A Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Guide for a Romantic Escape

A Martha's Vineyard honeymoon has it all—lighthouses on rocky shores, beaches, seafood, bustling bars and restaurants; what more could you want? If you've never been to this east coast honeymoon destination in the US, Martha's Vineyard is a tiny Massachusetts island located just south of Cape Cod. It offers a low-key environment that's perfect for newlyweds looking to decompress in an area surrounded by romantic New England charm.

When it comes to planning a honeymoon in Martha's Vineyard, let us be your guide. Whether you'd like to bike along scenic trails, indulge in gourmet dining or simply soak up the sunsets over the Atlantic, use our expert tips to plan your Martha's Vineyard honeymoon itinerary.

Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Honeymoon in Martha's Vineyard
• Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Places to Visit on a Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon
• Best Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
• Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for a Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon

Photo: KenWiedemann | Getty

Best Time to Honeymoon in Martha's Vineyard

Come between May and September to savor the beaches. To avoid families, the best time to visit would be in May, early June or September when kids are in school and hotel pricing is slightly lower. Just know the weather in May could be too cold for the beach, and hurricane season begins in September.

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Best weather: May to September.
Festival highlights: Consider visiting during the Martha's Vineyard Wine Festival in May, the MV Cup Regatta in July or the Agricultural Fair in August.

Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Planning Tips

Consider Martha's Vineyard for a mini-moon or as part of a longer trip that also includes relaxing on beautiful beaches in Nantucket and Cape Cod. While on this summer colony, you'll be in good company—the Obamas even own an estate on its shores.

Couples who want to splurge will appreciate how the crowd tends to sway a bit more mature and established. "Think high-profile celebrities and business executives," say Kara Bebell and Harlan deBell, co-owners of The Travel Siblings.

"It's really relaxing," says Alexandra Rice, a Reco by Trip Advisor trip designer. "You feel like you're on island time without a care in the world."

Since the island is relatively compact, couples can check out all the sights during their trip. Plus, Martha's Vineyard is relatively easy to access. Although no bridges or tunnels connect it to the mainland, couples can fly or take a ferry, say Bebell and deBell. From New York City or Boston, you can fly direct, which takes about an hour. Or, hop on the ferry from Falmouth or Hyannis on Cape Cod; the ride is a mere 45 minutes, and you can bring your bike or car on board.

"If you plan to bring your car on the ferry, book as far in advance as possible," Rice says. "Not all ferries take cars, so they book up fast." Whether you bring a car is up to you, say Bebell and deBell. Driving will allow you to explore more, but you can get around on foot or by bike, especially if you're staying downtown for just a few days.

Martha's Vineyard is a summer colony, meaning only the warm months are ideal for a honeymoon—so keep that in mind before buying flights. Since the island is so seasonal and popular, expect high rates. Because there are only a few hotels, reserve a room early, Rice says. Otherwise, you'll need to book a vacation rental.

Entry requirements: You won't need your passport, but bring your ID.
Language: English.
Location: Martha's Vineyard is located south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, USA. It is accessible by ferry or air from the mainland.
Currency: USD.
Flight time to Destination: From major US cities like New York, it's about a 1-hour flight to the Martha's Vineyard Airport in Vineyard Haven.
Getting around: The best ways to explore Martha's Vineyard are by renting bicycles, mopeds, or cars. Public transportation via buses serves major towns and attractions efficiently. Taxis and rideshare services are also available, providing flexible travel options across the island.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to help you with your Martha's Vineyard honeymoon itinerary. Find a travel agent near you on The Knot Marketplace.

Places to Visit on a Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon

The island includes six towns, all of which are worth seeing.

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Aquinnah

Head to this romantic getaway to visit the scenic Gay Head Lighthouse and Gay Head Cliffs. The latter are a national landmark composed of colorful layers of clay.

Chilmark

Stop in Chilmark for stunning coastlines, cliff views, sandy beaches and the quaint fishing village of Menemsha.

Oak Bluffs

In this town, you'll find miles of beaches and an energetic nightlife, say Bebell and deBell. Don't miss the 19th century gingerbread cottages at The Campground. You'll marvel at their bright hues and oversized wooden trim.

