Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket: The Honest Comparison You Need!

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Last updated on November 2, 2022 by Wandering our World

Idyllic islands, small town vibes, bicycle rides and gorgeous shorelines – what more could you want? Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, just off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, are both wonderful summer destinations.

But at only 30 miles apart from each other, what’s the differences between them? And which is right for you?

In fact although close in proximity, these destinations are actually quite different! Nantucket is smaller, more conservative and has fantastic public beaches. While Martha’s Vineyard is liberal, busier, and has more options when it comes to restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Luckily we know and love both Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. So below we’ll be doing a deep dive into what each has to offer.

We compare the vibe, beaches, activities, and more. All so you can make the right decision on which one to pick!

CONTENTS:

  1. A Quick Overview
  2. Which Has Better Vibes & Things To Do?
  3. How Do The Activities & Attractions Compare?
  4. Where You Should Stay According To Your Budget
  5. Which Is Better?

A Quick Overview Of Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket

Nantucket

Nantucket, meaning “The Faraway Land” in the language of the Wampanoag tribe, is located 30 miles from the coast of Cape Cod. It has actually been previously named “the best island in the world” by National Geographic.

There’s gorgeous beaches on the island, no doubt, but also authentic lighthouses, surf, and boutique shops.

The island itself isn’t huge – 14 miles long and 3.5 miles wide – and you can actually get the ferry ride over and then cycle around without the need for cars at all. In fact, we think that’s the best way to see Nantucket!

It’s made up of two quaint towns and is easy to get around with no need for taxis or even a car. In contrast, Martha’s Vineyard is more than double the landmass of Nantucket, and made up of six towns. To enjoy it all you’ll need your own car or to use public transport.

Back to Nantucket! This charming island is perfect for relaxing, or enjoying the fresh seafood that you can buy along the shoreline.

There’s also plenty of public beaches in Nantucket. That’s not the case in Martha’s Vineyard where many beaches are private and off-limits.

That’s one big difference between Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. At Nantucket there’s often more opportunities to enjoy the natural scenery. Be that on Nantucket’s many public beaches or immersing yourself in nature thanks to over 40% of Nantucket being protected conservation land.

A view of  a marina in Nantucket Island
iStock.com/texpan

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard was originally called Noepe, meaning “land between the streams”, and was also named by the Wampanoag tribe. It’s just seven miles from Cape Cod – compared to Nantucket’s 30 miles – so you’ll get a shorter ferry journey over. That’s a bonus for those not flying in.

Tribal origin isn’t all that these two islands share; in 1602 Martha’s Vineyard got its name from Bartholomew Gosnold – the same man who first sighted and settled in Nantucket in that very same year!

He named the island after his daughter Martha, and due to the viney undergrowth he found on the coast. So don’t be fooled by the name: there are no actual vineyards on the island!

This island is popular with the rich and famous, and has quite a liberal and artsy feel to it. Nantucket, on the other hand, feels a little more conservative.

Due to its size and the fact it has more settlements, there’s also more to do on Martha’s Vineyard. There’s a livelier restaurant and nightlife scene too. More so than Nantucket, as we’ll show you below.

That makes Martha’s Vineyard probably the better choice if you’re looking for a mix of exploring towns, nature, trying out different restaurants, and taking part in a variety of activities.

Vineyard Haven Harbor on Martha's Vineyard as seen from above showing the beautiful sailboats and clear waters the safe harbor and breakwater
iStock.com/Jorge Moro

Which Has Better Vibes & Things To Do?

Both destinations are clearly rich in history, and have fascinating backstories dating back centuries.

They are both also very invested in their tourism industry. That means you will have plenty of excursion possibilities and accommodation choices despite the size of both islands.

Nantucket has actually prioritised tourism since the 1800s due to a need to bring in money after a decline in the traditional whaling activities on the island.

Martha’s Vineyard is also a very popular place, so much so that there’s an increase in population of about 10 fold each summer!

But what else makes these islands unique and different from each other?

Bicycle in Harbor as sun sets over Martha's Vineyard, MA.
iStock.com/DACowley

Nantucket

It’s quiet in Nantucket (quieter than Martha’s Vineyard), and serene. Staying here will almost take you back in time to when it was a 19th century whaling town.

The island is made up of brown shingle buildings and white sandy dunes. There’s a truly historic and authentic charm that is exuded throughout. There are plenty of great eating options and upscale restaurants too, as well as boutique shops.

This is certainly an upmarket place, and there’s a real New England charm and preppy chic feel to it.

On the culture side, there are activities for everyone ranging from scenic walks along Sconset Bluff Walk, or boating tours from the harbor.

