A Brief Guide to Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard, a 87 square-mile island off of Southern Massachusetts, is a popular vacation spot for much of the Northeastern United States. But each of the 6 towns have their own reputation and their own specialties. This guide is meant to bring out the highlights of the 6 different towns-- if you're on the Vineyard, try to check out this "best of" list.

Oak Bluffs- Oak Bluffs is known for being an "everyman's" type of town. While other areas of the Vineyard are often ritzy or cutesy, Oak Bluffs is much like any other town with working folks. The beaches in this town are mainly public, unlike some of the other areas. The town center is also larger than some of the others, with a movie theatre, bakeries, and restaurants. For a traditional American breakfast, head over to Linda Jean's, and for an afternoon with the kids visit the Flying Horses-- the oldest operating carousel in the United States. The Arts District of Oak Bluffs is quite unique, with Pik Nik as a must-visit store.

Vineyard Haven/Tisbury- Vineyard Haven is where most of the ferries heading to and from the Vineyard dock. This town is also most famous for The Black Dog restaurant and bakery-- although known for its t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc., the breakfast pancakes and french toast are superb! If you're a fish lover, drop by the Net Result for some freshly caught local fish.

Edgartown- Fairly picturesque, Edgartown boasts some of the best public beaches on Martha's Vineyard. South Beach, or Katama beach, has made a name for itself and is definitely worth an spending afternoon. With great bike paths leading through the town, it is a great place for biking. Edgartown also has many sit down seafood restaurants which overlook the water.

Chilmark- Chilmark is a sparsely populated town with really no town center. If you're looking to get away from people for a while, Chilmark is for you. Its beaches are private, so if you rent a house there you might be lucky enough to get a key to the exclusive beaches. Whether or not you stay in Chilmark, a trip to Chilmark Chocolates is really a must-- the small local chocolatier has been around since the early '80s and the chocolates are delicious.

Aquinnah/Gay Head- Aquinnah, also known as Gay Head, is a small town with great breaches and rocky shoreline views. Go there just to take in the views while having a frozen yogurt.

Menemsha- This small fishing village has retained its tradition over the years and through the tourist influx, and remains a small fishing village. Go here for the famous Quahog chowder and views of the ocean.