Whale oil built this: Greek Revival columns, a clock that still keeps the town's time, and three spires aimed at a sky that is blue for about four months a year.
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Edgartown, once a major whaling port of Martha's Vineyard, is today one of New England's most elegant and photographed seaside towns. With its white-clapboard captain's homes, Greek Revival architecture, boutique-lined streets, and a lighthouse overlooking the harbor, Edgartown delivers the perfect mix of history, coastal scenery, and modern dining.
This guide was written and photographed by MV Vacation, with years of on-island experience documenting Edgartown's history, attractions, and coastal culture.
Edgartown connects easily to the rest of the island, especially West Tisbury, known for its farms and scenic conservation trails.
Main Street
Main Street is Edgartown's central hub, filled with historic inns, bookstores, coastal boutiques, galleries, and cafés. The architecture here reflects the town's whaling-era prosperity, with many preserved captain's homes dating back to the 1800s.
Dock Street, where the shops give out and the harbour begins.
A short walk from Main Street brings you to the Pagoda Tree on South Water Street, planted in 1837 and believed to be one of the largest and oldest of its species in North America.
Nearby North Water Street is lined with some of the island's most historic waterfront homes, many built by ship captains during the height of the whaling era.
Many visitors pair Edgartown with a trip to Oak Bluffs, famous for its colorful gingerbread cottages and lively harbor.
The Harbor
Edgartown Harbor is one of the most scenic waterfronts in Massachusetts. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk from the yacht club area toward Lighthouse Beach, passing boat slips, classic sailing vessels, and panoramic water views.
For live conditions, check our Island Live Webcams.
The Chappy Ferry crosses between Edgartown and Chappaquiddick every few minutes, making it one of the shortest and most iconic ferry rides in the United States.
The whaleboat and whale-tail memorial beside the wharf, where the Chappy ferry loads.
Finding Edgartown
Edgartown is widely considered the culinary capital of Martha's Vineyard. From top-tier seafood to fine dining and casual harbor eats, the town's food scene blends coastal flavors with modern techniques.
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Edgartown
08 PLACESSeasonal, chef-driven dishes and craft cocktails.
Luxury dining with lighthouse views at the Harbor View Hotel; the hotel also offers all-day casual fare at Behind The View and the seasonal Roxy Pool Bar.
Classic coastal dining on Main Street.
Modern American cuisine with a lively evening scene.
Wood-fired pizzas and elevated comfort food.
Historic pub fare inside one of the island's oldest inns.
Casual harbor views and sushi upstairs.
Specialty coffee and artisan breakfast.
For more curated recommendations, see the Edgartown Dining Guide →
A
B
CA: the Atlantic's corner on Main Street at the end of the day; B: morning light inside Espresso Love; C: l'étoile lit for the evening.
The Essentials
The essentials in Edgartown
06 STOPSA classic Victorian-era lighthouse with harbor and Chappaquiddick views.
One of the island's most historic and luxurious hotels, located directly across from the lighthouse.
The definitive home of island history, maritime artifacts, and Wampanoag heritage.
A Greek Revival masterpiece built in 1843, now used for concerts and events.
Calm, family-friendly, with views toward Chappaquiddick.
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Edgartown
04 STAYSPremier luxury stay with lighthouse views.
Stylish, modern accommodations near Upper Main Street.
The reimagined historic Kelley House, with The Newes from America pub downstairs.
Waterfront rooms steps from Main Street.
Know Before You Go
Know before you go
Visit during May–June or September–October for ideal weather and lighter crowds.
Make restaurant reservations ahead of time, especially during July and August.
Biking is often easier than driving; Edgartown is walkable and bike-friendly.
Arrive early for lighthouse photography or sunrise at Fuller Street Beach.
Parking fills quickly; use paid lots or park farther out and walk in.
For seasonal rules, lighthouse hours, and beach access updates, visit our Martha's Vineyard FAQ.
Getting Around Edgartown
Edgartown is highly walkable, with most shops, restaurants, and waterfront paths located around Main Street and North Water Street. Parking is limited in summer, so biking or using VTA buses is often the easiest way to explore the area. The Chappy Ferry provides constant access to Chappaquiddick for beachgoers and sightseers.
A working boat home for the night while the sky does its ten-minute trick over the moorings.
Questions
Questions about Edgartown
What makes Edgartown unique?
Its preserved 19th-century architecture, bustling harbor, lighthouse views, and exceptional dining make it one of New England's most elegant coastal towns.
What landmarks should I not miss?
Edgartown Lighthouse, the Whaling Church, the Pagoda Tree, Harbor View Hotel, and the waterfront along North Water Street.
Is Edgartown family-friendly?
Yes. Beaches, lighthouse walks, ice cream shops, and harbor activities make it enjoyable for all ages.
For real-time weather and harbor conditions, visit our Island Webcams.
The Record
Fun Facts about Edgartown
Edgartown on Film
From Our LensThe old whaling town, in every light.159 photographs · View the Edgartown gallery
+155Edgartown Photos
View more island visuals in our full Photo Galleries.
More photos: our South Beach gallery.
Keep Reading
Keep reading
Edgartown on film
Main Street, the harbour and the walk out to the lighthouse.
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