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PUBLISHER’S LETTER DE AR VISITORS, Welcome to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard — two of New England’s most iconic and beloved destinations, each offering its own unique charm, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re discovering the windswept beaches and historic towns of Cape Cod or soaking in the coastal magic and artistic spirit of Martha’s Vineyard, we’re thrilled to help guide your journey. This publication is your ultimate companion — packed with curated recommendations, local

insights, hidden gems, and can’t-miss activities that bring both destinations to life.

On Cape Cod, you’ll find a captivating blend of scenic bike trails, classic lighthouses, world-class golf, vibrant villages, and incredible seafood. Whether it’s a whalewatching excursion, a scenic train ride, or a leisurely stroll through a seaside town, the Cape offers a little something for everyone — from the tranquil shores of the Upper Cape to the raw beauty of the Outer Cape.

Across the water on Martha’s Vineyard, the pace slows, and the possibilities are endless. Wander through charming island towns, explore breathtaking beaches, tee off at the renowned Farm Neck Golf Club, and enjoy locally inspired cuisine. With its mix of history, art, adventure, and natural beauty, the Vineyard continues to enchant visitors year after year.

As you explore these pages, we hope they inspire moments of joy, discovery, and connection — whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. And while you’re out and about, be sure to support the wonderful local businesses featured here — many of which make these communities so special — and let them know you saw them in the Visit Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod publication.

You’ll also find QR codes throughout the guide which allow you to download the Discover Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod app — a helpful tool to plan your island adventures on the go.

Thank you for choosing Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. Here’s to creating unforgettable memories in two unforgettable places.

CHEERS,

Garry

GARRY DUELL, JR. Publisher, Visit Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod

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contents VISIT CAPE COD AND MARTHA’S VINEYARD 2025/26

IN-ROOM AND DIGITAL PUBLICATION FOR MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod

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This starfish art piece evokes the coastal elegance and natural beauty of Cape Cod. Photo by J. Kevin Foltz.

Gently afloat on calm waters — a quiet nod to the Vineyard’s timeless coastal allure.

Photo by Alison Shaw.

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FROM ARTISAN JEWELRY AND SEA-GLASS KEEPSAKES TO STYLISH BOUTIQUES AND LOCAL ART, CAPE COD IS A COASTAL SHOPPER’S DREAM. W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

Provincetown Pier Shops

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Get ready for an unforgettable experience

Explore this picturesque peninsula

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stay connected Take us with you on the go!

View the digital edition of this publication at www.northsouthnet.com.

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Six Towns, Endless Charm

Adventure Awaits

Dive Right In

Beyond the Shoreline

Sea and Shore

Happy Landings

Coastal Cravings

A C C O M M O D AT I O N S

A Family Affair

A Taste of the Island

Cape Cod Collectibles

Dive Into Discovery

F U N F O R FA M I L I E S

Trinkets and Treasures

The Art of the Vineyard

Find Your Perfect Escape

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A C C O M M O D AT I O N S Island Getaway

Vineyard Living

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Guide to dining, shopping, and activities 2025/26

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WELCOME to

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Coastal charm, rich history, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable escape.

Whether you're here for windswept beaches, scenic bike rides, fresh-caught seafood, or quaint village strolls, the Cape offers something for everyone. Come explore, unwind, and experience the timeless magic that makes this destination a beloved favorite year after year.

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CA P E C O D

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Exploring

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AWAITS

FROM BIPLANE RIDES AND SHARK CAMS TO VINTAGE TRAINS AND PRESIDENTIAL RETREATS, CAPE COD OFFERS EXHILARATING LAND, SEA, AND SKY ADVENTURES FOR ALL AGES. W O R D S B Y Lisa Simundson

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C A P E C O D I S A M O N G the top three most-searched destinations online, and for good reason. “The Cape” offers thrilling outdoor adventures, captivating marine life, breathtaking views, and peaceful retreats. It’s a blend of excitement and tranquility that has something for every visitor and member of the family.

Extending 65 miles into the Atlantic, you’d expect Cape Cod to offer an ocean’s worth of water-related activities — and it does. But it also offers experiences as dynamic as its 550 miles of unspoiled coastline. Historic lighthouses still stand guard against the crashing waves. Great white sharks swim silently near the ocean floor, occasionally coming up enough for you to get a picture. Thrills continue with biplaning or hang gliding through the open skies, as well as cycling through verdant forest trails.

Don’t forget your phone or camera — Cape Cod is full of postcard-perfect vistas. In fact, the region has received national recognition for its scenic beauty. Photography company Mixbook recently ranked Nauset Beach in Orleans at No. 8 on its list of the 100 most breathtaking views in the United States. Other notable spots include Scargo Tower in Dennis and Race Point in Provincetown, both celebrated for their stunning panoramas.

E XPLORING THE UPPER CAPE Dinner Is On Track Travel forward (and back in time) aboard the Cape Cod Central Railroad, whose vintage dining cars recall the early 1900s while treating your taste buds to a five-course feast.

From May to October, these three-hour culinary journeys depart from Hyannis, Buzzards Bay, and Falmouth, offering mouthwatering Chateaubriand, delicate pan-seared scallops, and fragrant basil pesto gnocchi. The view is beautiful inside and out — with candlelight and soft music playing, you’ll be taking in a view of dunes, forests, and cranberry bogs.

Two-hour day excursions viewing the Cape Cod Canal reveal even more scenic treasures.

The dinner train is for ages 12 and up, but the railroad offers a variety of adventures for the little ones.

Sharks Are Cool Kids can’t get enough of sharks. But why wait for Shark Week when you can dive into the world of these incredible predators year-round at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Ocean Science Discovery Center? Come faceto-face with great whites through the Institute’s

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CA P E C O D Exploring

Through the Looking Glass All that glimmers is glass at the Sandwich Glass Museum, where the art and science of glassmaking in Sandwich celebrates 200 years in 2025.

Glassblowing is a matter of heat, chemistry, and talent — and you’ll watch expert glassblowers as they demonstrate this ancient art. Meanwhile, exhibits span everything from historical pieces to works by contemporary artisans. Create your own masterpiece during an hour-long class with an expert glassblower, who will help you create an ornament or paperweight. It’s a great activity for families and couples.

Cape Cod Airfield in Marstons Mills. Don’t forget your sunglasses!

E XPLORING THE MID CAPE Presidential Encounters As the summer home of the Kennedy family dynasty for generations, Hyannis and Hyannis Port have a special place in this country’s history. You can immerse yourself in the Kennedy era at the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, housed in a former 1921 town hall building and offering an intimate glimpse into the life of the 35th president that you won’t experience anywhere else. Exhibits chronical Kennedy’s transformation from carefree Cape Cod youth to national leader, illustrated in images of football games, sailing expeditions, and precious family moments and leading to the moment when newscaster Walter Cronkite announced the president’s assassination. Open year-round with longer summer hours.

Going Sky-High Get a bird’s-eye view of the Cape aboard an authentic 1930s biplane, taking in breathtaking views of lush forests, sandy beaches, the picturesque Cape Cod Canal and the historic bridges spanning it — and if you’re lucky, a magnificent whale breaching the surface of the Atlantic or Cape Cod Bay. One or two passengers ride in the front cockpit on 15-, 25-, and 35-minute rides; and there’s no age limit: Everyone from grandparents on down is welcome. Tours operate throughout summer (9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.) from CC6

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Let’s Play Founded in 1927, The Cape Playhouse was created as a premier summer theater, bringing the magic of Broadway and Hollywood to Cape Cod. Dubbed by the New York Times as “the place where Broadway goes to summer,” over the years the Playhouse has hosted such legendary performers as Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart, and both Henry and Jane Fonda. Almost a hundred years later, The Cape Playhouse continues to captivate audiences with world-class productions created exclusively for its stage. Children’s programming includes the Playhouse Palooza summer series.

Be a Pedal Pusher Cycle through six Cape Towns along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, running for 25 miles past incredibly scenic vistas, from cranberry bogs and rivers to open prairies and forested land that includes Nickerson State Park in Brewster. Built on the Cape’s old railway route, the trail is completely paved — making it easy for riders of all levels and ages — with bike shops offering rentals and repairs along the way. Running from Yarmouth to Wellfleet, the trail is also ideal for walking and running and features several branches, including the Old Colony Rail Trail to Chatham.

Unburied Treasure Arrr, don’t let the kids miss this one. On April 26, 1717, Captain Sam Bellamy’s ship Whydah went down with all hands on board in a violent storm off the coast of Cape Cod. There were rumors about a treasure, but

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cutting-edge REMUS SharkCam — an innovative underwater robot that tracks these majestic animals in their natural habitat. While you’re there, journey to the depths where the Titanic was discovered and explore the Ocean Twilight Zone, a mysterious region of the ocean that harbors the planet’s highest concentration of animal life. It’s a learning experience for the whole family.

NEW ENGLAND LATITUDE,

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CA P E C O D Exploring

WORDS BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

Traveling with Your Pup Find out what to pack, where to stock up on supplies, and where to take your furry friend for some bark-worthy adventures.

ape Cod is a tailwagging paradise — if you know where to go and come prepared. Before you head out, be sure to pack the essentials: a leash, waste bags, fresh drinking water, a travel bowl, a towel, toys, food, and treats. If you happen to forget something, the Falmouth Pet Center in the Upper Cape town of Falmouth has you covered with everything from holistic pet food to supplies for dogs, cats, and even small critters.

Across the Cape, dog-friendly accommodations are easy to find, including vacation rentals, cozy inns, motels, and familiar hotel chains that welcome furry companions with open arms.

Beaches: There’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing your four-legged friend run down the beach with ears flapping in the wind. Many public and town-managed beaches on the Cape don’t allow dogs from May 15 to September 15, but they do in the offseason. During the summer, head to the Cape Cod National Seashore, where leashed dogs are welcome year-round. Be aware of temporary pet closures, marked by signs at beach entrances, to protect nesting shorebirds.

Near the tip of the Cape, Provincetown Dog Beach offers off-leash hours from 6 to 9 a.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. In the Lower Cape, Jackknife Harbor Beach

welcomes dogs before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. during the summer.

Dog Parks: Let your dog run free in one of the many parks that dot the Cape. Mid Cape’s Brewster Dog Park offers off-leash areas for both small and large dogs. In the Upper

Cape, the Falmouth Dog Park and the Mashpee Dog Park provide fenced-in spaces in shady settings. Over on the Outer Cape, you’ll find the Pilgrim Bark Park in Provincetown. In 2018, HGTV included this park in its list of the “10 Ideas You’ve Got to Add to Your Dog’s Bucket List.”

Hikes and Walks: Head to Hathaway’s Pond Trail near Barnstable in Mid Cape. This 1.4-mile loop around the lake meanders through both hilly and flat terrain, with interpretative signs along the way. The trailhead is marked by a pet pooper scooper dispenser. Nearby in South Yarmouth, the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail offers a walk in the wild with a few railroad relics along the route.

Beyond the trails, many main streets on the Cape welcome well-behaved dogs for a sightseeing stroll. Several restaurants, especially those with outdoor seating in the summer, invite pets to dine with their owners, often providing water bowls, treats, and even a dog menu.

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it wasn’t confirmed until 1984, when the wreck was found. Today, the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth is home to the world’s only authenticated pirate treasure, along with thousands of items recovered from the ship and a walk-through partial replica.

E XPLORING THE LOWER & OU TER CAPE At the Edge of the Ocean The Cape Cod National Seashore spans than 43,000 acres of sand and dunes — still pristine because it was given protected status by JFK in 1961. Stretching from Provincetown down to Eastham, with some areas in Orleans and Chatham, the National Seashore encompasses 40 miles of beaches, including Coast Guard Beach — consistently named among the top 10 beaches in the United States by Dr. Beach — 12 self-guided hiking trails, 6 public beaches (Coast Guard, Nauset Light, Marconi, Head of the Meadow, Race Point, and Herring Cove), 6 lighthouses, 3 biking trails, and fishing and hunting opportunities. Two visitor centers are launch points for ranger-led programs and activities, including things kids will love — canoe trips on

Salt Pond, walks to look for sharks and seals, and lighthouse tours.

Lovely Lavender Let blooming purple lavender’s aroma awaken your senses in late June and early July at Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich. This remarkable plant — simultaneously flower, herb, and shrub — has served as perfume and natural medicine for centuries. The three-generation family business offers nearly two dozen products, from essential oils and sachets to body butters and scented candles.

Let’s Hang Soar through the skies over Wellfleet, considered one of the region’s premier destinations for hang gliding and paragliding. From October to April, before beachgoers flood the shores, adventure seekers can experience breathtaking 20-mile flights between two iconic lighthouses, sailing on 10- to 12-knot east-northeast winds. Don’t worry about navigating the details — the New England Paragliding and Hang Gliding Club provides essential safety info and guidance.

Sipping by the Sea Where the sea meets soil at Truro Vineyards, the art and science of maritime grape growing transforms into wines bursting with intense flavor and varietal character. Book a two-hour custom tasting with a dedicated server who will guide you through five wines tailored to your palate, accompanied by artisanal cheeses.

Set in a restored 1830s farmhouse, Truro Vineyards also boasts a distillery producing small-batch spirits, including handcrafted rums and gin.

Drive In to a Movie The only drive-in theater on Cape Cod and recognized by Frommer’s as one of the “500 Places to See Before They Disappear,” the Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre will have older visitors reminiscing about their teen years, and younger visitors discovering the fun of watching a full-screen movie from inside the car (the movie tunes in on your car radio). Before the double feature starts, you can play a round of mini-golf or hit the concession stand for popcorn. The drive-in is open mid-May through Labor Day.

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112 Davis Straits Falmouth, MA 02540 508-457-4420

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Adventures on Land

BEYOND the SHORELINE

Shining Sea Bikeway

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VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

W O R D S B Y Lisa Simundson

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

CAPE COD OFFERS MORE THAN BEACHES AND BOATS — DISCOVER THE ACTIVE SIDE OF THE CAPE WITH BIKING, GOLF, PICKLEBALL, AND PEACEFUL OUTDOOR ESCAPES.

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W H E T H E R Y O U ’ R E L O O K I N G for an adrenaline rush or are in no rush at all, options are there for everyone visiting Cape Cod. There’s no doubt water defines and enhances many aspects of life on this slim 65-mile peninsula. In fact, there are places where the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Cod Bay are practically across the street from each other. But the Cape’s remarkable landscape is also captivating, offering endless adventures among its dunes, forests, wetlands, and lakes.

RIDING THE RAIL TRAIL Built upon the railroad beds of the nowdefunct train from Boston, one of the most popular outdoor experiences among visitors here is the Cape Cod Rail Trail — a 25-mile paved pathway connecting South Dennis to Wellfleet but also connecting you to pristine naturescapes that are impossible to appreciate from a car window. You’ll have time to both see and stop to appreciate deep ponds, verdant woodland areas, and, depending on the time of year, cranberry bogs filled with floating red berries ready for harvesting.

Branching off the trail are a number of shorter spokes, including the Old Colony Trail leading to the charming town of Chatham and the bike/mountain bike trails running through Nickerson State Park in Brewster.

Civilization catches up with the trail in the Lower Cape town of Orleans, where you can lock up your bikes in Depot Square and walk a few steps to bike shops that stand ready for quick fixes and rentals. A stroll down Main Street will take you to a variety of eateries as well as Friends’ Marketplace, where you can pick up drinks and ready-made sandwiches.

The trail also winds through some of the Cape’s many conservation lands, populated by birds of every kind — including wild turkeys — along with scampering squirrels, elusive foxes, and turtles trying to cut through the trail to the nearest river or lake.

Cape Cod’s protected wilderness areas are part of the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, permanently preserving land to maintain important watersheds and protect wildlife habitats.

If you’re curious about those cranberry bogs and wonder why they may seem to be empty, or filled with water, or have cranberries floating on top, stop by Cranberry Bog Tours in Harwich to find out how they make their journey from flowers to Thanksgiving tables.

While the Rail Trail runs from Mid Cape to the Outer Cape, if you’re near the Upper Cape town of Falmouth, hop on the Shining Sea Bikeway. This beloved local amenity, also built on a former railroad bed, winds along Vineyard Sound for 10.7 miles through four villages, from Woods Hole to North Falmouth.

After being closed for upgrades, the bikeway has now completely reopened.

FAIRWAYS IN FAIR (OR ANY ) WE ATHER Winter does blow through Cape Cod, but it’s rarely severe thanks to the surrounding ocean and bay waters that help create an extended golfing season. In fact, some courses welcome determined players all year long, barring the occasional heavy snowfall.

The Cape's 40+ courses cater to every skill level, from weekend warriors to seasoned pros. Considered among the best, Ocean Edge Golf Club in Brewster steals the spotlight with Cape Cod’s only Nicklaus Design course, where dramatic elevation changes and tree-lined fairways challenge and delight.

Also in Brewster but convenient to Harwich and Orleans, The Captains Golf Course delivers two championship experiences with holes named for sea captains of old. Resident PGA pros are ready to help polish your swing.

Bordering Harwich and Brewster, the Cape Cod National Golf Club is a par-72 championship course that has hosted several USGA and Mass Golf events since the 2010s, including the U.S. Amateur Championship and U.S. Women’s Open qualifier.

On the Outer Cape, convenient to Provincetown, Truro, and Wellfleet, Highland Links is a historic gem from 1892, perched dramatically above the Atlantic and offering views as spectacular as its challenging play.

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YOUR LINKS TO GOLF Discover Cape Cod’s premier golf courses, where stunning coastal views and challenging fairways create the perfect setting for both novice and seasoned golfers.

48 Todd Rd. South Yarmouth, MA 02664 508-398-9295 www.bluerockgolfcourse.com 3,000 yards/par 3/18 holes Architect: Geoffrey Cornish

CAPE COD COUNTRY CLUB

48 Theatre Dr. East Falmouth, MA 02536 508-563-9842

Ocean Edge Golf Course

On the other end of the peninsula, the serene lake-dotted landscape of Cape Cod Country Club in Falmouth frames an 18-hole golf course; while the nationally acclaimed Blue Rock Course in the Mid Cape town of Yarmouth is considered one of the country’s best par-3 courses.

SERVING YOU RIGHT Tennis (or pickleball), anyone? The Cape has you covered. Whether you prefer the classic swing of tennis or the quick paddle action of pickleball, both sports hold court year-round.

Courts are everywhere — indoor clubs for year-round play, outdoor parks for sunny days, and even school facilities when class is out.

The Mid-Cape Athletic Club in South Yarmouth, for one, offers nine indoor tennis/ pickleball courts — with lessons and clinics available — along with a host of cardio and strength training facilities, including a dedicated spinning room, two free-weight rooms, and a FreeMotion circuit.

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awaiting your serve. Brooks Park in Harwich accommodates both sports, while dedicated “pickleheads” flock to Mashpee Pickleball Park in the Upper Cape.

STAYING ON THE WELLNESS TRACK Your vacation doesn’t have to derail your regular wellness regimen, because Cape Cod makes staying healthy not just possible but delightful. Every beach and trail transform into a natural fitness studio where you’ll find kindred spirits maintaining their yoga, walking, and running routines.

If you’re looking for classes or equipment, every town from Falmouth to Provincetown offers state-of-the-art fitness centers and yoga studios. In Barnstable, the centrally located YMCA delivers comprehensive swimming and fitness options, while CrossFit Hyannis welcomes serious athletes and offers convenient drop-in rates.

Yoga studios abound, including West Barnstable’s Hot Yoga (offering Hot Pilates and Yin Yoga) and North Falmouth’s Yoga Collaborative, which accepts walk-ins.

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

THE CAPTAINS GOLF COURSE

1000 Freemans Way Brewster, MA 02631 508-896-1716 www.captainsgolfcourse.com 6,675 yards and 6,776 yards/ par 72/36 holes Architect: Brian Silva

HIGHLA ND LINKS

10 Highland Light Rd. Truro, MA 02666 508-487-9201 www.highlandlinkscapecod.com 5,331 yards/par 70/18 holes Architect: J. Henry McKinley

OCEAN EDGE GOLF CLUB 832 Villages Dr. Brewster, MA 02631 774-323-6021 www.oceanedge.com/golf 7,011 yards/par 72/18 holes Architect: Jack Nicklaus

WILD & WONDERFUL In addition to appreciating and admiring the beauty of nature on Cape Cod, you can also learn about it at a number of wildlife centers and refuges. On the Outer Cape, extensive trails cross the salt marshes and pine woodlands of Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, whose award-winning Nature Center features wildlife exhibits providing close-up views of native fish, crabs, and turtles.

In the Mid Cape town of Barnstable, the Birdsey Cape Wildlife Center is home to a wildlife hospital, which cares for sick, injured, or orphaned wild animals; while an education center offers programs to connect students and visitors to the natural world.

On the Upper Cape, the Mashpee Wildlife Refuge spans more than 5,000 acres of multiple habitats, including Atlantic white cedar swamps, freshwater wetlands, ponds, and rivers that are home to songbirds, migratory waterfowl, raptors, and whitetailed deer, among others. Programs are offered for those who want to learn about the area’s conservation.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

BLUE ROCK GOLF COURSE

www.capecodcountryclub.com 6,429 yards/par 72/18 holes Architects: Devereux Emmet and Al Tull

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SEA and SHORE

WHETHER YOU SET SAIL, CAST A LINE, OR DIP YOUR TOES IN THE SAND, CAPE COD’S COASTAL EXPERIENCES PROMISE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

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SIGHTSEEING CRUISES Take to the sea like the days of old aboard a twomasted gaff-rigged schooner from Falmouth Harbor. Depending on the tide and winds, the captain sets a sightseeing course for destinations

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like the Nobska Lighthouse or southeast to Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard. There’s food, drink, and music throughout the day, ensuring a delightful sensory experience all around!

One of the most famous harbor cruises is the one-hour Hyannis Harbor Cruise, which offers views of local landmarks such as the historic Kennedy Compound in Hyannis Port, Point Gammon Light, the Kennedy Memorial, Squaw Island, and St. Andrews-by-the-Sea. These cruises run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Whale-watching trips depart from Provincetown and Barnstable en route to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

Humpback, finback, pilot, North Atlantic right, and minke are a sampling of whale species that watchers might observe; and most excursions occur on large double- or triple-decker passenger vessels, with trips lasting three to four hours. An onboard naturalist announces where to look to spot the whales, identifies the type of whale, and provides a brief overview of these majestic marine mammals.

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

Seal-spotting tours, lasting 1.5 to 2 hours, operate out of Harwich and Chatham. From Harwich, excursions often head to Monomoy Island, where thousands of gray seals swim or rest ashore as if it’s their own private beach club. From Chatham, seal-seeing boats explore Pleasant Bay and the waters between North Beach and Chatham Light.

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C A P E C O D ’ S S PA R K L I N G WAT E R S offer something for every kind of adventurer — whether you crave the thrill of an ocean cruise, the excitement of reeling in a big catch, or the quiet joy of paddling through a calm bay.

Summer is naturally the most popular time for boating, with warm, sunny weather and ocean temperatures that rarely exceed the mid-60s. However, the “shoulder season” of September and October can be just as delightful, offering beautiful conditions for a day on the water and the added bonus of fewer crowds.

Whale-watching season runs from mid-April through October, while sportfishing for many species can be enjoyed year-round. No matter when you visit, Cape Cod’s waters promise a wide array of unforgettable experiences.

Marconi Beach

SPORTFISHING TRIPS Catch a whopper-load of fun and go fishing on a deep-sea sportfishing charter! There are head or party boats, which can carry up to 45 anglers or more, as well as sportfishers for up to 6 anglers.

These trips depart from Cape harbors such as Falmouth, West Dennis, Harwich, Chatham, Eastham, and Truro and typically last four, six, or eight hours. Tuna, sea bass, flounder, striped bass, mackerel, cod, and bluefish are all popular saltwater species to catch; and the warmer Gulf Stream waters may also bring in blue marlin. A few charters even include fishing and lobstering on the same trip.

Fishermen must purchase a recreational fishing permit to fish in the sea or inland lakes where trout, perch, and bass swim. These are available on a short-term and annual basis through the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries.

