Unique Beaches of Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard during the shoulder season can be a favorite time for locals and visitors alike. The weather is warm. Shops and restaurants are beginning to open for the season. The beaches are empty. This is the perfect time to enjoy some hiking on the trails and beaches that one cannot get to in the peak season.
Lucy Vincent Beach in Chilmark is the Vineyards most sought after beach destination. This enchanting beach is closed to non-Chilmark residents from June 1st to mid-October. Head up-island on South Road and keep your eyes peeled for the bend in the road on the left after the Allen Sheep Farm. Once you park your car, grab your towel, reusable water bottle, sunglasses and head out to see the ever changing cliffs. Fingers crossed you will find some highly coveted sea-glass or even a fossilized shark tooth!
Lambert’s Cove Beach in West Tisbury is the island beach with the softest sand and calmest surf. Closed to non-West Tisbury residents from mid-June to mid-September, this beach is a must for beachcombers. Head down Lambert’s Cove Road until you see signs for beach parking. The 5 minute walk in is worth the view. Walking over the path you can see the Elizabeth Islands and the ferry boats leaving Woods Hole. Take a stroll to the right to see how the winter has changed island kid’s favorite “Coca-Cola stream.”
Long Beach in Aquinnah is open to the public only in the shoulder season. Just south of the Aquinnah town beach, Philben, Long Beach overlooks the vast Atlantic Coast. Nomans Land Island is the only sight on this expansive shoreline. Park at the town lot and plan for a mile long walk to the west. It is worth the time. Don’t forget to leave time for the Aquinnah lighthouse and cliff views at the top of the hill.
East Beach, Wasque (pronounced Way-squee) Reservation, Chappaquiddick is open to the public throughout the year but seeing it in Spring is the best opportunity to have an entire beach to yourself! Chappy is a must see any time of the year. Japanese gardens at Mytoi, the Dyke Bridge, and the numerous views from the beach make this island off the island worth a day trip.
All the beaches of Martha’s Vineyard are spectacular. Long Point, State Beach, South Beach and more are all worth a visit. But, to get the true insider's view of the island, take the time to see these wondrous spots while you can.