10 Unmissable Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard with Kids

There’s nothing quite like a New England coastal summer vacation. From enjoying long, beautiful days by the ocean to sailing, kitesurfing and kayaking; biking along forested paths in search of ice cream; exploring lighthouses; noshing on lobster rolls; watching the mist roll in from the ocean; and chasing fireflies as the sun sets, this really is a special, memorable way to spend the warm months.

You could travel to a different spot in New England every summer and still not see everything. The region’s coast is so rich in family destinations, from sailing off Newport, Rhode Island to hiking through Acadia National Park in Maine, that it’s hard to pick just one. But one of our all-time favorite summer vacations, excellent for families of all ages, is a trip to to Martha’s Vineyard.

Best Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard with Kids

Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is often mentioned in conjunction with its sister island Nantucket, which is just a few miles farther out to sea. While both islands have similar vibes (this is historic, charming New England, after all), they are quite different in other ways. Martha’s Vineyard is easier to reach, more laid-back and larger with more to explore, and it offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. Nantucket, meanwhile, tends to be more formal and upscale. Both islands are popular summer destinations for famous personalities and well-known politicians.

If Martha’s Vineyard sounds like what you are looking for, here are 10 adventurous, kid-approved activities to round out a memory-filled summer vacation on this iconic New England island.

Rent Bikes and Explore

Martha’s Vineyard has an incredible network of bike trails that allows the whole family to explore many parts of the island safely and easily. Our favorite route is Edgartown to South Beach/South Beach Loop, which leads from the historic center of Edgartown to South Beach. The route is mostly flat, making it easy for young riders, and there are plenty of bike racks at the entrance to the beach, so you can park, lock up and walk right down to the ocean. Another excellent option is the State Forest Bike Path, located in the island’s more secluded interior woodland area. Renting bikes on the Vineyard is easy, and providers generally have a great selection for all ages, including tandems and bike trailers. If you are looking for something specific, book in advance. Providers will drop off and pick up the bikes at your accommodation, making the adventure a seamless transition for vacationing families.

Frolic in the Sand and Surf

When in Martha’s Vineyard, the must-visit beaches are South Beach, also known as “Katama Beach,” and Joseph Sylvia State Beach, known simply as “State Beach.” South Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It features three miles of open ocean with large waves and rough surf, making it best for families with older children. Surfing and body surfing are popular activities on South Beach. There are lifeguards and facilities during the summer season, but pack your lunch, as there are no food options available. State Beach is a better choice for families with young children, as it offers calm, clear, shallow water. Watching vacationers and seasoned veterans jump from “Jaws Bridge” is also a highlight! There are no facilities or food at State Beach, and parking is limited to parallel parking on the side of the road — so our advice is to pack lunch and go early.

TIP: Both South Beach and State Beach can be accessed via bike paths on the island.

Put Your Kayaking and SUP Skills to the Test

For a fun day of adventure, take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour with Island Spirit Kayak to explore the calm harbors of the Vineyard and learn about the island’s ecoystem from a team of paddling experts. Tours range from sunrise tours to sunset paddles, private tours, after-dark glow kayak tours and more. You can also choose to rent kayak and SUP equipment and Island Spirit will deliver and pick up from your home base. Island Spirit is located right off State Beach, making it super convenient if you plan to be at the beach and want to inject some additional adventure into your day. Bonus: Island Spirit also offers weekly Kids Adventure Tours if you are looking for a fun-filled, four-morning adventure for the kids.

Set Sail

This is New England, and it would be a crime not to hop aboard a seafaring vessel during your time on the island. If you have young kids and want to create an afternoon to remember, opt for a pirate adventure cruise with Pirate Adventures Martha’s Vineyard. Departing from the port town of Oak Bluffs, the vibrant, energetic crew of the Sea Gypsy will immediately make your children feel like part of the action. From the moment the on-land face-painting and sword-fitting is complete to the at-sea journey searching for treasure, fighting off pirate enemies and pulling a treasure chest up from the ocean floor, the kids will have a raucous good time. If your vibe is more chill, several local companies offer sailing tours that provide a different perspective of the island. A sunset sail is the perfect choice to cap off a wonderful day on the Vineyard.

Stroll Through Edgartown

Founded as the island’s first colonial settlement in 1671, Edgartown is resplendent with New England charm. A former whaling town in the mid- to late 1800s, it is now known as one of the world’s great sailing and yachting centers. The classic seaport village is centered around its historic harbor. Soak up the surrounding history as you walk through the streets and keep your eye open for famous historic sites such as the Old Whaling Church and the Dr. Daniel Fisher House. Climb the lookout over the harbor to be amazed by the sea of boats and catch a glimpse of the Chappy Ferry, which links Edgartown to Chappaquiddick, the east part of Martha’s Vineyard. Parents can indulge in boutique shopping and fresh seafood; kids will love the Ice Cream and Candy Bazaar. The whole family is sure to enjoy Edgartown Books and an ice cream treat at Mad Martha’s. One of our favorite spots to grab a delicious breakfast for the family, including smoothies, is Among the Flowers.

