Summer is here, and if you’re craving a beach escape, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are perfect. These Massachusetts islands boast pristine beaches, charming towns, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets. Whether it’s a weekend getaway from New Jersey or a longer trip, this Cape Cod retreat offers the perfect New England vibe.
A 4-day trip to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard costs around $800 per person, covering lodging, food, ferry tickets, and gas. If you’re flying from the West Coast or beyond, airfare will vary. The Steamship Authority ferry offers easy access to these islands, with routes from Boston and New York. This makes them one of the top vacation spots on the US East Coast.
Before diving into the perfect itinerary, here are some essential travel tips to help you plan your trip seamlessly!
Travel tips for Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket
Stay & Drive –
The drive from New Jersey to either Falmouth or Cape Cod, Massachusetts takes about 5 to 5.5 hours, making them great options for affordable stays with easy access to ferry ports. If you’re traveling from New York, it’s a 4.5 to 5-hour drive to Hyannis or Woods Hole. You can catch a Steamship Authority ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket from here. From Boston, it’s a 1.5-hour drive to the ferry terminals.
For those flying in from other parts of the US East Coast or beyond, the nearest airports are Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Rhode Island. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Hyannis or Woods Hole, followed by a ferry to Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, or Martha’s Vineyard Island. If you prefer to stay on the islands, you’ll find a variety of accommodations, from boutique inns to luxury hotels in Nantucket, MA, and charming stays in Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard.
Ferry Booking –
The ferry is the only way to reach Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, and Martha’s Vineyard Island. It’s highly recommended to pre-book your Steamship Authority ferry tickets well in advance. The spots fill up quickly especially during the summer season and holiday weekends.
Ferries to Martha’s Vineyard operate from Woods Hole and take approximately 45 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. Ferries to Nantucket depart from Hyannis and take about 2 hours and 15 minutes. If you’re short on time, a 1 hour high-speed ferry to Nantucket is also available from Hyannis.
Both standard and high-speed ferries offer passenger-only and vehicle transport options. But vehicle slots are limited, so advance booking is essential. All Steamship Authority ferry reservations can be made online for a hassle-free experience.
Other attractions –
If you have an extra day, consider exploring Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It is a beautiful coastal region that requires no ferry booking, as it is well-connected to the mainland by road. Cape Cod offers charming seaside towns, scenic coastal drives, and fresh seafood. Popular stops include Provincetown, known for its vibrant arts scene and picturesque dunes. Another place is Chatham, famous for its historic lighthouse and stunning beaches.
You can also visit the Cape Cod National Seashore, which boasts miles of unspoiled beaches and scenic hiking trails. If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss the chance to try the region’s famous lobster rolls and clam chowder at local eateries. Cape Cod is a great addition to your itinerary, providing a relaxed New England coastal experience before or after your visit to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
A Day-by-Day Travelogue
Day 1 – Arrival & Drive to Cape Cod or Falmouth
Your journey to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket starts with a scenic drive to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, or Falmouth, depending on your accommodation choice. Spend the evening unwinding and exploring the charming coastal vibe. You can take a leisurely stroll along Falmouth’s beaches, visit the Shining Sea Bikeway, or enjoy a traditional New England seafood dinner. Get plenty of rest for an exciting ferry ride to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket the next day!
Day 2 – Exploring Martha’s Vineyard
Start your day early and catch the ferry from Woods Hole, Falmouth, to Martha’s Vineyard. The island has two main ports: Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. While you can choose either, Oak Bluffs is livelier and a great starting point for a day trip.
Getting to Martha’s Vineyard
- Ferry Duration: ~45 minutes
- Ticket Prices: ~$10 per adult (one way); up to $130 if bringing a vehicle
- Parking: No dockside parking at Woods Hole; use off-site lots with a free shuttle service to the terminal
Oak Bluffs – Upon arrival, explore Oak Bluffs, known for its Victorian architecture and relaxed vibe. Grab a coffee or a hearty breakfast at one of the charming cafés. Later, head to the Gingerbread Cottages – A collection of whimsical, brightly painted Victorian homes, straight out of a storybook. You can also visit the Flying Horses Carousel, which is the oldest carousel operating platform in the US, dating back to the 19th century.
