Martha's Vineyard Beaches — Swimming, Surfing and Sunset Guide
Explore Martha’s Vineyard Beaches
Some island beaches stay calm enough for toddlers; others take open Atlantic surf. Start here and pick by the kind of day you want.
Two things decide a beach day here: which shore, and who is allowed in. South-shore beaches — South Beach, Lucy Vincent, Squibnocket — take open Atlantic surf, with real waves and real rip currents. Sound-side water at State Beach, the Inkwell, or Lambert's Cove stays calmer and warmer, which is where the families go. Access is the catch: some of the best sand is resident-permit-only in summer, so check the rules before driving up-island — or go after 5 PM, when several town beaches open to everyone.
Lucy Vincent Beach
Chilmark beach with clay cliffs, strong waves, and a west-facing sunset view.
South Beach
Atlantic Ocean beach near Edgartown — the island’s main surf beach, with long open stretches for walking.
Menemsha Beach
Calm water, working fishing boats, and the island’s best-known sunset spot on Menemsha Harbor.
Aquinnah Beach
The beach below the clay cliffs, with Wampanoag history and open ocean in front of you.
Chappaquiddick Beaches
Remote beaches reached by ferry — you’ll often have the sand nearly to yourself.
More for planning a beach day on Martha’s Vineyard:
Free Download · 2026 Edition
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach Cheat Sheet
Every beach’s parking cost, sticker rules, dog policy and family rating on one printable page — verified for 2026.
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Island prices, hours & details change often — please verify with businesses before you go. Full disclaimer