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he Woods Hole Science Aquarium, established in 1875, is the oldest public marine aquarium in the United States. Located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and operated by NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service, it was first founded when the U.S. Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries, Spencer Fullerton Baird, opened the doors to his personal laboratory. Today, the aquarium displays approximately 140 species of marine animals, featuring touch tanks, dry exhibits, and other educational materials. Outside, it is home to a 17,000-gallon habitat for seals that are injured and unable to survive in the wild.

Please note that the aquarium will close for a few months in the fall of 2025 for repairs. Check its website for opening times prior to planning your visit. www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/woods-hole-science-aquarium

KAYAK & PADDLE BOARD RENTALS Rent kayaks or paddle boards by the hour to explore Mashpee Popponesset Bay and the Popponesset River on your trip or opt to take a two-hour guided tour. Both offer an up-close and personal way to see birds onshore and fish undersea.

In the Mid Cape, rental companies are located right on the beautiful Bass River.

Pleasant Bay is the largest contiguous bay along the Cape Cod National Seashore between South Orleans and Chatham, making it a perfect place to kayak or paddleboard, as the peninsula and barrier islands usually create calmer waters.

Some outfitters here rent 14- and 16-foot Hobie Cats by the hour. Lessons are also available for those interested.

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Fishermen’s View

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J. Kevin Foltz

Dining

coastal

CRAVINGS

WHETHER YOU’RE DINING ON DOCKSIDE LOBSTER, TUCKING INTO A CLAM CHOWDER BREAD BOWL, OR SIPPING CRANBERRY MARGARITAS, CAPE COD DISHES OUT UNFORGETTABLE MEALS ACROSS EVERY CORNER OF THE CAPE.

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W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

S E A F O O D L O V E R S will find plenty to savor at Cape Cod’s standout restaurants. According to the Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance, the ports of Chatham on the Lower Cape and Barnstable on the Mid Cape rank among the top 5 towns in Massachusetts for the value of seafood landed. Not far behind are Wellfleet and Provincetown on the Outer Cape and Sandwich on the Upper Cape, which also place in the state’s top 10 most valuable seafood ports.

Scallops, lobster, and oysters are the top three catches, coming fresh off the boats and onto plates in the form of buttery scampi, overstuffed lobster rolls, and briny oysters served on the half shell.

You’ll also find tasty finfish like cod, haddock, and swordfish, served broiled, baked, or fried to perfection. From elegant fine-dining eateries with white tablecloths to casual family-friendly seafood shacks with waterfront views, nearly every restaurant on the Cape boasts a menu rich with justcaught coastal flavors.

Beyond the surf, Cape Cod’s dining scene offers plenty of turf options, too. From carnivores to vegetarians, every palate can find something satisfying in the salt-kissed air. Steakhouses serve up everything from barrel-cut filets and prime rib to Wagyu beef and tomahawk chops, while cozy cafés cater to plant-based preferences with veggietopped flatbreads, bean burgers, noodle bowls, king oyster (mushroom) burritos, and roasted sweet potato sandwiches.

Still hungry? The Cape is brimming with locally owned markets and delis, mom-and-pop pizzerias, sweet-smelling bakeries, artisan cheese shops, ice cream parlors, and even food trucks parked near the beach. Add in a growing number of vineyards and craft breweries, and there’s no shortage of ways to sip and savor. Many establishments also feature live music during the summer, turning your dining experience into a true feast for the senses. Here’s a taste of what you’ll discover as you explore this picturesque peninsula.

E ATING OU T IN THE UPPER CAPE Savor the Cape without venturing too far east.

Restaurants near the eastern end of the Cape Cod Canal serve up a tempting variety of raw bar delights — from oysters on the half shell and crab claws to sushi boats, seafood towers, and hearty buckets of lobster and crab, all paired with classic side dishes. Craving something meatier?

You’ll also find favorites like juicy burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and barbecue ribs.

Farther south on the Upper Cape, the town of Falmouth offers a delightful dining scene, especially in the summer when waterfront restaurants overlooking Vineyard Sound come alive. Menu staples include lobster rolls, New England clam chowder, and prime Angus sliders, while signature drinks like martinis and mudslides keep spirits high.

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CA P E C O D Dining

For more casual bites, local delis deliver big flavor with house-smoked brisket, handmade sausages, and in-house aged meats crafted into mouthwatering sandwiches. And in Woods Hole, a general store deli dishes up everything from sandwiches, burritos, and bowls to nostalgic New England classics like the Fluffernutter — a peanut butter and marshmallow crème sandwich created right here in Massachusetts.

MEMOR ABLE ME AL S IN THE MID CAPE

A TASTE OF THE LOWER & OU TER CAPE Coastal flavors and rustic charm come together beautifully at restaurants across the Lower and Outer Cape. In the Lower Cape, you’ll find a diverse range of offerings — from upscale seafood establishments offering the freshest catch straight from the boat to cozy cafés and bakeries known for their artisanal sandwiches and homemade pastries.

The Outer Cape is equally enticing, celebrated for its classic seafood shacks serving iconic clam chowder and lobster rolls, as well as innovative restaurants that aren’t afraid to push culinary boundaries. Provincetown, with its vibrant arts scene, adds to the flavor with an eclectic mix of international cuisines, quaint bistros, and lively waterfront dining experiences.

SE VEN MUST-TR Y F OODS No visit to Cape Cod is complete without indulging in these seven iconic local favorites — each one a delicious bite of the region’s rich coastal heritage.

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Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod

Did You Know?

Scallops, lobster, and oysters are the top three catches, coming fresh off the boats and onto plates in the form of buttery scampi, overstuffed lobster rolls, and briny oysters served on the half shell.

Fried Clam Platter: Surf clams, a large species of hard-shell clam found in the waters off Cape Cod, are quintessentially served chopped up in fried clam platters. These clams are also used for clam strips, stuffed clams, clam pie, and clam chowder. Surfside clam shacks may also sell “whole belly” fried clams traditionally made with soft-shell clams, also known as steamers.

Clam Chowder: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of this creamy soup, thick and comforting with chopped clam and potatoes, after a brisk day on the beach or in water. Also known as New England clam chowder, this variety differs from the Manhattan style, which is typically tomatobased. Milk or cream adds color and richness, while clam juice and bits of salt pork create the classic flavor. This iconic dish is usually served with oyster crackers.

Stuffed Quahogs: True to their nickname of “stuffies,” hard-shelled quahog clams are stuffed with a savory mix of chopped clams, spices, and breadcrumbs, then baked in clam shells. Other ingredients, such as sausage, bacon, onions, bell peppers, and garlic, are often added for additional flavor.

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

Jonah Crab: Bigger than a stone crab, this U.S. East Coast crustacean’s succulent, sweet meat has a fine texture similar to that of snow crab.

Find it on Cape menus in anything from crab claw appetizers to crispy crabcakes and whole crab and lobster entree combos. Particularly ambitious visitors can even stop at a seafood market to buy live Jonah crabs to prepare at a kitchen-equipped vacation rental!

Lobster Roll: Tuck into this favorite across the Cape, a dish that features succulent chunks of fresh lobster meat lightly dressed in mayonnaise or warm butter and served in a toasted buttery roll. Lobster rolls are a staple at many seafood shacks, restaurants, and eateries, often enjoyed with a side of crispy fries.

Wellfleet Oysters: Famed for their briny sweetness, these oysters from Wellfleet Harbor off Cape Cod are renowned for their distinctive taste, characterized by sharp brininess and a clean, crisp finish, along with a meaty, plump texture. Eat them freshly shucked with a squeeze of fresh lemon, horseradish, or the classic mignonette sauce.

Cranberries: These tart red fruits are native to the Cape and have been commercially cultivated here since the 19th century. Cranberry juice and cranberry sauce are staples, but Cape chefs often use cranberries in inventive ways that tantalize the palate. Some unique offerings include Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad, Cranberry Pot Roast, Cranberry Queso Blanco Salsa, and Cranberry Margaritas.

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Fresh seafood, classic American comfort food, and inventive culinary creations await on a delicious journey through the Mid Cape. The bustling town of Hyannis is known for its vibrant restaurant scene and scenic waterfront dining.

At the Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod, the LandShark Bar & Grill offers a fun and flavorful experience, serving up burgers, brews, and what many consider the best Key lime pie around.

Just a short drive away, the picturesque village of Dennis is home to cozy bistros and beloved family-owned eateries serving up local favorites. Here, you can enjoy a lobster roll with a beach view, indulge in a gourmet dinner at a fine-dining venue, or savor freshly shucked oysters at a rustic seafood shack. With a culinary landscape as diverse as its coastal charm, the Mid Cape is a must-visit for food lovers.

WORDS BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

French Fare, Cape Flair The Wharf ’s new chef and menu pay homage to classic French seafood traditions — with a Cape Cod twist and an unbeatable view of the Sound.

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pectacular Vineyard Sound views are the perfect backdrop for a new style of dining in Falmouth Heights, a small village south of Falmouth and east of Woods Hole.

The Wharf Restaurant & Bar, formerly known as Soprano’s Casino by the Sea, was built on the footprint of a centuryold historic casino wharf at 286 Grand Avenue. Today, the establishment boasts a new chef and a new menu. Chef Gavin Tyson, whose fare is best described as “French-based by-the-sea Marseille-styled dishes,” has introduced classic selections such as Bouillabaisse Provençal. This rich fish soup gets a Cape Cod twist from its locally sourced ingredients, including cod, mussels, clams, scallops, and the fresh catch of the day, all simmered in a lobster, tomato, fennel, and saffron fish stock. The dish is served with toast points and accompanied by the thick, creamy garlic-based condiment of rouille.

“I’ve always had a passion for French food, and the owner wanted to make a change from the former Italian cuisine,” says Tyson, who grew up in Vermont.

The chef was educated at the Culinary Institute of America and honed his French culinary skills at fine restaurants in Boston and New England. “Marseille is the epicenter of French seafood cuisine because they have some of the best in the world.

The seafood off Cape Cod is also amazing, so I figured, why not do a ‘Marseille by the Sea’

type of theme? We also offer filet mignon and a roasted half chicken on the menu, but our focus is on showcasing the incredible fresh seafood we have here. I mean, we’re getting a whole fish right off the boat that day, breaking it down, and putting it on dinner plates that night.”

A favorite among patrons is the Brown Butter Halibut. The center loin cut of fish is pan fried in clarified butter until crisp and golden, then topped with a vibrant, flavorful corn sauce and radish microgreens.

The halibut comes with fondant potatoes — circular-cut potatoes browned in butter until they are crusty on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside. Another dazzling dish is the Miso-Glazed Cod, featuring oven-baked local cod brushed with a house-made sake, mirin, and miso glaze and served with brown-buttered mashed sweet potatoes over a bed of seasonal vegetables. The Pan-Seared Scallops, featuring fresh U10 mollusks, are lightly cooked with the flavors of blood orange juice and shallots and accompanied by local veggies and fondant potatoes, all topped with a beurre blanc.

“I’ve lived in a lot of places, but Falmouth is special,” says Tyson. “The Wharf is literally like being on a cruise ship; you’re right there overlooking the water. Fresh seafood and French culinary techniques are our way of offering guests something a little different, something special.”

The Wharf (2)

 Did You Know?

Chef Gavin Tyson, whose fare is best described as “Frenchbased by-the-sea Marseille-styled dishes,” has introduced classic selections.

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COLLECTIBLES FROM ARTISAN JEWELRY AND SEA GLASS KEEPSAKES TO STYLISH BOUTIQUES AND LOCAL ART, CAPE COD IS A COASTAL SHOPPER’S DREAM. W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

Provincetown Pier Shops

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C A P E C O D I S A P E R F E C T destination for a little retail therapy. Many of the local shops and boutiques are independently owned and thoughtfully sized for personal service — with friendly proprietors often on hand to offer custom advice and assistance. There’s no pressure to rush; you’re encouraged to browse at your own pace and enjoy the experience.

Whether you’re window-shopping, leisurely browsing, or ready to buy, the Cape’s inviting storefronts are ready to welcome you.

UPPER CAPE : STROLL DOWN “MAIN” SHOPPING STREE TS Charming, walkable downtown districts stretch across Cape Cod from the Upper to the Outer Cape, each offering one-of-a-kind treasures you won’t find anywhere else. In historic Falmouth Village, Main Street is a hub for locally owned boutiques, gift and home décor shops, bookstores, and a variety of restaurants.

At 200 Main Street, men’s and women’s clothier Maxwell & Co. brings fashion to life with a carefully curated mix of well-known designers and distinctive European labels.

Owners Dan and Lori Maxwell, along with their dedicated team, are passionate and seasoned clothing consultants who appreciate timeless style — with just the right touch of modern edge.

Traveling with a furry friend? Make a stop at Falmouth Pet Center, located about a mile north of Main Street. This beloved shop offers holistic and organic food, treats, and supplements for dogs and cats, plus essentials for feathered and scaled pets, too.

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MID CAPE : OCE AN-INSPIRED

BY THE SE A It’s nearly impossible to step into a store on the Cape without spotting something inspired by the sea. One of the most popular take-home treasures for visitors is custom Cape jewelry crafted from sea glass, art glass, or wampum — traditional beads made from mollusk shells by Wampanoag tribal members. You’ll also find plenty of shops stocked with watersports gear, including surfboards, wet suits, and all the must-have accessories for coastal adventures.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss a stroll down Main Street in Hyannis, where an eclectic mix of shops awaits. Within just a few blocks, you’ll discover a vintage record store, a

Haven Cannabis

Western wear boutique, a bridal shop, candy and ice cream shops, and even a HarleyDavidson dealership — offering something for just about every type of shopper.

LOWER AND OUTER CAPE : ART IS IN THEIR NATURE Perched at the tip of the Outer Cape, Provincetown is recognized as the oldest continuous art colony in the United States.

Today, this vibrant town remains a cultural haven, brimming with galleries, museums, and art schools that celebrate its rich creative legacy.

On the Lower Cape, the town of Orleans also boasts a thriving arts scene, with a notably high concentration of artists, designers, and media professionals. Its designated cultural district actively promotes the arts and hosts an annual Art Week each April, showcasing a dynamic lineup of art exhibits, performances, and workshops.

In addition to visual art, the shops throughout the Outer and Lower Cape offer a wide variety of other items — from handcrafted jewelry and nautically inspired gifts to stylish clothing, beach gear, books, souvenirs, and even a few antique shops. For cannabis enthusiasts, both Brewster and Provincetown are home to Haven Center locations offering a curated selection of products and accessories.

MADE ON CAPE COD Commemorate your unforgettable Cape Cod getaway with a keepsake crafted right here on the Cape. From delightful treats to locally inspired finds, here are six popular items sought out by visitors.

Cape Cod Saltwater Taffy: Legend has it that this shoreside staple originated in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in the late 1800s when the high surf added a new ingredient to a small shop’s traditional taffy. The Cape Cod Salt Water Taffy Company, which opened in 1952, is one of the last authentic East Coast taffy kitchens.

Visitors can see the process for themselves by watching the taffy-pulling machines in action at the South Yarmouth location. Choose from over 30 mouthwatering flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, and cranberry as well as rum, beach plum, and fluffernutter (a combination of marshmallow and peanut butter).

Cranberry Bog Frogs: These bite-sized “frogs” are a delightful combination of dried cranberries, roasted cashews, caramel, and milk chocolate, topped with a dried cranberry.

There are also Blueberry Patch Frogs, akin to the cranberry kind but made with dried blueberries. Both confections are made by Cape Cod Provisions, located in West Wareham, across Buzzards Bay from the Cape, and in the heart of the state’s cranberry-growing region.

The confectioner also makes saltwater taffy, fudge, and chocolate-covered blueberries and cranberries you won’t want to miss.

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Ocean Balls: Handblown spheres filled with Cape Cod sand, shells, and starfish make eye-catching souvenirs and favored gifts from The Glass Studio on Cape Cod. Owned by Michael and Keiko Magyar for over 30 years and located in the Mid Cape town of East Sandwich, this studio creates and sells unique glass art, including sculptures. There are also functional pieces for sale such as vases and pitchers — all inspired by the Cape Cod environs. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations on Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the season.

Potato Chips: That’s right, Cape Cod–brand potato chips are indeed made on the Cape! That’s the Nauset Light in Eastham featured on the package. The company’s kettle-cooked chips, known for their hearty crunch, are produced in their Hyannis factory. Classic flavors include Sea Salt, Sweet Mesquite Barbecue, and Malt Vinegar, while more contemporary offerings include wavy-shaped Jalapeño Ranch, Tuscan Herb Infused, and Less Fat Original chips.

Salute to Cape Cod Beach Towel: Quick-dry, sand-free, Cape Cod chic — and sustainable, too! The Cape Cod Towel Company in Chatham specializes in Cape-themed beach towels and ponchos made from rPET (recycled plastic bottles) and organic cotton. Lighthouses, yacht clubs, Shark Week, town-themed motifs, seashell, surf’s up, and lobster fest are among the popular patterns for sale. Even better, a portion of the company’s profits supports marine conservation and environmental awareness on Cape Cod. Surfside Recliner: Take a seat on the beach in the perfect chair!

Thankfully, the Cape Cod Beach Chair Company has the formula figured out. The Harwich-based business specializes in high-quality, handcrafted, rust-resistant designs that can withstand multiple seasons of salty, sandy conditions. Choose from a wide range of chair styles, colors, fabrics, and even customized embroidery options to achieve a perfectly personalized design. The company also offers a variety of additional items to complete the perfect beach life experience, including towels, hats, and sunglasses.

SHOPPING GUIDE BREWSTER HAVEN CANNABIS

4018-4019 Main St., Brewster 774-561-2854 www.havencenter.me  The Haven Center offers exceptional products and an unparalleled shopping experience to all cannabis enthusiasts and newcomers.

Committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, it aims to be the premier destination for diverse, premium cannabis products and personalized guidance.

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C H AT H A M NANTUCKET RED ®

BY CAPE COD CELLARS, INC.

802 Main St., Box 236, Chatham 202-460-5003 www.nantucketred.com Nantucket Red® Vodka Cranberry is a deliciously crafted cocktail, combining premium vodka and natural fruit flavors. It offers a modern twist on the classic “Cape Codder” cocktail. The brand embodies the essence of Nantucket, providing customers with an exciting and refreshing experience without stepping foot on the beach.

FA L M O U T H FALMOUTH PET CENTER

112 Davis Straits, Falmouth 508-457-4420 www.facebook.com/falmouthpet  Falmouth Pet Center is your one-stop pet shop since 1989. It specializes in dog and cat

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

nutrition while offering expert advice. Its dog and cat product selection ranges from highquality treats; supplies; frozen raw, gently cooked, freeze-dried raw, human-grade canned food; and premium kibble. Small animal, reptile, bird, and aquarium supplies are also available, along with a fully functioning freshwater fish department.

MAXWELL & CO.

200 Main St., Falmouth 508-274-8752 www.maxwellandco.com  Maxwell & Co. is known for breaking New England fashion rules. Since 1984, this creative clothing store for men and women has been internationally revered by those seeking wearable yet uncommon clothing. Whether dressing up or down, a passionate team of wardrobe consultants and tailors will ensure an unrivaled experience.

J. Kevin Foltz

Maxwell & Co.

Maxwell & Co. Perfectly Unpredictable Style on Cape Cod

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ince 1984, Maxwell & Co. has redefined access to fashion on Cape Cod with its signature mix of timeless style and quiet rebellion. Founded by Dan and Lori Maxwell, this destination boutique offers curated capsule collections for both men and women — a sophisticated blend of classic foundations and unexpected flair. The result?

Timeless clothing that feels effortlessly wearable, endlessly versatile, and unmistakably individual.

Not a Store…

A Point of View Maxwell & Co. forges its own trends. Together with a devoted team of talented, personable style consultants and gifted tailors, the Maxwells have cultivated an approach rooted in originality, experimentation, and authenticity. Every detail matters, and every piece stands alone — distinctive in design, luxurious in fabric, and crafted (mostly in Europe) with an artful edge.

Photos courtesy of Maxwell & Co. (2)

A Space That Inspires Located in the historic Elizabeth Theatre building at 200 Main Street in Falmouth, Maxwell & Co. is an experience. Both modern and timeless, the store is elegantly merchandised and ever evolving: a visual feast of clothing and style ideas, from globally acclaimed designers to lesser-known European finds — a collection considered among the very best in New England and beyond.

Style with Soul “Style, classic or not, comes from a willingness to be open, to experiment, to find comfort,” says Dan. “It’s not just about what you wear — it’s about arriving at a place of ease in how you wear something.” This philosophy runs deep. Influenced by architecture, music, food, natural textiles, and the coastal beauty of Cape Cod, Maxwell & Co. invites customers to dress with intention — and with an emotional point of view. Whether dressing up or down, Maxwell’s unexpected wardrobe solutions help clients find individuality and confidence.

“This does not mean possessing a lot of clothes; this is about owning clothes that possess a lot of meaning,” says Dan.

known for relentlessly thoughtful service, impeccable tailoring, and a bold yet refined aesthetic. A classic perspective that frequently collides with a modern edge — always presented with passion, heart, and soul.

Four Decades of Defining Style

Step Inside. Be Surprised.

Be the One of Influence.

For over 40 years, Maxwell & Co. has stood apart — not just as a boutique but as a fashionable New England institution. It is

Today, the world is saturated with influencers. At Maxwell & Co., four decades of heartfelt service, global sourcing, and imaginative curation might just offer a different take on who is influencing whom. With a genuine, hard-earned perspective on elegance, Maxwell & Co. hopes only to guide and encourage its beloved clientele — so that by their own ingenious style, they become the ones of true influence. As the Maxwells say with deep sincerity, “Maxwell & Co. is not about us — it is about YOU.”

Enduring Originality Discover why, after 40 years, Maxwell & Co. continues to inspire.

In a world of fast fashion, dwindling service, and fleeting trends, Maxwell & Co. offers something rare: uncommon, enduring clothing — and an experience that feels true, personal, elevated, and undeniably original.

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Arts & Culture

DIVE into DISCOVERY

THESE 10 CAPE COD MUSEUMS BRING LOCAL HISTORY, ART, AND SCIENCE TO LIFE, OFFERING ENRICHING EXPERIENCES FOR VISITORS OF ALL AGES.

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W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

S T E P B A C K I N T I M E or embrace the present with a visit to one of Cape Cod’s many fascinating museums — the choice is yours.

From the Pilgrims’ landing site and antique carriages to a century-old railroad caboose, the region’s rich history is on full display.

Meanwhile, hands-on aquariums, vibrant gardens, and guided hikes along both sea and shore offer immersive experiences for curious minds of all ages. Best of all, many museums here are thoughtfully designed to engage both kids and adults alike, ensuring memorable moments for the whole family. Here are 10 Cape Cod museums you won’t want to miss.

UPPER CAPE 1. Heritage Museums & Gardens.

Ride the fully restored Looff Carousel, built in 1908, at this nearly 100-acre complex that offers something for every visitor. Here, you’ll also find an antique auto collection, starting with an 1899 Winton motor carriage; the glacier-formed 2-acre Hidden Hollow, where kids can climb stumps, test their balance on log beams, and dig in the sand; and beautiful gardens dedicated to daylilies, rhododendrons, and hydrangeas.

Sandwich, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May through October. Adults $25, children (ages 3 to 17) $15. www.heritagemuseumsandgardens.org 2. Sandwich Glass Museum.

Discover how glass is made up close and personal through exhibits that tell the story of the industry throughout history to the present day. Watch glassblowing demonstrations, tour highlights of captivating works by glass artists, and even take a class in glass fusing, a colorful art form that involves melting assorted pieces of glass together in a kiln. This museum, owned and operated by the Sandwich Historical Society, celebrates its bicentennial of glassmaking in 2025 with the theme “Illuminating the Past, Sparking the Future.”