Vineyard Haven

Shop and stroll on the Main Street. While in this ferry stopover point, order a lobster roll at The Net Result and a cone at Bernie's Home Made Ice Cream.

West Tisbury

History buffs can explore Grange Hall, a post-and-beam building from 1859 that's also the Vineyard's center for agriculture and commerce.

Edgartown

Stroll through colonial-era buildings in what was the oldest English settlement in the Vineyard. Stop by the Edgartown Lighthouse, which dates back to the 1800s, and take the ferry to the one-road Chappaquiddick Island.

Best Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

Martha's Vineyard offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts and quaint inns to private rentals and cozy cabins. Many places provide special honeymoon packages with romantic extras like champagne on arrival, private tours and couples' spa treatments. Choosing a location that aligns with your interests—whether it's near the beach, close to nature trails or in the heart of town—can enhance your stay. Just make sure to book well in advance.

Photo: Gary D'Ercole | Getty

Harbor View Hotel

Both Rice and The Travel Siblings highly recommend this waterfront spot. With a heated saltwater pool, complimentary bikes, a fitness center and many dining options, Harbor View Hotel offers a wealth of amenities on-site. It's also just a few minutes from downtown Edgartown, which has boutiques, galleries and restaurants.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Charlotte Inn

Also in Edgartown, this Relais & Chateaux property is an iconic American-style hotel, say Bebell and deBell. Built in 1864, the inn offers ornate English and colonial-style rooms, plus modern amenities. "A romantic dinner for two at The Terrace Restaurant is a must," they say.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pequot Hotel

With its decorative lattice and porches, the charming Pequot Hotel fits right in among the gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs. Situated one block from the beach and four blocks from the ferry, the romantic hotel offers a daily continental breakfast.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: If you're looking for more Martha's Vineyard honeymoon accommodations, consider staying at a romantic Airbnb or VRBO; they may provide a little more privacy, affordability or unique stays.

Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Couples who go on a Martha's Vineyard honeymoon will have plenty of romantic things to do and natural beauty to see. "Whether it's walking a beach, exploring a bluff or spotting a lighthouse, there will be something scenic at every turn that will remind you that you're in New England," Rice says.

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Bike

Bebell and deBell recommend booking a bike tour, though you can always bring your two-wheelers and explore the island by yourself.

Head to the Beach

Don't miss out on all the beautiful beaches in Martha's Vineyard. Go to South Beach, Joseph Sylvia State Beach, Lake Tashmoo Town Beach, East Beach and Menemsha Beach, say Bebell and deBell.

Take a Boat Ride

"I always recommend a boat excursion, whether it's a day trip or a sunset sail," Rice says. Hotels can help guests arrange private charters or go on a group sail, add Bebell and deBell. For a unique experience, they recommend booking the oyster tour available at the Harbor View Hotel. You'll board an open-deck boat and travel to Cottage City Oyster Farm, where you can sample fresh oysters and soak up sea views.

Explore the Island's Architecture

Martha's Vineyard features luxury homes in a range of styles, some from the early 19th century. Couples who appreciate architecture will be able to view Victorian, Cape Cod, colonial revival, modern and contemporary structures.

Pro tip: Include Martha's Vineyard honeymoon experiences on your gift registry, so your friends and family can contribute to your post-wedding bliss. Make sure to post a few photos to your wedding website—this way all of your guests (including those without social media accounts) can see what you're up to.

What to Pack for a Martha's Vineyard Honeymoon

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"While packing lightly for a honeymoon isn't always an easy feat, choose luggage you can easily maneuver on and off a ferry or into a transfer car," say Bebell and deBell.

If you plan on bicycling, bring a sun hat, sneakers and pants in your honeymoon luggage. For daytime, think casual beachwear, like pullover sweaters, shorts, coverups and flip-flops. For evening, bring summer dresses, polo shirts, khakis, linen pants, button-downs and blouses. Your packing checklist should also include a light sweater or jacket for when the sun goes down, Rice says, as the sea breeze can be cool.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.