And of course, you must not forget to visit Nantucket’s gem: its whaling museum in the heart of downtown! After all, this was the whaling capital of the world back in the mid-1700s to late 1830s!

The island is also home to over 800 meticulously restored pre-Civil war homes. That’s more than anywhere else in the United States! So this is definitely a place that history buffs will enjoy.

We recommend experiencing the island’s rich history first-hand. So not only should you wander the streets finding those pre-Civil war homes, but you absolutely must visit Nantucket’s three iconic lighthouses – Brant Point Lighthouse, Sankaty Head Light, and Great Point Lighthouse. All are a throwback to 18th century Nantucket.

Finally, although smaller and less busy than Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket is also in some ways more open and accessible. Not only can you travel around on foot or bike (and it’s less hilly than Martha’s Vineyard), Nantucket’s more-than-30 beaches are all open to the public. That’s a huge bonus!

In essence, this is a laid-back and quiet island where you can see history come alive with your own eyes through the gorgeous restored architecture and museums.

Nantucket is also an island perfect for exploring nature, hiking, kayaking, biking quaint roads, and enjoying the beaches unhindered.

Brant Point Light in Nantucket, MA
iStock.com/j76n

Martha’s Vineyard

On the other hand, a lot of – but not all of – the beaches on high-end Martha’s Vineyard’s are private. So you need a permit to access them.

Regardless of that, this island is still heavenly for those who love the outdoors. With hills and cliffs, 124.6 miles of tidal shoreline and a third of its landscape protected, a lot of this island’s character comes from its natural beauty. So there’s plenty of nature to enjoy, even if some of the beaches are off-limits.

While we’ve established there are no vineyards, Martha’s Vineyard does have some top-tier microbreweries for you to enjoy. There’s also 50 local farms that are indicative of the island’s local commitment to sustainable agriculture.

In fact Martha’s Vineyard is big on their food and harvest scene, and you can partake in walking tours and foodie tours in Spring and Autumn to get involved in celebrating the island’s produce. That’s one of the reasons – along with the many great restaurants on the island – that we think Martha’s Vineyard may suit foodies more than Nantucket.

Another thing we like about Martha’s Vineyard is the authentic independent vibe that remains there. This island hasn’t been tainted by inland chain stores, restaurants or hotels. Instead it fosters a supportive local artisan and entrepreneurial community where everything is one-of-a-kind.

Equally, the arts and culture scene here is fantastic all year round. So you can fill your evenings with classy trips to galleries, live music events, theatre trips and enjoy entertainment after soaking in the breathtaking views that day.  

That’s one of the big things that sets Martha’s Vineyard apart from Nantucket. The art and music scene at Martha’s Vineyard really is a winner.

jazz music live with saxophone
iStock.com/sarra22

How Do The Activities & Attractions Compare?

Although tiny, there are plenty of things to visit and do in these small but mighty islands.

We’ll briefly outline some of our favourite places to go to unwind and get the most out of your holiday. As you’ll see, what you can do on each island also tells you a lot about its character and whether it will be the right vacation choice for you or not.

Nantucket

Windswept beaches aren’t hard to find here, but neither is calming open expanses of land if that’s more your thing. If so, check out the conservation areas!

Dionis Beach is one of our favorite places on Nantucket – it’s beautiful, peaceful, and situated on a harbor. With about 300 feet of loose sand before you get to the beach itself, it makes for a romantic day out. It usually isn’t too crowded either.

Similarly, there’s also Jetties Beach, one of Nantucket’s most popular beaches, located just on the edge of town on the north shore.

It’s a huge beach which gets its name from the jetty – as you might have guessed! It comes fully equipped with a beachfront restaurant, café, and tourist shop for those all-important mementos!

Brant Point light house
iStock.com/MacroMan9

Martha’s Vineyard

At this point, it might be worth mentioning that the film Jaws was actually filmed throughout Martha’s Vineyard! That’s because producers considered Long Island to be too busy, whereas Martha’s Vineyard provided that ‘eerily empty’ atmosphere!

So, just in case you want to retrace 27 year-old Steven Spielberg’s footsteps, we’ll highlight some of the places that featured in the film.

In a nutshell: the opening scene was set in the Martha’s Vineyard harbor town of Vineyard Haven; the night-time bonfire on the dunes was at South Beach in Katama; and the infamous first shark attack was just off Cow Beach at Edgartown. And there’s your whistle-stop tour, and three destinations to add to your Martha’s Vineyard bucket list!

You get bonus points if you strike up a conversation with some of the older locals. They usually have the best stories to tell as many were casted as extras in the movie itself!