Sandwich, MA. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 1 through December 30, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., February 1 through March 31. Adults $14, children (ages 6 to 14) $3. www.sandwichglassmuseum.org

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Heritage Museums & Gardens

3. Mashpee Wampanoag Museum. For an intriguing piece of American history, step up to a diorama that depicts a snapshot of long-ago life for Wampanoag Native Americans. This is the only museum in the world devoted to this tribe who calls the lands in Southeastern Massachusetts home. Exhibits inside display ancient artifacts, hunting and fishing implements, baskets and tools, and other cultural heirlooms. Outside, visitors can also experience a Wampanoag wetu, or traditional dwelling, and a “Three Sisters”–style garden planted with corn, beans, and squash. The museum is housed in a historic home built in 1793, one of the oldest still standing in town.

4. Woods Hole Historical Museum. Boat lovers both young and old will want to make time to visit the Small Boat Museum. Housed within are an 1890s Woods Hole spritsail boat, a Herreshoff 12 ½, a Mirror dinghy, a Chamberlain dory, and a 1922 Old Town canoe.

Alongside these specimens is an interactive exhibit where kids can climb aboard the Cape Cod Knockabout Penguin and sail the Sound via their imagination. Beautiful gardens, town tours, and ever-changing exhibits are also part of the museum’s offerings, making it a versatile attraction.

Woods Hole, MA. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., mid-June through early July. www.woodsholemuseum.org

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Heritage Museums & Gardens

MID CAPE 5. Cape Cod Maritime Museum. Discover a treasure trove of history about the rich nautical heritage of the Cape during your stay. Explore exhibits on the lighthouses of Cape Cod, the natural shipwrecking hazards along the coast, a large collection of scrimshaw (including carved ivory and whale teeth), and a study on the pioneering women who helped shape the Cape’s maritime industry.

From late June to October, visitors can even cast off on the museum’s replica of an 1886 catboat Sarah for a sail around Hyannis Inner Harbor.

Hyannis, MA. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m., yearround. Adults $10, children (ages 3 to 5) $5 or (ages 6 to 17) $8. www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

Did You Know?

Many museums here are thoughtfully designed to engage both kids and adults alike, ensuring memorable moments for the whole family.

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Mashpee, MA. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., April through December. Adults $15, children $10. www.mashpeewampanoagtribe-nsn.gov/museum

6. John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum.

Step back in time to the early 1960s, when the Kennedy Compound, located 2.5 miles to the south of this museum, served as the “Summer White House” for President John F. Kennedy. A carefully curated collection of photographs, ranging from candid shots to TV stills, traces Kennedy’s life from his boyhood days to his time on the Cape, which served as both a presidential workplace and retreat. Kennedy’s influence on space travel, the Peace Corps, and the creation of the Cape Cod National Seashore are all displayed in curated exhibits.

Hyannis, MA. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 1 through Oct 31; Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in November; and Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., December through mid-April.

Adults $14, children (ages 6 to 17) $8. www.jfkhyannismuseum.org 7. Whydah Pirate Museum. Go hands-on at this interactive science museum featuring real pirate treasure! Displays are built around a replica of the Whydah, a square-rigged three-masted 110-foot sailing ship, which sank off Cape Cod in a nor’easter in 1717. Step aboard this enormous vessel and experience silver and gold coins, pirate pistols, and sword hilts while you learn the story of the Whydah’s own pirate captain, Samuel “Black Sam” Bellamy.

West Yarmouth, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., late May through September; Friday through Sunday, January through March; and Wednesday through Sunday in April. Adults $18, children (ages 5 to 15) $14. www.discoverpirates.com

LOWER & OUTER CAPE 8. Chatham Railroad Museum. This early-20thcentury red-painted caboose is one of the stars of this rail exhibition. Sitting inside, visitors will get a glimpse of the conductor’s desk while listening to the audio system play sounds of whistles blowing and brakes squealing. The museum building alongside the iconic caboose is a 19th-century depot, eye-catching for its “Railroad Gothic” architecture. Inside are thousands of artifacts on display, including Western Union telegraph equipment, timetables, tickets, lanterns, menus, vintage train models, and a diorama of Chatham Yard, to name a few.

Chatham, MA. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., June through August; and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m., September to mid-October. Donations only. www.chathamrailroadmuseum.com 9. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. This museum is a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors can walk into the Butterfly House to watch caterpillars turn into wondrous winged insects, experience over 80 species of local fresh and saltwater marine life in the aquarium (including rare blue, pumpkin, and calico color lobsters), or take a naturalist-led walk on the 1.3-mile John Wing Trail and loop past a salt marsh, barrier beach, and tidal pools on Cape Cod Bay. There are also several daily activities and events for all ages, especially from May to September.

Alamy / Rosemarie Mosteller

Brewster, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the summer; visit their website for additional dates throughout the year. Adults $15, children (ages 3 to 12) $10. www.ccmnh.org 10. Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum.

Get a bird’s-eye view of where the Mayflower Pilgrims first landed in the New World in 1620 at the largest all-granite tower in the United States, standing at 252 feet tall. Below, the museum hosts captivating displays on the town’s early American and maritime history, the Mayflower Compact, and — ever since the turn of the 20th century — Provincetown’s claim to fame as America’s oldest continuous art colony.

Provincetown, MA. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., yearround. Adults $21, teens (ages 13 to 17) $16.75, children (ages 4 to 12) $9.50. www.pilgrim-monument.org 2025/26

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Photo courtesy of Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod

Accommodations

Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod

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FIND your perfect ESCAPE

WITH ITS UNBEATABLE BLEND OF COASTAL CHARM, HISTORIC CHARACTER, AND INVITING HOSPITALITY, CAPE COD HAS THE PERFECT PLACE TO REST AND RECHARGE — NO MATTER YOUR TRAVEL STYLE.

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W O R D S B Y Vanessa Molina Santamaria

F R O M L U X U R I O U S R E S O R T S and quaint B&Bs to rental homes and beachfront cottages, Cape Cod caters to every kind of stay. Whether you’re dreaming of indulgent spa days, evenings by the sea, or simply looking for a cozy place to unwind after your adventures, the Cape offers accommodations as memorable as its scenery.

FIND YOUR IDE AL STAY No matter which part of the Cape you choose — Upper, Mid, or Lower/Outer — you’ll discover lodging options that fit your needs and travel style. Exploring the boardwalks of Sandwich, the dunes of Provincetown, or the bustling streets of Hyannis? There’s a perfect place to stay nearby, whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with the whole family in tow.

Cape Cod is known for its coastal villages, world-class seafood, and laid-back elegance.

And when the day’s adventures wind down, your choice of accommodation becomes a key part of your experience. Let’s dive into the different styles of stays that the Cape has to offer.

FUN & FESTIVE If you’re looking for a resort that combines a

laid-back, family-friendly vibe with upscale accommodations, the new Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod is an ideal match. Conveniently located near the airport, this lively resort is designed for both relaxation and fun, offering something for every member of the family.

At the heart of the property is Fins Up! Water Park, a full-scale indoor water park that’s perfect for hours of splash-filled excitement, rain or shine. Parents can unwind in the fullservice spa or enjoy a workout in the state-ofthe-art fitness center while kids take advantage of the resort’s many recreational offerings.

On-site dining is a highlight, with two lively bar and grill restaurants serving up coastal favorites and tropical-inspired fare, plus a coffee shop for those essential morning pickme-ups.

Beyond vacation stays, the resort is also well suited for meetings, events, and weddings, with versatile event spaces and a dedicated team to help bring special occasions to life. Whether you’re planning a romantic couples’ escape, a multigenerational family vacation, or even a destination wedding, Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod offers a fun, festive atmosphere with the comfort and style to match.

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Accommodations

Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod

Few places pair as naturally with bed-andbreakfasts as Cape Cod. With its New England heritage and scenic towns, the Cape is a haven for charming B&Bs that offer more than just a place to sleep. These cozy retreats often come with rich history, warm hospitality, and a delicious homemade breakfast each morning.

Whether tucked inside an 18th-century home or overlooking a quiet harbor, each bedand-breakfast offers a truly local experience.

The innkeepers, often longtime residents, double as tour guides, historians, and culinary hosts, ensuring your stay feels like home — with a touch of elegance and personal flair.

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COASTAL COT TAGES & VILL AGE LIFE For an authentic Cape Cod escape, beachfront cottages offer a storybook setting to spend your vacation. Imagine a quiet evening by the dunes, the sound of waves lapping nearby, and your own little home base for exploring the coast.

A great example is Kalmar Village, nestled between Truro and Provincetown on the Outer Cape. With easy access to nearby lighthouses, beaches, and charming seaside communities, it captures the essence of relaxed coastal living.

Cottages like these are perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants the privacy of a rental with the charm of old Cape Cod.

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

LUXURY LODGING Looking for top-tier amenities and world-class views? Cape Cod delivers luxury in spades. For those who appreciate a more indulgent vacation, there are several resorts that offer spa treatments, golf courses, fine dining, and oceanfront rooms — all wrapped in classic New England style.

Take Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club in Brewster, for instance. With direct access to the beach, an 18-hole championship golf course, upscale dining, tennis courts, and a luxurious spa, it’s a one-stop destination for relaxation and recreation. The resort frequently hosts weddings and other upscale events, but it’s just as ideal for couples or solo travelers looking to treat themselves.

Photo courtesy of Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod

CL ASSIC B&B CHARM

Better still, home rentals can often be surprisingly affordable compared to multiple hotel rooms, especially during peak season.

With options ranging from modest cottages to high-end villas, you’re sure to find something that suits both your budget and your wish list.

BUDGE T-FRIENDLY STAYS A trip to Cape Cod doesn’t need to come with a luxury price tag. There are plenty of accessible and affordable places to stay across the peninsula that still offer charm, cleanliness, and proximity to attractions.

A prime example is the Quality Inn in Bourne, located right beside scenic Buzzards

J. Kevin Foltz

RENTALS FOR THE WHOLE CREW Traveling with a larger group? A rental home might be just what you need. Vacation rental platforms offer hundreds of choices across Cape Cod — from waterfront estates and woodland cabins to convenient townhomes.

Renting a home gives you room to stretch out and settle in. You’ll have access to full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and plenty of living space — ideal for families or groups of friends traveling together. Whether you’re grilling fresh seafood on the patio or sipping coffee with a view of the sunrise, these rentals offer a personal and practical touch to your vacation.

Bay. This convenient spot offers easy access to beaches, dining, and sightseeing without the premium price of some waterfront properties.

You’ll still be able to enjoy the Cape’s beauty but with a little extra room in your budget for ice cream, lobster rolls, or ferry rides.

Many small inns throughout the Cape also provide wallet-friendly accommodations that don’t skimp on comfort, especially if you’re willing to stay a little inland from the beach.

YOUR CAPE, YOUR WAY What kind of vacation do you want it to be?

Whether it’s your first visit to the Cape or your annual summer escape, the region has something for every kind of traveler. Looking to indulge in spa days and golf by the ocean? Book a stay at a grand resort. Want to experience Cape Cod’s local character? A historic B&B or cottage by the sea might be calling your name. Need space for the whole family without overspending?

Try a vacation rental or an affordable hotel inland.

No matter how you choose to experience Cape Cod, the right place to stay will turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. After all, comfort is more than a soft bed — it’s a warm welcome, a stunning view, and the feeling that your vacation has Sands of Time truly begun.

ACCOMMODATIONS GUIDE MARGARITAVILLE RESORT CAPE COD

1225 Iyannough Rd., Hyannis 508-771-3000 www.margaritavilleresortcapecod.com  Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod combines coastal charm with a tropical

state of mind. Relax in island-inspired rooms, enjoy delicious dining, sip signature cocktails, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. With live entertainment, pools, and fun for all ages, it’s the ultimate escape for those seeking carefree comfort and adventure.

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J. Kevin Foltz

Real Estate

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cape cod

CALLING WITH OVER 550 MILES OF SHORELINE AND COMMUNITIES STEEPED IN HISTORY, CAPE COD OFFERS EVERYTHING FROM CLASSIC COTTAGES TO MODERN MASTERPIECES FOR YEAR-ROUND LIVING OR SUMMER ESCAPES.

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W O R D S B Y Colleen Kilfoil

CAPE COD IS A TRUE T R E A S U R E . The moment you cross the Bourne or Sagamore Bridge over the Cape Cod Canal, everything shifts. You roll down the windows, breathe in the salty sea air, feel the temperature dip slightly — and with it, your stress begins to melt away.

Feel the sand between your toes and dive into the refreshing Atlantic — there’s nothing quite like a swim after a busy day.

While Cape Cod’s beaches and ocean views are iconic, the region also boasts serene lakes and ponds perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply unwinding. Many properties offer pools for added fun — and yes, some even sit right on the ocean. For generations, families have found joy and relaxation on “ole Cape Cod,” returning year after year to vacation homes or to visit grandparents for a few memorable weeks with cousins. Whether it’s a new adventure or a return to tradition, the Cape is the place to truly unwind.

Living near the Cape Cod Canal means residing in Bourne — the gateway to the

Cape. Located on the Upper Cape, Bourne is joined by the towns of Falmouth, Sandwich, and Mashpee. Residents value the convenient access from Boston, Logan Airport, and Providence Airport, making it easy to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway or enjoy a performance at the Providence Performing Arts Center.

Despite its accessibility, the Upper Cape is all about laid-back charm, with beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, a wide range of restaurants, and outstanding boating opportunities.

As you travel farther down the Cape, you’ll arrive in Barnstable, Dennis, and Yarmouth — collectively known as the Mid Cape. This region is home to beautiful beaches along Nantucket Sound and includes the Cape’s largest commercial and industrial areas. Not long ago, Barnstable was the go-to destination for shopping, but today, nearly every Cape town offers its own unique selection of shops and boutiques, many featuring one-of-a-kind items and local flair.

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The Cape also offers a wide range of housing options to suit every stage of life, from charming condominiums and active over-55 adult communities to campgrounds and seasonal getaways. Even U.S. presidents have found their sanctuary here: Grover Cleveland was fond of his summer White House along the Cape Cod Canal, where he enjoyed fishing, while John F. Kennedy famously sought refuge from the Washington, D.C., summer heat at the family compound in Hyannis. Whether you’re looking for year-round living or a seasonal retreat, the Cape has a home style and setting to match your vision.

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

Colleen Kilfoil is a native Cape Codder with a passion for real estate. As the broker/owner of ACapeHouse. com, she offers the highest levels of service. Her expertise lies in her knowledge of the community, her great perception and communication abilities, and her true enjoyment of her career and love for Cape Cod.

ACapeHouse.com Real Estate (2)

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, photos courtesy of ACapeHouse.com Real Estate (2)

Continue on to the Lower Cape — often referred to as the Outer Cape — and you’ll discover the charm of Harwich, Brewster, Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown. A must-see is the breathtaking Cape Cod National Seashore, a protected stretch of coastline dotted with iconic lighthouses, country roads, and classic ice cream stands. Enjoy world-class fishing, some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere, and unforgettable whale-watching excursions. The Cape also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, museums, and playhouses throughout. And for those drawn to the sea, boating, ferry rides, and day trips to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are always just a short trip away.

Home styles on the Cape are as diverse as the landscape itself, ranging from classic ranches and stately Colonials to custombuilt waterfront estates and everything in between. Among the most iconic is the Cape Cod–style home — typically a one- or two-story residence with a pitched roof and central chimney. While this traditional design has evolved over the years, its timeless appeal endures across all Cape towns. Add a front porch with a couple of Adirondack chairs and a porch swing, and you’ve found the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

Cape Cod may only stretch 65 miles in length, but it offers more than 550 miles of breathtaking coastline. This extraordinary landscape is a major reason why people from across the globe either choose to call it home or flock here during the summer and fall. Picture yourself strolling barefoot along the beach, tucking a seashell into your pocket, napping on your porch, kayaking through tranquil marshes, or savoring a lobster roll as the sun dips below the horizon. Let the Cape work its quiet magic — you just might discover that you never want to leave.

REAL ESTATE GUIDE ACAPEHOUSE.COM REAL ESTATE

ACapeHouse.com Real Estate

770 MacArthur Blvd., Pocasset 774-283-0546 www.acapehouse.com  ACapeHouse.com Real Estate was founded in 1997 with a goal to deliver exceptional service to buyers and sellers of Cape Cod houses. Its goal is not to be the biggest… just to be the best for each individual client it serves. It considers it a privilege to stand beside its sellers and buyers during one of their most important life decisions.

Photo courtesy of ACapeHouse.com Real Estate

770 MacArthur Boulevard Pocasset, MA 02559 774.283.0546 Colleen@ACapeHouse.com www.ACapeHouse.com

Residential Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers with Native Cape Codder Colleen Kilfoil

Colleen Kilfoil Broker/Owner

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CA P E C O D We d d i n gs

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VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

HAPPILY ever

AFTER

BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, UNIQUE VENUES, AND SEASIDE CHARM MAKE CAPE COD THE IDEAL DESTINATION FOR BOTH YOUR WEDDING AND YOUR HONEYMOON.

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T H E T H I N G S T H AT M A K E C A P E C O D a great vacation getaway — beautiful beaches, unique lodging, incredible dining, and attractions — make it the ideal place to tie the knot. But why end your bliss there?

Cape Cod transitions to the most romantic honeymoon spot imaginable, whether you’re looking for total seclusion, a launch point for exploring the peninsula, or just long walks on the beach.

With historical sites dating back centuries and elegant resorts overlooking Cape Cod Bay, finding a picture-perfect spot for your ceremony is easy on the Cape. Sprawling vineyards, landmark restaurants, and outdoor pavilions are also among the popular venues for ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, and receptions.

For many couples tying the knot on the Cape, only one location will do — the beach.

It is, after all, the perfect something blue.

Each beach offers its own unique charm and beauty, making it hard to choose the best one.

Corporation Beach in Dennis, for example, boasts a beautiful bluff overlooking the ocean, while Coast Guard Beach in Eastham is consistently ranked among America’s best beaches.

Marconi Beach in Wellfleet is another popular site, though as part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, you will need a special use permit from the National Parks Service.

You’ll want to contact each town’s chamber of commerce or town hall for information on obtaining your permit for a beach wedding.

Once you make the BIG decision — where to marry — there are dozens of decisions to follow, including choosing your wedding photographer, the style of your bouquet, and, of course, day-of beauty. You’re covered on the Cape, with local experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and a wide array of venues and vendors, Cape Cod is the perfect place to start your happily ever after.

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Useful Information

USEFUL info

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

HERE ARE SOME PRACTICAL TIPS AND HELPFUL INFORMATION TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR VISIT TO CAPE COD.

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POPUL ATION Cape Cod and Barnstable County refer to the same area. It has a population of approximately 230,000 people, according to www.capecod.gov. However, this number swells significantly during the summer months as tourists flock to the area to enjoy its beaches, activities, and charming towns.

TOWNS Cape Cod boasts 15 towns within four regions: Upper, Mid, Lower, and Outer Cape. Upper Cape has Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth, and Mashpee; Mid Cape has Barnstable, Yarmouth, and Dennis; Lower Cape has Harwich, Brewster, Chatham, and Orleans; and Outer Cape has Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown.

GE T TING HERE

By Car: The most common way to reach Cape Cod is by car. From Boston, take I-93 South to MA-3 South, which leads directly to the Cape Cod Canal and the Sagamore Bridge, the gateway to the peninsula.

By Ferry: Ferries run frequently from Boston and Rhode Island to various points on the Cape and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. The Steamship Authority offers ferries from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard and from Hyannis to Nantucket (508-477-8600; www.steamshipauthority.com).

By Flight: Cape Air (800-CAPE-AIR) and JetBlue (800-JET-BLUE) offer flights to Cape Cod. Cape Cod Gateway Airport (HYA) in Hyannis offers flights from major hubs such as Boston and New York. Additionally, the Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket airports provide access to those specific islands with connections to the Cape.

By Bus: Peter Pan and Plymouth & Brockton buses offer scheduled service from Boston, Providence, and New York City directly to various towns on the Cape. Peter Pan also provides convenient connecting service to The Steamship Authority ferries in both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

Peter Pan: 800-343-9999; www.peterpanbus.com Plymouth & Brockton: 508-746-0378; www.p-b.com

GE T TING AROUND

OTHER IMPORTANT DE TAILS

Car Rentals: Major car rental companies operate at the Cape Cod Gateway Airport and in larger towns like Hyannis, making it convenient for visitors to explore the region.

Weather: Cape Cod enjoys a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, moderate summers. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Public Transportation: The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus service throughout the Cape (800-352-7155; www.capecodrta.org). Routes cover major towns and popular destinations, with seasonal trolleys enhancing connectivity during the summer months.

Biking: Cape Cod is bike-friendly with numerous bike trails, including the scenic 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail, which runs from Dennis to Wellfleet.

CAPE COD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce offers a wealth of information for visitors, including upcoming events and festivals.

5 Patti Page Way, Centerville, MA 02632 508-362-3225; www.capecodchamber.org

Beach Stickers: Many of Cape Cod’s public beaches require a beach sticker for parking. These can usually be purchased at local town halls or beach offices.

Accommodations: From charming bedand-breakfasts to luxury resorts and vacation rentals, Cape Cod offers a range of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets. It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially for summer stays.

Dining: The Cape is known for its seafood, with numerous restaurants offering everything from casual clam shacks to fine dining. Many establishments feature outdoor seating to enjoy the coastal views.

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NANTUCKET RED

®

VODKA CRANBERRY

LOCAL FAVORITE!

A FRESH SPIN ON THE TRADITIONAL 'CAPE CODDER' COCKTAIL!

Nantucket Red® Vodka Cranberry is a deliciously crafted cocktail, combining premium vodka (7% ABV) and natural fruit flavors. Our cocktails embody the essence of Cape Cod & the Islands, providing customers with an exciting and refreshing experience without stepping foot on the beach!

MARTHA’S VINEYARD DINE. EXPLORE.

Alison Shaw

S H OP.

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WELCOME to

MARTHA’S VINEYARD

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VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Discover the timeless allure of Martha’s Vineyard — where windswept beaches, storied villages, and rich maritime history meet world-class dining, eclectic shops, and boundless outdoor adventures.

Whether you're here to unwind by the sea, wander scenic trails, or immerse yourself in local culture, the island offers unforgettable experiences around every corner.

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D

Alison Shaw

Exploring

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VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

SIX TOWNS, endless CHARM FROM HARBOR VILLAGES TO WINDSWEPT CLIFFS, EXPLORE THE RICH CHARACTER AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE EACH VINEYARD TOWN DISTINCT.

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W O R D S B Y Lisa Simundson

L O O K I N G A C R O S S V I N E YA R D S O U N D from Southwest Cape Cod on a clear day, Martha’s Vineyard is like a green gem set against blue ocean waters, giving off a feeling of island seclusion. It’s time to put yourself in the picture.

Located just a ferry ride or a quick flight from Cape Cod, “the Vineyard,” as the locals affectionately refer to it, spans nearly 100 square miles but feels much larger thanks to the distinct character of its towns.

There are six towns in all, and each is one of a kind. The largest are the bustling port towns of Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Oak Bluffs, while the quieter enclaves of Chilmark, West Tisbury, and Aquinnah offer their own charms. No trip to the Vineyard would be complete without exploring all these towns,

so if you miss one, you’ll have to make it up next time.

Before diving into the adventure through the Vineyard’s towns, here are a few tips to guide you on your journey and help you understand what the friendly locals may be recommending.

The Vineyard has two main areas to navigate: “Up Island,” known for the stunning cliffs of Aquinnah, the tranquil and scenic rolling hills of Chilmark, and the relaxed atmosphere of West Tisbury; and “Down Island,” which boasts the lively towns of Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven, full of charming shops, delightful restaurants, and vibrant nightlife that keep visitors entertained.

Let’s take a closer look at what awaits you Down Island, followed by some highlights from Up Island.

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Exploring

EDGARTOWN Jaws Bridge

5 Things to Do

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Murdick’s Fudge

K N O W N F O R I T S M I X of diamonds and flipflops, this lively town on the lower east side of the Vineyard is home to some of the island’s unique shopping offerings. In fact, savvy repeat visitors often arrive with half-empty suitcases, knowing they’ll want to stock up on stylish denim and crisp cotton for daytime outings and cocktail dresses or cashmere for evenings out. For stylish finds for both women and men, be sure to pop into The Great Put On, a favorite local boutique.

