The Islands, Massachusetts Travel Guide

Discover the charm and beauty of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts' idyllic islands offering pristine beaches, historic towns, and endless outdoor adventures.

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The Islands

The Islands in Massachusetts, including Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, are captivating destinations that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming small-town vibes. These islands are renowned for their scenic landscapes, pristine beaches, and picturesque lighthouses. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and sailing, or simply relax on the sandy shores while taking in the stunning coastal views. Martha's Vineyard is famous for its colorful Victorian cottages, quaint fishing villages, and bustling harbor towns. Edgartown, one of its main towns, is a prime spot to explore historic whaling captains' homes and enjoy gourmet dining. The island's diverse terrain, from rolling hills to serene beaches, makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Nantucket, often referred to as the 'Gray Lady' due to its foggy weather, boasts cobblestone streets, historic sea captain homes, and a laid-back atmosphere. The island is a haven for history buffs, with numerous museums and well-preserved landmarks. Its stunning beaches and vibrant arts scene draw visitors year-round, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil getaway or a cultural exploration. Both islands host various festivals and events throughout the year, adding to their charm and appeal. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an engaging cultural experience, the Islands in Massachusetts offer something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Islands.

Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your spot.
Rent a bike to explore the islands; it's a popular and scenic way to get around.
Visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and mild weather.
Try the local seafood, particularly the clam chowder and fresh lobster.
Pack layers, as island weather can change quickly and evenings can be cool.

Top City Travel Guides in The Islands

The cities of The Islands, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Martha's Vineyard

Explore The Islands: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in The Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Explore Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston, where historic charm meets vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.5

Boston Common

Explore Boston Common, the historic heart of Boston, where lush landscapes and cultural landmarks await your discovery.

4.7

Harvard Square

Explore the vibrant heart of Cambridge at Harvard Square, where history, culture, and modern life blend seamlessly.

4.5

Breakout Games

Experience the thrill of adventure at Breakout Games, where every escape room offers a unique challenge for family and friends in Marlborough, MA.

5.0

Best landmarks in The Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Jaws Bridge

Discover the enchanting Jaws Bridge in Edgartown, a captivating landmark that connects cinematic history with stunning coastal views.

4.8

99 Main St

Explore the charming coastal town of Edgartown, where history meets stunning vistas in the heart of Martha's Vineyard.

Best restaurants in The Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Union Oyster House

Discover Boston's iconic Union Oyster House: where historic charm meets exquisite seafood dining experiences.

4.3

Neptune Oyster

Experience Boston's premier oyster bar at Neptune Oyster—where fresh seafood meets creative culinary artistry.

4.4

FiRE+iCE Interactive Grill & Bar

Discover the excitement of interactive dining at FiRE+iCE Interactive Grill & Bar in Boston's Back Bay - where your meal is your creation!

4.3

The Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House

Experience the best seafood at The Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House in South Yarmouth, where fresh flavors meet cozy ambiance.

4.6

Best bars in The Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Bostonia Public House

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable New England cuisine at Bostonia Public House, a top dining spot in Downtown Boston.

4.4

Black Cat Tavern

Experience the best of coastal dining at Black Cat Tavern in Hyannis, where fresh seafood meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

Chatham Bars Inn

Experience coastal luxury at Chatham Bars Inn, a premier resort hotel in Chatham, Massachusetts, offering stunning views and exceptional dining.

4.6

Biddy Early's

Discover Biddy Early's, a lively pub in Boston offering a great selection of craft beers and a warm, inviting atmosphere that captures the city's vibrant nightlife.

4.5

Best nightclubs in The Islands

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The Grand Boston

Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Grand Boston, where vibrant music, innovative cocktails, and unforgettable energy come together.

3.3

Waterclub Marina Bay

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Waterclub Marina Bay, where dining, dancing, and stunning views come together for unforgettable nights.

4.3

Vincent's Nightclub

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Vincent's Nightclub, where top DJs and a lively atmosphere make every night unforgettable.

4.1

Mojitos Country Club

Discover the vibrant Mojitos Country Club - a perfect blend of nightlife, dining, and relaxation in Randolph, Massachusetts.

3.7

Best shops in The Islands

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Best Shops

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Wrentham Village Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, your ultimate shopping destination in Massachusetts.

4.5

Assembly Row

Discover Assembly Row, a premier outlet mall in Somerville, MA, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment for all visitors.

4.5

Lee Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals on top brands amidst the stunning landscapes of Lee Premium Outlets in Massachusetts.

4.3

Old Country Store & Emporium

Explore the Old Country Store & Emporium: a charming gift shop in Buzzards Bay offering antiques, candies, and unique finds that capture local culture.

4.6

Explore The Islands on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in The Islands, mapped for you.

