This week, we're launching Gothamist's travel content, Gothamist Getaways. Four times a year, we'll have a week of posts featuring looks at travel, food, products and tips, near and far, for making your trips more pleasurable. So enjoy and let us know if you have any hints for us—email [email protected].
Want to summer in Martha’s Vineyard? Start planning in the spring. To keep costs down and avoid crowds, take your trip to Martha's Vineyard in June. That's when the weather will be warm, and the island becomes accessible by an easy ferry ride from New York City. Even better, the island won't be overrun with high-season crowds.
GETTING THERE:
Don’t feel like sitting in a stalled car on 95 or dealing with security lines at the airport? We don't blame you. Instead, travel in style and sip a cocktail aboard the Seastreak Ferry. The 5-hour boat trip to the Vineyard departs from 35th Street Pier in Manhattan each Friday and returns Sunday evening.
GETTING AROUND:
Though adventurous types who want to explore the entire island can rent a car or moped once they've arrived, it really isn't necessary for a quick weekend trip. The island is relatively small and very walkable, plus bicycle rental services, taxis and public buses abound.
For more information on getting around the island, including links to car and bicycle rental services,click here.
WHERE TO STAY:
Situated on a tree-lined street in the classic New England village of Edgartown, The The Charlotte Inn was built in 1864 as a wealthy merchant's home, and has been open as a hotel since the 1920s. A weekend stay here will make you feel like you’re a guest in a stately English manor, and its convenient location close to beaches, restaurants, and shops means no car is needed. Rooms start at $395/ night.
For something just as well reviewed, check out the Hob Nob Eco Boutique hotel. This green-friendly hotel has rooms that start at $425/night in high season. Earlier dates are as little as $150/night in April and $175/night in May (though you should know that the off-season means many of the island's establishments are closed or have limited hours).
For last minute availability, check out the Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce, which also promotes coupons for midweek and "walk in" deals at a variety of properties on the island.
WHERE TO EAT:
Art Cliff Diner Truck: What New Yorker doesn’t love food trucks? Art Cliff, an island favorite famous for their breakfasts featuring local eggs and farm-fresh produce, recently opened the island’s first and only food truck. The Art Cliff Diner Truck operates from 5pm to 2am and is home to late night eats like pork tacos, parmesan fries, and the “bikini weenie” hot dog. (39 Beach Road, Vineyard Haven)
Donovan's Reef
This country chic farmhouse restaurant is one of the Obamas’ favorite dinner spots. State Road focuses its attention on local seafood, ingredients, and produce—some of which is grown in their very own backyard garden! For dessert, try the private label chocolate bars uniquely named after each Vineyard town. We love the “Edgar-Bar.” (688 State Road, West Tisbury)
Get A Drink at Donovan's Reef: At first glance, this waterfront bar may look like a tourist trap, with bumping Reggae beats and sea-themed decor. Give it a chance, though—resident bartender Donavon will win you over with Island flair and Caribbean-inspired cocktails. Sip a rum punch and watch the mega yachts glide into the Oak Bluffs harbor. Try our favorite drink, the Dirty Banana: a frozen cocktail of fresh banana, rum, and dark chocolate. (Donavon’s Reef at Nancy’s Restaurants, 29 Lake Avenue, Oak Bluffs)
Score Speakeasy Sweets: Back Door Donuts is a late night secret known only to locals and longtime summer residents. To find it, head to Martha’s Vineyard Gourmet Cafe & Bakery, in the parking lot behind the Reliable Market. The bakery serves apple fritters and fresh donuts every evening from its back door—and believe us, the goods are worth seeking out. Visit between 7:30pm and 12:30am daily. (5 Post Office Square, Oak Bluffs)
WHAT TO DO (BESIDES THE BEACH):
See the Gingerbread Cottages: Spend an afternoon wandering around the iconic Gingerbread Cottage colony in Oak Bluffs. The hundreds of tiny, candy-colored 19th-century houses feature dainty Victorian details and charming nomenclature (one cottage is called “Wooden Valentine”). In the center of the colony, you’ll find the Trinity Park Tabernacle, a lovely open-air amphitheater built in 1873. It’s a great place to relax for a few moments—just don’t follow any breadcrumb trails while you’re there.
Enjoy the View: The cliffs at Aquinnah (Gay Head) are deservedly famous and make for a dramatic, majestic tableau. They also offer stunning views of Aquinnah Lighthouse (Gay Head Lighthouse) and the Vineyard Sound. Also check out Menemsha, one of the rare spots on the East Coast where you can view the sunset over the water.