Gay Head Light and Aquinnah Cliffs at Martha's Vineyard, MA. The current lighthouse was first lit in 1856.
iStock.com/Rolf_52

Where You Should Stay According To Your Budget

Nantucket

Shoestring: The Jared Coffin House, one of Nantucket’s most well-known hotels, captures the spirit of this former fishing town with its attractive lodgings.

This hotel is a significant Nantucket landmark, and is located in an old mansion where you can unwind in lovely guest rooms and welcoming public areas. The air-conditioned rooms provide magnificent views of Nantucket town and are adorned with artefacts and soothing classic colours.

Experience the island’s bustling downtown just a few steps away, and thanks to the location you’ll be right beside many stores, restaurants and activities. See photos and prices by visiting this link.

Budget: With its calm residential environment, green gardens and laid-back atmosphere, Life House Nantucket – located in a historic inn from the 19th century – is quality but at an affordable price.

You will get a delicious complimentary breakfast every day in the lounge here, or why not gather in the gardens or on the veranda and enjoy sipping your tea and coffee.

You’ll be close to all the action too, including beaches and restaurants, so this hotel is perfect for getting the most out of your Nantucket stay. See photos and more at this link.

Luxury: The Nantucket Hotel & Resort is one of Nantucket’s most illustrious hotels (see photo below) and one of the few hotels on the island open all year. It’s a destination distinguished by its combination of luxury and laid-back island vibe.

There’s a variety of luxury suites, rooms, and cottages at the resort, some with views of the ocean and an outdoor hot tub.

The hotel also features a fitness club, spa, children’s activities, an on-site restaurant with fire pits, and two seasonally heated outdoor private pools. Beaches, shops, restaurants, boutique stores, and art galleries are all just a few minutes walk away. See more photos and prices by visiting this link.

A boulevard in Nantucket Island
iStock.com/texpan

Martha’s Vineyard

Shoestring: Edgartown Commons could be the ideal accommodation for your Martha’s Vineyard trip as it offers reasonable, comfy lodgings at a fantastic price.

This self-catering residence features an outdoor pool, a playground for kids, and a picnic area with barbecue grills. The building is near restaurants and shops on Main Street in Edgartown, and close to the harbor’s waterfront too, so you’ll be close to all the action. See photos and prices by visiting this link.

Budget: The Harbor View Hotel in the picture-perfect community of Edgartown, bordered by miles of stunning beaches and coastline. It’s a wonderful budget option.

This premium resort (see photo below) offers visitors the ultimate Martha’s Vineyard getaway, complemented by fantastic on-site restaurants and spectacular views of the harbor. And all without breaking the bank.

Only a few steps separate this famous hotel from shops, art galleries, beaches, and sunset cruises. So you’ll have everything right on your doorstep. See more photos and prices by visiting this link.

Luxury: Hob Knob Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel that has welcomed guests for nearly a century.

Picture the ideal escape on Martha’s Vineyard, with excellent personalized service, spa services, and relaxation in a calm, sophisticated atmosphere. That’s what you get here.

The Hob Knob is ideally situated in the heart of Edgartown too, so you’re just steps away from the city’s museums, delectable seafood at many great restaurants, and a wide range of outdoor activities. See photos and prices by visiting this link.

Edgartown Waterfront
iStock.com/Robin Amaral

Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket: Which Is Better?

The obvious difference between these islands is size, and while size isn’t everything, it can make a difference depending on how adventurous and varied you want your holiday to be.

Nantucket is made up of just two quaint towns, compared to Martha’s Vineyard six, and subsequently there’s more going on in the latter.

However, both definitely offer an escape from urban city life. Just in slightly different ways.

Martha’s Vineyard is often visited by celebrities and politicians, and has a preppy boho/ casual and laid back style. Everyone goes everywhere in bathing suits, flip flops and shorts. It also has a more affluent African American community, and this is reflected in its more liberal and artsy community.

While you won’t get bored in either, due to its sheer size Martha’s Vineyard does have more options, be that restaurants, shops, and nightlife. However that does mean you’ll need to look at using buses or a car to get around, whereas in Nantucket you can just use a bike if you wish.

On the flipside, getting to Martha’s Vineyard is usually slightly easier, as typically it sees ferries and flights coming in more frequently.

Meanwhile in Nantucket, things are slightly more upscale. It’s smaller, more familiar, and more conservative. While you can obviously and definitely dress however you want, the general go-to look is preppy chic – so think New England preppy getaway.

Nantucket has the advantage of its beaches being open to the public, but as a note this island tends to grow to a summer population of about 50,000, so accommodation books up fast!

In the end both Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard make for amazing holidays, and ultimately it’s completely down to your own preferences. Whichever you choose, have fun!

Author

  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.