A Different World Martha’s Vineyard Reunion

Martha’s Vineyard is a celebrated island getaway just 7 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, offering both historic richness and contemporary allure. Known for its charming villages, dramatic cliffs, and miles of shoreline, the Vineyard is a beloved summer destination prized for its natural beauty, distinctive architecture, and vibrant community spirit.

A Brief History and Origins

• Originally called Noepe by the Wampanoag people—who have lived here for thousands of years—the island was renamed in 1602 by British explorer Bartholomew Gosnold for his daughter Martha and the wild grapevines edging the land.
• Today, about one-third of the island remains protected, preserving a landscape where grand hotels are absent but endless bike trails and pristine beaches abound.

The Towns and Their Personalities

• The island comprises six unique towns: Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven (Tisbury), Edgartown, West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah.
• Oak Bluffs is famous for its whimsical “gingerbread” cottages and the Flying Horses Carousel—the oldest operating platform carousel in America67.
• Edgartown is known for its stately white Greek Revival captain’s houses dating to the whaling era and boutique-lined streets.
• Chilmark and Aquinnah provide tranquility and iconic natural sites like the breathtaking Aquinnah Cliffs.

What Makes Martha’s Vineyard Special?

• Summer brings a dramatic population surge—from about 23,000 year-round residents to up to 200,000 people—creating a lively yet laid-back seasonal energy.
• The island is accessible mainly by ferry, adding to its sense of separation and exclusivity.
• There are no chain hotels or fast-food outlets in the heart of the island, preserving the local flavor and encouraging independent restaurants, bakeries, and boutiques.

Must-See & Must-Do

• Explore by bike—many of the island’s prettiest routes trace the shoreline, connecting historic towns, lighthouses, and ocean overlooks67.
• Visit Aquinnah Cliffs for their colorful, ancient layers and panoramic ocean views5.
• Sample fresh seafood at a casual dockside shack or dine al fresco at one of the island’s acclaimed restaurants.
• Stroll through the Oak Bluffs Campground to marvel at its whimsical Victorian cottages.

Diversity and Community

• Martha’s Vineyard is also remarkable for its diversity and its significant role in Black American history, serving as a traditional vacation spot for Black families and notable figures for generations, a legacy still honored by cultural events across the summer calendar.

Local Tips

• The cost of living is significantly higher than most of the U.S., but the experience—whether for a day trip or a summer—remains unforgettable1.
• Leave your car behind if you can: The island is best enjoyed by bike, foot, or the very user-friendly public bus network.

Whether you’re drawn to historical sites, serene beaches, farm-fresh cuisine, or vibrant summer festivals, Martha’s Vineyard invites discovery—from windswept cliffs to storybook cottages—which is why it remains an enduring symbol of New England’s coastal allure.