your stay, select from a range of accommodation options, including rooms and suites. Our knowledgeable concierge staff can answer any questions you may have during your stay. To learn more about booking your stay or on-site amenities, call 508-627-4711.

Spend a Day at the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
See the Next Big Thing at a Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival
A Guide on How to Get to Martha’s Vineyard
A Look at the History of Our Edgartown Hotel
Celebrate the Season | A Guide to Christmas in Edgartown
Where to Get the Best Lunch in Edgartown
Go Exploring with the Best Martha’s Vineyard Tours
Treat Yourself to Fine Dining at the Top Edgartown Spots

A photo of someone searching for sea glass at one of the best beaches in Martha's Vineyard.When you stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, you’ll have spectacular views of Edgartown Harbor and the waters surrounding this town near Martha’s Vineyard. There’s a range of fun activities to enjoy, from biking the island to discovering lighthouses or hiking area trails. A staple adventure for anyone visiting the area is spending a day at some of the best beaches in Martha’s Vineyard. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a range of activities that’ll make your beach day one for the books.

 

A Checklist of Martha’s Vineyard Beach Activities

Whether you’re setting your towel out at Lighthouse Beach/Fuller Street Beach, South Beach, State Beach, or East Beach at the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation, there’s no shortage of fun beach activities everyone will enjoy. 

Some beaches are open to the public, while others require a residence pass or have restrictive parking, so be sure to do your research before you visit.

  • Fish from the shoreline. Known as surfcasting, this sport is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Stop by Coop’s Bait & Tackle or Larry’s Tackle Shop to stock up on the necessary supplies and get advice from local anglers.
  • Enjoy some friendly competition by playing a game or two of volleyball at South Beach, which has nets already hung.
  • Walk along the shoreline looking for sea glass and Wampum. This is a popular expedition for those visiting State Beach. 
  • Go for a swim. The waters at beaches like State Beach are calmer, perfect if you’re visiting with younger children. South Beach’s water is known for large waves, so only strong swimmers are advised to enter.
  • See what lives beneath the surface by snorkeling. When you set off from the beach, you can swim out as far as you’re comfortable. 

An image of a hotel near some of the best beaches in Martha's Vineyard.Escape to Sandy Beaches during Your Edgartown Getaway

With miles of coastline, there’s no shortage of beaches to explore during your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Guests of all ages will enjoy the range of beach activities available to them. After a day soaking in the Massachusetts sun, relax back at our charming hotel. Visit Sea Spa Salon, which is located in our lobby, for a bit of pampering, or hit up our complimentary fitness center. Offering a range of rooms and suites, our rooms offer something for every budget and style. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more about booking your stay at our Martha’s Vineyard hotel or special offers.

Spend a Day at the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest
See the Next Big Thing at a Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival
A Guide on How to Get to Martha’s Vineyard
A Look at the History of Our Edgartown Hotel
Celebrate the Season | A Guide to Christmas in Edgartown
Where to Get the Best Lunch in Edgartown
Go Exploring with the Best Martha’s Vineyard Tours
Treat Yourself to Fine Dining at the Top Edgartown Spots