The Islands Essentials

The Islands in Massachusetts primarily refer to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. To get to Martha's Vineyard, you can take a ferry from Woods Hole, Falmouth, or Hyannis. The ferry services are provided by the Steamship Authority, Island Queen, and Hy-Line Cruises. For Nantucket, ferries depart from Hyannis and are operated by the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line Cruises. Both islands are also accessible by air, with direct flights available from Boston, New York, and other major cities to Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) and Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK).
Once on the islands, transportation options include buses, taxis, rental cars, bicycles, and mopeds. Martha's Vineyard has an efficient bus system run by the Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA), which covers most of the island. Nantucket's transportation is managed by the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority (NRTA), offering shuttle services around the island. Bicycle rentals are popular on both islands due to the scenic bike paths. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
The currency used is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the islands, including in restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are available in key locations, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also increasingly accepted.
The Islands are generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying in well-lit, populated areas is recommended. If you’re renting bikes or mopeds, always wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Both islands have police stations and medical facilities. Martha's Vineyard Hospital and Nantucket Cottage Hospital provide comprehensive medical services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in main towns such as Vineyard Haven and Nantucket Town.
Fashion: Do dress in casual, comfortable clothing suitable for beach and outdoor activities. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't block aisles with luggage. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and specialties. Don't forget to tip your servers, generally 15-20% of the bill.
To experience The Islands like a local, explore the lesser-known beaches and walking trails. Visit local farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with the locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share tips about the best spots to visit. For a unique experience, consider attending local events and festivals such as the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival or the Martha's Vineyard Film Festival. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the scenic beauty of both islands.

When is the best time to visit The Islands?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for The Islands

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in The Islands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [Haud-ee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See yah]
- YesYep
  [Yep]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [Shoor thing]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [Thangs a lot]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [Pardon me]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [How's it goin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speakin' English?
  [You speakin' English?]
- I don't understandI ain't followin'
  [I ain't followin']
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI ain't eatin' meat
  [I ain't eatin' meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I get the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get outta here!
  [Get outta here!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [Get a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI don't feel good
  [I don't feel good]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [Just browsin']
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What’s the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit pricey
  [That's a bit pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you knock down the price?
  [Can you knock down the price?]
- What time is it?What time we got?
  [What time we got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [Can you point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to... please
  [One ticket to... please]

History of The Islands

Long before European settlers arrived, the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket were inhabited by the Wampanoag people. They called Martha's Vineyard 'Noepe' and Nantucket 'Canopache,' and their presence dates back thousands of years. The Wampanoag people were skilled fishermen, hunters, and farmers, deeply connected to the land and sea. They cultivated crops such as maize, beans, and squash, and their culture and traditions remain an integral part of the islands' history.
The first European to document Martha's Vineyard was Bartholomew Gosnold in 1602, who named the island after his daughter. Nantucket was similarly discovered by Europeans around the same time. These islands were later settled by English colonists in the mid-17th century. Thomas Mayhew established the first English settlement on Martha's Vineyard in 1642. The islands became known for their strategic locations and fertile lands, attracting more settlers over time.
The 18th and 19th centuries marked the height of the whaling industry on both Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. Nantucket, in particular, became one of the world's leading whaling ports, with its whaling fleet dominating the industry. The wealth generated from whaling led to the construction of grand homes and the establishment of a prosperous community. This era also brought a diverse population to the islands, including African American and Cape Verdean sailors.
Quakers played a significant role in the development of Nantucket. The Quaker community, known for their pacifism and plain living, established a strong presence on the island in the 18th century. Their values of simplicity, equality, and community shaped the island's social fabric and influenced its architecture and way of life. The Nantucket Historical Association maintains several Quaker meeting houses and other historical sites that reflect this heritage.
One of the most significant events in Nantucket's history was the Great Fire of July 13, 1846. The fire destroyed much of downtown Nantucket, including many of its whaling warehouses and homes. The disaster marked the beginning of the island's economic decline as the whaling industry began to wane. However, the resilient community rebuilt, and the historic district that stands today is a testament to their determination.
During the American Civil War, Martha's Vineyard played a role as a strategic location for the Union. The island's harbors provided safe anchorage for Union naval vessels, and it became a training ground for soldiers. The legacy of the Civil War is preserved in various monuments and historical markers across the island, reflecting its contribution to the Union war effort.
By the late 19th century, both Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket transitioned from whaling hubs to popular summer destinations. Wealthy vacationers from the mainland began to build summer homes, and tourism became a significant industry. The natural beauty, charming villages, and maritime heritage attracted visitors, leading to the development of hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities that continue to thrive today.
Throughout the 20th century, the islands attracted a diverse group of artists, writers, and musicians. Martha's Vineyard, in particular, became a summer retreat for cultural icons such as James Taylor, Carly Simon, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The islands host numerous art galleries, music festivals, and cultural events, fostering a vibrant artistic community that continues to draw creative talent from around the world.
Both Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are renowned for their commitment to preserving their natural landscapes and historic sites. Efforts by local conservation organizations have ensured that large tracts of land remain undeveloped, maintaining the islands' scenic beauty and ecological integrity. Historic preservation initiatives have safeguarded the architectural heritage, with many buildings and districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places.