You could visit Martha’s Vineyard a thousand times and never have the same experience. It is no wonder that artists, chefs, and creatives alike find refuge here. From charming shops to great works of architecture, this friendly island has something for everyone. Just a two hour drive from Boston, this island is a summer favorite. When you step off the ferry, It’s easy to see why. During our recent trip to the Nobnocket in Vineyard Haven, it was clear that even the greyest of days couldn’t hamper the adventure. Here is our guide to the short 48 hours we spent in Martha’s Vineyard. Spoiler: we can’t wait to come back.
10 am : arrive by Ferry (tip: book in advance if coming by car)
1 pm: Grab an after lunch and/or ice cream at Mad Martha’s and explore the shops right on the main drag. Here you’ll see striped hoodies and black dog paraphernalia. Be sure to grab yourself a nautical souvenir from your trip.
3pm: Wander over to the gorgeous Gingerbread houses that make their home in Oak Bluffs, make sure to take lots of pictures of this magical wonderland. My mother, upon seeing this novelty village fit for the fairytales said, “wow, I didn’t know a place like this existed.”
4pm: Drive a quick 15 minutes to Vineyard Haven, and check in to the Nobnocket Boutique Inn. Down a country road and to the right, this cozy inn has been completely renovated by Simon and Anabelle, the innkeepers. Hedged tightly in a quiet, hydrangea lined street, the inn is full of European charm.
5pm: enjoy a drink on the patio in one of the inn’s amazingly lush backyard. Hear the sea birds chant overheard as you enjoy the distinctly salty breeze that fills the air.
7pm: Go to dinner, we took Anabelle’s recommendation of the Lookout Tavern, where we watched the sunset and the last ferry in with a fresh bottle of Corona.
our view from our table at the Lookout Tavern
9pm: A goodnight has never been sweeter at the Nobnocket. They leave a signature, tasty treat right to your room every evening! Such an incredible and delicious touch. Also, be sure to spray your pillows with the complimentary lavender sleep spray to ensure the coziest dreams. I even tucked it into my suitcase and use it at home 🙂 Every evening they also leave a recommendation of “what to do” the following day. We were so pleased with our recommendation of the Chimark flea!
8ish am– awake to the sounds of the sea birds over the water, and even the honk! hello of the ferry if you choose to sleep in.
830ish am– go for a run around the neighborhood, wave to the natives (friendly wandering turkeys) and admire the weathered shingles and blooms lining every street.
the charming downstairs of the inn
9 am- wander down to the patio (or the parlor when inclement weather plagues you) and enjoy your morning coffee with a savory homemade breakfast. Each morning, your breakfast is served with a unique and interesting place setting and menu to match. The printed menu provided includes a list of locally sourced goods and descriptions of goodies are uniquely matched to each guest.
10am- Wander over to the Chimark flea, a boutique market with welcome the island’s creatives to showcase their work in rows of stalls. We walked away with two items, my mother with a custom made leather bag and myself with a reversible romper from Conrado.
130-ish pm – Finally find parking at the Gay Head light after everyone has laughed at your ability to parallel park. I’m from the city I’m usually good at this, you’ll sweat in reply. Climb up the cliffs and enjoy the view of the island. These steep cliffs are utterly breathtaking, and sadly eroding. Amazingly, 3 years ago the town had to move the lighthouse with railroad ties to prevent it from erosion. One of the volunteers said she was married at the lighthouse 25 years ago. The spot of her wedding has since disappeared! Luckily, the lighthouse the move saved the lighthouse and gave it another 150 years! Be sure to take the tour, a donation of $6, to help fund the efforts and to admire the extravagant view from the top.
3pm- drive back across the island to the Nobnocket. Cozy up with a book or an afternoon snack on their patio.
5pm- Venture out with your friends to the water at State Beach. I’ve never been a peak sun girl, and sometimes the late afternoon thins the population here. Or, if the beach isn’t your thing, walk along the wharf and breathe in the salt air.
7pm- Grab sushi at one of the hotly debated restaurants in Vineyard Haven. You can walk right down to the main street easily from the Nobnocket. So, don’t be afraid to ditch the car. I’m not leaving a recommendation here because in my opinion, you can’t go wrong.
8ish am – awaken again at the Nobnocket. Thank the inn keepers, Annabelle and Simon for the most amazing breakfast and gorgeous stay!
10am- Head to Edgartown before your ferry. Walk along the wharf and admire the Tigress, the iconic americana sailboat that sleeps here.
Sleeping sails this Sunday @catboatcharters . Wish this was my view ❤ but tomorrow we head out to one of my favorite places! are you headed anywhere for the fourth ?
11am– A trip to Edgartown wouldn’t be complete without stretching your wallet a little. The shops that live here are so charmingly nautical. We also love the owner, Hilarie, of Chappy happy. So be sure to wave to her and tell her we sent you 🙂
1pm- grab some lunch at Sharkies. Their lobster roll and fish tacos are to. die. for.
3pm- sadly, wait in line 45 minutes early as suggested for the ferry. We had a rainy return so they changed the
A little more about the Nobnocket Boutique Inn…
While the owners of the inn offered me a stay free of charge, all thoughts and opinions are expressively my own.
The Nobnocket, which offers seven ultra luxe rooms in it’s vibrantly bold interior, wasn’t always the interior design gem it is today. It used to be called the “Old Doctor’s House” and received a major design overhaul when Simon and Annabelle bought it in 2016. The two have lived and operated BnB’s throughout Europe and the Cape and are accustomed to hosting people from all corners of the world. Their worldly nature can be seen in subtle design touches throughout their inn, making those who have travelled far feel just a little closer to home. Thank you so much for having us!
read more about Annabelle & Simon and their fabulous inn here:
hope to see you on the Vineyard soon,
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