In addition to take-home musts like shirts imprinted with anchors and lobsters, stop in at Claudia’s Jewelry for pieces crafted by local artists and jewelry designers, along with accessories of all kinds. Add a cool touch with eyewear from Summer Shades. And don’t forget to get something for yourself, like yummy treats from Murdick’s Fudge.

You’ll also discover the island’s widest range of din-

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

ing options in Edgartown — from all-American classics and Italian favorites to sushi, sandwiches, and plenty of fresh local seafood. But don’t put your appetite to bed after feasting — Edgartown’s ice cream shops make dessert portable as you take your cup or cone for a walk and enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfront and Chappaquiddick Island.

Pedestrian-friendly Edgartown’s main drag is Main Street, and you can spend an entire day (or week) exploring the downtown area by foot or bicycle, soaking up local history and taking selfies at the Edgartown Lighthouse overlooking the picture-perfect Edgartown Harbor.

Outside the downtown area, but still close by, are gorgeous, windswept South Beach and Norton Point — allowing over-sand traffic — along with the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, a 200-acre preserve offering trail walks and wildlife sightings.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

• The Jaws Bridge: Named for its appearance in the landmark film Jaws, the bridge connects Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

• Chappaquiddick: This rural island off the coast of Edgartown has only one main road and one retail business, the oneroom Chappy Store.

• Edgartown Harbor Light: This lighthouse offers spectacular views of Edgartown Harbor, Chappaquiddick, and Cape Cod. • South Beach: This three-mile barrier beach is one of the most popular on the island and a surfer’s paradise.

• Morning Glory Farm: A 50-year-old organic farm producing fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

On-site market and bakery.

Pasture Poses

Island Alpaca blends movement and mindfulness with outdoor yoga sessions among gentle, roaming alpacas.

There’s nothing quite like the soft, luxurious feel of alpaca fleece — whether it’s knit into cozy sweaters, scarves, or sofa throws. But did you know there’s also something called Alpaca Yoga? This one-of-a-kind outdoor yoga class offers a truly unique experience, where gentle, curious alpacas roam freely and may even nuzzle participants as they flow through poses. Island Alpaca in Vineyard Haven offers 45-minute yoga sessions on mats set amid scenic pasturelands.

An experienced instructor leads participants through a series of relaxing positions, followed by an up-close meet-and-greet session with the friendly animals.

Cost: $35 per person per session; $15 to purchase a mat. www.islandalpaca.com

Island Alpaca Company

AnicaBanica Photography / Island Alpaca Company

OAK BLUFFS T R A V E L N O R T H from Edgartown to the northern tip of Martha’s Vineyard’s “triangle” and you’ll arrive in Oak Bluffs — a casual, welcoming town where it’s easy to step right off the ferry and into the heart of downtown.

Here, souvenir shops and candy stores line the streets, offering that quintessential Atlantic seaboard vacation feel. Be sure to browse Stefanie Wolf Designs for beautiful, handcrafted artisan jewelry; and don’t miss Third World Trading, an eclectic boutique located at the end of Circuit Avenue.

With everything to do here, our advice is to pace and brace yourself because the shops, restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream shops along Circuit Avenue in the town center are only the beginning. Bike and moped rentals are plentiful, allowing easy access to a picturesque shoreline fronted by Victorian-style homes and scenic outdoor spots, including Ocean Park and Inkwell Beach, historically an African American resort community and now a stop along the African American Heritage Trail.

The Oak Bluffs Marina is the largest on the island and, being the arrival point for ferries from the mainland, offers quick access to the rest of Martha’s Vineyard.

A long boardwalk with restaurants and shops is a favorite spot for watching spectacular sunsets or just enjoying a drink by the water at a nearby restaurant.

There’s nothing like savoring fresh seafood with a water view, and you’ll get both at Lookout Tavern, featuring a raw bar and creative cocktails; the Sand Bar & Grille, steps from the ferries; and Lobsterville Bar and Grille, overlooking Oak Bluffs’ picturesque harbor. Or, for something to get you in the island mood, check out Deon’s, serving what it calls “Soul American Eclectic Caribbean.”

Pace and brace yourself because the shops, restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream shops along Circuit Avenue in the town center are only the beginning.

5 Things to Do

• I sland Alpaca Company: This farm started with 8 alpacas and now boasts over 50.

•C ircuit Avenue: Oak Bluffs’ main street, lined with small local retail and souvenir shops, restaurants, and an ice cream emporium whose flavors include lobster.

•F lying Horses Carousel: The nation’s oldest platform carousel still in use debuted in Coney Island and moved to Oak Bluffs in 1884.

•O cean Park: Set across from the beach, surrounded

by Victorian homes and steps from downtown.

• East Chop Lighthouse: Built in 1878 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

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5 Things to Do

VINEYARD HAVEN The Green Room

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C R O S S B E A C H R O A D from Oak Bluffs and you’ll find yourself in Vineyard Haven, a town known for its centuries-old port that today serves both ferry passengers and traditional waterfront industries such as shipbuilding and fishing.

Vineyard Haven also honors its rich past through the William Street Historic District, a beautifully preserved area listed on the National Register of Historic Places which represents the island’s finest collection of mid19th-century homes.

All of this history and heritage falls within Vineyard Haven’s Cultural District, which actively supports the town’s waterfront identity and artistic community. A centerpiece of the district is the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center, offering year-round cinema, a MET Opera Live season, on-site art exhibitions, and several renowned events, including the Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival.

Once you’ve been enriched by the local arts scene, it’s time to dine with a view on Vineyard

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Haven, where outdoor eateries with expansive decks and patios feature raw bars, “docktails,” and all things lobster, including lobster rolls and lobster quesadillas.

Among the many acclaimed eateries in Vineyard Haven are 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar, with its locally sourced menu; The Maker Pasta Shop & Café, featuring homemade pasta and local seafood; and Quitsa Kitchen, loved for its homestyle food. Or pick up at box of burgers at Woodland Variety & Grill.

Meanwhile, Vineyard Haven keeps up with fashion styles at Conrado, known for its ethically and sustainably made accessories and clothing ranging from cozy sweats to elegant blouses. The Green Room on Main Street is a popular shop that carries brand-name clothing as well as swim, skate, and surf selections.

Visit Coastal Supply Co. if you need souvenirs or Vineyard-made products to take home. For amazing jewelry options, try CB Stark Jewelers, which released a new Jaws Collection in honor of the movie’s 50th anniversary.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Martha’s Vineyard Museum

• Martha’s Vineyard Museum: Discover the island’s cultural and historical touchstones, including its seafaring legacy.

• Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse: Presenting plays on the Patricia Neal Stage and during summer months in the outdoor Tisbury Amphitheater.

• Farm.Field.Sea: Hosting seasonal pop-up dinners with local farmers, chefs, and fisherfolk.

• The Cove Golf & Grill: This adventure-themed mini golf course meanders past streams, waterfalls, and ponds.

• West Chop Lighthouse: It’s not open to the public, as it’s located on U.S. Coast Guard property and adjacent to private residences; but you can get a good view of the lighthouse from the road.

WEST TISBURY Field Gallery

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, Michael R. Blanchard

The Polly Hill Arboretum

H E A D I N G S O U T H from Vineyard Haven, you’ll arrive in West Tisbury, a 34-square-mile town whose yearround population of just over 3,000 expands dramatically each summer. First settled in 1669, West Tisbury has preserved the agricultural landscapes that once defined life across the Cape and islands.

One of the best ways to experience this agricultural charm is at the West Tisbury Farmers Market, held from June through October at the MV Agricultural Hall — a century-old barn originally transported from New Hampshire.

The hall also hosts the popular Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair each year, as well as a variety of community events, including art and artisan shows.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore in West Tisbury. The town is home to Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, where a network of paved and dirt trails winds through peaceful woods, meadows, and ponds — with a few trails even leading all the way to the beach. In addition to hiking and walking, the forest offers a disc golf course, dog walks, and bike loops perfect for a leisurely ride.

Hidden gems abound in West Tisbury, from an authentic general store and roadside farm stands to an outdoor sculpture garden and a glassworks studio. Serious art lovers will want to stop at the Granary Gallery, the oldest and largest gallery on Martha’s Vineyard.

West Tisbury’s gorgeous Lambert’s Cove Beach is renowned for its gorgeous sunsets and soft sand; but access is restricted to residents and renters of West Tisbury during the summer season. You’ll need a sticker to access it during that time of year.

5 Things to Do

•W est Tisbury Farmers Market: Martha’s Vineyard’s oldest, largest, and finest openair market.

•G ranary Gallery: Set in an iconic red barn, it’s the oldest and largest gallery on Martha’s Vineyard.

•F ield Gallery: Rotating exhibits of paintings, photography, jewelry, and more. Whimsical outdoor sculptures are a major attraction.

•T he Polly Hill Arboretum: Its 70 acres are filled with rare plants, shrubs, and flowers, including monkey puzzle trees and Julian Hill magnolias.

•A lley’s General Store: The oldest retail business on the island, opening in 1858 and still a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

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5 Things to Do

• Menemsha Hills: An array of minienvironments leads to a rocky ocean edge and 308-foot Prospect Hill.

•C hilmark Pond: This is a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, as well as birdwatching.

• Chilmark Library: A quaint and quiet spot with stunning water views and community events in the summer, it’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon or rainy-day activity.

•C hilmark General Store: Organic coffee and three meals daily, plus fresh local produce and products, make this a true community market.

• Native Earth Teaching Farm: A small working farm open to the public for tours, farm craft demonstrations, and classes.

Lucy Vincent Beach

H E A D I N G S O U T H from West Tisbury, you’ll arrive in Chilmark, where rural traditions still thrive amid rolling pastures dotted with sheep and livestock, much like in colonial times. Visitors can sample this local heritage firsthand — many area farms offer tours and tastings, where you can savor freshly baked bread and cheese straight from the dairy.

Chilmark is home to Lucy Vincent Beach and Squibnocket Beach, two of the most stunning beaches on the island — but access is limited to Chilmark residents and renters with permits. With its rocky coastline, Squibnocket Beach is equally beloved by both surfers, MV10

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

drawn to its impressive waves, and anglers hoping to land one of the Cape’s legendary striped bass — affectionately known as “stripers.”

For a truly authentic fishing experience, visit nearby Menemsha, a classic working fishing village where the charming inner harbor, set against Menemsha Basin, is lined with colorful fishing shacks and markets. With boats unloading fresh catches throughout the day, it’s the perfect place to enjoy lobster, clams, mussels, and more.

Time your visit right and you can also enjoy an evening by the harbor during The Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival, where movies are screened outdoors under the stars — the perfect way to cap off a day of coastal adventure.

Michael R. Blanchard

CHILMARK

Lucy Vincent Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Voices of the Island Sylvie Farrington’s True Vineyard Color podcast brings the voices of local artists, entrepreneurs, and community members to life.

WORDS BY LISA SIMUNDSON

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ne of the things that gives Martha’s Vineyard its special character isn’t just the beaches or the scenic views — it’s the people who call it home. You’ll encounter them during your visit — on the beach, in the shops, galleries, and cafés — but unless you stay for a while, you may not get to know their stories.

That’s where True Vineyard Color comes in. This insightful podcast, curated by longtime Vineyard resident and artist Sylvie Farrington, brings listeners

behind the scenes of island life.

Through intimate conversations, Farrington profiles members of the year-round community — entrepreneurs, artists, health workers, and other islanders who are passionate about the Vineyard way of life.

“We capture the spirit of our vibrant Martha’s Vineyard community — [the people] who help make the island extraordinary,” Farrington shared in a recent episode.

True Vineyard Color offers a wide range of stories — from inspiring discussions with local business owners and creative artists to thoughtful interviews with health care workers and community advocates. One recent episode even spotlighted a team from SCORE, a national mentoring organization that helps launch entrepreneurs.

Visitors can tune in to True Vineyard Color for a deeper connection to the island — and a chance to hear firsthand what it means to live, work, and create on Martha’s Vineyard. You can

listen on Instagram at @ truevineyardcolor_podcast, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.

It’s the perfect soundtrack for your ferry ride or beach afternoon!

WORDS BY LISA SIMUNDSON

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

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The Black Dog: A Vineyard Original

The story of how a pirate-inspired pup became the unofficial mascot of Vineyard summers.

ow did the logo of a Labrador-boxer mix become the international emblem for summertime? It was thanks to schooner captain and entrepreneur Robert Douglas, who opened The Black Dog Tavern on Martha’s Vineyard, New Year’s Eve 1971, naming it after a pirate in the Robert Louis Stevenson novel Treasure Island. The profile of the black dog was incorporated into the business in 1976.

By the early 1980s, The Black Dog Tavern was an institution in Edgartown — famous for its fresh local seafood and homemade craft cocktails — and soon the Black Dog portrait started appearing on T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, mugs, and even cookie tins, stamped with the logo’s outline. The items became collectibles for visitors who wanted to take a piece of their summer vacation home with them.

As Douglas joked to the Vineyard Gazette in 1997, “It started as a restaurant, and it turned into a dry goods business.”

Douglas recently passed away at his Vineyard family home at the age of 93. He is survived by his wife and four sons, all of whom have participated in the family business at one time or another.

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Exploring

The multicolored cliffs of Aquinnah overlook the ocean at an elevation, creating grand vistas at sunset.

5 Things to Do

•G ay Head Lighthouse: The first lighthouse built on Martha’s Vineyard and the only lighthouse with a history of Native American lighthouse keepers.

• Sunset at Aquinnah: The multicolored cliffs of Aquinnah overlook the ocean at an elevation, creating grand vistas at sunset or any time.

•M enemsha Creek: A small tidal inlet, picture perfect and home to a small fishing fleet.

•A quinnah Cultural Center: Discover the history of the Aquinnah Wampanoag at the onsite museum.

• Moshup Beach: Also known as Aquinnah Public Beach and part of the Aquinnah Headlands Preserve, with white sands, crashing waves, and cliffs overhead.

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T H A N K S T O Menemsha’s close proximity to Aquinnah, many visitors choose to bike between the two. For a more relaxed ride, you can skip the steepest sections by catching the convenient bike ferry along the way.

Welcome to Aquinnah — the “toe” (or perhaps the heel, depending on your perspective) of Martha’s Vineyard. Originally named “Gay Head” by early English settlers, the town’s original Wampanoag name, meaning “high land,” was officially restored in 1998 — a fitting tribute once you witness the dramatic landscape here.

Towering above the island’s westernmost tip, the legendary Aquinnah Cliffs showcase striking multicolored clay formations that cascade towards the sea, offering stunning panoramic views and unforgettable sunsets over the water.

You can explore the lower beach paths for a close-up look at the cliffs or follow the upper trails for sweeping views of the coastline, as well as the iconic Gay Head Lighthouse and the nearby Elizabeth Islands.

When you’re ready to explore more of the area, Aquinnah also offers art galleries, paddleboarding adventures, and excellent dining options. And for those traveling with little ones, Phase One of the town’s brand-new Village Center Playground is now open and ready for play — with Phase Two already in progress.

Michael R. Blanchard (3)

AQUINNAH

Jaws Turns 50 The summer blockbuster put Martha’s Vineyard on the map. Half a century later, the film’s legacy still draws fans to the island’s harbors, beaches, and iconic locations.

WORDS BY LISA SIMUNDSON

Alamy / RGR Collection, World History Archive

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aws began as a best-selling novel, then became a groundbreaking film — and ultimately a cultural phenomenon that changed the way the world thought about summer at the beach. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the 1975 blockbuster that was filmed right here on Martha’s Vineyard — and the island is celebrating in grand style.

When Steven Spielberg chose the Vineyard as his filming location, he inadvertently gave the island a second identity. To fans around the world, it has long been known as “Jaws Island.” And every summer, movie buffs and curious visitors alike come to explore the familiar landmarks from the film.

Edgartown, with its classic harbor front and white clapboard buildings, doubled as the fictional town of Amity, where the story unfolds. Over in Menemsha Channel, you’ll find the site of one of the movie’s most famous scenes — the shark attack on the fishing boat Orca, forever etched in cinematic history.

In honor of this milestone, the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce is hosting a series of themed events and festivities, including special screenings, immersive experiences, and behind-the-

scenes storytelling that gives visitors a deeper look at the making of this legendary film.

Even National Geographic has joined the celebration with a new documentary, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, offering fresh insights and rare footage.

Of course, the legend of Jaws is part of island life year-round. Visitors can take Jaws-themed tours, snap photos at iconic locations, and hear firsthand accounts from Vineyard locals who participated in the filming — as extras, crew members, or eyewitnesses to Hollywood history in the making.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering the story, there’s no better time to experience Jaws Island. Come explore the film’s legacy — and the beautiful island that helped make it a legend — the next time you visit.

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Alison Shaw

Alison Shaw

O n t h e Wa t e r

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RIGHT IN DIVE INTO THE EXCITING WORLD OF WATERSPORTS AND ACTIVITIES THAT TRANSFORM THIS ISLAND PARADISE INTO A HAVEN FOR ALL AQUATIC ENTHUSIASTS. W O R D S B Y Lisa Simundson

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Y O U R M A R I T I M E J O U R N E Y starts the moment you board the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard, feeling the salt spray and ocean wind in your hair along with the anticipation of what’s to come. Once ashore, you’ll discover why the Vineyard’s magnificent 120-mile shoreline captivates visitors — no other place offers such a perfect combination of expansive ocean vistas, pristine beaches, and authentic fishing harbors — all within easy reach of most U.S. cities.

The locals have sampled every conceivable water activity, and now it’s your turn. From Vineyard Sound to the Atlantic Ocean, an aquatic playground awaits your exploration — whether you’re drawn to boating, paddling, diving beneath the surface, or sailing towards the horizon. This island isn’t just surrounded by water; it’s defined by the countless adventures waiting on it and in it.

MAKE A SPL ASH The Vineyard offers kayak and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) rental shops, and some will bring equipment right to your doorstep.

Grab the kids and head to the gentle waters of Sengekontacket Pond or Majors Cove near Edgartown for a perfect family paddle. Feeling adventurous? Launch directly from the beach and challenge the waves. There are kayak and SUP board rentals and tours right on State Beach in Oak Bluffs.

Curious minds will love the guided tours, where local experts reveal hidden geological treasures and point out curious creatures along the shoreline. Ever try balancing in tree pose while floating? The Vineyard’s serene ponds and inlets create the perfect studio for SUP yoga.

And when the sun starts to dip, the fun doesn’t have to end — glowing, transparent kayaks illuminate your path on magical sunset tours.

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DULY NOTED

Martha’s Vineyard beaches offer remarkable natural beauty and amenities, perfect for reading, swimming, and strolls along the sand.

BENE ATH THE WAVES Beyond Martha’s Vineyard’s famed shores is an underwater world that rivals the island’s surface beauty. Dive in and you’ll come face-to-face with delicate seahorses and graceful stingrays, along with schools of fish and multiple shark species — from browns and blues to sparkling threshers — who glide silently past.

History buffs will treasure the underwater museum of shipwrecks scattered throughout Vineyard Sound. There’s the Taussig, a coal schooner claimed by fog and the sea in 1929; the Port Hunter, a British freighter that collided with a tugboat in 1918 while still carrying a cache of supplies for the U.S. Army; and the

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haunting Vineyard Lightship, which sank with all hands during a hurricane in 1944. Each wreck tells a story of bravery and tragedy, preserved on the Vineyard’s ocean floor.

If you’re ready to explore the briny deep, note that while snorkelers need only swimming skills, divers must be certified. Also, these are not Caribbean waters — you’ll need a wet suit for the bracing New England temperatures, even in summer. Local dive shops stand ready with gear, guidance, and all the insider tips you need for your underwater adventure. Don’t leave Martha’s Vineyard without discovering its most extraordinary treasure: the world beneath the waves.

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Want a deep-sea fishing adventure during your visit? Look no further than the charter boats docked at Vineyard marinas, ready to whisk you away to full- or half-day excursions. Local captains — experts in where the most fertile fishing grounds are — will guide you through the waters of Vineyard Sound, Nantucket Sound, and the vast Atlantic, where trophy catches are just below the waves. Make sure to ask what’s included in the price, including equipment, bait, food, and drink.

The island’s fishing scene reaches fever pitch during the nearly 80-year-old Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby, held in early fall, and the thrilling Oak Bluffs Bluewater Classic in July, drawing fishing enthusiasts from across the country hoping to get their names into the record books.

The unofficial start of fishing season is May, when the royalty of the fishing world arrives — the fabled striped bass or “stripers,” as islanders call them. While these trophy fish peak in summer, dedicated anglers pursue them year-round.

For the ultimate bragging rights, nothing beats landing a yellowfin or the legendary bluefin tuna, especially during tournament season (with yellowfin mostly making summer appearances).

Meanwhile, locals know that dinner doesn’t get fresher than catching your own bluefish.

These abundant shoreline swimmers hunt in schools, creating the dramatic “bluefish blitz” — a feeding frenzy spectacular to witness but, unfortunately for them, revealing their location to observant anglers.

You can always leave the boat behind if you’d rather stay on terra firma during your fishing adventure. In addition to plenty of fishing piers, Martha’s Vineyard offers some of the best surf fishing. Pick a spot on the beach, set your rod, and let the wave action do the rest.

Michaeel R. Blanchard

REELING THEM IN

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J. kevin Foltz

M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D O n t h e Wa t e r

DISCOVER Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape

ACCOMMODATIONS ACTIVITIES & ARTS DINING & NIGHTLIFE INFORMATION & SERVICES REAL ESTATE SHOPPING TRANSPORTATION WEDDINGS

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SCAN THE QR CODE FOUND THROUGHOUT THE PAGES OF THIS VISITORS’ GUIDE TO DOWNLOAD THE INDISPENSABLE DISCOVER MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND THE CAPE APP WHILE ON THE GO.

BE ACH ESSENTIALS The moment they arrive, visitors seem to know where to go — straight to the shoreline, equipped with all the essentials for their day in the sun. You’ll find your own ideal experience here, whether peacefully reading by the water or conquering the breaking waves. Martha’s Vineyard’s beaches aren’t just beautiful; they’re alive, with shorebirds, crabs, and snails who are fascinating to watch (but not touch).

In Edgartown alone, each beach offers a unique coastal experience. Head to the edge of the island at East Beach, part of Chappaquiddick’s Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation and a favorite among wildlife watchers; or stay close to home at Fuller Street Beach, just steps from the town center and offering the quintessential escape

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for sunbathing. Craving waves? Surfers flock to Katama Beach for its thrilling swells, while history buffs will love Lighthouse Beach, where the majestic Edgartown Lighthouse presides over the sandy scene.

In Oak Bluffs, Inkwell Beach is within easy walking distance of the ferry dock — giving you almost immediate access upon arrival — but if those famous “long walks on the beach” are calling, Joseph Sylvia State Beach provides the setting. Its gentle waves and gradual drop-off make it a good choice for kids.

Also an option for those with children in tow, Owen Park Beach in Vineyard Haven is set within a harbor, free from big waves but big on warm water. Kids will also love Owen Park Beach for its proximity to the boats and sailboats anchored nearby, along with the neighboring ferry docks.

Alison Shaw

Beyond Martha’s Vineyard’s famed shores is an underwater world that rivals the island’s surface beauty.

ON THE WATER GUIDE MARTHA’S VINEYARD OCEANSPORTS

12 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs 508-693-8476 www.mvoceansports.com  Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports is Martha’s Vineyard’s premier ocean sports company. It offers everything to make your watersports experience memorable — whether you see the island on a guided Jet Ski tour, soar overhead parasailing, or have an experience of a lifetime on a private charter island cruise. No matter your ocean sport experience, Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports will make it one to remember.

Alison Shaw

Long Point Wildlife Refuge

Across the island, Aquinnah’s beaches showcase the region’s natural, rugged beauty. Many a person has paused to stare in awe at Moshup Beach (Public Beach), whose dramatic multicolored cliffs, soft sand, and powerful waves are nothing short of breathtaking.

Climb the cliffs for restrooms, restaurants, and panoramic views ranked among the east coast’s most stunning. It’s a view you simply cannot miss.

For a more chill atmosphere, wander over to Lobsterville Beach in Aquinnah, where you can follow the shoreline for miles from the Menemsha Channel all the way to Dogfish Bar. Just a friendly heads-up: Our feathered friends sometimes get priority — the beach occasionally closes to protect migratory birds.

