Whether you're renting a vacation home for the first time, or you're a veteran Vineyard visitor, or you have friends coming who have never been here, Edgartown delivers a full experience in just one day — with the perfect blend of history, world class shopping, extensive dining options, sandy beaches, and coastal charm. There's a lot to enjoy and our guide has it all -- How To Spend The Perfect Day In Edgartown
How to Spend the Perfect Day in Edgartown - The Morning
Start the morning with breakfast at one of the charming cafes like Behind the Bookstore, MacPhail's Corner Cafe or Rosewater Market. Take your coffee to go and wander along downtown, specifically North Water Street, where you can witness living history. In the 1800's, Edgartown had become a thriving hub for whaling. Wealthy sea captains built the grand Greek Revival mansions that still line the street today.
You can easily walk all the way down to the Edgartown Lighthouse if you like. While anytime of year is a wonderful time to stroll around down, the gardens are particularly beautiful in the Summer months.
After you enjoy town, stop by the Carnegie Heritage Center. Managed by the Vineyard Preservation Trust, here you have the opportunity to take in local history through exhibits on whaling, island heritage, and historic landmarks in the beautifully restored Carnegie library building.
How To Spend The Perfect Day in Edgartown - Midday
Edgartown has an endless amount of activities to enjoy. You can explore by car, but you may find downtown parking a little tough in the peak weeks of summer. So, you could leave the car behind, and take the Vineyard's extensive bus system, the VTA, or you can rent a bike from a number of the bike rental businesses in town, like Wheel Happy.
You can bike or drive to Katama to visit South Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches on Martha's Vineyard. South Beach is a three-mile stretch of sandy beach. Be prepared to enjoy some great waves for boogie-boarding and jumping. If you have younger children, Fuller Street Beach by the Edgartown Light House is a good option, and usually with no waves.
On your way to South Beach, stop by the Katama General Store which is right before Left Fork and Right Fork, both of which bring you to South Beach. Here you can stock up on provisions for your beach day.
You can find everything from sunblock, to towels, to sandwiches, to beverages and even iced coffee or frozen treats for the way home.
You can also go to Katama Kitchen for lunch or drinks or dinner. You will find Katama Kitchen close to the end of Right Fork, on the way to South Beach. PC: Katama Kitchen.
If the beach is not on the agenda for the day, no problem. Edgartown has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. You can also take a tour with Edgartown Tour Company. They have a selection of tours to choose from, including a JAWS tour.
How To Spend The Perfect Day In Edgartown - Late Afternoon
After the beach or town if you want to continue exploring, you can hop on the On-Time Ferry to Chappaquiddick (the island just across Edgartown Harbor from the village). You can bike or take your car on the ferry (there is a fee). Here, you can visit Mytoi.
Mytoi is a 14-acre Japanese-inspired garden that you stroll through. It is a peaceful spot to enjoy, a stark contrast to the sandy pines and coastal wetlands of Chappy. We have a great Martha's Vineyard Bucket List video adventure across Chappy - view here.
Don't forget to stop by Slipaway Farm, a charming farm stand along the way to Mytoi. Here you can find stunning flowers, and more.
Another great option is to head to the Edgartown Lighthouse. You can stroll down to the lighthouse and watch the boats sail in and out of Edgartown Harbor. There are also expansive views to enjoy back across the harbor to Chappaquiddick.
Don't forget to go SHOPPING! Edgartown is a gem for shopping! From upscale boutiques like Salte and Sole to charming coastal decor like that found at Juniper and Slate, and nautical fashion from Backwater Trading Co. and Boneyard, there's something for everyone. Whether you're window shopping or ready to splurge, Edgartown has your Island shopping needs covered. Photo Courtesy, Slate.
How to Spend a Perfect Day in Edgartown - Early Evening
In Edgartown, you will find a number of options for sunset sails or cruises to get you out on the water. This is such a special way to see the town and get a different perspective than on land. Mad Max is a large catamaran that offers two hour cruises in the afternoon or evening. Catboat Charters offers guests the chance to explore the harbor on a beautiful catboat (it's the boat with the American flag sail) for up to 6 people (private charter). There is also Big Blue Charters and Chappy Charters.
How to Spend a Perfect Day in Edgartown - Evening
After a full day of sun, salt air, and seaside charm, Edgartown shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, as golden hour fades into evening, the town transforms -- from beachy and breezy to candlelit and buzzing. It’s time for dinner -- and in Edgartown, that’s an event in itself.
For seafood fans, 19 Raw is a excellent choice. The shellfish is impeccable, and the menu goes well beyond seafood, offering crudos, small plates, and plenty of non-seafood options with flair. If you want to dine on the harbor, the Atlantic Chop House is good option. The Atlantic sits right on the harbor and offers it all - fresh fish, a serious selection steak cuts, upscale burgers, and crisp, colorful salads. Sip a cocktail while boats sail past. Photo Courtesy of The Atlantic.
If you are looking for a more farm to table experience, The Covington is the spot to enjoy your dinner. The menu is locally sourced and offers creative dishes and bold flavors that are sure to satisfy. These are just a couple of restaurants you'll find in town. For a fine-dining experience, there is l'etoile, Detente, and Bettini at the Harbor View Hotel. If you'd like something more casual, there is Rockfish, The Seafood Shanty, or Town MV.
Looking to keep the party going after dinner? Edgartown’s nightlife may surprise you -- it’s lively, stylish, and full of character. From local haunts, to DJ's spinning, the energy stays high well after the sun goes down. Late night hot spots include The Wharf, Port Hunter, and Atlantic. Alchemy even offers a fun late night menu for you to enjoy, think hot dog tower and truffle fries. Dance the night away and revel in a glorious day in Edgartown.
How to Spend a Perfect Day in Edgartown - Dessert
Let's not forget about late night ice cream (of course, any time is a good time for ice cream)! There’s a certain magic in wandering through downtown, cone in hand, taking in scenes of a summer night in Edgartown. Whether it’s a bold scoop of Chilmark Coffee from Vineyard Scoops (cash only), the flavor of the day from Mad Martha’s, a sweet new favorite at Ben & Bill’s, or a mix of old-school candy and soft-serve from the Ice Cream and Candy Bazaar, you’re guaranteed to find something that hits the spot.
Until Next Time, Edgartown
As your day in Edgartown winds down, we hope you’ve discovered the charm, flavor, and energy that make this town such a special part of Martha’s Vineyard. From historic streets and sun-drenched beaches to local shopping and unforgettable meals, Edgartown offers a very unique taste of Island life. For a complete list of year-round events in Edgartown, check out Visit Edgartown, click here.
Additional Fun Edgartown Options:
You can tour the Edgartown Lighthouse, Monday, Tuesday, Friday - Sunday, 10 AM - 4 PM. The views from the top are breathtaking. For more information, click here.
On Tuesdays, the Edgartown Village Market, a collection of local vendors, farms and purveyors takes over the back lawn of the historic Daniel Fisher House.
If you like breweries, you can find Bad Martha Farmer's Brewery on the outside of town. Here you can enjoy their craft wood-fired pizza, local beers, and beer garden. Often in the evening, they have events like live music and trivia.
Whether this is your first visit or your 50th, we hope the experiences you have here inspire you to return — not just to Edgartown, but to explore the rest of Martha’s Vineyard. Each town has its own story to tell, and countless adventures still await. Here's our guide to How To Spend The Perfect Day In Oak Bluffs.
Thanks for reading On Point MV, a blog about the Island lifestyle and all the fun happenings on it. Have questions? Have blog ideas? Email us at guinevere@pointbrealty.com.