The Best Island Beaches on Martha's Vineyard
Enjoy a day in the sun at one of the best island beaches on Martha's Vineyard. Among the many charms of Martha's Vineyard is scenic beaches.
Chilmark Beaches
Lucy Vincent Beach
(PRIVATE - Residents Only): On the South Shore, this beach has rich red and brown clay cliffs all along the beach. The sky seems to pick up the color in the cliffs, deepening the blue if the sky is clear.
Menemsha Public Beach
(PUBLIC): A beach area with lots of activity, a little store, a gas station and fish market. The beach is still, with deep blue water, and is suitable for children. The sunsets are spectacular.
Squibnocket Beach
(PRIVATE): A bubbling sea on the South Shore, it has the most energetic surf of all the beaches on the island. This is the Surfer's Delight!
Edgartown Beaches
East Beach
Cape Pogue Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation (PUBLIC - Fee for 4x4 Vehicles): Located on Chappaquiddick Island, a lovely, unadulterated beach. One of only two public "drive on" beaches. Be prepared for restrictions on vehicle access due to the existence of an endangered species; the Piping Plover.
Fuller Street Beach
(PUBLIC): At the end of Fuller Street, near Lighthouse Beach.
Katama Beach (South Beach)
(PUBLIC - Fee for 4x4 Vehicles): A three-mile long beach at the end of Katama Road, on the South Shore. One side is a protected still pond, the other a lively surf. One of only two public "drive on" beaches. Be prepared for restrictions on vehicle access due to the existence of an endangered species; the Piping Plover.
Lighthouse Beach
(PUBLIC): A harbor beach (near Fuller Street Beach) close to the center of town, at Starbuck's Neck off North Water Street. Great for watching the sun rise or set, as well as moon-gazing.
Gay Head (Aquinnah) Beaches
Gay Head Cliffs and Beach (PRIVATE- RESTRICTED BY LAW
As a result of climbing on the cliffs and the removal of clay, both of which are prohibited by law, this beach is off-limits.
Gay Head Public Beach (Moshup Beach) (PUBLIC)
At the cliffs, at the end of Moshup Trail is this surf beach which extends from Philbin Beach at the foot of the multi-colored cliffs.
Lobsterville Beach (PUBLIC)
Along Lobsterville Road, this beach is two miles of Vineyard Sound beach, a popular Seagull nesting area, and a favorite Lobsterville Beach fishing spot. Menemsha is right across the jetty.
Philbin Beach (PRIVATE - Gay Head Residents Only)
A surf beach off of Moshup Trail. Secluded and peaceful.
Oak Bluffs Beaches
Eastville Beach (PUBLIC)
At the bridge between Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven, this beach is part of the harbor where hundreds of sailboats are moored; is quiet and calm.
Joseph Sylvia State Beach (PUBLIC)
This beach stretches for two miles along the road between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. It is an expansive beach with an excitable surf, and a wide open view perfect for watching sunsets and full moons.
Oak Bluffs Town Beach (PUBLIC)
Near the Steamship Authority Dock, it is a short walk from town, is safe for children, and is a great place to sit while waiting for the ferry.
Tisbury (Vineyard Haven) Beaches
Lake Tashmoo Town Beach (PUBLIC)
At Herring Creek on Lake Tashmoo, where the lake meets the ocean. It's quiet and peaceful, and you can fish.
Owen Park Beach (PUBLIC)
A harbor beach off Main Street near the center of town, a great place to watch boats and harbor activity, while catching sun and a cool, protected swim.
Tisbury Town Beach (PUBLIC)
Next to the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, at the end of Owen Little Way.
West Tisbury Beaches
West Tisbury South Shore Town Beach (PRIVATE - Residents Only)
Remote, with an energizing surf.
Lambert's Cove Beach (PRIVATE - Residents Only)
On the North Shore, light blue water and soft white sand.