Category Archives: East Chop

The Must-See Lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard has many charms to offer those who come here to visit throughout the year. Although many come for the beach, nice weather and amazing seafood, Martha’s Vineyard has a rich and detailed history behind its beauty. One of the most telling of historical monuments here on the island is its lighthouses. All of the lighthouses on the island have their own unique story and character. Here are five of the lighthouses that you must see during your Martha’s Vineyard vacation!

 

West Chop Lighthouse: Located in Vineyard Haven
West Chop Lighthouse

Originally built wooden in 1817, and rebuilt in 1838 of bricks. It is the only lighthouse on the island that does not offer access to the public. This lighthouse does host and houses some of the Coast Guard on the island. The area where the lighthouse sits used to be a sheep Pasture and is situated just minutes away from the downtown area of Vineyard Haven. Downtown Vineyard Haven was one of the major whaling ports on the island, is now where travelers and tourists near and far travel aboard the Steamship Authority to Martha’s Vineyard.

 

East Chop Lighthouse: Located on Telegraph Hill in Oak Bluffs
East Chop Lighthouse

Originally built in 1828. This particular lighthouse used to receive signals from the island of Nantucket and transmit them to the rest of the island, and Cape coastal towns like Woods Hole. The Coast Guard took over the lighthouse in the Early 1930’s and the keeper’s house was removed in 1933 and never re-built. In the summer season, you will find many people and/or events take place near the lighthouse enjoying the sunset.

 

Edgartown Lighthouse: Located in Edgartown
Edgartown Lighthouse

Originally built in 1828 it was a ¼ mile from shore, and the only way to reach the light was by boat. Over years the lighthouse has had some structural damage from storms and the current lighthouse (built in 1938) sits on mainland surrounded by a beautiful beach. This beach sees a lot of weddings year round, as well as family picnics. The lighthouse offers tours throughout the summer season. With a 360 degree view at the top glance Chappaquiddick, the harbor, and surrounding Captain’s houses on Water St.

 

Cape Pogue Lighthouse: Located on the island of Chappaquiddick (part of Edgartown)
Cape Pogue Lighthouse

The original structure was built in 1801, and this building has sure taken a beating over the years. Being situated on the cliffs close to the edge of the island, it has been destroyed and rebuilt at least 5 times. The current lighthouse was built in 1922 and has been moved more recently to avoid having to rebuild again. The lighthouse is part of the Cape Pogue Wildlife Refuge, run by the Trustees, and in season offers tours. It is a bit of a walk to get to, but a wonderful reward when you get there.

 

Gay Head Lighthouse: Located in Aquinnah
Gay Head Lighthouse

Originally built of wood in 1799, and had to be moved in 1844 from erosion of the cliffs. In 1856 the structure was rebuilt after a terrible storm and did so with bricks. Gay Head light is located on top of the clay cliffs, which over time and with major storms has taken a beating. This lighthouse has moved several more times since it’s rebuilding, most recently just a few years ago. In season they do offer tours of the lighthouse, and at the top, you really can’t beat the view. You can see along the coast to “up island” and take in the breathtaking view of the islands beauty. From below the area offers a viewing station to enjoy the view of the cliffs up close.

Visiting the Lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard is a must for vacationers. We look forward to welcoming you this summer!

4th of July on Martha’s Vineyard

EBOT-DG-3-sm1With the 4th of July, just over a week away, I can’t help but to start to get excited! There is so many things happening on island, and it’s never too late to start making your plans. Whether it is a big family bbq, a day spent lazily on the beach, or taking part in the traditional 4th of july activities, there’s something for everyone. Below you’ll find some information on two of the biggest events on Martha’s Vineyard.

4TH OF JULY IN EDGARTOWN A tradition that has lasted several decades, the annual 4th of July parade starts promptly at 5 pm. The parade begins at the intersection of West Tisbury Road and Pinehurst Road. Next it takes a right onto Main Street and then a left onto Pease’s Point Way (next to the monument). It follows Pease’s Point Way and then takes a right onto Morse Street, a left onto Fuller Street and a right onto Thayer Street. At the end of Thayer it takes a right onto North Water Street. Next it takes a right up Main Street and pauses in front of the reviewing stand (in front of the Whaling Church). It continues up Main Street and then takes a left onto the West Tisbury Road and finishes at the Edgartown School. The fireworks typically start as soon as it is dark (typically 9 pm)

STARS AND STRIPES FESTIVAL Considered one of the most exciting shows of the summer, the 4th annual Stars and Stripes Festival is a rocking music festival that takes place at Flatbread Company near the airport. Tickets are $30 In advance / $35 Day of Show, 21+ Show ID.  First 100 guests to arrive receive a door prize! All Proceeds Benefit the YMCA of Martha’s Vineyard

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A Quick Guide To Boating On Martha’s Vineyard

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 “For whatever we lose (like a you or a me), It’s always our self we find in the sea.” – E.E. Cummings

With the weather finally turning towards the better, it seems like more and more boats are slowly trickling into the harbors. People are prepping for the season, and I can’t wait to get my boat ready as well. Boating is a large part of the lifestyle here on Martha’s Vineyard, and luckily you don’t have to know someone in order to take advantage of that. There are so many different programs & businesses on Martha’s Vineyard, that finding a way to get out on the water is a breeze.

If you’re looking for some excitement on the high seas, sport fishing is the way to go. We recommend Smokin Eel Charters, or Larry’s Tackle Shop Charters. These two Captains have been fishing these waters for 30+ years, and know the island’s best fishing spots.

If you’re looking for a family day out on the water sailing, call the people over on the schooner Ishmael at 617-355-8610.

Would you like your children to learn how to sail? Check out Sail MV. They have an amazing sailing program for sailors at every level of sailing.

 

If you are looking for something else out on the water, please give us a call. With so many connections throughout the Island, we can help make your summer dreams a reality.

 

Sandpiper Rentals, Inc
Rent@SandpiperRental.com
CLICK HERE  to search our Martha’s Vineyard vacation rental home SPECIALS
or
CLICK HERE to search through our inventory of over 500 homes