Speaking of Menemsha, the public beach is the only one in Chilmark; but it’s a good one.

Located in the heart of a historic

fishing village, Menemsha’s beach — with its unobstructed west-facing views — is a prime spot to witness dazzling sunsets.

Head to West Tisbury for encounters with nature while enjoying incredible beaches at Long Point Wildlife Refuge.

Home to a sheltered pond and a two-mile trail leading through oak forest and grasslands, the refuge offers kayak and SUP rentals daily from June to August.

Here’s a tip for all you saltwater lovers: Subtract the salt, and you’ll find yourself at the Vineyard’s freshwater and brackish ponds and lakes, amazing to explore and vital to the island’s aquatic health.

Options include Edgartown Great Pond, Farm Pond in Oak Bluffs, and Crystal Lake in Vineyard Haven, a popular spot for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.

At Dockside Marina in Oak Bluffs in front of Fishbones Cafe

NOW OFFERING CHARTERS ON OUR 38’ FOUNTAIN WITH TRIPLE 300 H.P. MERCURY OUTBOARDS PARASAILING •WAKEBOARDING • TUBING • WATERSKIING SUNSET CRUISES • KNEEBOARDING • BANANA BOAT RIDES JETSKIING • PRIVATE TOURS • BOSTON WHALER RENTALS For Reservations and Info: 508-693-8467 • mvoceansports.com 2025/26

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J. Kevin Foltz

Adventures on Land

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LANDINGS WITH 124.6 MILES OF TIDAL SHORELINE SPREAD ACROSS SIX TOWNS, MARTHA’S VINEYARD MAY BE A BEACH HAVEN; BUT IT’S ALSO BIG ON LAND-BASED ADVENTURE. LACE UP YOUR HIKING BOOTS, PUT ON YOUR BIKE HELMET, PRACTICE YOUR PUTTING, AND GET READY TO PLAY. W O R D S B Y Lisa Simundson

Written by Lisa Simundson

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Adventures on Land

TRAILBL A ZERS Put away the phone and screens and just lose yourself in nature here. Walking or hiking along an island trail, you’ll feel better — physically, mentally, and spiritually.

On the family-friendly side is the Edgartown Pond Loop, less than a mile in length and reached via a quiet side street in downtown Edgartown. The 0.68-mile loop circles Sheriff’s Pond with views overlooking the main pond, meadow, salt marshes, and Eel Pond. In the distance, you’ll see Nantucket Sound. This trail also is manageable for those with mobility aids.

Also good for kids is the West Tisbury Storybook Walk, west of Edgartown on Nat’s

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Farm and set within a sunny expanse of meadows, woodlands, and pasture near the Correllus State Forest bike path. This relatively flat and easy path passes by an equine learning center, where you might glimpse horses, while along the way are wooden stands featuring children’s books.

Miles of trails wind through the meadows and salt marshes of the 194-acre Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary in Edgartown, which also offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including two nature play areas for little ones.

For something a bit more challenging, the Cross Chilmark Trail begins on the island’s north shore at Great Rock Bight Preserve, offering beautiful views across Vineyard Sound to the Elizabeth Islands. Eventually the route continues west to Peaked Hill Reservation, the island’s highest point at 311 feet above sea level, offering spectacular views.

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Edgartown Park

The island's interior is rich with opportunities for exploration — whether you’re hiking through quiet woodland trails, pedaling past centuriesold wetlands, or strolling alongside crystal-clear ponds.

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, Michael R. Blanchard

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O N M A R T H A ’ S V I N E YA R D , the beauty of the landscape goes far beyond the shore. The island’s interior is rich with opportunities for exploration — whether you’re hiking through quiet woodland trails, pedaling past centuries-old wetlands, or strolling alongside crystal-clear ponds and peaceful lakes.

Beyond the beaches, inland and outdoor adventures await as you explore the island’s nature, discovering birds and the panorama of a lush maritime outback in untouched conservation lands. Prefer other kinds of birdies? The island also is home to a variety of golf courses. No matter your preference, outdoors is a great place to find yourself on Martha’s Vineyard.

Did You Know?

Miles of bike trails crisscross the island, with terrain spanning every skill level from relaxing to racing.

Those up for a longer hike can try the 5.6-mile Tiasquam Waskosim’s Ramble, which traverses much of Waskosim’s Rock Reservation and the Tiasquam Valley Reservation. In addition to Waskosim’s Rock itself, the trail includes three loops and features a variety of habitats, including woodlands, open meadows, and shaded wetlands along the Mill Brook.

Menemsha Hiking Trail

GO FOR A SPIN

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

South Beach

South of Great Rock is the rustic Fulling Mill Brook Preserve, where a 1.5-mile loop trail leads to a small dam once used in a wool-processing operation set up in the late 1600s. Footbridges span the brook, allowing access to a habitat that might be too dense or sequestered to visit in some areas.

Hit the ground running or, better yet, cycling, since it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the Vineyard and, for some repeat visitors, the only way to enjoy Martha’s Vineyard.

Miles of bike trails crisscross the island, with terrain spanning every skill level from relaxing to racing. In the former category, the Down Island bike trails — including Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown — span mostly flat, easier routes. For the more experienced, bike tours of the Up Island communities of West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah can be hilly, with curvy roads to navigate.

If you didn’t bring your own equipment, no worries! Bike dealers, rentals, and repair shops are on hand to meet your needs; so go ahead and get rolling.

With Edgartown as your base, it’s seven miles to South Beach and back via Katama Road. Just pack your picnic and beach gear and pedal towards a relaxing day at the beach. Heading from Edgartown to Vineyard Haven? The route is easy to remember — the Edgartown–Vineyard Haven Road will get you there.

Oak Bluffs to Edgartown is the island’s most popular ride, offering scenic views of Nantucket Sound and Sengekontacket

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Did You Know?

There are five distinct lighthouses on Martha’s Vineyard that point towards the island’s storied history.

LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT

Pond on a six-mile path with flat, easy terrain.

More experienced riders will want to test their skills in the Up Island towns of West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah. These towns don’t have designated bike paths but do boast incredible scenery along winding roads and hilly terrain.

To cycle the smaller island of Chappaquiddick, hop on the On-Time Ferry.

There are no designated bike paths here, but it’s mostly rural with quiet roads where cycling is pleasant. Check out the 200-acre Wasque Point Wildlife Management Area while you’re there.

the island, including Vineyard Transit/MV Sightseeing, providing bus connections to all six towns, as well as full-island bus tours and trolley rides visiting all six towns.

Other options include full-day sailing tours, custom private tours, audio and self-guided tours, and even a scavenger hunt tour. Many companies pick up and drop off at your hotel.

Check with your concierge for details.

ROAD TRIP Those who also want to visit the entire island — without all the pedaling — may have another form of transportation in mind: a rental car.

Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals has multiple locations around the island, while other companies are based in Oak Bluffs and at the airport. In Vineyard Haven, Budget MV rents Jeeps and sports cars, among others.

If you’d rather have someone else do the driving, there are sightseeing tours galore on MV24

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From top: J. Kevin Foltz, Michael R. Blanchard

West Chop Lighthouse

Once a whaling and fishing hub in the 1800s, fishing boats and mariners relied on the lighthouses that pointed the safe way to land.

Today, there are five distinct lighthouses on Martha’s Vineyard that point towards the island’s storied history.

Dubbed the country’s most diverse group in a small, contained area by lighthouse buffs, the lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard overlook either Vineyard Sound and Nantucket Sound or the entrance to Edgartown Harbor and Cape Poge.

Built in 1817 at the entrance to Vineyard Haven Harbor — then rebuilt with brick in 1838 — the West Chop Lighthouse outlasted the others in hanging on to tradition, becoming the last lighthouse to be automated in 1976. Today, it is operated by the Coast Guard and is not open to visitors.

West Chop’s sister tower, the East Chop Lighthouse in Oak Bluffs, is open seasonally, with a lighthouse keeper available to provide information about the lighthouse and answer questions.

The 1828 Edgartown Lighthouse was built, then moved and rebuilt, while being restored several times. An easy walk from downtown Edgartown, visitors are welcome during the summer.

East of town, the 1802 Cape Poge Lighthouse on Chappaquiddick Island was built by the U.S. government to help direct traffic associated with Edgartown’s flourishing whaling business. Its location is more remote and not easily accessible by road, so you’ll need an over-sand vehicle to reach this one.

The Gay Head Lighthouse — also known as the “Red Queen” because of its red brick exterior — is perched over the multicolored cliffs of Aquinnah and maintains a busy schedule of visiting hours and events. The current lighthouse dates to 1844, replacing the original wood structure built in 1796.

GE T TING IN THE SWING For some travelers, a vacation isn’t complete without a game of golf; and the Vineyard comes through with public and private golf courses offering scenic links with ocean views so beautiful, they just might distract you from the game.

The semiprivate Farm Neck Golf Club, for example, offers 18 holes against a backdrop of meadows, marshes, and breathtaking water views in Oak Bluffs.

Set against Vineyard Sound at the tip of Vineyard Haven, the Mink Meadows Golf Club features expansive fairways and beautifully manicured greens alongside its spectacular oceanfront scenery. Dating back 85+

Farm Neck Golf Club

years, the nine-hole course caters to both seasoned and novice players, with pro-shop services and lessons for all ages.

Founded in 1926, the Edgartown Golf Club is open to members and guests year-round, weather permitting. During the summer, the club hosts a junior golf program and also hosts benefit golf tournaments open to all.

Nearby, the Vineyard Golf Club combines great play with sustainability on 225 acres. Known as one of the most environmentally sensitive golf courses in the world, the club works with local regulatory bodies, naturalists, and experts from around the world to maintain a course that is organic in nature.

Finally, take this name seriously — the Royal and Ancient Chappaquiddick Links — established in 1887 and surrounded by untouched forestry, giv-

ing it that royally detached feeling. Accessible by ferry, this private club offers weekly memberships, day passes, and night golf.

If tennis is more your game, you’ll get in the swing at a variety of courts dotting the Vineyard, including Vineyard Family Tennis and Farm Neck Tennis — both in Oak Bluffs — and the Lake Street Tennis & Pickleball Courts in Vineyard Haven.

The Vineyard’s YMCA takes fitness fun and games a step further with wellness training, swimming lessons, and an ice arena. A day pass gives access to more than 70 group exercise classes, including yoga, plus use of the aquatics center.

For more yoga options, there are several places on the Vineyard, including Yoga on the Vine in Edgartown, a cozy studio for hot yoga.

ADVENTURES ON LAND GUIDE

Top photo: J. Kevin Foltz

ISLAND ALPACA COMPANY

1 Head of the Pond Rd., Oak Bluffs 508-693-5554 www.islandalpaca.com  Island Alpaca Company is a 19-acre farm and home to more than 35 alpacas and two llamas. It welcomes you to the delightful world of alpacas and invites you to visit them! Its farm and gift shop are open seven days, year-round; and it is also a venue for your special event or celebration (www.alpaca-weddings.com). Experience one of their special programs designed for all ages (www.alpacayoga.com, www.alpaca-walks.com) or visit www.alpaca-fun.com for all! Island alpacas are also available for sale, and Island Alpaca Company delivers.

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Island resident Leslie Hurd turns compassion into action with her tireless work rescuing and rehoming dogs — a mission that’s close to the heart of The Black Dog community.

C O U R T E SY O F T H E B L AC K D O G

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hen you think of island life on Martha’s Vineyard, certain individuals stand out for their unwavering commitment to making a difference. One of those is longtime resident Leslie Hurd, whose life’s work has centered on the care and rescue of animals in need.

As an island-based business, The Black Dog has had the pleasure of getting to know Hurd and witnessing her boundless compassion for dogs firsthand.

Her dedication to rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming reflects a deep love for animals. Over the years, our paths crossed when our home office fostered some of her rescues and our office mates adopted pups she rescued. Our island-based general stores have partnered with her organization, Angels Helping Animals Worldwide, for our Doggie Adoption Days; and currently, her organization is the benefac-

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tor of our Round Up program.

While we may be familiar with who she is and her life’s mission, we want to share her remarkable tale with all our Black Dog friends.

Hurd’s journey as a real-life doggie hero began many years ago when she rescued a dog and a cat while living in her humble dorm room at Boston University. It was then that she discovered her true calling was rescuing animals in need.

Her history of helping animals is infinite; she has rescued puppies and their mamas from puppy mills, saved dogs from kill shelters down south, met planeloads of stray animals on runways in South Carolina, and transported animals from faraway states to Massachusetts, bunking in hotels with 20 or more dogs along the way. Hurd has coordinated numerous rescue missions from the Virgin Islands, transporting planeloads of dogs to the mainland.

Between Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, she rescued over 1,000 dogs from Texas to the Florida Panhandle — with the help of country singer Kenny Chesney.

But Hurd doesn’t always work alone. Alongside her, she has assembled a formidable team of empathetic, kindhearted individuals who share her passion.

Dr. Cheryl, a retired veterinarian, provides crucial care for the rescued animals. Lynn, an ardent animal lover, has accompanied Hurd on many of her missions, lending her support every step of the way. And Caroline, a local from Martha’s Vineyard, has provided a foster home for numerous rescues until they find their forever homes.

With their help, Hurd is building a new facility to house and

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

Pawsitive Living Certified trainer Austin Higgins of High Frequency Canine Training helps dogs and their humans build better bonds.

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he Vineyard isn’t just a haven for vacationers — it’s a paradise for pets, too. Austin Higgins, the owner of High Frequency Canine Training and a certified dog trainer, has made it his mission to help dogs and their humans enjoy life together on the island to the fullest. With a deep understanding of dog behavior and a commitment to balanced, respectful training, Higgins supports dog owners in navigating both behavioral challenges and adventure-filled outings. Whether you’re a year-round resident or just visiting, he believes the Vineyard is an ideal place to build trust, connection, and joy between you and your pup — especially with so many pet-friendly places to explore.

care for rescue animals until they are adopted. This new compound will sit on a half-acre of land on Cape Cod. Once built, it will include a barn, a quarantine building, and living quarters for full-time help.

Hurd’s charity, Angels Helping Animals Worldwide, is a 501(c) organization that relies 100 percent on donations and grants.

Founded in 2014 by Hurd and a few dedicated volunteers, their mission is to transport rescues from areas where there is an overabundance of stray, homeless, and endangered animals to areas where there is a shortage of adoptable pets and to facilitate the adoption process. To learn more, visit www.angelshelpinganimalsmv.org.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

A Heart for Rescue

Pet-Friendly Island From scenic trails to beachside romps, Martha’s Vineyard offers endless outdoor adventures for fourlegged visitors.

and into the woods. Please have your dog on a leash or under immediate control. Bring your own water, but bowls are available, as well as poop bag receptacles.

DOG PARKS

BE ACHES

John G. Rogers Dog Park 88 Holmes Hole Rd., Vineyard Haven A great park where you’ll find a stick library to play fetch, as well as poop bag receptacles, water, bowls, and even some balls. Plenty of parking is available, and there are some nice trails to wander.

Many dogs like the water as much as we do. However, some restrictions are necessary so that all of us can enjoy the beach. Please double-check the signs at the beaches for hours and rules.

Aquinnah Between May 15 and September 15, you can bring your on-leash dog to Lobsterville Beach. Off-season, dogs on a leash are welcome at all beaches.

Chilmark The beaches here welcome dogs only in the offseason (and your dog can be off leash).

Edgartown Hop on a short

Tradewinds Preserve County Rd., Oak Bluffs Known to locals as Tradewinds Dog Park, this is a 70-plus-acre meadow in what once was a small airfield (some planes still land here occasionally, so be aware). Walking trails take you through the meadow

ferry ride at Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge on Chappaquiddick Island for an adventure with Fido. Cape Poge is a beautiful barrier beach with a salt pond where your dog is welcome throughout the refuge on leash.

You can also take your dog for a sunrise or sunset stroll on Lighthouse Beach and Fuller Beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

Oak Bluffs From May through September, along the waterfront, you can visit with your dog before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. In the offseason, dogs are welcome anytime. You can also walk around the harbor, where you’re sure to meet other dog parents doing the same.

State Beach (Oak Bluffs and Edgartown) Because there are nesting terns and piping plovers, dogs are not welcome between April 1 and August 31.

Vineyard Haven Eastville Beach (right over the drawbridge) is a nice spot to walk your dog on leash. The water is calm, so it’s great for dogs who like to swim.

WALKING TRAILS All of these conservation properties are beautiful — and each has its own regulations — so call ahead and enjoy: •C ounty of Dukes County, 508-696-3840 •M artha’s Vineyard Land Bank, 508-627-7141 •T he Nature Conservancy, 508-693-6287 •S heriff’s Meadow Foundation, 508-693-5207 •T he Trustees of Reservations, 508-693-7662 •V ineyard Conservation Society, 508-693-9588 •V ineyard Open Land Foundation, 508-693-3280

CANINE TRAINING BOARDING

195 Great Plains Rd. West Tisbury, MA 02575 Call 508-560-7471 2025/26

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Island Alpaca Company

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Danielle Navratil / Island Alpaca Company

Fun for Families

a family

AFFAIR

FROM ONE VERY FAMOUS CAROUSEL TO BEACHSIDE EXPLORATIONS, MARTHA’S VINEYARD IS PACKED WITH FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN THAT’S PERFECT FOR KIDS — AND GROWN-UPS, TOO

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W O R D S B Y Vanessa Molina Santamaria

W H E T H E R I T ’ S Y O U R F I R S T or fifth visit to Martha’s Vineyard, this beloved island off the coast of Massachusetts continues to delight with its variety of experiences for all ages. Accessible via a scenic ferry ride or a quick hop by air, the Vineyard greets visitors with welcoming charm and a treasure trove of adventures. From sun-soaked shores to handson learning and exciting outdoor pursuits, the island offers everything you need for a memorable family getaway.

UNPLUG & PL AY When it comes to unplugged family entertainment, sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most rewarding. Think kites flying high over the green at Ocean Park, a competitive round of mini golf, or laughter echoing across the lanes of a local bowling alley. Add in the nostalgia of flashing arcade games or the satisfying thunk of a ball in the gutter and you’ve got hours of low-tech fun that’s perfect for all ages.

No visit to Martha’s Vineyard is complete without experiencing the iconic Flying Horses

Carousel in Oak Bluffs. Built in 1876 and originally a star attraction at Coney Island, this national historic landmark made its way to the Vineyard in 1886 and has been delighting families ever since. As the oldest operating platform carousel in the United States, it’s more than just a ride — it’s a cherished tradition. With its vintage hand-carved horses and the classic brass ring challenge, the Flying Horses Carousel offers timeless fun and unforgettable memories for kids and parents alike. Presently maintained by the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust, it remains a must-do stop for all ages.

ROAM THE OUTDOORS With more than 120 miles of coastline and extensive bike paths weaving through quaint towns and wild landscapes, Martha’s Vineyard is practically built for exploration. One of the best ways to soak up its natural beauty is by hopping on two wheels. Bring your own or rent one once you arrive — either way, you’ll find over 40 miles of designated cycling routes to enjoy. The stretch between Edgartown

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and Oak Bluffs along Beach Road is especially picturesque, serving up postcard-worthy views of the ocean and surrounding salt ponds.

Prefer to wander on foot? There’s no shortage of scenic hikes across the island’s diverse terrain. Explore the windswept cliffs of Aquinnah Headlands, discover tranquility at the Mytoi Japanese Garden, or take a family stroll through the wooded trails of Menemsha Hills.

If the sea is calling, the Vineyard answers with ample ways to get out on the water. Rent kayaks or paddle boards, learn to surf, or simply let the kids splash at one of the many welcoming beaches. With its gentle waves and panoramic views, the island’s coastline makes for a perfect family playground.

ENGAGE & EDUCATE Martha’s Vineyard Museum

farm life, from gathering eggs and planting vegetables to meeting goats, chickens, and sheep. It’s an ideal way to instill a love of nature and sustainable living while having fun outdoors.

MEE T THE ANIMALS Animal encounters are always a hit on family vacations, and Martha’s Vineyard is no exception. One of the island’s most delightful

Did You Know?

Island Alpaca Company

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If you’re looking for something beyond the beach, Island Alpaca Company is a surefire hit with kids. Families can meet fluffy alpacas up close, take photos, and even learn how their super-soft wool is spun into yarn. It’s a perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon — and it might just end up being the highlight of your trip!

experiences awaits at Island Alpaca Company, where curious kids (and curious adults) can get up close with these fluffy, gentle animals. You’ll learn about their care and shearing and maybe even snag a cozy souvenir made from their fleece.

If horses are more your style, the island also has several stables offering riding lessons and scenic trail rides. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-timer hoping to trot along a coastal path, horseback riding is a unique and thrilling way to see a different side of the island.

E XCITEMENT FOR EVERY AGE For families traveling with teens or tweens who crave a bit more excitement, the Vineyard holds a few surprises. The yearround ice arena lets you enjoy a session of skating no matter the season, offering a cool change of pace from beachside lounging.

There’s also a community skate park that provides a safe space for skateboarders and inline skaters to show off their skills or just have fun.

While the Vineyard is known for its laidback vibes, there are pockets of thrill and action scattered throughout the island — perfect for keeping older kids engaged and excited during the trip.

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, courtesy of Island Alpaca Company

Great vacations often strike a balance between play and purpose — and on Martha’s Vineyard, learning comes wrapped in fun. One of the top spots for educational exploration is the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, where children and adults alike can dive into hands-on environmental education. Look for turtles along the pond edge, go birding in the marshes, or join a guided nature walk to uncover the island’s fascinating ecosystems.

For a more agricultural twist, the FARM Institute in Edgartown offers the Barnyard Buddies program — a hit with younger children.

Here, little ones can take part in everyday

Flying Horses Carousel

L ASTING MEMORIES FOR ALL

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Martha’s Vineyard is one of those rare places where a single trip often leads to many more. It’s not just the beaches or the bike paths — it’s the layered experiences that appeal to multiple generations. From outdoor exploration to enriching programs, adorable animal visits, and pure fun, there’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with this coastal escape.

So, whether your family loves active adventures, meaningful learning, or just time to connect and unwind, Martha’s Vineyard delivers a bit of everything. And once you’ve gotten a taste, it won’t be long before you’re planning your return trip.

Island Spirit Kayak

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Sand Bar & Grille

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J. Kevin Foltz

Dining

A TASTE of the ISLAND

FROM FRESH-CAUGHT SEAFOOD TO GLOBAL FLAVORS WITH LOCAL FLAIR, MARTHA’S VINEYARD SERVES UP A DYNAMIC DINING SCENE THAT’S AS RICH IN CHARACTER AS IT IS IN TASTE.

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W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

F R E S H LY C A U G H T S E A F O O D , farm-to-table ingredients, and a melting pot of delicious regional and international flavors come together to make dining on Martha’s Vineyard an experience far beyond just a meal.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Vineyard Sound, and Nantucket Sound, the island provides chefs with a rich bounty of local catch — from lobster, clams, and oysters to a variety of finfish including cod, black sea bass, bluefish, flounder, and striped bass. It’s this ocean-totable access that inspires culinary creativity and showcases the Vineyard’s deep connection to land, sea, and community.

Fresh, locally grown produce is just as abundant as the island’s seafood, thanks to nearly 1,000 acres of working farms across Martha’s Vineyard. The harvest begins in May with tender asparagus, peaks in summer with more than 50 varieties of fruits and vegetables, and rounds out in the fall with hearty winter squash and pumpkins. Classic island-style dishes you won’t

want to miss include New England–style lobster rolls, clam chowder, and stuffed quahogs — giant hard-shelled clams whose meat inside is chopped and mixed with spicy sausage, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then spooned back inside the shell and baked to perfection.

Craving global flavors? On Martha’s Vineyard, your taste buds can travel the world. Local menus feature everything from chicken tagine and miso cod to jerk chicken, curry goat, Korean jackfruit tacos, Brazilian cheese bread (or pão de queijo), orangespiced roast duck, and chicken shawarma.

Dining options are just as diverse — from upscale white-tablecloth establishments and seaside cafés to food trucks, taquerias, sandwich shops, raw bars, clam shacks, bakeries, ice cream shops, burger joints, and beyond.