For getting around, you can rent bikes or opt for the shuttle service ($8 per person for a day pass), which is budget-friendly and runs frequently.
Edgartown – Next, take the shuttle to Edgartown, a charming harbor town with a quieter, more refined atmosphere. Spend time devouring some of the best lobster rolls, clam chowder. You can also wander through the boutique shops for some souvenir shopping and treat yourself with a scoop of homemade ice cream later.
South Beach – After lunch, hop on the shuttle for a 10-minute ride to South Beach, one of the best Martha’s Vineyard beaches. Relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Aquinnah Cliffs & Sunset at Gay Head Lighthouse – Wrap up your day with a visit to the breathtaking Aquinnah Cliffs and the historic Gay Head Lighthouse. This spot offers dramatic coastal views of the clay cliffs. This natural wonder shaped over thousands of years offers one of the best sunset views on the island. The island is also home to the indigenous people of Wampanoag Tribe
Return to Woods Hole & Dinner – Take the evening ferry back to Woods Hole. Before you leave, consider having dinner in Martha’s Vineyard, as many restaurants in Falmouth close by 8 or 9 PM.
This concludes your perfect one-day trip to Martha’s Vineyard. Get some rest, because Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, awaits on Day 3!
Day 3 – Exploring Nantucket
Another day, another island! Today, it’s time to explore the charming Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. Known for its rich whaling history, iconic lighthouses, and pristine beaches, this island is a must-visit on your East Coast itinerary.
Getting to Nantucket
- Ferry Departure: From Hyannis Port (tickets available via Steamship Authority)
- Options:
- Regular Ferry – ~2 hours ($20.50 per adult, one way)
- High-Speed Passenger Ferry – ~1 hour ($42.50 per adult, one way)
- Parking: Check the Steamship Authority website for up-to-date parking options near Hyannis Dock.
Since Nantucket is larger than Martha’s Vineyard, renting a car is the best way to explore the island efficiently.
Whaling Museum & Nantucket’s Historic Charm – Start your day at the Whaling Museum, which showcases Nantucket’s maritime legacy and its past as one of North America’s most prominent whaling ports. Pre-book your tickets to avoid long queues.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse & Sconset Bluff Walk – Next, drive to Sankaty Head Lighthouse, one of the most distinctive lighthouses on the East Coast. Its red and white brick design contrasts beautifully against the deep blue sky, making it a fantastic photo spot.
Then, head to the Sconset Bluff Walk, a stunning public footpath along the east shore of Nantucket. This walk takes you past picturesque cottages with classic gray shingles and blooming climbing roses—a signature look of Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. There is no designated parking for the trail, but you can find parking spots around town.
Beach Time at Madaket Beach – For a relaxing afternoon, drive to Madaket Beach, located on the south side of the island. Known for its soft sands, clear waters, and stunning sunset views, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just unwinding by the ocean.
Brant Point Lighthouse & Departure – Before catching your evening ferry, make a quick stop at Brant Point Lighthouse, the second-oldest functioning lighthouse in the US. Located near the wharf, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary and a great place for one last iconic Nantucket photo.
If you’re looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path adventure, consider visiting the Great Point Lighthouse. However, reaching this lighthouse requires either a 7-mile walk on sand or a 4WD vehicle with a beach permit.
Dinner & Ferry Back – There are plenty of restaurants near the wharf where you can grab a quick bite before taking the evening ferry back to Hyannis.
Wrapping up Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket
This is undoubtedly one of those trips that provides a perfect escape from the daily grind while treating you to some of the most stunning panoramic views on the East Coast. Whether you’re enjoying the charm of Martha’s Vineyard or discovering the coastal beauty of Nantucket, this getaway guarantees relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
Have you visited Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket? Share your favorite spots in the comments and spread the travel inspiration!
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