Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts Vacation Rentals: Homes, Beach Houses, Cottages, & More

Your Guide to Martha's Vineyard

What to Do in Martha's Vineyard

Home to over 100 miles of varied coastline, nearly 20 beaches, and the most charming, buzzing towns full of great shopping and history, a vacation spent in your Martha's Vineyard vacation home is one you'll remember for years to come. The area's renowned natural beauty also means this East Coast treasure trove is full of outdoor activities for every age and taste. From water sports like kayaking, boating, and fishing to superb hiking, golfing, and bird watching, there's never a dull moment in Martha's Vineyard. Each town and area has something to offer. Explore some of our top things to do when vacationing in Martha's Vineyard. Explore the Aquinnah Cliffs - Formerly known as Gay Head, these stunning clay cliffs are one of the area's most visited spots. Explore the lower beaches to see the cliffs up close or hike the upper trails to the top, where you can also spot the historic lighthouse, Gay Head Light. Check out the Edgartown Lighthouse - Built in the 1800s, this is the most popular of the five lighthouses along the northern side of the island. Fun fact: it was originally built for Crane Beach in Ipswich but was moved to Martha's Vineyard in 1938. Visit the Island Alpaca Farm - Enjoy this family-friendly 19-acre farm featuring more than 70 friendly alpacas. You can take your time petting the furry animals or go on a walking tour of the farm. While the tour is self-guided, the knowledgeable caretakers are there to answer any questions and direct you to the gift shop for cozy fur-lined souvenirs.

The best time to visit Martha's Vineyard

There's no bad time to visit this charming island. Keep in mind that island weather can change in a split second! So it's always a good idea to check ahead and be prepared for any element. Summer is delightfully warm, with averages in the 80s, and it is the ideal time to take in the Vineyard beach life. It's also high season, so if you're planning a summer vacation, you'll want to book ASAP. Shoulder seasons like fall and spring are also excellent times to experience the island's charm, and you'll avoid the bigger summer crowds. While winter is chilly and snowy, it's the perfect moment to get cozy during the holiday season and avoid tourists. You can also enjoy activities like ice skating, sledding, museum visits, or the numerous spa services.

The Weather in Martha's Vineyard

Summer's average temperatures range between 58–90ºF (14-32ºC), depending on the month and the day. Things start to cool off in the fall, and the rains come, with temperatures falling between 39ºF (4ºC) and 74ºF (23ºC). Make sure to pack a raincoat just in case! Winter gets snowy and cold, with temps between 25-46ºF (-4-8ºC), so you'll need to pack those snow boots for wandering around town. Spring opens up to warm but varying temperatures between 32–65ºF (0-18ºC), so throw a few different layers in your suitcase.

Martha's Vineyard, MA Vacation Rentals FAQs

What are the different types of Martha's Vineyard vacation rentals?

The most popular Martha's vineyard rentals are beach houses, cottages, and luxury homes. If you're needing a spacious Martha's Vineyard beach house, you'll find a great selection of stays that can accommodate large groups of friends and family, with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms so everyone can stay comfortably and soak in the summer sun. If you're looking for Martha's Vineyard cottages for rent, you'll find a slew of cozy hideaways for that romantic East Coast island getaway or simply a charming spot for you and the family for the summer. And if you're hoping to indulge in a luxury home, Martha's Vineyard luxury rentals are plenty, each with its own unique style and personal features you'll love— think charming colonial designs and lush gardens exploding with blooms. Luckily, all of these types of vacation rentals can be found throughout the island, from Oak Bluffs to Aquinnah. And with just 100 square miles of land, it's easy to fully immerse yourself in the local ambiance any time of year, be it summertime sailing or winter sledding. Many Martha's vineyard rentals also include coveted amenities like direct beach access or private pools, which you can enjoy depending on the season. Browse our fantastic selection of Martha's Vineyard vacation rentals, and you're bound to discover the perfect accommodation for your next East Coast vacation.

What types of amenities should I expect when booking a Vacation in Martha's Vineyard?

Many of our Martha's Vineyard houses feature amenities like WiFi, A/C, fully-equipped gourmet kitchens, private pools, and beach access.

What is the best area to stay in when traveling to Martha's Vineyard?

The most popular area to stay in Martha's Vineyard is near the water.

How can I get around Martha's Vineyard?

Martha's Vineyard is only accessible by ferry or plane—no bridges or tunnels around here! There are ferry services from New Bedford, Falmouth, Hyannis, and Woods Hole. Keep in mind that some routes are seasonal, and not all accept vehicles. While all three major towns— Vineyard Haven, Edgartown, and Oak Bluffs— are walkable, reserving a rental car is the best way to ensure easy transport on the island. Luckily, most of Martha's Vineyard home rentals on bnbfinder include on-site parking. Depending on the season and your travel plans, you can also consider renting a bike. If you plan on flying into Martha's Vineyard, you'll fly into the West Tisbury Airport (MVY) and can easily get to any of the major towns within 15 minutes on the small network of paved roads.

Are there pet-friendly houses for rent in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts?

Yes. Many of our houses for rent on Martha's Vineyard allow guests to bring their furry friends. Just be sure to check with each property for specific policies.

Are there Martha's Vineyard rentals suitable for groups?

Many Martha's Vineyard vacation rentals, whether a beach house, cottage, or luxury home, are perfect for multiple families or large gatherings of friends. Bnbfinder offers plenty of choices, so your group will always stay comfortable. Always check with your preferred property for guidelines.

How much do Martha's Vineyard vacation rentals cost?

The average price range varies considerably based on size, accommodation, and seasonality. Smaller Martha's vineyard cottage rentals start around X per night, while the largest can exceed X per night.

How many Martha's Vineyard beach rentals are available?

While supply changes seasonally, numerous Martha's Vineyard rental options are typically available, ensuring every traveler can find precisely what they need any time of year.