You’ll find the greatest variety of eateries in Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown, with charming gems also located throughout the island’s quieter Up Island towns.

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9 Craft Kitchen & Bar

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Photo courtesy of 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar

Dining

The Taste Maker

 Insider Tip For something extra special, ask for a table in the restaurant’s casual, relaxed, and inviting “sunroom,” where handcrafted wooden tables sit in front of large windows and bask in natural sunlight.

From oysters and steak to soba and scallops, Chef Joe Monteiro is redefining dining on Martha’s Vineyard — one inspired plate at a time.

WORDS BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

From top: Photo courtesy of Jocelyn Filley, 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar

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hef Joe Monteiro has a knack for knowing how to fill a need — and doing so deliciously.

Monteiro was first inspired to create something different, distinct, and dynamic in Edgartown after serving as the executive chef at the Atlantic Fish and Chop House. In 2017, he turned his dream of owning his own restaurant into a reality with the creation of 19 Raw Oyster Bar, filling the niche for an authentic oyster bar on the island. Four years later, Monteiro added 19 Prime Cast Iron Steakhouse to the mix, also located at 19 Church Street in Edgartown.

Last year, the hardworking chef, long known for his vision and culinary creativity, recognized a gap in Vineyard Haven’s dining scene when it came to elegant, sophisticated, and chef-driven cuisine.

Monteiro’s creative wheels started turning, and the result?

9 Craft Kitchen & Bar, located at 9 Main Street in Vineyard Haven.

Already, 9 Craft has captured the attention and appetites of patrons in Vineyard Haven and throughout the island with its vibrant New World cuisine that expertly blends global flavors with local ingredients.

“We are always trying to capitalize on local ingredients.

This year, we have partnered with several scallop boats and will serve only Martha’s Vineyard–

9 Craft Kitchen & Bar

sourced scallops throughout the year at both restaurants, 9 and 19. Our ‘Fish of the Day’ is sourced locally as much as possible. Otherwise, the New World or New American concept

aims to blend cultures and flavors for a palate experience unlike any other. Our food and dishes are bright, colorful, and inspiring; and each bite will leave you wanting more,” says

Monteiro, who lives on the Vineyard with his wife, Emily, and their two young children.

Regarding this year’s delectable new offerings, he adds, “We increased the menu by 50 percent at 9 Craft to cater more to what customers requested, primarily more protein and vegetable options.

We also wanted to maintain our signature items, such as the spicy tuna lettuce wraps and lobster tostadas, while adding some delicious shareable options that are both fun and flavorful.

These new additions include the rock shrimp guacamole and filet mignon deviled eggs. New World flavor on the dinner menu is highlighted in dishes like the Scottish salmon with soba noodle salad and mango curry nage, and the chicken tagine for two with Moroccan rice, cauliflower, and vinegar fries.”

For something extra special, ask for a table in the restaurant’s casual, relaxed, and inviting “sunroom,” where handcrafted wooden tables sit in front of large windows and bask in natural sunlight. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy people-watching on Main Street while savoring the creative dishes and curated drinks at 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar! Visit their website for more information to help plan your visit: www.9craftkitchen.com.

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Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Vineyard Sound, and Nantucket Sound, the island provides chefs with a rich bounty of local catch — from lobster, clams, and oysters to a variety of finfish.

Vineyard Haven

The Net Result (2)

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xplore American classics and worldly flavors alike in this town of two names. Officially called Tisbury, Vineyard Haven is now what appears on most maps, as well as the welcome sign on Water Street at the ferry dock.

Watch the ferries and other vessels come and go from the cozy comfort of The Black Dog Tavern.

Located just a block away from the dock, it’s the perfect place to tuck into breakfast Benedicts, omelets, and scrambles. Fluffy pancakes and French toast are also on the menu, with toppings ranging from blueberries and bananas to coconut shreds and chocolate chips, while surf-and-turf selections are served at lunch and dinner. Among the offerings are Fried Ipswich Clams, a Wagyu Burger, Garlic and Panko Crusted Cod, and Tavern Steak Tips.

Two blocks away on Main Street, 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar opened just last year, with New World cuisine as the star of the show. Try a blue crab caviar slider, Lobster Crawfish Risotto, or Lamb Ragout Rigatoni.

Then, over on Beach Street, order a lobster roll to go from The Net Result. This fresh fish market, retail shop, and takeout restaurant has outdoor picnic tables perfect for people-watching on a beautiful clear day.

Stuffed quahogs, fried fish wraps, and lobsters are also on the menu, along with more “up-scale” hand-rolled sushi, tuna poke bowls, and Cajun Shrimp Tacos.

About one mile inland on State Road, The Maker Pasta Shop & Café is all about fresh, house-made pasta, offering dishes crafted from scratch with high-quality ingredients and tossed with the island’s seasonal bounty. The adjoining retail shop also sells pasta by the pound to go, such as bucatini, squid ink tagliolini, and gluten-free fettuccine.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

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Ready for a beach picnic or Officially called backyard party?

Tisbury, Vineyard Then call a day in Haven is now what advance to place appears on most an order for the maps, as well as the Woodland Variety welcome sign on & Grill’s new “Burger Bar in a Water Street at the Box”! There are 10 ferry dock. burgers per box, with or without cheese, that come with all the fixings, including lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise. Breakfast and lunch are served at this inland eatery as well as Quitsa Kitchen just a mile away.

While Woodland’s theme runs the gamut from everyday favorites like egg sandwiches to clubs, BLTs, and tuna melts, Quitsa’s eclectic menu ranges from choices like Blue Corn Waffles to a Cuban Panini and a Falafel Sandwich.

Quitsa Kitchen

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Photo courtesy of Quitsa Kitchen

Good to Know

M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D , 4 5 5 S TAT E R D , V I N E YA R D H AV E N 5 0 8 . 3 3 8 .7 7 8 7 | w w w. q u i t s a k i t c h e n .c o m

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Good to Know

Classic island-style dishes you won’t want to miss include New England–style lobster rolls, clam chowder, and stuffed quahogs.

Lookout Tavern

Oak Bluffs

55 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs 508-338-7754 • www.mvsalads.com

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ike The Black Dog Tavern in Vineyard Haven, Lookout Tavern is situated on the waterfront, offering a full view of the Oak Bluffs ferry dock. Fresh seafood, sushi, and creative cocktails are as delicious here as the view is delightful! Lookout Tavern’s Lobster Roll, featuring meaty chunks of fresh lobster on a buttered and grilled brioche roll, has been named “Best of the Vineyard” for over a dozen years.

For a delicious change of pace, Fishbones Bar & Grille — a two-minute walk to the west on the harbor next to the Rhode Island Fast Ferry — boasts a tropical-themed menu. Blackened Mahi-Mahi, Jerk Chicken Salad, and Coconut Rice are among their specialties.

Also on the harbor, Lobsterville Bar and Grille lives up to its name. There’s the Lobsterville Boil, a one-pound-plus steamed lobster served with potatoes, corn, and drawn butter; the Grilled Lobster Risotto, a char-grilled tail paired with creamy Romano Risotto and asparagus; and, of course, a Hot Buttered Lobster Roll Sandwich.

Another top spot along the harbor, Sand Bar & Grille is a popular restaurant that serves American bar food, including flame-grilled burgers, fish and chips, and steak tacos. Start with an order of their famous loaded tater tots, topped with queso blanco, bacon, jalapeños, green onions, and a drizzle of chipotle ketchup.

J. Kevin Foltz

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A mile to the west, you’ll find Deon’s. Chef Deon Thomas calls himself a three-island chef — having prepared culinary delights on Martha’s Vineyard, Jamaica, and Anguilla — and this worldly experience deliciously shows in his offerings. Try the award-winning conch chowder, Jamaican beef patty, or Buttermilk Fried Chicken.

Sand Bar & Grille

lobstervillemv lobsterville.obmv

774-563-2243 • 8 Circuit Avenue Extension, Oak Bluffs

Fresh Seafood • Spectacular View • Craft Beers • Raw Bar • Creative Cocktails MV42

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J. Kevin Foltz

You’ll find the greatest variety of eateries in Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown, with charming gems also located throughout the island’s quieter Up Island towns.

T H E I S L A N D’S O N LY “B E AC H B A R” Seafood . Burgers Local & Microbrew On Tap Frozen Drinks Cocktails Kids Menu Indoor & Outdoor Dining

ON OAK BLUFFS HARBOR | (508) 693-7111 mvsandbar.com

Instagram: @sandbarmv

Coop de Ville 12 Circuit Ave Ext Oak Bluffs MA 02557 508-693-3420 www.coopdevilleshuckshack.com

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Up Island he moniker “Up Island” dates back to the whaling days, when this part of the island measured a higher degree of longitude. Menemsha, Chilmark, West Tisbury, and Aquinnah are the small towns in this area. Menemsha is a quintessential New England fishing village, where the fish markets are the perfect place to buy prepared foods, while Chilmark’s dining scene emphasizes both a farm-totable and sea-to-table approach.

West Tisbury hosts one of the largest farmers markets on the island, featuring a wealth of tasty foods to explore. Here, you can try rock salt chocolates, artisan pizza, sticky buns made with local honey, and island-made cheese. Closer to the coast, many restaurants in Aquinnah boast breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly on the Aquinnah Cliffs. Dining on an outdoor patio or deck, especially close to sunset, is a popular way to savor both the seafoodfocused cuisine and the scenery.

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West Tisbury hosts one of the largest farmers markets on the island, featuring a wealth of tasty foods to explore.

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, Alison Shaw (2)

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19 Raw Oyster Bar and 19 Prime Steakhouse

Edgartown

J. Kevin Foltz

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s you walk along the stately former whaling captains’ homes in Edgartown’s historic district, it feels like stepping into a bygone era. While the hunting of these marine mammoths ended over a century ago, fruits from the sea are still king here.

Rockfish Restaurant, located two blocks from the ferry dock, serves crabcake sandwiches, fish and chips, and oven-roasted cod with a truffle crumb topping at lunch, as well as tuna poke nachos, asparagus risotto with lemon-thyme seared scallops, and lobster pot pie for dinner.

Two blocks west, located at 19 Main Street, is the delicious duo of 19 Raw Oyster Bar and Prime Steakhouse. The oyster bar’s menu features the names

of local farms and fishermen who deliver their catch daily in season, showcasing their commitment to freshness.

While meat lovers will find Japanese Kobe beef among their offerings, there’s also the option to top steaks with crabmeat, shrimp, bay scallops, and lobster tail.

Did You Know?

Fresh, locally grown produce is just as abundant as the island’s seafood, thanks to nearly 1,000 acres of working farms across Martha’s Vineyard.

1 9 R AW O Y S T E R B A R A N D 19 PRIME STEAKHOUSE 19 Church Street, Edgartown 774-224-0550 19rawoysterbar.com #shuckingamazing

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DINING GUIDE V I N E YA R D H AV E N 9 CRAFT KITCHEN & BAR

THE MAKER PASTA SHOP & CAFÉ

339 State Rd., Vineyard Haven 508-687-9794 www.themakerpastashop.com  The Maker Pasta Shop & Café uses locally sourced ingredients to craft seasonally inspired dishes. Enjoy a delicious meal in its cozy café for lunch or dinner, or take your meal to go and savor it at the outdoor picnic tables. Its retail shop offers fresh pasta by the pound, homemade sauces, and unique gifts. As the only fresh pasta shop on Martha’s Vineyard, The Maker is proud to bring something special to the island.

THE NET RESULT

79 Beach Rd., Vineyard Haven 508-627-9967 www.mvseafood.com  The Net Result, an upperscale fish market, is in the MV46

Fishbones Bar & Grille

Tisbury Market Place. Open year-round, it features retail, wholesale, and a takeout restaurant with outdoor seating serving awardwinning sushi, fried seafood, lobsters, crabcakes, raw bar, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and a variety of poke bowls. The Net Result has been awarded Best Seafood Market on Martha’s Vineyard by Cape Cod Life magazine and the Vineyard Gazette’s Best of the Vineyard 10 years running. It will cook and prepare your lobsters to go — whether it’s for 2 or 50 people. It also features sushi platters to go and ship all its products to all 50 states. Visit to check out what fresh seafood is all about. As The Net Result has said for years, “Our fish is so fresh, it’ll make you blush!”

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

QUITSA KITCHEN

455 State Rd., Unit 9, Vineyard Haven 508-338-7787 www.quitsakitchen.com  Savor coastal-inspired cuisine at Quitsa Kitchen in Vineyard Haven. From fresh, locally sourced ingredients to vibrant island flavors, every dish reflects Martha’s Vineyard charm.

Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a casual bite. Plus, impress guests with Quitsa Cuisine Catering — elevated flavors and artful presentations for unforgettable gatherings.

WOODLAND VARIETY & GRILL

455 State Rd., Unit 4, Vineyard Haven 508-693-6795 www.woodlandvarietyandgrill.com  Woodland Variety & Grill has been a local family-owned and -operated business for over 25

years, proudly serving locals and guests to the Vineyard.

Convenient, outside of town, and with ample parking, it is your one-stop shop for prepared or made-to-order food, drinks, snacks, and ice for home or the beach.

EDG AR TOWN 19 RAW OYSTER BAR AND 19 PRIME STEAKHOUSE

19 Church St., Edgartown 774-224-0550 (informational line only, no VM) www.19rawoysterbar.com  Downtown Edgartown’s culinary gem, 19 Raw has an extensive menu that caters to every taste. Savor fresh seafood, local oysters, premium dry-aged meats, and indulgent shareable sides. A recipient of multiple Best of the Vineyard awards,

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

9 Main St., Vineyard Haven 508-338-7431 (informational line only; no voicemail) www.9craftkitchen.com  9 Craft Kitchen & Bar brings vibrant New World cuisine to Vineyard Haven. From the team behind 19 Raw and 19 Prime, this fresh concept blends global flavors with local ingredients. Creative dishes, curated drinks, and an inviting atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience — playful, soulful, and always delicious.

including Best Seafood Restaurant every year since 2020, this restaurant is a must-visit when on Martha’s Vineyard. Enjoy inside and outside dining, and unwind with craft cocktails, unique wines, and local beers at one of two full bars or in the beautiful private dining space. Discover the richness of local flavors and “meat” the difference.

on the island and has published his first cookbook featuring one of the island’s traditional shellfish (the channel whelk, also known as conch). Chef Deon serves up his island classics alongside light American fare at the swanky VFW outpost in the town of Oak Bluffs.

ROCKFISH RES TAURANT

12 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs 508-696-8227 www.fishbones-mv.com  Fishbones Bar & Grille is situated directly on the Oak Bluffs Harbor in Oak Bluffs, conveniently located within walking distance to the ferry, bus, and taxi terminals. It offers lunch, dinner, and a full bar.

Its menu features entrees, sandwiches, seafood, burgers, and other great island-themed favorites. It also has a great drink menu with a wide selection of quality spirits, beer, and wine; handcrafted specialty drinks; as well as frozen favorites.

11 N. Water St., Edgartown 508-627-9967 www.rockfishedgartown.com  Located in the heart of Edgartown, Rockfish Restaurant is an upscale gastropub. Serving lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (the bar until 12:30 a.m.). Rockfish features American bites, including pizza from its wood-fired brick oven, steaks, and fresh seafood supplied from its own fish market, The Net Result. You can also enjoy pasta dishes, salads, tacos, and an array of appetizers that will please anyone’s palate. There are two floors, with the upstairs featuring a cozy atmosphere with wood-beam ceilings, a brick oven, banquet seating, and a full bar serving award-winning cocktails. Downstairs you’ll find a more casual and vibrant bar atmosphere. Visit for lunch and dinner or stop in for dessert and order its award-winning espresso martini that will surely cap off a perfect evening out.

OAK BLUFFS DEON’S

14 Towanticut St., Oak Bluffs 508-627-0330 www.chefdeon.com  Chef Deon is a full-service caterer, chef, and restaurateur

FISHB ONES BAR & GRILLE

until 11 p.m. Come see why Lookout Tavern has been voted Best Sushi, Best Lobster Roll, and Waterview by Cape Cod Life magazine and the Vineyard Gazette’s Best of the Vineyard 12 years running. Lookout’s vast menu features something for everyone, including a raw bar, sushi bar, fried and grilled seafood, sandwiches, half-pound burgers, lobster, steamers, and appetizers. No wonder it’s a favorite of tourists and locals alike!

MV SALADS

55 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 508-338-7754 www.mvsalads.com  MV Salads is your salad haven in Oak Bluffs, serving fresh, local ingredients, housemade beverages, and the famous

basil sorbet with raspberries.

Enjoy indoor or outdoor seating, or take away with easy online ordering. Rooted in kindness, it’s more than a meal — it’s a VIBE! And everyone is talking about it.

SAND BAR & GRILLE

6 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs 508-693-7111 www.mvsandbar.com info@mvsandbar.com  Located on the docks of the scenic Oak Bluffs Harbor, Sand Bar & Grille is the island’s only “beach” bar and restaurant.

Offering an array of seafood, burgers, salads, full kids’ menu, and much more. Guests can enjoy ice-cold cocktails, beer, wine, and delicious cuisine on the sandy beach patio overlooking the harbor.

LOB STERVILLE BAR AND GRILLE

8 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs 774-563-2243 www.lobstervillemv.com Lobsterville Bar and Grille on the Oak Bluffs Harbor offers the best of it all: fresh seafood for lunch and dinner, two floors of casual dining options, a raw bar, and a spectacular view, as well as 10 craft beers on tap, an epic wine list, and creative and classic cocktails.

LOOKOUT TAVERN

8 Seaview Ave., Oak Bluffs www.lookoutmv.com  One of the best water views on Martha’s Vineyard overlooking Nantucket Sound.

Serving lunch and dinner daily

Lobsterville Bar and Grille

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The Great Put-On

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Photo courtesy of The Great Put-On

Shopping

TRINKETS and TREASURES DISCOVER THE BEST OF MARTHA’S VINEYARD ONE BOUTIQUE AT A TIME. FROM EDGARTOWN TO OAK BLUFFS, EXPLORE UNIQUE SHOPS, ARTISANAL TREASURES, AND FASHIONABLE FINDS ACROSS THE ISLAND. W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

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S P E N D A L E I S U R E LY D AY exploring quintessential New England charm along the iconic streets of Martha’s Vineyard — Main Street in Edgartown and Vineyard Haven, or Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs — where a delightful array of locally owned boutiques and businesses awaits. You won’t find any cookiecutter chain stores here. Instead, each shop offers a carefully curated selection, from globally recognized brands to unique, handcrafted treasures created by talented island artists and artisans.

A central theme this year is the 50th anniversary of the movie Jaws, which was filmed off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard. For

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example, CB Stark Jewelers, with stores in Vineyard Haven and Edgartown, created the original rings worn by the swimmer in the movie’s opening scene. Now, they have an entire collection of Jaws- and shark-related jewelry in silver and gold. Murdick’s Fudge, meanwhile, with shops in Vineyard Haven, Edgartown, and Oak Bluffs, has released its Shark Bite flavor in honor of the film: vanilla fudge with cherries.

Galleries, pop-up shops, farmers markets, festivals, and flea markets mean the best buys are available island-wide! Here’s just a sampling of the many shopping finds you’ll discover on Martha’s Vineyard.

Conrado

Galleries, pop-up shops, farmers markets, festivals, and flea markets mean the best buys are available island-wide.

J. Kevin Foltz (3)

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Stefanie Wolf Designs

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Vineyard Haven

CB Stark Jewelers

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tep off the ferry and take a twominute walk to Main Street via Union Street. On Union, you’ll find Conrado Clothing & Accessories, a shop that sells sustainable clothing made from upcycled deadstock fabric in several womenowned brands. Sweaters, dresses, shorts, skirts, pants, and more all feature effortless seasonless styles. Each piece is islanddesigned and then made in the Philippines at the store founder’s family’s workshop. There’s also a selection of home goods, apothecary items, and accessories to peruse; and last year, the retailer expanded to a second storefront: the Conrado Home & Gift Shop, located at 75 Main Street.

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CLOTHING · JEWELRY · DECOR · LOCAL ART

COA S TA L V I B E S Year-Round

65 MAIN STREET VINEYARD HAVEN

Stop by and see our exclusive line of Simon Pearce glass!

508-338-2358

WWW.COASTALSUPPLYMV.COM Come visit us in our new location on Main Street.

Vineyard Haven’s unique, coastal decor and gift store for over 12 years.

We try to have a little something for everyone - nautical gifts, momentos for visitors or that perfect home decor item for the Island home-owner. We bring the beach to you!

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The Green Room

Sustainable clothing and gifts CLOTHING SHOP 2 Union Street Vineyard Haven

HOME & GIFT SHOP 75 Main St. Unit A Vineyard Haven

@shopconrado • www.shopconrado.com MV54

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Only a one-minute walk off Union on Main, CB Stark Jewelers offers a fabulous selection of gemstones set in silver and gold as well as fashion rings, earrings, necklaces, and pendants. The Jewelers of America member, with a store in Edgartown, also creates customized souvenir island charm bracelets. Choose from over 300 charms to remember your trip by, including ferry tickets, oyster shells, and island-shaped charms; and know that you can add to this keepsake each year.

J. Kevin Foltz (3)

Coastal Supply Co.

Conrado

Did You Know?

A block further north, the Coastal Supply Co. offers a comprehensive selection of unique Conrado Clothing gifts, jewelry, works by several local & Accessories sells artists, and clothing, featuring top sustainable clothing brands such as MERSEA, Marea, made from upcycled Victoria Dunn, and Edwin. The deadstock fabric shop is also the island’s exclusive provider of classic handmade in several womenglassworks by Simon Pearce, an owned brands. artist known for his distinctive glassware, tableware, lighting, and home décor items.

Gauzy summer dresses, wide-leg jeans, cropped sweaters, and breezy eyelet tops are just a few of the stylish pieces that draw women into The Green Room. This yearround apparel store offers lifestyle clothing and footwear designed for the beach and beyond. Men love it, too, thanks to retro-inspired vacation prints and tailored shorts. Beyond fashion, the shop also stocks surfboard and skateboard equipment, making it a go-to for both style and sport.

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Oak Bluffs radition meets trend in this partresidential, part-resort community on the island’s scenic North Shore. Just steps from the ferry dock, you’ll spot the iconic Flying Horses — the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States. From there, a stroll down Circuit Avenue leads to a standout local gem: Stefanie Wolf Designs.

Renowned for its vibrant glass jewelry, this boutique features pieces handmade in the on-site studio, where visitors can catch a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the creative process. The signature collection showcases richly hued glass tiles transformed into necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. New this season is the interactive Charm Bar, where guests can design custom bracelets or necklaces on the spot. With additional finds like leather bags, ceramics, candles, and keepsakes, it’s a one-stop shop for thoughtfully crafted treasures that capture the spirit of the Vineyard.

Stefanie Wolf Designs

@osoclothingmv

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Photo courtesy of Stefanie Wolf Designs

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Specializing in natural fiber (hemp, cotton and linen) clothing and acceSSorieS!

Third World Trading Co.

Third World Trading Co., situated at the end of Circuit Avenue, sells wonders from around the world. Here, you’ll find cashmere ponchos, tiedyed T-shirts, men’s wedding shirts, knit baby toys, leather-fringed bags, botanical oils, and more.

508-693-5550 thirdworldtrading.com

52 Circuit Avenue, Oak Bluffs

Offering a fine selection of world fashion, jewelry, handcrafts, toys, fragrant oils, incense and home decor for the whole family!

DESIGNED BY YOU, HANDMADE BY US. Mix, match & create at our charm bar & permanent jewelry studio! stefaniewolf.com 37 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 774.549.9526

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Edgartown

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hop-hop through the island’s first colonial settlement, where history and style go hand in hand. Ferries from Cape Cod arrive at the picturesque Edgartown waterfront, framed by the elegant Edgartown Yacht Club and sleek sailing yachts anchored nearby.

