Martha's Vineyard
Although they're convenient, Edgartown's in-town beaches are just kids' stuff. For the real deal head to Katama Beach, aka South Beach, about 3 miles south of Edgartown center. Kept in a natural state, this barrier beach stretches for three magnificent miles. Rugged surf will please surfers on the ocean side; many swimmers prefer the protected salt ponds on the inland side.
There's a bike path connecting Edgartown with Katama Beach – excellent for avoiding parking hassles.
7.75 MILES
Oak Bluffs started out in the mid-19th century as a summer retreat by a revivalist church, whose members enjoyed a day at the beach as much as a gospel…
21.93 MILES
One of the island's highlights, this evocative museum occupies an 1847 spermaceti (whale oil) candle factory and the excellent exhibits relive Nantucket's…
13.28 MILES
Virtually unchanged since it appeared in the movie Jaws 40 years ago, Menemsha is a relaxing outpost to explore. Basin Rd borders a harbor of fishing…
27.58 MILES
Fun for kids and adults alike, the 100-acre Heritage Museums & Gardens sports a superb vintage automobile collection in a Shaker-style round barn, an…
28.07 MILES
Nearly 50 historic sea captains' homes are lined up along MA 6A (the Old King's Hwy) in Yarmouth Port, on a 1.5-mile stretch known as the Captains' Mile…
24.02 MILES
Hyannis has been the summer home of the Kennedy clan for generations. Back in the day, JFK spent the warmer months here – times that are beautifully…
21.95 MILES
More than just the public library, this stately Greek Revival edifice is a sight in itself. The 2nd-floor Great Hall has hosted such notables as Ralph…
22.29 MILES
Welcoming ferries into Nantucket Harbor, this lighthouse was established in 1746 and is still in operation. It's quite tiny (only 26ft), but impossibly…
2.7 MILES
Accessed by frequent ferry (the 'Chappy Ferry') from Edgartown harbor, Chappaquiddick is a small island with a big history, thanks to a fatal accident in…
2.82 MILES
Gallery hoppers will want to make time to visit the Eisenhauer Gallery, which represents over 40 artists and is considered one of the best on the island…
2.87 MILES
Simply walk along N Water St in the direction of the Edgartown Lighthouse to reach a pair of beaches on the northeast side of town. Lighthouse Beach,…
2.91 MILES
It's not a long climb to the top, but the Edgartown Lighthouse does have a pretty spectacular panoramic view of the town harbor and Chappaquiddick.
3.44 MILES
On the eastern edge of Chappaquiddick sits this idyllic reserve that contains coastal forests, estuaries, rolling dunes and miles of pristine coastline…
6. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
5.31 MILES
Mass Audubon's Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, 3 miles northwest of Edgartown center, is a birder's paradise, with miles of trails skirting fields, marshes…
5.42 MILES
A mile south of the Oak Bluffs Town Beach is this popular spot, which has calm waters suitable for kids. The Edgarton-side portion of the beach is also…
6.57 MILES
Pond, cove and ocean views all open up on a mile-long trail that leads to a remote beach. Along the way birders can expect to spot nesting osprey and…