Lean Into the Jaws Culture

Fifty years ago, Jaws was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard, and the locals will make sure you know it. From Jaws tours to Shark Attack ice cream at Mad Martha’s, the prevalence of Jaws apparel for sale and more, lean into the nostalgia and fun of it all. Perhaps rewatch the film while on vacation or introduce it to your kids for the first time (provided they are of appropriate age). Knowing that the fictional film takes place in the Vineyard will make your visit more exciting and will have you searching for local landmarks seen onscreen.

Walk and Talk with Alpacas

For a more relaxed animal experience, visit Island Alpaca Company and take a Walk and Talk tour with an alpaca. Children 14 and older can walk with their own alpaca, children under the age of 14 are welcome to share an alpaca with an attending adult. Located in Vineyard Haven, the farm is a fun destination that offers families a chance to interact with these gentle animals and learn all about them. Book your Walk and Talk early to ensure a spot.

Farm and Fly, All in a Day’s Work

Head to Katama for a day spent outdoors at The FARM Institute, a historic 162-acre working farm and educational hub. Kids can choose to be a “Farmer for a Day” or the whole family can elect to do a shorter farm-based experience together. If you have kids who love the outdoors, caring for animals and getting their hands dirty, this is for them! With cows, sheep, goats, chickens and ducks roaming around the barnyard and grazing on the grounds, kids might learn how to feed, water and move livestock through pastures; plant, water and weed veggies, flowers and herbs; cook and taste seasonal food in the Institute’s teaching kitchen; and more. The FARM Institute offers weekly camps as well as experiences for toddlers, children over age 4 and families. Situated right next to The FARM Institute is the Katama Air Field. It’s a great place to have lunch and watch watch biplanes take off and land on the grass strip. The Airfield also offer biplane rides if you are looking for a thrill.

Discover Menemsha and Aquinnah

If you brought a car to the island, explore farther afield and take a trip to the small fishing village of Menemsha. Along the drive, you will happen by local farms and galleries and enjoy the more laid-back, local vibe on the western side of the island . The seafood is fresh and sunsets from Menemsha are remarkable. Take stock of the change in atmosphere and attitude and enjoy lunch or a sunset dinner in this quaint town. If you have the whole day, continue to the Aquinnah Cliffs and Gay Head Lighthouse, the westernmost point on Martha’s Vineyard. The cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline. Families can take a scenic hike along the trails that lead to the cliffs and the lighthouse, and learn about the area’s history and the cultural significance of the Aquinnah Wapanoag Tribe that resides on these tribal lands.

Hop Aboard the Car Ferry to Chappaquidick

If you have your car with you, take the very short two-car ferry ride from Edgartown to Chappaquiddick Island, also known as “Chappy.” Quieter and much less crowded than other parts of Martha’s Vineyard, a visit to Chappy allows families to explore the Mytoi Japanese Garden and the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge. Chappy is rural and lacks grocery stores, restaurants and public transportation, so plan accordingly.

Where to Stay

For family-friendly luxury, book accommodations at Winnetu Oceanside Resort. Consistently named one of the top resorts in New England by Travel + Leisure readers, it is located right at South Beach in Katama. With 54 rooms and suites, plus cottages, townhouses and three- and four-bedroom standalone rentals, Winnetu offers a variety of configurations for families. The property is situated on 11 acres and boasts two heated pools, tennis courts, a fitness center, a path straight to South Beach and a phenomenal children’s program from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Getting There

The Steamship Authority operates year-round ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard from Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Some ferries allow vehicles while others are passenger-only. If you plan to travel to Martha’s Vineyard in the summer and you want to take your car to and from the island, reserve your car ferry tickets as early as possible, as summer slots book up very quickly. There are also seasonal passenger ferries to Martha’s Vineyard from Falmouth, Hyannis and New Bedford in Massachusetts; Quonset Point in Rhode Island; New York City; and northern New Jersey. Daily flights to the Vineyard are available year-round from Boston’s Logan Airport. From May to October, there are additional in-season flights to choose from, including American Airlines (Washington D.C.); Cape Air (multiple routes); Delta (NYC’s LaGuardia) and Jet Blue (Boston and NYC’s JFK).

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly destinations and accommodations in Massachusetts on Ciao Bambino

A beautiful respite for busy families at Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha’s Vineyard

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10 fun things to do in Newport, Rhode Island with kids

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Photos by Loren Braunohler except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.