Your first stop? Dock Street’s iconic boutique, The Great Put-On. As the island’s longest-standing retailer, it celebrates 56 years of fashion this season with a reputation for expertly curated high-end European clothing for both men and women. The attentive sales team acts as personal stylists, helping shoppers find everything from everyday staples to standout pieces for special occasions. This season’s

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The Great Put-On celebrates 56 years of fashion this season with a reputation for expertly curated high-end European clothing for both men and women.

must-have trends include bold color prints, rich chocolate hues, and the return of bell-bottom jeans and cropped flares — all ready to be discovered in-store.

Next, take a detour off Main to Water Street.

A block and a half down, Murdick’s Fudge is an island institution. Watch fudge-making in action and taste a toothsome sample while deciding on your selection. Over a dozen varieties are available, including butter pecan, s’mores, rocky road, peanut butter, cranberry, and plain chocolate and vanilla. In addition to fudge, there’s sweet tooth–satisfying taffy, brittle, and caramel corn, too.

Photo courtesy of The Great Put-On

The Great Put-On

Back on Main Street, Summer Shades is the go-to spot for designer sunglasses and exclusive, hard-to-find lines. Chanel, Cartier, Dior, Ray-Ban, Maui Jim, and Oakley are all part of the fashionable lineup. New this season are Miu Miu, Versace, and Bulgari shades.

Treat yourself or take a gift home from Claudia Jewelry, where works from island designers are displayed alongside name brands like John Apel, Ayala Bar, Jamie Joseph, Chan Luu, and La Vie Parisienne. French and Italian perfumes can also be found here, along with handbags, wallets, and handblown American glass, all displayed amid the luxurious ambience of antique décor.

36 Main Street, Edgartown • 508-776-2186 Celebrating 40 years in Edgartown 2025/26

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Did You Know?

Caroline Dee Photography

Wampum, traditionally crafted from quahog shells, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Wampanoag people, whose ancestors have called Martha’s Vineyard home for over 10,000 years. Berta Giles Welch, a member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe, is renowned for handcrafting wampum into jewelry, including bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Find these unique pieces at Stony Creek Gifts in Aquinnah, a business Welch’s mother founded in the 1950s and which she and her sister, Carla Cuch, own today.

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Out on the Island W

hile the southwest side of the island is less populated, it’s also a treasure trove for festivals and fairs featuring island-crafted wares.

The Vineyard Artisans Summer Festivals, held at the historic Grange Hall in West Tisbury, takes place on Sundays from mid-June through the end of September. The Chilmark Flea Market, located on the grounds of the Chilmark Community Church, is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from late June to early September.

Some of the “Made on Martha’s Vineyard” items available at festivals, fairs, and sellers across the island include the Island Bee Company’s honey, beeswax candles, and moisturizing bars; lap throws and baby blankets from Island Alpaca Company; and Signature Island Town Candles in scents like Vineyard Waters (notes of seaweed and night-blooming jasmine), Coastal Cliffs (touches of sandalwood, orange, and musk), and Wildflowers (apple, magnolia, and melon blends).

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

888-55FUDGE (888-553-8343) murdicks.com

21 North Water Street, Edgartown 5 Circuit Avenue, Oak Bluffs 9 Union Street, Vineyard Haven

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CB Stark Jewelers

OSO Boutique Clothing Store

Stefanie Wolf Designs

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Stefanie Wolf Designs

J. Kevin Foltz (4)

Each shop offers a carefully curated selection, from globally recognized brands to unique, handcrafted treasures created by talented island artists and artisans.

M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Shopping

Stefanie Wolf Designs

V I N E YA R D H AV E N CB STARK JEWELERS

53A Main St., Vineyard Haven 508-693-2284 10 Main St., Edgartown (seasonal) 508-627-1260 www.cbstark.com  Founded in 1966, CB Stark Jewelers features an outstanding selection of fine jewelry, quality repairs, custom work, and friendly, professional customer service. Many of its handcrafted designs, available in gold, silver, and platinum, are inspired by the natural coastal beauty of Martha’s Vineyard.

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COASTAL SUPPLY CO. 65 Main St., Vineyard Haven 508-338-2358 www.coastalsupplymv.com  Vineyard Haven’s unique coastal décor and gift store for over 12 years. Coastal Supply Co. tries to have a little something for everyone: nautical gifts, mementos for visitors, or that perfect home décor item for the island homeowner. It brings the beach to you!

CONRADO

Clothing Shop: 2 Union St., Vineyard Haven Home & Gift Shop: 75 Main St.,

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

THE GREEN ROOM

65 & 71 Main St., Vineyard Haven 508-693-6888 www.greenroommv.com  Founded in 1994, The Green Room is an island institution

where you will find all you need for the beach and beyond!

Featured brands include Patagonia, Mother Denim, and Birkenstock, along with many more. Let its experienced staff help you to look your best.

OAK BLUFFS OSO B OUTIQUE CLOTHING STORE

33 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 508-207-2918 Instagram: @osoclothingmv  OSO is a chic women’s boutique in Oak Bluffs, serving bold looks, coastal cool, and effortless glam. From flowy dresses to statement accessories, every piece is curated with style, sass, and sunshine in mind. Think

Photo courtesy of Stefanie Wolf Designs

SHOPPING GUIDE

Unit A, Vineyard Haven 774-310-1018 www.shopconrado.com  Conrado is a women-run sustainable clothing brand and boutique based on Martha’s Vineyard. It designs timeless pieces using deadstock fabric and partners with Filipino artisans. The shop also features curated home goods, accessories, and gifts from other women-owned brands — thoughtfully made, ethically sourced, and always with heart.

Mediterranean soul meets Martha’s Vineyard vibes.

Fresh drops weekly. Come feel yourself at OSO.

STEFANIE WOLF DESIGNS

37 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 774-549-9526 stefaniewolf.com  Step inside Stefanie Wolf Designs in Oak Bluffs and discover vibrant glass jewelry handmade right in her studio.

Known for richly colored tile beads and signature Martha’s Vineyard charms, each piece is crafted with care. New this season, guests can explore the interactive Charm Bar to design their own jewelry or get customfit permanent bracelets, welded on with personalized accents.

The shop also features a curated mix of local gifts, from ceramics to candles. Open year-round, this woman-owned business is a must-visit for meaningful, islandmade treasures.

THIRD WORLD TRADING CO.

52 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 508-693-5550 www.thirdworldtrading.com  Third World Trading Co. offers a fine selection of world fashion, jewelry, handcrafts, toys, fragrant oils, incense, and home décor for the whole family. It also specializes in natural fiber (hemp, cotton, and linen) clothing and accessories.

EDG AR TOWN

J. Kevin Foltz

CLAUDIA JEWELRY

51 Main St., Edgartown 508-627-8306 www.claudia.jewelry  Claudia Jewelry has been in business since 1975. It features smaller designers and local artisans. It also carries French perfume, hair accessories,

handbags, wallets, and handblown American glass.

Its larger store is located at 51 Main St., Edgartown. It also has a small store at 34 Main St., Vineyard Haven.

THE GREAT PUT-ON

1 Dock Street, Edgartown 508-627-5495 www.thegreatputonmv.com Instagram: thegreatputonmv

THE GREAT PUT ON — SEAPORT

70 Pier 4 Blvd., Suite 240, Boston 508-560-9821  Proudly celebrating 56 years of business on Martha’s Vineyard, The Great Put-On offers an exclusive collection of European high-end men’s and women’s clothing. Known for its personalized styling services and commitment to building lasting client relationships, The Great Put-On continues to bring a thoughtfully curated shopping experience to both locals and visitors alike. In addition to its Edgartown boutique, The Great Put-On is thrilled to have expanded to Boston Seaport, where it’s been proudly serving its clients for the past year and a half.

Whether you’re shopping for timeless staples or standout statement pieces, its team is dedicated to helping you look and feel your best.

MURDICK’S FUDGE OF MARTHA’S V INEYARD

21 North Water St., Edgartown 5 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 9 Union Street, Vineyard Haven 888-553-8343 (888-55FUDGE) www.murdicks.com  Murdick’s Fudge of Martha’s Vineyard is celebrating its 45th season on Martha’s Vineyard!

In addition to the company’s long history that started in 1887

The Green Room

on Mackinac Island in Michigan, Murdick’s has a strong tradition in making the best fudge and brittle. It has three locations on the Vineyard — in Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven — all of which feature Murdick’s longtime recipes for fudge and peanut and cashew brittle. At the Vineyard Haven location, it also offers a longtime New England favorite: Maine’s own Gifford’s Ice Cream. A must-stop when you’re on the Vineyard, you can send Murdick’s fudge to family, friends, or yourself via its website.

SUMMER SHADES

36 Main St., Edgartown 508-776-2186  Summer Shades in Edgartown is locally owned and operated since 1985.

Serving locals and Vineyard visitors with a vast selection of sunglasses for every need.

It carries huge selections of

Chanel, Oliver Peoples, Maui Jim, Ray-Ban, Persol, Gucci, Costa, Oakley, Pit Viper, and many other collections.

It promises great service, excellent prices, and an unbeatable selection.

TESORI FINE JEWELRY 8 Dock St., Edgartown 774-549-6959 www.tesorimv.com Instagram: tesorimv  Celebrating 11 years of bringing exceptional fine jewelry to Martha’s Vineyard, Tesori Fine Jewelry features a carefully curated selection of unique designers from around the world. Its collection includes 14k and 18k gold pieces as well as exquisite semiprecious stones. With personalized guidance and a passion for craftsmanship, Tesori is dedicated to helping each client discover that perfect, one-of-a-kind piece to treasure for years to come.

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THEof the ART VINEYARD IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ISLAND’S CREATIVE SPIRIT WITH INSPIRING EXHIBITIONS, LIVELY ART WALKS, CAPTIVATING PERFORMANCES, AND UNFORGETTABLE MUSEUM EXPERIENCES. W O R D S B Y Carol M. Bareuther, RD

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T H E A R T S A R E A L I V E on Martha’s Vineyard! According to SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research in Dallas, Texas, Vineyard Haven ranked fourth nationally among small communities in the list of Top 40 Most Arts-Vibrant Communities of 2024 — and that’s not all.

Arts of all kinds are deeply ingrained in every community on the island, home to a variety of galleries featuring the works of local and international artists as well as stages set for musical and theatrical performances; and where art thrives, so does culture. Local museums showcase the past and present in engaging, vivid displays that allow you to picture yourself in the midst of history. No matter what kind of enriching experience you’re looking for, there’s always something artfully new to enjoy on the island.

KATE WINN, SUNFLOWERS ON MV COURTESY OF NORTH WATER GALLERY

ART GALLERIES Martha’s Vineyard is home to a rich tapestry of over two dozen galleries that span the island. In Vineyard Haven, color catches the eye in the window of the Miner Family Gallery (MFG), where an abstract female figure is at one with the landscape in a blaze of color-balanced yellows, oranges, reds, greens, and blues. This is one of the brilliant works of Craig Miner, a mixed-media artist and painter who owns the gallery alongside his equally talented wife, design guru Michelle Brescia, and his son, sculpture artist Avery Miner. Visitors can purchase Craig’s pieces off the wall or view them as a springboard of inspiration for a personalized commission, and Avery’s unique “please touch” sculptures are engaging works that come in tabletop and larger sizes.

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East Chop Lighthouse

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Martha’s Vineyard is home to a rich tapestry of over two dozen galleries that span the island.

Granary Gallery (2)

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Gallery. More than a simple gallery, owner Chris Morse prefers to describe the ever-changing collection of works from over 70 artists, each with a quintessential New England character, as a destination. The phenomenal quality of every piece, including oil on tin, watercolor, and mixed media, pulls visitors through every nook and cranny of the space to admire and be amazed.

Nearby, the Davis House Gallery features the works of Allen Whiting, a born and bred Vineyarder who continues to live and work on the family farm. Often set up outside with his easel, Whiting’s oil paintings depict the great outdoors through scenes from the Vineyard and beyond.

From top: Michael R. Blanchard, J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Lighthouses, seascapes dotted with sailboats, and incredible beach scenes are among the popular themes at the Alison Shaw Gallery in the Oak Bluffs Arts District. Housed in a former one-engine firehouse built in 1923, Shaw’s fine art photography captures island life and beyond in a way that feels like a window to a spectacular view.

One block away, also in the Arts District, Michael Blanchard’s photography is displayed at his Crossroads Gallery, where each piece is inspirational. Blanchard’s annual calendar makes a great souvenir or unique gift idea that also benefits a local nonprofit.

Both of these fine galleries and more are located on the route of the popular Arts District Strolls. This free event, held on select Saturdays during the summer on Dukes County Avenue from 4 to 7 p.m., offers an opportunity to meet the town’s artists in a festive atmosphere filled with live music. Visitors and locals alike enjoy this delightful blend of local culture.

Be sure to also see the fantastic photography of Caroline Dee Thornton, who captures the natural beauty of the island in her lens.

One of the best-known art galleries in West Tisbury, easily recognizable thanks to its distinctive red barn appearance, is the Granary

FINE ART

photography gallery workshops mentorship

ALISON SHAW GALLERY

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Oak Bluffs

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www.alisonshaw.com

M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Arts & Culture

Good to Know

Musical and theatrical events may change throughout the year.

We suggest you check with the organizers beforehand to confirm upcoming event information.

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PERFORMING ARTS & CONCERTS Visual art isn’t the only thing the Vineyard has to offer! A diverse range of talent, spanning from young violinists to the Boston Ballet and renowned singer-songwriter James Taylor, has entertained at the Performing Arts Center, a nearly 800-seat venue located at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School in Oak Bluffs with a complete program of events.

Classic and contemporary plays,

Featherstone Center for the Arts

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children’s productions, and staged readings offer quality entertainment for all ages at Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse in downtown Vineyard Haven. Plus, during the summer, there’s something for everyone at the annual Martha’s Vineyard Concert Series that runs from June to August. Toe-tap and clap along to rock, blues, folk, jazz, and pop at venues such as the Tabernacle or the Union Chapel in Oak Bluffs and the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown.

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The historic Grange Hall in West Tisbury is the venue for another popular event: the Vineyard Artisans Summer Festival. Sunday shows — running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in June, July, and August — feature paintings, pottery, stained glass, sculpture, quilts, and wampum jewelry, to name a few.

In Edgartown, you’ll find the namesake Edgartown Art Gallery, beautifully situated in the old-world ambience of The Charlotte Inn — owners Gery and Paula Conover’s celebrated Relais & Châteaux hotel. More than 200 stunning works fill the space, ranging from oils, pastels, and watercolors to illustrated still life, wildlife, and beach scenes.

Also on Summer Street, nestled in the heart of town, is the North Water Gallery. Many of the works, from glass creations to fine art paintings and sculptures, portray an islandmaritime theme. The gallery also exhibits the paintings of the late Ray Ellis, an acclaimed artist whose works are among those in the permanent collection at the White House and esteemed museums worldwide.

Just a block south is The Christina Gallery, celebrating nearly half a century in business.

The two-story art space is a treasure trove of traditional art, including realism and impressionism, that features marine and landscape scenes.

On the island’s west side is the Aquinnah Cultural Center, which depicts the rich culture and contributions of the Native American Wampanoag people.

MUSEUMS A rare Fresnel lens built in France in 1854 for the historic Gay Head Light is one of the must-see pieces at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Housed in a former marine hospital overlooking Vineyard Haven Harbor, the artifact-filled rooms feature exhibits on lighthouses and shipwrecks, Wampanoag art and scrimshaw, and intriguing oldtime photos and oral histories.

A special exhibit in the summer of 2025 celebrates the 50th anniversary of Jaws, the movie.

For a quaint change of pace, glimpse what life was like in a

19th-century religious camp at the Cottage Museum. Located in Oak Bluffs in one of the Gingerbread Cottages in the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association’s campground, visitors can see period furnishings, vintage photographs, and stereoscopic blasts from the past that appear three-dimensional. Sunday services take place from mid-June through August.

On the island’s west side, another point of interest is the Aquinnah Cultural Center, which depicts the rich culture and contributions of the Native American Wampanoag people.

Miner Family Gallery

GRANARY GALLERY

REGIONAL ART WITH AN ECLECTIC MIX

The island’s longest-running a gallery, the Granary, first open in 1954. The gallery represents national, regional and Martha Artists. Located in the iconic r Gallery features an indoor gall sculpture lawn, and an art-fill gallery.

636 O LD COUNTY ROAD · WEST TISBURY · 508.693.0455 · granarygallery.com

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ARTS & CULTURE GUIDE ALISON SHAW GALLERY

88 Dukes County Ave., Oak Bluffs 508-693-4429 www.alisonshaw.com  The gallery’s primary focus is on Alison’s signature photography. From color seascapes on the island of Martha’s Vineyard to blackand-white editorial shots for the Vineyard Gazette, Alison’s work spans 40 years. Offering fine art photography prints and workshops (Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Maine).

CAROLINE DEE PHOTOGRAPHY

208-451-0192 cdeethornton@gmail.com  Caroline Dee Thornton lives on Martha’s Vineyard, and she’s in love with the natural beauty and magic of the island. She follows the light and uses the camera to express her artistic vision. She feels so blessed and grateful to share the island with all of you through her lens.

Email Caroline to receive a link to view her available Vineyard prints.

GRANARY GALLERY

636 Old County Rd., West Tisbury 508-693-0455 www.granarygallery.com  Granary Gallery, located in the iconic red barn, is the oldest and largest art gallery on Martha’s Vineyard. It is a

fun adventure for the entire family and an essential destination for the serious art lover. The Granary features an indoor gallery and an artfilled courtyard gallery. The West Tisbury location is a magnificent setting to enjoy exquisite fine art paintings, drawings of landscapes, still-life compositions, and photorealism by well-known national, regional, and local artists alongside the work of exciting emerging artists.

acclaimed photographer, philanthropist, writer, and gallery owner. His books, Through a Sober Lens and Fighting for My Life, have both won prestigious Ben Franklin Awards. The Crossroads Gallery was named best gallery on Martha’s Vineyard in 2019 and runner-up in 2020 by Martha’s Vineyard magazine. His photography has been featured in numerous magazines, and he has been called the “Ansel Adams of Recovery Photography” by Recovery Today magazine.

MICHAEL R. He has pioneered the use of BLANCHARD imagery and the arts in healing.

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THE CROSSROADS GALLE

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WORDS BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

The Chappy Cow: An Udderly Exciting Art Project What began as an unusual commission turned into a vibrant, 200-hour passion project for artist Craig Miner.

J. Kevin Foltz

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t’s not every day that a customer commissions a colorful work of art on a life-size replica of a blackand-white cow. But that’s exactly what happened to Craig Miner, a painter, mixed-media artist, and the creative force behind the Miner Family Gallery in Vineyard Haven, which he owns with his wife, Michelle Brescia, and sculptor son, Avery.

“Last summer, when it was really busy, a couple came in the gallery,” explains Miner, whose bright gallery of vivid works is located on the Beach Street Extension near The Black Dog Tavern. “They said they had bid on a cow — a lifesize type of lawn ornament — at an auction, didn’t get it, but went ahead and bought one anyway.

They wanted someone to paint it.

I didn’t hear anything else. Then, in February, they came back. I had finished my commission schedule for the year, so it was a time I could paint whatever I wanted. I decided to take on the project. I didn’t know it was going to take me 200 hours to complete it.”

First, Miner conceptualized his colorful vision for the fiberglass bovine. Then, he took every scrap and shred of mixed-media material left from his projects over the last decade and melded them into the cow-shaped canvas. The effect

is a truly moo-ving statue — a blaze of bold colors, all set in an abstract geometric pattern that holds the eye.

The project turned out to be as cathartic as it was creative for Miner. With no previous work or materials left in the studio, he had a clean slate to create everything fresh and new for the gallery going forward. “Udderly” satisfied, the commissioning couple hefted their heifer onto the back of a truck, took it by ferry from Edgartown to Chappaquiddick Island, and proudly pastured it at the end of their driveway.

“The Chappy Cow is bigger than we ever thought. It’s taken on a life of its own,” says Miner of the island’s newest selfie spot. “It’s become the buzz that people are talking about.

Visitors have a new sight to see.

It’s a legacy project, and I’m proud to have played a part.”

Caroline Dee Photography

Island Prints Available 208.451.0192

cdeethornton@gmail.com

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Dockside Inn

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J. Kevin Foltz

Accommodations

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GETAWAY WHETHER YOU’RE CRAVING RUSTIC NIGHTS BENEATH THE STARS OR PAMPERED MORNINGS AT A SEASIDE RESORT, MARTHA’S VINEYARD OFFERS A WIDE ARRAY OF PLACES TO STAY — EACH WITH ITS OWN SLICE OF ISLAND MAGIC.

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W O R D S B Y Vanessa Molina Santamaria

FROM THE STORIED CLIFFS of Aquinnah to the bustling harbors of Edgartown, this picturesque New England island just south of Cape Cod has long captivated visitors with its windswept beaches, gingerbread cottages, and timeless maritime charm. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, you’ll find the perfect backdrop for your stay — and countless reasons to return again and again.

CAMP UNDER THE STARS If your idea of vacation means sleeping under the stars and waking up with the sun, the Vineyard delivers. At the Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground, located near the heart of the island, you can pitch a tent or park your RV beneath the trees. For those who prefer a touch of comfort, rustic cabins provide a cozy middle ground. Whether you’re roasting

marshmallows by the fire or stargazing from a quiet clearing, camping here is a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the island’s natural rhythms. Sites stretch from woodsy retreats to scenic locations near dramatic coastlines — ideal for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

B&B CHARM For an intimate experience steeped in island character, opt for one of Martha’s Vineyard’s many charming bed-andbreakfasts. These welcoming stays range from quaint gingerbread cottages and lovingly restored farmhouses to stately colonial homes just steps from local shops and beaches. Expect warm, personalized service and mornings that start with a home-cooked breakfast, often featuring local ingredients. Many B&B hosts are longtime islanders, happy to share insider

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Accommodations

Martha’s Vineyard may be small in size, but when it comes to places to stay, it offers something for every style of traveler.

Dockside Inn

STORYBOOK COT TAGES

Harbor View Hotel

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In Oak Bluffs, the historic 19th-century cottage enclave offers a stay like no other. Originally built as part of a Methodist campground community, these whimsical, colorfully painted homes are rich in history and brimming with charm. Many have been lovingly updated into vacation rentals that accommodate families and groups with full kitchens, cozy living spaces, and picturesque porches. Staying here means stepping into a living

VISIT MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND CAPE COD

postcard — where intricate trim, picket fences, and blooming gardens create a storybook atmosphere you won’t soon forget. Beyond Oak Bluffs, other cottage rentals across the island offer equally inviting alternatives for a homier, laid-back island experience.

ELEGANT INNS Boutique inns offer another memorable way to immerse yourself in Martha’s Vineyard’s charm. You’ll find historic homes turned into intimate lodgings with thoughtfully curated details and personalized service. Whether it’s a former farmhouse overlooking coastal fields, a waterfront escape in Chilmark, or a town-center inn that doubles as an art gallery, each property brings something unique to the table. Expect gourmet breakfasts, plush rooms, and thoughtful amenities like private gardens, in-room fireplaces, or even on-site yoga. These inns offer a blend of privacy, charm, and sophistication that’s perfect for travelers looking for something more personal than a traditional hotel.

J. Kevin Foltz (4)

tips to help you explore beyond the guidebooks.

Whether you’re staying in Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, or beyond, this is the perfect way to connect with the island’s heart and soul.

Good to Know

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, you’ll find the perfect backdrop for your stay.

Mansion House (2)

LUXURY BY THE SHORE If indulgence is your goal, head to the shores of Edgartown, where elegant hotels and upscale resorts offer the best of island luxury. These properties often feature expansive ocean views, lush grounds, and toptier amenities — from saltwater pools and full-service spas to on-site dining and curated experiences like sailing or vineyard tours. Many are steps from iconic sights such as the Edgartown Lighthouse and South Beach. Whether you’re booking a romantic suite or a spacious family room, these high-end accommodations combine the natural beauty of the Vineyard with the ease and comfort of world-class service.

Martha’s Vineyard may be small in size, but when it comes to places to stay, it offers something for every style of traveler. So, pack your bags and choose your perfect island escape.

