PUBLIC BEACHES ON MARTHA’S VINEYARD there’s a beach for everyone, whether you like big surf and endless sand, or calm waters and easy parking. Some beaches on the Island are private; to avoid confusion, what follows is a list of beaches open to the public. Be aware that parking may be limited in spots; beaches are less crowded in early morning and late afternoon. Take note of all posted signs at beaches and remember to carry out what you bring in.
AQUINNAH LOBSTERVILLE BEACH
This two-mile beach off Lobsterville Road faces calm Vineyard Sound and is also a popular fishing spot. It can be rocky in some places and parking is limited.
AQUINNAH PUBLIC BEACH (Moshup Beach)
This surf beach off Moshup Trail extends to the beginning of the spectacular Gay Head Cliffs. Parking is $30/day in the summer and a short walk from the beach.
CHILMARK MENEMSHA PUBLIC BEACH
Gentle Vineyard Sound surf and epic sunsets make this an all-day favorite. Located next to Menemsha Harbor, parking spots are limited and sunset viewers are encouraged to move on quickly after sunset.
WEST TISBURY LONG POINT WILDLIFE REFUGE
This barrier beach just east of Tisbury Great Pond offers both fresh and salt water swimming. Owned by The Trustees of Reservations. Parking prices vary by membership and day of purchase and must be bought in advance. You can rent kayak and standup paddleboards on the pond. 14
EDGARTOWN STATE BEACH (Bend-in-the-Road)
This family-friendly two-mile stretch between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs faces Nantucket Sound on one side and Sengekontacket Pond on the other. Waters are calm and there’s plenty of accessible parking. The beach is also on the bicycle path.
LIGHTHOUSE & FULLER STREET BEACH
Both are on Edgartown Harbor at Starbuck Neck, just off North Water Street. Find the lighthouse and you’re there. Calm water and a view of the harbor. Street parking is at a premium, so leave your car elsewhere.
SOUTH BEACH (Norton Point/Katama)
This three-mile barrier beach has Atlantic Ocean surf on one side with a protected salt pond and Katama Bay on the other side. Three miles west from the center of Edgartown, it's the classic go-to beach for college kids. Only vehicles with over-sand permits are allowed on marked dune trails. Daily passes are currently not available due to the pandemic. Street parking available on Atlantic Avenue.
CHAPPAQUIDDICK CAPE POGUE & WASQUE (East Beach)
This beautiful stretch of east-facing coast is owned by The Trustees of Reservations. At
Welcome To Martha's Vineyard
