Three miles of open Atlantic with nothing in front of it but water. The surf that makes this the island's best-known beach is the same surf that makes it the one to respect.
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South Beach, located in the Katama district of Edgartown, is the best-known beach on Martha's Vineyard: Atlantic surf, soft sand, dunes, and three miles of open shoreline.
This guide was written and photographed by MV Vacation, based on years of on-island filming, drone coverage, and field research across Katama and the South Beach coastline.
It is a flat three miles south of Edgartown through Katama, an easy bike ride or a short hop on the seasonal beach bus.
Know Before You Go
Before you go in the water
South Beach faces the open Atlantic. Waves and undertow can be powerful. Swim only in lifeguarded zones when they are staffed, and keep children within arm's reach.
The US Army Corps of Engineers posts warnings here: military ordnance from a former training range has been found along this shore. If you find something suspicious, do not touch it; leave the area and call 911.
On duty during the summer months at designated swimming areas.
Finding South Beach
On the Sand
What to do at South Beach
05 WAYSStrong Atlantic waves draw surfers, with lifeguarded areas in summer.
Only when conditions allow; undertow can be powerful.
Miles of uninterrupted shoreline stretching toward Norton Point.
Sunrise over the dunes, sunset over the ocean.
Bring your own food and drinks; no restaurants on the beach itself.
A 
B 
C A: the wide sandy stretch on a gentle day; B: a sand fence throwing shadows across a snow-dusted dune; C: footprints and eroded dune faces along the shore.
Amenities and Nearby Attractions
South Beach is intentionally kept natural. Amenities are limited, so bring essentials such as water, sunscreen, snacks, and shade.
Nearby
Near South Beach
04 STOPSScenic biplane rides and historic grass runway.
Upscale dining and beach access paths.
The over-sand beach that continues east from the lots: free on foot, a town permit to drive.
The light goes and the crowd thins, and three miles of sand belong to whoever stayed.
Know Before You Go
Tips for visiting South Beach
Parking lots fill fast in peak season.
Always swim in lifeguarded zones when available.
No stores or restaurants directly at the beach.
Use the seasonal VTA Route 8 beach bus from Edgartown, every 30 minutes in summer.
Sunrise for the dunes, sunset for ocean horizons.
Questions
Questions about South Beach
Is there parking available?
Yes. There are large lots, but they fill quickly during July and August.
Are there lifeguards?
Yes, during the summer season, in marked areas.
Is South Beach family-friendly?
Yes, but waves and undertow can be strong, so close supervision is required.
Is South Beach the same as Katama Beach?
Yes. Locals use both names interchangeably.
Can I walk from South Beach to Norton Point?
Yes, the shoreline is continuous, though tides affect walking conditions; our Norton Point guide covers the permit, the breach and the rules.
Disclaimer: Conditions can change daily. For accurate and up-to-date information, verify directly with local authorities or official sources.
The Record
Fun Facts about South Beach
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South Beach on film
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