Katama is mostly sky and low scrub, cut by channels like this one — dead straight, dead still, and holding the whole evening on its surface.
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Welcome to Katama, a scenic coastal region in the town of Edgartown on Martha's Vineyard. Known for its wide-open landscapes, expansive beaches, coastal wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Katama is one of the island's most iconic outdoor destinations.
This guide was produced using original photography and on-island field research documented by MV Vacation.
History
The name Katama comes from the Wampanoag word meaning "crab-fishing place." Historically, Katama developed as a seaside resort area in the late 1800s and served as the terminus of the Martha's Vineyard Railroad, which once ran from Oak Bluffs to South Beach.
During World War II, the Katama plains were used as a military training site due to their wide, open terrain. Today, Katama remains largely undeveloped, preserving its windswept coastal character and expansive natural landscapes.
Finding Katama
The Essentials
The essentials in Katama
06 STOPSOne of Martha's Vineyard's most famous beaches, stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for strong surf, soft sand, and a wide shoreline ideal for sunbathing, walking, and photography.
A two-mile barrier beach that links Katama to Chappaquiddick. Managed by The Trustees of Reservations, it offers seasonal over-sand vehicle access (OSV), incredible birdwatching, and rugged coastal scenery. OSV permits and tide awareness are required.
A working farm operated by The Trustees, offering educational programs, barnyard experiences, farm tours, seasonal events, and a farm stand with local products. A family-friendly highlight of Katama.
One of the oldest continuously operating grass airfields in the United States. Visitors can watch classic aircraft take off and land or book scenic biplane rides over Katama Bay, South Beach, and Edgartown.
Katama's premier oceanside resort with direct access to South Beach. Offers dining, tennis, yoga, kids' programs, pools, water taxi access to Edgartown (seasonal), and shuttle service to downtown.
A beloved local spot for sandwiches, coffee, baked goods, picnic provisions, beach snacks, and Vineyard-made products. Ideal for stocking up before heading to South Beach or Norton Point.
A
B
CA — the open Atlantic side of South Beach; B — the general store that supplies the whole plain; C — the road across the plains, split-rail fence and sky the whole way.
Know Before You Go
Know before you go
Late spring and early fall offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and calm beach days.
The bike path from Edgartown to South Beach is flat, scenic, and ideal for families.
If planning to drive on Norton Point, check tides, surf conditions, and permit requirements from The Trustees.
Katama is remote. Bring sunscreen, water, and beach gear. There are limited facilities directly on South Beach.
South Beach dunes, Katama Bay overlooks, and the FARM Institute grounds make excellent picnic spots.
Right Fork, the gateway between Katama and Edgartown
Questions
Questions about Katama
What is the best time to visit Katama?
Late spring through early fall is ideal for beach weather, biking, and exploring the coastal plains.
Are there accommodations in Katama?
Yes. The Winnetu Oceanside Resort is Katama's signature stay, offering oceanside access, restaurants, pools, fitness programs, shuttle service, and activities for all ages.
What activities are available in Katama?
Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach walks, biking, over-sand driving at Norton Point, farm programs at the FARM Institute, and scenic flights from the Katama Airfield.
Is South Beach good for families?
South Beach has strong surf on the Atlantic side and requires caution, but families often enjoy the calmer waters of South Beach's right fork or nearby bayside areas.
The Record
Fun Facts about Katama
Three miles of Atlantic beach with nothing behind it but grass — which is why the sunsets here go on so long.
Katama on Film
From Our LensGrass, surf and a very long horizon.16 photographs · View the Katama gallery
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Explore more visuals of Katama in our curated Katama Photo Gallery.
Katama and South Beach on film
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