Dockside Inn

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Photo courtesy of Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard

Real Estate

Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard

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LIVING REAL ESTATE ON MARTHA’S VINEYARD BLENDS NATURAL BEAUTY, TIMELESS CHARM, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN ONE OF NEW ENGLAND’S MOST COVETED COASTAL MARKETS. W O R D S B Y Lisa Lucier

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B U Y I N G A H O M E on Martha’s Vineyard is a dream for many — and for good reason. With its postcard-perfect scenery, charming small-town feel, and coastal tranquility, the island holds an undeniable allure. Whether you’re drawn by the winding roads lined with historic homes, the serene beaches, or the vibrant seasonal energy, the Vineyard offers a lifestyle unlike any other.

That said, purchasing property here comes with its own set of considerations.

Martha’s Vineyard is not just an island — it’s a way of life. Its unique geography and character mean that real estate is both highly desirable and distinctly competitive, especially in 2025. While you may have heard that getting to the island isn’t always easy, those who make the journey often say that’s part of the magic. The sense of seclusion, paired with a strong year-round community and world-class amenities, continues to draw homebuyers from near and far.

If you’re thinking about making this coastal haven your home, here are a few important things to know before diving into the Martha’s Vineyard real estate market.

After several years of rapid price growth, the Martha’s Vineyard real estate market appears to be stabilizing. The median home price now hovers above $1.5 million, marking a modest increase from the previous year.

However, inventory remains limited throughout much of the year, making timing — and local expertise — essential.

Working with a knowledgeable local buyer’s agent can make all the difference, especially if you’re not on the island full time. They can serve as your eyes and ears, helping you stay ahead of new listings and guiding you through the process of crafting a competitive, wellprepared offer.

As a primarily seasonal destination, the Vineyard’s market ebbs and flows with the calendar. If you don’t find the right property during the busy spring and summer months — which attracts more buyers because the island is in full bloom — consider returning in the fall. Buyer competition tends to ease after peak season, and the quieter winter months can offer greater negotiating power. Sellers who keep their homes on the market into the offseason are often more open to price reductions — giving savvy buyers a potential advantage.

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Sandpiper Realty (2)

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The luxury real estate market remains robust, with strong interest in properties that offer historic character or unique design elements.

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4.5-bath home in Vineyard Haven, just a half-mile from the beach, shops, restaurants, and ferries — offered at $2,495,000.

For buyers seeking entry into the market, condominiums and campground cottages under $1 million are also available.

Whether you’re seeking a luxury estate or looking to get your foot in the door, navigating the Martha’s Vineyard market requires a seasoned local expert. A knowledgeable real estate agent can walk you through the buying process, help you interpret current trends, and offer insight into competitive pricing and strategic negotiations. Local agents also have access to off-market listings and a deep

Photos courtesy of Sandpiper Realty, Inc. (2)

Short-term rentals play a significant role in Martha’s Vineyard’s economy, especially during the high-demand summer season, which presents lucrative opportunities for homeowners. If you’re planning to rent out your property, it’s essential to work with an agent who is well versed in both the sales and rental markets on the island. Location is key — where your property is situated will greatly influence both the rental rate you can command and the number of weeks it’s likely to be booked.

The luxury real estate market remains robust, with strong interest in properties that offer historic character or unique design elements — especially among the artistic community. Whether it’s a secluded waterfront estate offering total privacy or a stylish retreat where you can blend in effortlessly with the locals, the Vineyard continues to attract highend buyers.

This summer is already shaping up to be an active season. One standout listing is the iconic Blue Heron Farm, offered at $39 million — famously known as the summer getaway of President Obama during his time in office. If you are looking for something a little more affordable, there are more accessible opportunities, like a fully furnished 5-bedroom,

R E P R E S E N T I N G O U T S TA N D I N G VAC AT I O N H O M E S F O R S A L E A N D R E N TA L AC R O S S T H E I S L A N D

60 Winter Street, Edgartown | 508.627.3737 | info@sandpiperrealty.com

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING 174 Tashmoo Avenue, Vineyard Haven Over 3,200 square feet custom 5BR/4.5BA home just half a mile from downtown Vineyard Haven, Owen Park, and Tashmoo Beach. Features include an open floor plan, hardwood floors, two primary suites, and a gourmet kitchen with Wolf stove, KitchenAid appliances, granite counters, and walk-in pantry.

Enjoy the screened porch, deck, and living room with marble fireplace.

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Upstairs boasts cathedral ceilings, a spa-like primary bath, and two spacious guest rooms.

The finished walkout basement includes a custom bar, lounge, guest bedroom, full bath, second laundry, and private entry. Extras: irrigation, outdoor shower, generator, invisible fence, security system. Furnishings and artwork negotiable.

For more information: Anchor Realty of Martha's Vineyard Office: 508-696-7777 www.anchorrealtymv.com

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understanding of the island’s many distinct neighborhoods — helping you find a property that fits your needs. With its competitive landscape, especially at the high end, insider knowledge is not just helpful — it’s essential.

Martha’s Vineyard is known for its close-knit, welcoming — yet subtly private — community. Purchasing a home here means becoming part of a distinctive island lifestyle that goes well beyond real estate value. New homeowners are encouraged to engage in the island’s rich social and cultural offerings, from Vineyard tours and art festivals to local fundraisers and neighborhood gatherings.

While summer is the island’s busiest season, the off-season holds its own charm. As many residents head south for the winter, those who remain — the dedicated “year-rounders” — enjoy a deeper sense of community through thoughtfully planned local events and traditions that make island life feel even more connected.

Purchasing a home on Martha’s Vineyard presents a unique opportunity to become part of an exclusive island community surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. That said, it’s a decision that requires thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of the island’s specific challenges. For those ready to make the financial investment and embrace the seasonal nature of Vineyard life, it can easily become one of the most rewarding investments you’ll ever make.

Lisa Lucier is the owner/broker at Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard in Oak Bluffs. For more information about real estate opportunities on the Vineyard, call 508-696-7777 or visit its website at www.anchorrealtymv.com.

From top: J. Kevin Foltz, photo courtesy of Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard

Real Estate

REAL ESTATE GUIDE ANCHOR REALTY

Lisa Lucier, Owner/Broker 41 Circuit Ave., Oak Bluffs 508-696-7777 508-274-0311 (cell) www.anchorrealtymv.com  Anchor Realty of Martha’s Vineyard specializes in sales, vacation rentals, and helping clients buy or list their properties.

With expertise in the area, its team connects buyers with dream homes and offers exceptional real estate experiences.

Trust Anchor Realty for expert guidance on Martha’s Vineyard.

J. Kevin Foltz

SANDPIPER REALTY, INC.

60 Winter St., Edgartown 508-627-3737 www.sandpiperrealty.com  Sandpiper Realty, Inc., founded in 1969, has a history of service that has gained it recognition for integrity and professionalism. An established independent agency with a long-standing reputation, it also has a very personal interest in, and commitment to, its clientele and to the Vineyard community. Sandpiper has been a market leader of Vineyard sales and rentals, in all price ranges, for decades.

Open 7 days a week 41 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs anchorrealtymv.com 508-696-7777

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I DO’S

Jeremy Driesen Photography (2)

FROM WINDSWEPT COASTAL CEREMONIES TO ELEGANT BALLROOM SOIRÉES, MARTHA’S VINEYARD IS A ROMANTIC SETTING WHERE DREAM WEDDINGS TAKE FLIGHT.

W O R D S B Y Vanessa Molina Santamaria

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W I T H I T S E N C H A N T I N G blend of natural beauty and timeless charm, Martha’s Vineyard stands out as one of New England’s most desirable destinations for saying “I do.”

Whether you envision an oceanside exchange of vows, a rustic gathering on a farm, or a refined evening celebration under the stars, the island offers the perfect canvas for any wedding vision.

SE T TING THE SCENE Weddings on Martha’s Vineyard are defined by their scenic surroundings, and the options are as varied as they are stunning. For a classic waterfront celebration, the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown is unmatched. Located on Lighthouse Beach with panoramic views of the Edgartown Lighthouse and harbor, this iconic venue offers the choice of an outdoor ceremony on the Great Lawn or an elegant indoor reception in the Edgartown Ballroom. With dedicated planners on staff, every detail is seamlessly orchestrated.

If rustic charm speaks to your heart, The Beach Plum Inn in Menemsha offers a tranquil 30-acre property with views of the harbor, quaint bungalows, and a hayloft-turned-suite.

The venue’s secluded ambience and charming farmhouse elegance make it ideal for intimate gatherings with a personal touch.

In the serene village of West Tisbury, Lambert’s Cove Inn welcomes couples with sweeping lawns, colorful gardens, and wooded meadows. Set on seven lush acres, this peaceful venue can host up to 300 guests on its expansive lawn — perfect for couples planning a large celebration with room to breathe and plenty of photo-worthy spots.

VENUES THAT WOW Imagine exchanging vows atop the dramatic cliffs of Aquinnah at The Outermost Inn. This exclusive seven-room venue is known for its panoramic views, wraparound porch, and farm-to-table restaurant featuring seasonal cuisine prepared by in-house chefs. It’s the ideal location for a wedding that’s as delicious as it is picturesque.

Also in Edgartown, the Winnetu Oceanside Resort offers a coastal-chic wedding experience. With 11 acres of space overlooking South Beach, the resort includes versatile

ceremony locations like the West Lawn and the Dunes Outdoor Deck. To add a nostalgic flair, vintage wood-paneled vehicles can shuttle guests and double as whimsical props for wedding portraits.

For couples in search of history, the Captain R. Flanders House in Chilmark is steeped in Vineyard heritage. Built in the 1700s, this lovingly preserved farmhouse sits on 60 acres surrounding Bliss Pond. Antique furnishings, pastoral views, and classic colonial architecture lend the estate a sense of timeless romance.

Want to channel the sea’s elegance into your celebration? The Boathouse & Field Club in Edgartown delivers New England nautical charm with its clubhouse modeled after classic maritime design. You can arrive by boat for a grand entrance and enjoy a reception filled with yacht-club refinement and Vineyard sophistication.

Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs rounds out the venue list with sweeping greens and starlit tented receptions. From an intimate ceremony on the back porch to a lavish dinner under the stars, the club offers a flexible setting for weddings of all scales.

PICTURE THIS With such incredible backdrops, capturing the essence of your wedding is a must. Fortunately, Martha’s Vineyard is home to exceptional photographers who specialize in documenting your day with artistry and authenticity.

Jeremy Driesen Photography offers an unobtrusive approach, ensuring natural, heartfelt images that reflect the quiet beauty of your intimate moments. He seamlessly blends into your celebration to capture candid shots and genuine emotions.

Tim Correira Photography focuses on emotion-driven storytelling, skillfully preserving your day’s most meaningful glances, laughs, and embraces.

For something with a bit of edge and style, Isabella Chimes Photography adds an editorial twist to classic wedding photography. Known for her bohemian aesthetic and eye for detail, Isabella’s work feels as fresh as it is timeless.

FLORALS & FINISHING TOUCHES No wedding is complete without flowers, and Martha’s Vineyard delivers on that front, too, thanks to its wealth of local talent and seasonal beauty.

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WEDDING GUIDE

FARM NECK GOLF CLUB

1 Farm Neck Way, Oak Bluffs 508-693-3560 www.farmneck.net events@farmneck.net  Over the past 30 years, Farm Neck has been host to numerous weddings and special events and is one of the island’s premier wedding destinations. The views of the beautiful lawns, untouched woods, and immaculate gardens overlooking the first fairway create an idyllic setting for the most important day of your life.

DELIGHTFUL DINING A Vineyard wedding is as much about the food as it is about the venue. From fresh seafood spreads to refined plated dinners, local caterers are ready to exceed expectations.

V. Jaime Hamlin and Sons has long been the go-to team for high-profile weddings, including celebrity events. Known for inventive takes on island classics — think lobster sliders or truffled mushroom tenderloin — the team builds menus around seasonal ingredients sourced from places like Beetlebung Farm.

For a more tailored approach, Annie Foley Catering & Special Events specializes in crafting experiences that reflect each couple’s unique vibe. From intimate rehearsal dinners to grand receptions beneath the stars, the team creates menus that celebrate the flavors of the island with flair and finesse.

PAMPER & PREPARE Getting wedding-day ready is easier when relaxation is part of the plan. The Vineyard MV86

offers several luxurious spa and wellness destinations to help you feel your best before the big moment.

Sea Spa Salon, located inside Vineyard Square Hotel in Edgartown, provides full salon and spa services — from hair and makeup to massages and body treatments. Holistic therapies like Reiki, reflexology, and energy healing are also on offer, making this a well-rounded oasis for bridal parties.

For beauty that comes to you, Island Aesthetics MV delivers top-tier aesthetic services at your home or accommodations. Founded by a boardcertified physician and a licensed RN, its treatments include HydraFacials, Botox® and filler options, IV vitamin therapy, and advanced skin care — all designed to have you glowing from the inside out.

CRAF TING THE MOMENT Behind every seamless Vineyard wedding is a crew of talented professionals. From stylists to planners, caterers to florists, and photographers to musicians, the island’s network of experts is seasoned in bringing wedding dreams to life.

Whether you’re planning a weekend-long affair or a simple seaside elopement, Martha’s Vineyard provides all the resources you need — paired with a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else. Here, everything from the ferry ride to the final dance under the stars becomes part of the magic.

Martha’s Vineyard is more than just a backdrop — it’s part of your love story. With its spellbinding landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and passionate community of vendors, the island transforms weddings into once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

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ISLAND AESTHETIC S MV

8 Union St., Vineyard Haven 774-563-5708 www.islandaestheticsmv.com  Island Aesthetics MV, located just a short walk from the Vineyard Haven ferry terminal, is the only physician-owned and -operated med spa on the island. It offers an array of aesthetic procedures, including Botox®, dermal fillers, IV therapy, laser hair removal, laser skin treatments, and even liposuction. It also offers concierge services in the privacy of your home or hotel room. Group rates are available for weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, showers, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Treatments are administered by registered nurses or a physician. Open seven days a week. Call or text for an appointment.

JEREMY DRIESEN PHOTOGRAPHY

914-844-0267 www.jeremydriesenphotography.com jeremydriesen@raybloch.com  Jeremy Driesen has photographed rock stars and celebrities, titans of business, nutty little kids, and everything in between. He has photographed events for Vogue, Vanity Fair, the New York Times, NBC, L’Oréal, Time Inc., the American Heart Association, WarnerMedia, and many more.

His work has appeared on American Idol and in Cosmopolitan magazine, Boston magazine, Vineyard Style, MV Arts & Ideas, Martha’s Vineyard magazine, and Edible Vineyard. His “Shooting Stars” collection of celebrity photography can be viewed at @jeremydriesenphotography on Instagram.

Caroline Dee Photography

Flowers on the Vineyard, led by Louise Sweet, is based in the rural area of Makonikey and is known for using flowers freshly picked from her gardens. Her team is renowned for naturalistic, locally inspired arrangements that bring an organic charm to every bouquet and tablescape.

Also beloved is Donaroma’s, a family-run business with three island locations. Its floral designs are deeply rooted in the Vineyard’s natural palette, often using blooms grown in its nurseries. Its elegant arrangements reflect the island’s relaxed, coastal beauty and are fully customizable to suit your theme.

An idyllic setting for

Christine Sargologos

Christine Sargologos

celebrating your special day

1 Farm Neck Way Oak Bluffs, MA 02557 508-693-3560 farmneck.net events@farmneck.net

HYDRAFACIALS • SPA FACIALS CHEMICAL PEELS • BOTOX LASER HAIR REMOVAL DERMAL FILLERS • IV THERAPY BODY-CONTOURING

(774) 563-5708

8 UNION ST., VINEYARD HAVEN

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M A R T H A’ S V I N E YA R D Useful Information

USEFUL info

Alison Shaw

HERE ARE SOME PRACTICAL TIPS AND USEFUL INFORMATION FOR NAVIGATING OUR ISLAND.

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FLIGHTS There are a few airlines that offer flights directly into Martha’s Vineyard Airport.

Cape Air (800-CAPE-AIR; www.capeair.com) offers year-round direct flights from Boston’s Logan Airport and New York’s JFK Airport.

Seasonal flights are also available from other gateway cities on the East Coast.

American Airlines, Delta, Jet Blue, and Elite Airways offer seasonal flights as well.

Martha’s Vineyard Airport is located at the center of the island and has facilities available for private planes. Taxis and car rental companies are available at the airport.

CAR RENTALS Oak Bluffs Ferry Dock

POPUL ATION According to the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce, about 17,000 people live here year-round; but it increases to about 200,000 in the peak summer season.

LOCAL L ANGUAGE Up Island refers to the western areas of Aquinnah, Chilmark, Menemsha, and West Tisbury; while Down Island refers to Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown.

GE T TING HERE AND AROUND Located about seven miles from Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is only accessible by boat or airplane. There are no bridges connecting it to the mainland. However, there are several ferries that transport people to and from the island.

J. Kevin Foltz

FERRIES Avoid the traffic and frustration and hop on a relaxing one-hour luxury ferry from New Bedford to Martha’s Vineyard aboard Seastreak. Take in the views from the open-air top deck, grab a drink at the full-service bar, or relax inside the temperature-controlled cabin.

It offers seasonal departures throughout the day (800-BOAT-RIDE; www.seastreak.com).

Did You Know?

Martha’s Vineyard is approximately 100 square miles. There are a few ways to get around and explore the island, including rental cars, public transportation, private and group tours, biking, and walking.

The Steamship Authority ferries operate year-round from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, and they’re the only ones that transport both vehicles and passengers (508-477-8600; www.steamshipauthority.com).

Other ferries run seasonally. Ferries to the island typically depart from Woods Hole, Hyannis, Nantucket, New Bedford, and Falmouth, MA; Quonset Point, RI; Northern New Jersey; and Metropolitan New York.

Check the schedules before you depart for the most up-to-date information.

Inter-island service is also available from Hyannis to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard via a high-speed ferry operated

by Hy-Line Cruises (508-693-0112; www.hylinecruises.com/marthasvineyard-ferries).

Renting a car on the Vineyard is a great way to see the island at your own pace. Contact Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals (508-627-6800; www.mvautorental.com) or Budget Martha’s Vineyard (508-693-1911; www.budgetmv.com) with four convenient locations.

PUBLIC BUS If you’re looking for something economical and convenient, a year-round public bus system can help you get around the entire island. Learn more at www.vineyardtransit.com.

You can also rent bicycles from various companies to explore the Vineyard on your own or book sightseeing tours that take you around the island to discover all the towns.

VISITOR INFORMATION The Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit, professional organization made up of business members located on the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard (508-693-0085; 800-505-4815; www.mvy.com).

The Martha’s Vineyard Lodging Association represents the licensed and inspected properties across the island, including boutique hotels, inns, and hotels in Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Chilmark, Aquinnah, and West Tisbury (www.marthasvineyardlodging.org).

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specializes in fun vehicles such as Jeeps and convertibles like Corvette, Mercedes, Audi, and Mustang, along with sedans, minivans, and SUVs. With Budget Martha’s Vineyard, you will be in your car within minutes of arriving on the island!

MARTHA’S VINEYARD AUTO RENTALS

12 Circuit Ave. Ext., Oak Bluffs 508-627-5700 www.mvautorental.com The company’s self-guided tour around Martha’s Vineyard allows you to catch the island’s highlights at your own pace without the hassle of waiting for a tour bus or rideshare. Spend the day leisurely exploring the island and creating lifelong memories. Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals has three offices conveniently located in Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown.

SEASTREAK

Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape

ACCOMMODATIONS ACTIVITIES & ARTS DINING INFORMATION & SERVICES REAL ESTATE SHOPPING TRANSPORTATION WEDDINGS

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USEFUL INFO GUIDE T R A N S P O R TAT I O N BUDGET MARTHA’S VINEYARD MV Airport Main Terminal Oak Bluffs, 1 block from all ferries Vineyard Haven, 1 block from ferries Edgartown, at the Triangle 508-693-1911  Budget Martha’s Vineyard is a familyowned and -operated business that has been serving the island’s visitors and community for almost 30 years. It

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PET SERVICES HIGH FREQUENCY CANINE TRAINING AND B OARDING

195 Great Plains Rd., West Tisbury 508-560-7471  Dog training and day care on a 1.5-acre facility. Austin Higgins, owner and trainer, is a certified professional dog trainer specializing in behavior modification.

Services include free evaluations to choose the training plan that best fits your needs, day training/basic obedience (on leash), advanced obedience (off leash), behavior modification, socialization, and boarding and day care.

J. Kevin Foltz

DISCOVER

SCAN THE QR CODE FOUND THROUGHOUT THE PAGES OF THIS VISITORS’ GUIDE TO DOWNLOAD THE INDISPENSABLE DISCOVER MARTHA’S VINEYARD AND THE CAPE APP WHILE ON THE GO.

49 State Pier, New Bedford 800-262-8743 www.seastreak.com contactnb@seastreak.com Seastreak provides luxury, high-speed ferry services connecting New Bedford to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Enjoy the many amenities on board, including spacious seating, an open-air top deck, and full-service bar. Car valet services are available at the New Bedford ferry terminal.

Call for Pickup to Most Island locations

Featuring: Jeeps, BMW’s, Teslas, Corvettes, Convertibles, Full size SUV, Minivans

508-693-1911 Located at

Martha’s Vineyard Airport Main Terminal Oak Bluffs 9 Oak Bluffs Avenue 1 block from Ferry Vineyard Haven 19 Beach Road 1 block from Ferry FOR A RESERVATION GO TO

BUDGETMV.COM OR

CALL - TEXT

508 693 1911

Independent License

EXPLORE EVERYTHING MARTHA’S VINEYARD OFFERS

3 offices conveniently located in Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs and Edgartown

Book your reservation now!

508-627-6800 mvautorental.com Our self-guided tour around Martha’s Vineyard allows you to catch the island’s highlights at your own pace without the hassle of waiting for a tour bus or ride share. Spend the day leisurely exploring the island and creating lifelong memories.

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MARTHA'S VINEYARD

The Green Room............................. MV52, MV55

Quitsa Kitchen.............................................. MV39

9 Craft Kitchen & Bar........................Back Cover

High Frequency Canine Training and

Rockfish Restaurant.................................... MV39

19 Raw Oyster Bar and

Boarding.....................................................MV27

Sand Bar & Grille.......................................... MV43

19 Prime Steakhouse.............................. MV45

Island Aesthetics MV...................................MV87

Sandpiper Realty, Inc.................................. MV81

Alison Shaw Gallery.................................... MV69

Island Alpaca Company...............................MV31

Seastreak................................................................. 3

Anchor Realty.................................. MV82, MV83

Lobsterville Bar and Grille......................... MV42

Stefanie Wolf Designs.................................MV57

Budget Martha’s Vineyard......................... MV91

Lookout Tavern............................................. MV41

Summer Shades........................................... MV59

Caroline Dee Photography........................MV73

The Maker Pasta Shop & Café...................MV38

Tesori Fine Jewelry -

CB Stark Jewelers.........................................MV53

Martha’s Vineyard Auto Rentals.............. MV91

Hulchi Belluni....................Inside Front Cover

Claudia Jewelry............................................ MV59

Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports............... MV19

Third World Trading Co..............................MV57

Coastal Supply Co........................................MV53

Maxwell & Co................................................ MV63

Woodland Variety & Grill...........................MV37

Conrado.......................................................... MV54

Michael Blanchard Photography..............MV72

Deon’s............................................................. MV43

Murdick’s Fudge of

CAPE COD

Farm Neck Golf Club...................................MV87

Martha’s Vineyard.................................... MV61

Falmouth Pet Center......................................CC9

Fishbones Bar & Grille................................. MV41

MV Salads....................................................... MV40

Haven Cannabis.................... Inside Back Cover

Granary Gallery..............................................MV71

The Net Result...............................................MV37

Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod..................CC7

The Great Put-On.................................................. 1

OSO Boutique Clothing Store.................. MV56

Maxwell & Co......................... CC23, Back Cover

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Caroline Dee Photography

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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Two Convenient Locations 4018-4019 Main Street Brewster, Mass Tel: 774-561-2854

310 Commercial Street Provincetown, Mass Tel: 508-413-9477

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