How To Fall In Love With Martha’s Vineyard This Autumn – TheTravel

September 24, 2022 Kim Martel

While the cozy island of Martha’s Vineyard is undoubtedly a top summer destination, when the tourists depart for the summer and the calendar switches from September to October, this beautiful gem welcomes fall with balmy fall days that are packed with plenty of fun things to see and do—without the crowds. And while the island may not have all the hallmarks of a traditional New England fall, what it does have is a still warm ocean ringed with stunning sandy beaches; a sprawling natural beauty highlighted by its farms and woodlands; and distinctive history, culture, and heritage waiting to welcome guests with open arms. So pack a (light) sweater and get ready for gallery hopping, farm tours, lovely lighthouses, fun festivals, and, of course, scallop season(!) with a visit to Martha’s Vineyard this autumn.

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Great Fall Visits

One of the best reasons to visit Martha’s Vineyard in the fall is the more laid-back pace that follows, the busier, more touristy season. And while many of MV’s attractions are seasonal, there’s still plenty to see, do, and experience here once the weather starts to cool down on this cozy, charming island.

Fall Events, Festivals, And More

While Martha’s Vineyard may not be known for dyed-in-the-wool fall festivities, there are still a plethora of diverse ways to welcome autumn.

Striped Bass & Bluefish Derby Beginning on the second Sunday of September, this annual fishing tourney is a bastion for community spirit—and a great time for visitors to go local with tall tales, fishing lore, and nearly 80 years of history. 2022 Derby runs from Sunday, September 11 through Saturday, October 15
Harvest Festival Chock full of fun fall events, including tractor and wagon rides; pumpkin decorating and carving; live music; and great food, this is a must-visit event on MV—don’t miss the Women’s Skillet Toss! Saturday, October 22, 2022 10AM-3PM @ Agricultural Hall
MV Oysterfest It may be scallop season in Martha’s Vineyard, but this popular event is not to be outshined by its seafood cousins. Celebrating local food, wine, farmers, and culture, the fresh shellfish is enough to entice any fall visitor. October 1-2, 2022 @ MV Museum

West Tisbury Farmer’s Market Shop local at this popular market that’s a Saturday staple throughout the fall. Every Saturday 9 AM-5 PM from September 24 through October 29, 2022
Morning Glory Farm & Market The perfect place to pick pumpkins, shop for local baked goods, and admire the sprawling farmland scenery. Open year-round 8:30 AM-5:30 PM weekdays and 9 AM-4 PM weekends

Explore Marvelous Martha’s Vineyard

Even when summer’s warm sea breezes have turned a little cooler, chances are the weather is still balmy enough in Martha’s Vineyard to get outside and do some exploring.

Cape Poge Lighthouse Visit this beautiful over the 200-year-old lighthouse and explore the area’s hiking trails; paddle on Poucha Pond; or have an adventure with an over-sand vehicle ride. Open 9 AM-5 PM daily; admission is $5 through October 15
Hit The Beach Throughout fall, many of MV’s best beaches are open to the public; the perfect time to enjoy end-of-season sun and sand. Lady Vincent Beach and many Lambert’s Cove Beaches open in October.
Menemsha Hills A rocky, breathtaking shoreline and dramatic sea vistas await visitors at the second-highest point in Martha’s Vineyard. Off North Road, Chilmark

Mytoi Japanese Garden This Chappaquiddick gem is an oft-overlooked MV gem—an idyllic Japanese-style garden and tranquil retreat. Open daily 9 AM-5 PM; Admission $5
Aquinnah Wampanoag Indian Museum/Gay Head Lighthouse A one-two punch celebrating local tribal culture and heritage, all with stunning scenic views of the lighthouse and beyond. The museum opens at 11 AM Wednesday through Sunday; Gay Head Light is open through Columbus Day Friday through Monday 10 AM-4 PM, admission is $6

More Fun Fall Activities

Whether it’s shopping local, visiting (and touring) a local farm, or basking in the local art/cultural scene, there are plenty of fun places to be in MV even after summer ends.

The Grey Barn Tours, tastings, a bakery, and more Thursday through Monday 8 AM-5 PM
Martha’s Vineyard Museum A beautiful way to explore Martha’s Vineyard through art, history, and culture. Open Tuesday through Sunday through October 10, 2022, 10 AM-5 PM
Alley’s General Store Shop ’til you drop at the island’s oldest retail business and popular gathering place. Contact the store at (508)-693-0088 for current business hours.
The Polly Hill Arboretum Bask in botanical beauty at this landmark spot is Open daily sunrise to sunset; Visitor Center is open 9:30AM-4PM through mid-October; admission is $5
Explore Edgertown Visit this beautiful MV neighborhood that has plenty of shops and restaurants and is home to the historic Flying Horses Carousel Open through October 10th, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 AM-4:30 PM; tours are available.

Where To Stay In Martha’s Vineyard

One of the best ways to enjoy Martha’s Vineyard this fall is to spend the weekend—and there are plenty of comfy, cozy accommodations to choose from that are as charming as the island itself.

The Charlotte Inn is a tucked away, historic gem known as one of MV’s most elegant hotels. Call (508)-627-4751 for rates and availability.
Summercamp An ode to childhood summer camp experiences, this harbor side gem is a modern, playful boutique dream Book through October 29, 2022; rates start at $269 and up/night.
Harbor View Hotel A MV classic surrounded by beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery that’s only steps away from the best area attractions Rates start at $495 and up/night.
Lambert’s Cove Inn & Resort A beautiful resort experience tucked away on an intimate eight-acre farm—complete with all the amenities, including a top-notch restaurant Rates from $299 and up/night.

Fall may be one of the best times to visit Martha’s Vineyard. After Labor Day, the busy tourist area gets quieter, and the beaches get emptier—but the water is still warm(ish), and there are still plenty of fun events, and attractions await intrepid travelers looking for a coastal escape without the usual summer beach town crowds. And whether it’s a (long) weekend getaway or an overnight jaunt, MV is the perfect place to welcome fall with its delightfully cozy vibes that last throughout autumn—scallops (and pumpkins!) definitely included.