In the summer of 2023, I had the chance to experience Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket, Massachusetts, on a four-day trip—and both islands left me in awe. From the stunning beaches of Martha’s Vineyard to the historic charm of Nantucket Island, each offers a unique coastal escape. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Oak Bluffs or the timeless beauty of Nantucket’s cobblestone streets, both destinations offer a slice of paradise on the U.S. East Coast.
Luckily, these islands are easily accessible for those living on the East Coast USA, with ferry options available. For those flying in, the nearest airports are Boston Logan International Airport for Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Memorial Airport for Nantucket, Massachusetts.
But if you’re short on time and must choose just one island, this blog will help! Up next, I’ll break down the highlights of both islands before diving into the key differences, so you can pick the perfect spot for your next getaway.
Martha’s Vineyard: A Larger, Diverse Coastal Escape
At almost 100 square miles, Martha’s Vineyard Island is the larger of the two, offering a diverse mix of landscapes, charming towns, and coastal beauty. The island is easily accessible by Steamship Authority Ferries to Martha’s Vineyard, with regular departures from Woods Hole, Falmouth, making it a convenient getaway for travelers.
Martha’s Vineyard is home to six unique towns, each offering something special:
- Oak Bluffs – A lively harbor town known for its colorful Gingerbread Houses, historic Flying Horses Carousel, and vibrant waterfront at Oak Bluffs Harbor.
- Edgartown – A sophisticated seaside town featuring elegant captain’s homes, boutique shops, and scenic harbor views.
- Vineyard Haven – The main ferry hub with a mix of shops, art galleries, and local eateries.
- West Tisbury – A rural escape with rolling farmlands and the famous Alley’s General Store.
- Chilmark – Known for its dramatic coastline, quiet countryside, and fresh seafood.
- Aquinnah – Home to the breathtaking Aquinnah Cliffs, the historic Gay Head Lighthouse, and the Wampanoag Tribe, who have lived here for centuries.
One of the best ways to explore the island is by biking through Martha’s Vineyard, stopping at scenic spots along the way. Spend the day relaxing on Martha’s Vineyard beaches, including South Beach and Joseph Sylvia State Beach, or take in the panoramic coastal views at Aquinnah Cliffs. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, or a relaxed island vibe, Martha’s Vineyard offers an unforgettable experience.
Nantucket: A Quaint, Historic Island Escape
At just 50 square miles, Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, is smaller than Martha’s Vineyard, yet it exudes a unique charm with its iconic gray, weathered shingle buildings and cobblestone streets, whispering stories of its rich maritime past. Unlike Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket has just one main town, making it a more compact and intimate island to explore.
Easily accessible via ferry from Hyannis, Massachusetts, Nantucket offers stunning beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Some of the best Nantucket beaches include:
- Surfside Beach – Great for families, with soft sand and gentle waves.
- Cisco Beach – A surfer’s paradise with bigger waves and a laid-back vibe.
- Siasconset Beach (“Sconset”) – A scenic spot with dunes and charming cottages.
Beyond the beaches, Nantucket is home to many museums and art galleries, with the Whaling Museum standing out as a must-visit. It offers a deep dive into the island’s whaling history, featuring fascinating artifacts and a massive whale skeleton.
Visitors can also explore Nantucket’s historic lighthouses, including:
- Great Point Lighthouse – Located on a remote stretch of sand, offering stunning ocean views. Reaching this lighthouse requires either a 7-mile walk on sand or a 4WD vehicle with a beach permit—so plan accordingly!
- Sankaty Head Lighthouse – One of the most photographed landmarks on the island, perched on dramatic cliffs.
Whether you’re strolling through Nantucket’s charming town, learning about its whaling history, or relaxing on its pristine shores, the island provides a perfect mix of history, nature, and coastal beauty.
Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket: Key Differences
If you’re short on time and can only visit one, here’s how Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, compare across key factors:
Size & Layout
Martha’s Vineyard is larger, covering about 96 square miles, with six distinct towns, each offering something unique—from the lively energy of Oak Bluffs Harbor to the historic charm of Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard.
Nantucket Island is smaller, spanning just 50 square miles, with only one main town, making it easier to explore in a short time.
Accessibility & Transportation
Both islands are accessible via ferry from Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Martha’s Vineyard ferries run from Woods Hole via the Steamship Authority Martha’s Vineyard Ferry, with additional routes from Boston and New York in peak seasons.
Nantucket ferries also run via the Steamship Authority and high-speed services like the Hy-Line Cruises from Hyannis.
Nearest airports: Both islands have airports, but Nantucket Airport (ACK) is larger and has more direct flights from New York to Nantucket and other East Coast hubs.
Ferry Transportation & Travel Time
Martha’s Vineyard is quicker to reach, with the Steamship Authority ferry from Woods Hole taking about 45 minutes. The standard ferry is $10–$20 per person one way.
Nantucket is farther offshore, making travel longer and more expensive. The Steamship Authority ferry from Hyannis takes 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the high-speed ferry takes 1 hour. The standard ferry costs $20 one way, while the high-speed ferry can go up to $45 one way.
Cost & Affordability
Nantucket, Massachusetts, is more expensive than Martha’s Vineyard, with higher hotel rates, fine-dining experiences, and boutique shopping.
Martha’s Vineyard offers a broader range of accommodations, including budget-friendly hotels in Martha’s Vineyard.
Culture & Atmosphere
Martha’s Vineyard has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, attracting vacationers looking for beaches, biking trails, and a mix of casual and upscale experiences.
Nantucket feels quieter, more exclusive, and deeply historic, with cobblestone streets, gray-shingled homes, and a rich maritime past.
Activities & Attractions
Martha’s Vineyard is perfect for:
- Biking across the island and exploring diverse towns.
- Visiting Aquinnah Cliffs, Martha’s Vineyard, home to the Wampanoag Tribe and the Gay Head Lighthouse.
- Relaxing on Martha’s Vineyard beaches, from family-friendly to secluded spots.
Nantucket is ideal for:
- Exploring Nantucket’s Whaling Museum to learn about its maritime heritage.
- Visiting iconic lighthouses like Sankaty Head Lighthouse and Great Point Lighthouse.
- Enjoying surfing, sailing, and boutique shopping in Nantucket’s historic town.
Overall Experience
Martha’s Vineyard is great for a relaxed, activity-filled getaway with a mix of nature, history, and lively towns. Nantucket offers a more intimate, high-end retreat, rich in history, natural beauty, and coastal charm.
Both islands are stunning. So Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket, your choice depends on the experience you’re looking for!
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