With freezing temperatures and snow showers, you may not think that makes Martha’s Vineyard a great place to visit in the winter months. However, cozy bed 
and breakfasts and romantic walks down snow-covered streets may make it more appealing for someone looking for a winter getaway.
While Martha’s Vineyard can be cold during the winter months, the appeal of hunkering down at a bed and breakfast or exploring the empty streets more than make up for the temperature. Martha’s Vineyard is a must-visit winter destination for anyone looking for a winter weekend getaway.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the great places to stay and activities available during the winter months in Martha’s Vineyard. So, zip up your jackets and pull on your boots, because Martha’s Vineyard is a winter wonderland just begging to be explored.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast or Inn
Some of Martha’s Vineyard premiere hotels and inns can be hard to book and overpriced during the 
summer months. It’s much easier to find a vacancy at an inn during the winter months and the rates are typically much more favorable.
Without the need to get up early to save a spot on the beach, you can sleep in and genuinely enjoy the luxury experience of the inns located in Martha’s Vineyard. Some of our favorites include:
- Nobnocket – voted the best Martha’s Vineyard Inn by several different publications, the Nobnocket provides a luxury experience with all the comforts of a bed and breakfast.
- Mansion House – dating back to 1794, this historic mansion house is perfectly located for strolls around the Vineyard. Some of their rooms are even pet-friendly!
- Oaks Bluff Inn – This Victorian Style home was built in the 1870s. In 1998 the home was converted to the beautiful coastal inn that you can stay at today.
While the Mansion house has its own Spa, all three of these inns are very welcoming and can offer suggestions for wonderful ways to spend a winter weekend in Martha’s Vineyard.
Enjoy the Local Fare
While some of the restaurants close for the off-season, quite a few remain open. Take advantage of the lack of crowds by eating out at one of the many great restaurants in Martha’s Vineyard.
Some of our favorite’s that remain open during the winter month’s include:
- Sharky’s Cantina – A Mexican restaurant with a great drink menu and about any Mexican dish you can think of.
- Ocean View – An affordable casual restaurant with rotating specials and even (you guessed it!) an ocean view.
- Town Bar – Has a great selection of craft beers with food from the grill and even a selection of fresh sushi.
- The Cardboard Box – A more upscale restaurant and lounge that turns into a nightclub starting at 10 PM.
- The Sweet Life – An upscale restaurant located with an ocean view.
Regardless of where you choose to eat, taking the time to go out to dinner is a great way to meet some of the locals and experience what Martha’s Vineyard is really like during the off-season.
Go for a Winter Hike
As long as you dress appropriately exploring all of the trails that Martha’s Vineyard has to offer in the winter can be an amazing experience. You’ll have the opportunity to see some of the wildlife that is active in the winter and breath in the cool, crisp winter air.
Even if it is a warmer day, make sure to bundle up, most of the trails skirt along the coast and the sea breeze can be a little chilly. To see which trails are open check out Hiking trails on our Interactive Map.
Check Out a Local Farm
Some of the local farms stay open to the public during the winter months. This is a great way to drive around and see the Vineyard while also getting to interact 
with the locals.
The Grey Barn is a creamery, bakery, garden shop, and farm stand all in one. The farm stand sells fresh bread, cheeses, eggs, meats, milk, vegetables, and more, so stop by to get some cheese and bread for an evening in your room at the inn, or on your way back home for some fresh produce.
Ever wanted to pet an Alpaca? Well, here is your chance! You can visit Island Alpaca year-round. This is a great afternoon activity if you are looking to get out of your hotel room for a while.
How Do I Get to Martha’s Vineyard in the Winter?
You may be wondering how to get to Martha’s Vineyard during the winter months. Thankfully, the ferry that operates trips to and from the Vineyard during the summer months, Steamship Authority, also operates in the winter. Ferry prices are even sold at a reduced rate during the winter.
If you don’t plan on bringing your car you can pay $10/day to leave it parked at the ferry dock. You’ll get to use the ferry for free and don’t need to worry about purchasing a ticket ahead of time.
If you do plan on bringing your car with you to the Vineyard, then you will need to pay extra and should reserve a spot ahead of time.
If ships aren’t your thing, Martha’s Vineyard does have a small airport. Just be prepared to board a small prop plane from wherever you are connecting through.
Is Martha’s Vineyard a Great Place to Visit in the Winter?
Reduced prices, reduced crowds, wonderful inns, and a plethora of activities make Martha’s Vineyard a great place to visit in the winter months. Whether you’d rather spend your day relaxing in the spa or exploring the winter wonderland, Martha’s Vineyard has something to offer everyone during the winter months.
If you are looking for additional activities, check out our Events Calendar or just want to learn more about the Vineyard check out our page all about Martha’s Vineyard.
