Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket | Where to visit?
As a proud resident of New England, I have a special love for the stunning islands of Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket. These two enchanting destinations have become meaningful places for both tourists and locals, attracting visitors from near and far.
Their natural beauty, delightful towns, and breathtaking beaches make them truly something special. In today’s blog post I will take you on a virtual journey as we dive into the unique attributes of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Both Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket have their own unique characteristics that make them incredibly special. While Martha’s Vineyard offers a more eclectic and artsy atmosphere, Nantucket presents a glimpse into the rich seafaring history of the region.
Whether you prefer the vibrant energy of Martha’s Vineyard or the timeless elegance of Nantucket, you’re bound to create cherished memories on either island.
If you’re seeking a vacation that combines stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and picturesque beaches, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are the perfect destinations.
Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is the larger of the two islands, with a land area of about 100 square miles. It is located south of Cape Cod and is accessible by ferry from several towns in Massachusetts. The island is made up of six towns: Aquinnah, Chilmark, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Tisbury, and West Tisbury.
Beaches
Martha’s Vineyard is known for its beautiful beaches, which attract visitors from all over the world. The island has over 100 miles of coastline, with beaches ranging from secluded coves to popular surf spots.
Some of the most popular beaches on the island include South Beach, Menemsha Beach, and Katama Beach. These beaches offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Towns
Each town on Martha’s Vineyard has its own unique character and charm. Edgartown is a popular destination for tourists, known for its historic homes, quaint shops, and restaurants.
Oak Bluffs is famous for its brightly colored gingerbread cottages and lively atmosphere. West Tisbury is a quieter town, known for its art galleries and farmers’ market. Aquinnah, located on the western end of the island, is known for its stunning cliffs and the Gay Head Lighthouse.
Activities
In addition to its beaches and towns, Martha’s Vineyard offers a wide range of activities for visitors. The island is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and sailing.
Visitors can also explore the island’s many nature reserves and hiking trails, such as the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest. Other popular activities on Martha’s Vineyard include golfing, shopping, and visiting the island’s many art galleries and museums.
Nantucket
Nantucket is a smaller island than Martha’s Vineyard, with a land area of about 50 square miles. It is located southeast of Cape Cod and is accessible by ferry from several towns in Massachusetts. The island is made up of one town, also called Nantucket.
Beaches
Nantucket is known for its pristine beaches, which offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Surfside Beach, Madaket Beach, and Jetties Beach.
These beaches offer a wide range of activities, including swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Small Town
Nantucket’s town is the heart of the island, known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic homes, and upscale shops and restaurants. The town is home to many museums and art galleries, including the Whaling Museum, which tells the story of Nantucket’s whaling history.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many historic landmarks, such as the Nantucket Atheneum.
Activities
Nantucket offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from boating and fishing to hiking and biking. The island is home to several nature reserves and hiking trails, including the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge and the Sanford Farm.
Visitors can also take a tour of the island’s historic lighthouses, such as the Great Point Lighthouse and the Sankaty Head Lighthouse. Other popular activities on Nantucket include golfing, shopping, and visiting the island’s many art galleries and museums
Differences between Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket
Now that we’ve looked at the unique features of each island, let’s examine the differences between Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket.
Size and Accessibility
One of the most noticeable differences between the two islands is their size. Martha’s Vineyard is much larger than Nantucket, which makes it easier to explore different parts of the island. However, this also means that it can be more challenging to get around, especially during peak tourist season when traffic can be heavy.
Nantucket, on the other hand, is much smaller, which makes it easier to navigate. The town and many of the island’s attractions are within walking distance, which makes it an ideal destination for those who want to explore on foot. However, this also means that there are fewer attractions on the island compared to Martha’s Vineyard.
Culture and Atmosphere
While both islands are known for their natural beauty and charming towns, they have distinct cultural differences.
Martha’s Vineyard is known for its laid-back, bohemian vibe, which attracts artists, writers, and musicians. The island has many more “big store” commercial businesses than Nantucket.
Nantucket, on the other hand, has a more refined and upscale atmosphere. The island has a long history of whaling and maritime culture, which is reflected in its architecture and museums. Visitors to Nantucket can experience the island’s history and culture through tours of historic homes and landmarks, such as the Whaling Museum.
Beaches and Activities
Both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket have beautiful beaches and offer a wide range of outdoor activities. However, the beaches and activities on each island are different.
Martha’s Vineyard has a wider variety of beaches, with options ranging from secluded coves to popular surf spots. The island also offers a wider range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, boating, and fishing.
Nantucket, on the other hand, is known for its pristine beaches, which are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The island’s activities are more focused on exploring its natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.
Which is more expensive Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard?
Nantucket is more expensive to visit than Martha’s Vineyard. The ferry costs alone have a large discrepancy in price. To travel to Martha’s Vineyard from Cape Cod it is around $20, to travel to Nantucket, it could cost you around $41 for traditional service or $81 for high speed service.
Final Thoughts
Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are two beautiful and unique islands, each with its own character and charm.
While they share some similarities, such as their natural beauty and charming towns, they also have distinct differences in size, culture, and activities.
Ultimately, the choice between the two islands depends on individual preferences, but either destination is sure to provide a memorable experience.
More Resources:
