The seasons have changed which means that summer vacations are under way! Nick and I just got back from our vacation to Martha’s Vineyard and it was a truly beautiful place to visit. I’ve had the opportunity to visit the island twice before in high school, but it’s definitely a different experience now that I’m an adult! If you’re looking for a unique, summery vacation spot, book your vacation on Martha’s Vineyard! To help with future planning, I’ve compiled my list of must-do’s on the island.

Chillin’ at South Beach

I don’t know about y’all, but when I think of islands I think of the beach! We visited a few different beaches while on the Martha’s Vineyard and South Beach was something to talk about. South Beach spans for three miles of beautiful views!

This beach has rougher waters than other on the island, but it is perfect for long walks on the beach.  We brought some beach chairs, an umbrella, and lots of sunscreen and we were ready for the day!

Shopping & Scoops in Edgartown

When I think of Edgartown, two things come to mind: shopping and ice cream! We visited Edgartown almost every day while on the island to get our fill of sweets and shops.

If you love a brand or company, it’s likely in Edgartown! And the sorority girl in me was thankful for all the shops that sold Comfort Color shirts. Looking for a yummy bite? We ate at The Wharf and it was delicious! We both got burgers and they were delicious! Nick’s was Surf & Turf, so it included lobster meat. Fitting for Martha’s Vineyard, right?

Also, there’s homemade ice cream shops on every corner, so be sure to try as many as you can. Mad Martha’s in the talk of the town, but if you’re looking for late night scoops we found our ice cream fix at the Ice Cream and Candy Bazaar! Pro tip: Bring cash! Some local shops on Martha’s Vineyard only accept cash, so don’t be without it.

The Views in Aquinnah

You have not seen beautiful until you’ve visited this town! Aquinnah is a picture perfect spot with views for days. Heading towards the shops, we ventured to a lunch spot where we just had to sit outside!

On picnic tables overlooking the ocean and breathtaking Aquinnah scenery, it’s hard to find a more gorgeous place to eat. After shopping and eating, we ventured up to look out onto one of Martha’s Vineyard’s prettiest backdrops: The Aquinnah Cliffs!

It’s no wonder that this area was previous named Gay Head, which is translated to “Happy Cliffs.” Between the ocean, the lighthouse, and the cliffs, you truly feel like you’re on top of the world!

Don’t forget to take the trail to see the lighthouse up close.

Want to step inside this beauty? No problem! With $5 you can explore the lighthouse and see the ultimate island views.

Gingerbread Houses and More in Oak Bluffs

One of the main things I remember from my other two visits to Martha’s Vineyard was the Gingerbread Houses in Oak Bluffs. Enjoy street after street of vibrantly painted houses, featuring the year they were built! I’m a huge history buff, so I loved learning how old these beauties were and the history behind them. It is so fun to see all of the creativity that these homeowners have!

You can’t help but stop and take a few photos because these houses are definitely something unique. While in Oak Bluffs, take a walk around town. There’s amazing food and shopping, not to mention the Flying Horses! The Flying Horses is the oldest carousel in America, which is a pretty exciting find on the island. Take a ride for only $2.50!

The Fishing Village of Menemsha

In the town of Chilmark, Massachusetts sits the small fishing village of Menemsha. With beautiful beaches and great fishing spots, you’ll be mesmerized by the views! One of our favorite things about Menemsha Beach was climbing on the walls of rocks along the ocean. Beautiful shells and rocks aren’t in short supply on the shore of this beach! If we weren’t so overpacked for the flight home, I would’ve taken so many pretty souvenirs from this place.

Planning to cook a fish dinner while visiting Martha’s Vineyard? Stop by Larsen’s Fish Market for the best selection of fresh fish straight from the ocean! Larsen’s is also well known for their lobster rolls, so don’t pass those up.

Shop at Vineyard Vines

Although Vineyard Vines is available around the country, I saved my first purchase there for on the island. Since the company was originally started in Martha’s Vineyard, I found it fitting! With locations in both Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, you’re sure to see one while on the island. I loved all of the nods to the island in their shirts, ties, and pretty much everything else!

The story of Vineyard Vines alone is reason enough to check out this unique brand on the island. Be warned though, you’ll want to buy everything in the store! At least their cute stickers are free!

Eat at Black Dog Tavern

The Black Dog is another Martha’s Vineyard establishment that is a staple on the island.

If you’re looking for a yummy place to eat on the island, check out Black Dog Tavern!

Right on the water, Black Dog Tavern is a perfect place to catch a bite. Before or after eating, visit one of the Black Dog shops and get your own Black Dog shirt!

With exclusive shirt colors for each year as well as documentation of the year on the back, Black Dog shirts are the perfect souvenir from your trip to Martha’s Vineyard! I’ve gotten one each time I went and will enjoy sporting them around for years to come.

As you can see, there’s tons to do while on Martha’s Vineyard! After spending a week on the island, I still feel like there was so much more I could’ve done, but I guess that just means we will have to make another trip there someday. If you’re looking to plan a vacation to the northeast, I highly suggest this beautiful getaway! It’s the ultimate summer vacation you never knew you needed.

What would be your must do on Martha’s Vineyard?