Category Archives: Vineyard Towns

Edgartown, Feature, Martha's Vineyard, Oak Bluffs, Things To Do

Edgartown or Oak Bluffs?

November 27, 2015 Sandpiper Rentals Staff Leave a comment

Edgartown or Oak Bluffs? Visitors to Martha’s Vineyard would do well to visit both, although one may appeal to certain vacationers more than others. Let’s take a look at what these two beautiful towns have to offer.

Edgartown

Edgartown is Martha’s Vineyard’s ‘big city,’ with a population just north of 4,000. The town is famous for South Beach, the Edgartown Lighthouse, and a litany of great shops and restaurants.

South Beach provides visitors the chance to relax and enjoy the quiet, calm, shallow waters. Visitors rave about the clear water, and even its warmth compared to surrounding areas. Don’t miss out on this beautiful and tranquil setting!

The Edgartown Lighthouse marks the entrance to Edgartown Harbor and Katama Bay. This picturesque, 45-foot tall lighthouse is a short walk (10-15 minutes) from downtown Edgartown. Be sure to visit at sunset and capture a dramatic photograph of the lighthouse silhouetted against the harbor.

Looking for fine dining in a cozy setting? Check out Alchemy, located right on Main Street. Let chef Giordano Smiroldo prepare a delicious entree of locally-sourced seafood, or enjoy one of their bar’s fabulous cocktails. Visit their website to see Alchemy’s list of 2015 awards. It’s well worth a visit!

If it’s a cold beer you’re seeking, check out Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery. The brewery offers a variety of beers, from light to dark, and is famous for it’s beautiful outdoor seating.

Martha’s Vineyard sign

These are just a few of the things to do and see in Edgartown. It’s definitely worth the trip!

Oak Bluffs

Oak Bluffs stands on the far northeastern corner of Martha’s Vineyard. It’s home to, amongst other things, the world’s oldest platform carousel. The town is also famous for its gingerbread cottage architecture, and its active nightlife.

The Flying Horses Carousel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is designated as a National Historic Landmark. It was originally built sometime between 1876 and 1878, and was purchased by Oak Bluffs in 1889. Stop in and, for just a few dollars, take a ride on a piece of national history!

Oak Bluffs’ gingerbread-house architecture sets it apart from many other destinations throughout America. Stroll through the streets, admiring the unique styling of its many dwellings. Truly, it is a sight to behold!

Oak Bluffs is famous for its active nightlife. Walk around and soak up the festive atmosphere, or engage in some fine dining at some of the town’s many restaurants. You can even visit several local establishments for live music and dancing.

So, will it be Edgartown or Oak Bluffs? Truly, you can’t go wrong with either setting. Both offer unique experiences in picturesque settings. If you’re looking for relaxation, perhaps head to Edgartown. If you’re looking for a beautiful setting, mixed with an active nightlife, head to Oak Bluffs.

Whether you choose Edgartown or Oak Bluffs, be sure to reserve your accommodations through Sandpiper Rentals. Our Martha’s Vineyard vacation rentals are ideal for relaxing and unwinding in between all of the great activities you can participate in during your time on the island. Our rental properties are located all over Martha’s Vineyard, so you can choose to stay on your favorite part of the island. Whether you want to be right in town or more isolated, we have the perfect rental for you. Our homes are all unique, yet they all offer comfortable accommodations and luxurious amenities. Visit our website to check availability and learn about all of our services!

Feature, Martha's Vineyard, Tashmoo, Things To Do, Vineyard Haven

All of the Things We Love About Vineyard Haven, MA

November 13, 2015 Sandpiper Rentals Staff Leave a comment

Vineyard Haven, MA is a must-see for all Martha’s Vineyard visitors. This small, waterfront town (population: just a shade over 2,000) boasts a picturesque harbor, excellent shopping, and fine dining, all in an area comprising just over 1.5 square miles. Bring the family (or a significant other) and enjoy an afternoon in this beautiful hamlet.

What We Love About Vineyard Haven

Tranquility – it’s something many people experience far too rarely. Their busy schedules require constant scampering here and there, day after day. In Vineyard Haven, those same people can simply be. Sit harborside and watch ferries arriving and departing. Wander the quiet streets, absorbing the history emanating from the 17th and 18th century buildings dotting the townscape. Explore the shops. Eat at one of the local restaurants. Above all, just relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, located south of Vineyard Haven, protects Martha’s Vineyard’s wildlife and habitat, along with its spectacular views. Visitors to the sanctuary may enjoy guided group tours, either by foot or kayak, learning about the area’s flora and fauna. Have kids? Bring them along! The sanctuary hosts a variety of fun, child-friendly activities , such as Nature Bingo and a Mass Audubon Quest. Don’t miss out on an adventure through this magnificent slice of Vineyard Haven!

Plenty of places (including Vineyard Haven) contain historical homes and buildings. Few, however, possess an authentic 19th-century carousel. Flying Horses, located in nearby Oak Bluffs (east of Vineyard Haven), boasts America’s oldest platform carousel. Swing by this National Historic Landmark and, for only $1.50, take a ride on a century-old steed.

During the warmer months, Vineyard Haven visitors love swimming at Lake Tashmoo Town Beach. The beach has two sides: the ocean side and the lake side. Swimmers wishing to experience warmer and calmer waters should visit the lake side. Would-be swimmers also have the option of dipping their toes in Tisbury’s Waterworks Park.

Vineyard Haven visitors shouldn’t miss the West Chop Lighthouse. This 45-foot tall lighthouse, situated along the entrance to Vineyard Haven Harbor, is closed to the public. Visitors, however, may take pictures of the elegant structure set against the beautiful harbor backdrop.

If, by chance, the weather isn’t great (or you’re simply wandering through town), check out some of the shops in downtown Vineyard Haven. Photography lovers will enjoy visiting Seaworthy Gallery: a small gallery featuring Jeff Serusa’s stunning photography. Most of his works have a maritime theme, ranging from the harbor, to boats and ships, to lighthouses. The gallery also offers a variety of historical New England nautical charts available for purchase.

Be sure to reserve your accommodations through Sandpiper Rentals. Our Martha’s Vineyard vacation rentals are ideal for relaxing and unwinding in between all of the great activities you can participate in during your time on the island. Our rental properties are located all over Martha’s Vineyard, so you can choose to stay on your favorite part of the island. Whether you want to be right in town or more isolated, we have the perfect rental for you. Our homes are all unique, yet they all offer comfortable accommodations and luxurious amenities. Visit our website to check availability and learn about all of our services!

Image source: Bob P.B. / Flickr

Edgartown, Feature, Food

The Wharf in Edgartown is a Fun Dining Experience

September 24, 2015 Sandpiper Rentals Staff Leave a comment

Emerson12/Cheeseburger in Paradise/Flickr

After a day spent enjoying the bounty of beautiful Martha’s Vineyard, be sure to stop into the Wharf Pub and Restaurant to treat yourself to a delicious meal and live entertainment. Whether you are looking for a casual dinner, a relaxing spot to watch the game or a nightly hot spot with live entertainment you can find it at the Wharf!

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