Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard: A Blend of History, Harbor Views & Culinary Excellence

Edgartown, once a major whaling port of Martha's Vineyard, is today one of New England's most elegant and photographed seaside towns. With its white-clapboard captain's homes, Greek Revival architecture, boutique-lined streets, and a lighthouse overlooking the harbor, Edgartown delivers the perfect mix of history, coastal scenery, and modern dining.

This guide was written and photographed by MV Vacation, with years of on-island experience documenting Edgartown's history, attractions, and coastal culture.

Edgartown connects easily to the rest of the island, especially West Tisbury, known for its farms and scenic conservation trails.

Exploring Main Street: The Heart of Edgartown

Main Street is Edgartown's central hub, filled with historic inns, bookstores, coastal boutiques, galleries, and cafés. The architecture here reflects the town's whaling-era prosperity, with many preserved captain's homes dating back to the 1800s.

A short walk from Main Street brings you to the Pagoda Tree on South Water Street — planted in 1837 and believed to be one of the largest and oldest of its species in North America.

Nearby North Water Street is lined with some of the island's most historic waterfront homes, many built by ship captains during the height of the whaling era.

Many visitors pair Edgartown with a trip to Oak Bluffs, famous for its colorful gingerbread cottages and lively harbor.

Edgartown Harbor & Waterfront Walks

Edgartown Harbor is one of the most scenic waterfronts in Massachusetts. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk from the yacht club area toward Lighthouse Beach, passing boat slips, classic sailing vessels, and panoramic water views.

For live conditions, check our Island Live Webcams.

The Chappy Ferry crosses between Edgartown and Chappaquiddick every few minutes, making it one of the shortest and most iconic ferry rides in the United States.

Culinary Delights: Edgartown's Food & Dining Scene

Edgartown is widely considered the culinary capital of Martha's Vineyard. From top-tier seafood to fine dining and casual harbor eats, the town's food scene blends coastal flavors with modern techniques.

Popular spots include:

• The Covington – seasonal, chef-driven dishes and craft cocktails.
• Bettini (at Harbor View Hotel) – luxury dining with lighthouse views.
• Atlantic – classic coastal dining on Main Street.
• Alchemy – modern American cuisine with a vibrant evening scene.
• Rockfish – wood-fired pizzas and elevated comfort food.
• The Newes – historic pub fare inside one of the island's oldest inns.
• Seafood Shanty – casual harbor views and sushi upstairs.
• Behind The Bookstore – specialty coffee and artisan breakfast.

For more curated recommendations, visit our Edgartown Dining Guide.

Top Attractions in Edgartown

• Edgartown Lighthouse – a classic Victorian-era lighthouse with harbor and Chappaquiddick views.
• Harbor View Hotel – one of the island's most historic and luxurious hotels, located directly across from the lighthouse.
• Martha's Vineyard Museum – the definitive home of island history, maritime artifacts, and Wampanoag heritage.
• South Beach – a premier oceanside beach popular for sunrise walks and Atlantic surf.
• The Old Whaling Church – a Greek Revival masterpiece built in 1843, now used for concerts and events.
• Fuller Street Beach – calm, family-friendly, with views toward Chappaquiddick.

Where to Stay in Edgartown

• Harbor View Hotel – premier luxury stay with lighthouse views.
• The Edgar Hotel – stylish, modern accommodations near Upper Main Street.
• Kelley House – one of the oldest operating hotels in America.
• Harborside Inn – waterfront rooms steps from Main Street

Helpful Tips for Visiting Edgartown

• Visit during May–June or September–October for ideal weather and lighter crowds.
• Make restaurant reservations ahead of time, especially during July and August.
• Biking is often easier than driving; Edgartown is walkable and bike-friendly.
• Arrive early for lighthouse photography or sunrise at Fuller Street Beach.
• Parking fills quickly; use paid lots or park farther out and walk in.

For seasonal rules, lighthouse hours, and beach access updates, visit our Martha's Vineyard FAQ.

Getting Around Edgartown

Edgartown is highly walkable, with most shops, restaurants, and waterfront paths located around Main Street and North Water Street. Parking is limited in summer, so biking or using VTA buses is often the easiest way to explore the area. The Chappy Ferry provides constant access to Chappaquiddick for beachgoers and sightseers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes Edgartown unique?
A: Its preserved 19th-century architecture, bustling harbor, lighthouse views, and exceptional dining make it one of New England's most elegant coastal towns.

Q: What landmarks should I not miss?
A: Edgartown Lighthouse, the Whaling Church, the Pagoda Tree, Harbor View Hotel, and the waterfront along North Water Street.

Q: Is Edgartown family-friendly?
A: Yes. Beaches, lighthouse walks, ice cream shops, and harbor activities make it enjoyable for all ages.

For real-time weather and harbor conditions, visit our Island Webcams.

Fun Facts about Edgartown

• Major scenes from the film Jaws were shot in downtown Edgartown.
• Edgartown Lighthouse was originally built in 1828 and relocated multiple times due to erosion.
• The Pagoda Tree is one of the oldest and largest in the United States.
• Many of the homes along Water Street were built by wealthy whaling captains.