On the southern coast of New England, a gem rises from the sea. Home to the set of "Jaws," where the Obamas escape Washington D.C. and where a host of other stars come to stay play, Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most famous vacation spots in the country. Its name embodies the perfect image of vintage fishing villages, great beaches, ice cream stands and fantastic restaurants. Nothing’s better than being on island time!
For as long as I can remember, I've made the trek this island paradise with my family on our boat. We've braved the journey in both tumultuous and calm seas, all the while realizing the salt in our eyes, hair and clothes was all worth it when we got to do the things we love to do every year.
Here are a few things that make any trip to the Vineyard all the better:
1. A day trip to “Chappy”
Seemingly far away from all of civilization is the part of Martha’s Vineyard most people don't visit. Affectionately referred to as “Chappy,” Chappaquiddick is home to the residents of the Island looking to get away from the entire tourist nightmare in the summer. Usually accessible only by a short boat or a long, off-road adventure from Edgartown Harbor, it is the best place to make camp for the day away from the noise, make sandcastles and throw a Frisbee. The best part is the narrow channel that opens to a larger bay. You can take a tube and ride the fast current during the changing of the tides!
2. Riding the carousel in Oak Bluffs
While it may not be for all ages, it’s fun to watch the kids grab the brass ring. Right across is an old-school arcade, decked with timeless games because, hey, everybody’s gotta reach for the brass ring in life.
3. Eating the Island’s world famous clam chowder
Like hot dogs in New York City, clam chowder is the essential dish of New England. A staple in the island diet, some of the best chowder in the north can be found in some of the restaurants on the Island. Some can be found in Edgartown, the epitome of a classic New England whaling village. One spoonful and the rich flavor of potatoes, clam, and cream all come together in a delicious melody of texture and flavor. But don't take my word for it; get a bowl for yourself!
4. Jumping off the "Jaws" bridge
Want to be close to film history? Well, if you watch the scene closely in the film "Jaws" when the shark swims under the bridge and attacks the man in the rowboat in the saltwater pond, that bridge is a popular cultural spot on the Island for people to connect with history ... and then jump off of. Pray Jaws doesn’t find you under his bridge.
5. Bike across the island
The best way to see the whole island and all of its villages is by renting a bike! Bike paths crisscross the entire island, making it easy to go from South Beach to Vineyard Haven and back to Edgartown.
6. Sunsets at Menemsha
You haven't seen a sunset until you've seen one from the hills overlooking Menemsha. Beyond Menemsha is the eternal expanse of blue, of both sea and sky, providing the canvas to paint a magnificent sunset. Every night of the summer, hundreds pack on the hills to catch just one glimpse of it.
