The Magic of Martha's Vineyard

A few months ago I took a trip to Martha’s Vineyard that I simply must share. Martha’s Vineyard is a small island off the coast of Massachusetts. It is the 3rd largest island on the east coast. It is only accessible via boat or private plane. This island, most known for its jaw dropping landscapes and historic architecture makes it the perfect weekend east coast get away. Martha’s Vineyard is most famous for providing a place to unwind for celebrities like Steven Spielberg, or prominent political families like the Kennedy’s. However what surprised me the most was the elaborate African American history that this island has to offer.

Even today Martha’s Vineyard has a very large African American population. The migration of African Americans to this island began in the 1800’s when freed slaves began to settle on the island. Because segregation still existed, there were still certain homes that did not allow people of color to reside. That’s when Charles Shearer, (son of a slave) established Shearer Cottage; the very first hotel for African American people on Martha’s Vineyard. This hotel would attract the likes of many prominent members of the African American community to include Adam Clayton (the 1st African American congressman) to Martin Luther King Jr.

Although Martha’s Vineyard is only 100 square miles in size, it houses 6 main areas for visitors. These include Oak Bluff, Aquinnah, West Tisbury, Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Chilmark. During my stay on the island I visited Edgartown, Aquinnah and Oak Bluff. I actually loved all of these areas for all different reasons. Edgartown is definitely for me the most “tourist friendly”. Edgartown has the most gift shops, restaurants, spas and retail areas. There is a little something for everybody there.

Edgartown

Oak Bluff for me was very steeped in tradition. Oak Bluff is lined with some of the most beautiful and architecturally stunning homes I have ever seen. There are also great restaurants and shops to visit here as well.

Oak Bluff

Oak Bluff

Oak Bluff Ice cream Shop

However if I had to pick, for me hands down my favorite part of Martha’s Vineyard was Aquinnah Beach. The views don’t even look real. In addition it houses two of the biggest tourist attractions of Martha’s Vineyard, the Aquinnah Light house and the cliffs.

Aquinnah Cliffs

Aquinnah Lighthouse

Aquinnah Beach

Another thing I was so impressed by was the transportation. Martha’s Vineyard has its own public transportation system called the VTA. This bus system will literally get you anywhere on the island. My only advice is to be aware of the schedule. As some routes don’t run all day.

I was also so surprised to see the large number of people that actually live on this island. Martha’s Vineyard has its own hospital, grocery stores, post offices etc. Most people don’t even realize this, because the locals tend to blend in with the tourist.

All in all there is so much to say and experience on this magical island, too much to squeeze into this article. But if you are ever on the east coast and need a getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life take a weekend trip to Martha’s Vineyard, thank me later….lol