Around the Area at HGTV Dream Home 2015

Take a tour of Martha's Vineyard and find out what this popular island destination has to offer, from the bustling streets of Vineyard Haven to the scenic cliffs of Aquinnah.

By: Dana Dalrymple

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Photo By: Provided by Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce

Photo By: Matthew Bird

Photo By: Provided by Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Martha's Vineyard

Accessible strictly by plane or boat, Martha's Vineyard has long been a favorite destination for families, celebrities and even presidents. Its no wonder this dreamy escape possesses an enchanting quality that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Vineyard Haven, the island's busiest port and year round connection to the mainland graciously welcomes visitors through a bustling Main Street where a shopping district, restaurants and lodging await.

Ferry Rides to Vineyard Haven

A seven mile, 40 minute ferry ride is a popular ticket from Cape Cod to Vineyard Haven on Martha's Vineyard. Year round ferries provide transportation service for both passengers and vehicles.

Menemsha Harbor

Once a thriving commercial fishing village, Menemsha Harbor is a quiet, picturesque cove tucked into the western end of Martha's Vineyard. Tie up at the dock and enjoy a cup of clam chowder at renowned local eateries.

Gingerbread Cottages of Oak Bluffs

A sight for sore eyes, the Gingerbread Cottages of Oak Bluffs are quite the spectacle for any Martha's Vineyard visitor. More than 300 miniature cottages line the streets with their delicate trimmings and multicolored facades that imitate frosting.

Cape Cod Architecture

Martha's Vineyard homes celebrate the classic Cape Cod style architecture featured in the HGTV Dream Home 2015. A large, central chimney, dormers and wood shingle siding provide tell tale signs of the hardy but attractive Cape Cod look.

Dunes of Aquinnah

Grassy dunes meet beautiful sandy beaches in the up-island town of Aquinnah.

Fisherman's Paradise

With such a storied nautical past, its no wonder fishing is a favorite pasttime among both Martha's Vineyard residents and visitors. Cast a rod in ocean waters or coastal ponds and scour beaches for shellfish to enjoy a popular Martha's Vineyard activity.

Peak Season

Although alluring through all seasons, Martha's Vineyard has always been labeled as the ultimate summer destination, with the year round population of about 15,500 swelling to 115,000 in the summer months.

Aquinnah Cliffs

Layers of sands, gravels and clays reveal a beautiful striated history of Martha's Vineyard in the Aquinnah cliffs. Captivating from the shore but treacherous for mariners, these colossal cliffs caused the red brick Gay Head lighthouse to be erected in 1799.

Surf's Up

Located in Edgartown, South Beach is considered one of the best beaches on the island. Stretching for three miles on the Atlantic side of the island, the surf and undertow can be strong, making it a great spot for watersport enthusiasts.

Menemsha Beach

Red skies at night are everyone's delight on Martha's Vineyard. Although stunning from all areas of the island, Menemsha Beach is considered the best place to catch a sunset.

Charming and Scenic

Whether strolling through down-island towns or up-island reservations, its easy to fall in love with beautiful scenery and Martha's Vineyard charm.

Plenty of Hospitality

With the cornerstone of the island's economy set to providing tourism services, a large number of cozy inns and bed and breakfasts dot the island's major towns and provide breathtaking views of Martha's Vineyard coastlines.

Historic Lighthouses

Built throughout the 1700s and 1800s to withstand the worst conditions, Martha's Vineyard is home to five lighthouses that helped direct whaling and merchant ships around the island. Today they guide ferries, yachts and fishing boats and can be toured by the public.

The Island Experience

Situated seven miles off of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard is 100 square miles and is comprised of six towns, each with its own history and distinct characteristics.