Martha’s Vineyard Vs. Nantucket: Which Island Should You Visit?

The classic showdown of Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket has many travelers wondering which to visit. Both are dreamy, both are iconic, but they’ve each got their own flair. I have spent time on both of these beautiful islands, and I’m excited to unpack the details and guide you through their similarities and differences.

Let’s find out if Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket is calling your name for your next unforgettable getaway!

Martha’s Vineyard Overview

Tucked just seven miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the island of Martha’s Vineyard has been a favorite getaway of New Englanders for decades. This island is surprisingly large, at about 100 square miles, giving you plenty of space to explore and not run out of things to do.

With six unique towns, each with its own personality, Martha’s Vineyard is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure, history and relaxation. The island vibes are strong here!

From the colorful cottages of Oak Bluffs to the charming streets of Edgartown, there’s so much to love. You can spend the day biking through quaint towns or visiting spots like the iconic Aquinnah Cliffs. Not to mention the beautiful beaches, lighthouses and waterfront seafood restaurants.

It’s the laid-back vibes and endless exploration that makes Martha’s Vineyard such a gem.

While several days on the island would be ideal, a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard can still give you a good dose of all this slice of paradise has to offer.

Interesting Facts About Martha’s Vineyard

• The movie Jaws was filmed here! You can even jump off “Jaws Bridge” for the ultimate experience.
• The Wampanoag people lived here for thousands of years.
• Many celebrities have homes here including Michael J. Fox, Spike Lee and The Obamas.

Nantucket Overview

Located about 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket feels like a step back in time and a world away. As soon as you arrive, it’s like you’ve been transported to another era, with its iconic gray, weathered shingle buildings and cobblestone streets that whisper of the island’s rich history.

It’s a small island, but every corner has that undeniable charm that draws travelers looking for a relaxed and picturesque escape. From the moment we arrived off the ferry, I knew Nantucket would steal a piece of my heart.

Nantucket’s beauty is simply captivating–whether you’re wandering the quiet streets of downtown Nantucket or strolling along the Bluff Walk with breathtaking ocean views on one side and dreamy New England cottages on the other.

The pace of life seems slower, yet there is still excitement awaiting those who love outdoor adventures. Spend your time exploring museums, riding bikes, going for walks, and unwinding at the beach.

While I would stay several days if possible, you could still see a good amount of the island on a day trip to Nantucket, with it being only 14 miles long and 3.5 miles wide.

Interesting Facts About Nantucket

• Due to it’s proximity to the Gulf Stream, Nantucket maintains warmer weather in the winter and cooler weather in the summer compared to the Cape or Martha’s Vineyard.
• The unpainted shingle siding is now a requirement for any home or business being built on Nantucket.
• Although many celebrities frequent Nantucket, most locals and visitors give them their space while on the island.

Similarities

Read on to discover the many similarities between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

• Charming Coastal Towns: Each island features picturesque towns with historic architecture, quaint shops, lighthouses and local eateries that embody New England charm.
• Stunning Beaches: One of the main draws to both islands are the beautiful beaches perfect for families, couples and friends alike.
• Outdoor Activities: Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities on both islands, including biking, hiking and water sports.
• Rich History: Both islands have rich maritime history, which you can explore in their respective museums.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Both islands have a slow, relaxed vibe, making them ideal destinations to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
• Breathtaking Natural Beauty: On both islands you will be able to experience stunning coastal views, lush greenery and florals and picturesque sunsets.

Key Differences

Although they are very close in proximity, both islands have unique aspects and a very different feel.

• Size: Martha’s Vineyard is larger, measuring about 100 square miles, while Nantucket is less than half that big.
• Number of Towns: Martha’s Vineyard has six towns (Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah), each with its own character. In contrast, Nantucket consists mainly of one town, Nantucket Town, along with a few smaller villages.
• Vibe: If you’re seeking vibrant energy and eclectic charm, Martha’s Vineyard is calling your name. It’s alive with laid-back beaches and artistic flair. Nantucket, on the other hand, has a more old-world charm with an up-scale feel.
• Architecture: Both islands have their unique styles–Nantucket shines with its iconic gray shingle siding, pitched rooflines and adorable cobblestone streets, while Martha’s Vineyard showcases a wide range of eclectic architectural styles that reflect its diverse history.
• Travel Time: Getting to Martha’s Vineyard by ferry takes about 35-45 minutes, while Nantucket takes longer. A traditional ferry to Nantucket takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach the island, or you can opt for the high-speed ferry, which takes one hour.
• Cost: The prices at restaurants, boutiques and hotels are often more expensive in Nantucket compared to Martha’s Vineyard.

Considerations for Families with Kids

When choosing between Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for a family vacation, there are a few key factors to consider if you have kids in tow.

Accessibility is a big one–Martha’s Vineyard has more frequent ferries and it also takes less time to reach the island. Both islands offer bike rentals and car rentals near where the ferry docks to make getting around easier.

Next, consider the available activities. Martha’s Vineyard tends to offer more options that cater directly to young families, like the Flying Horses Carousel and various children’s programs. The vibe is also more laid-back which is ideal for kids.

Lastly, accommodations are something to think about. Martha’s Vineyard has a broader range of family-friendly lodging, from vacation rentals to inns that welcome kids with open arms. Nantucket leans toward more boutique hotels and vacation homes, which can be wonderful but may require a bit more planning, especially if you want something that’s both kid-friendly and budget-conscious.

While I’m certain you would have a great family adventure in either location, Martha’s Vineyard may lean more kid-friendly than Nantucket.

Nantucket vs. Martha’s Vineyard for a Day Trip?

Both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are totally doable as day trips, but the experience will feel a little different depending on the island.

Since Nantucket is smaller, it’s easier to slow down and really take in the island’s charm in just a day. On our Nantucket day trip, we didn’t feel rushed at all.

In contrast, with Martha’s Vineyard’s larger size, you’ll likely only get to explore a small slice of the island. Which is okay! It’s just something to consider.

Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket: My Pick

While I truly loved visiting both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, my heart leans toward Nantucket. There’s just something about the island’s timeless charm that captured me from the moment we arrived. The quiet streets, the weathered shingle houses, and that feeling of being transported to another world–it all created this sense of magic I wasn’t ready to leave behind.

Nantucket’s slower pace and serene beauty made such an impression that I’d go back again in a heartbeat. It’s the kind of place that just stays with you long after you’ve left.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Visit?

If you love the idea of exploring multiple towns, soaking in a mix of low-key eclectic vibes, and experience a wide range of activities, Martha’s Vineyard is for you. With its larger size and variety of charming spots, it’s the perfect destination for those who want to wander through colorful towns, take in diverse landscapes and have plenty to do to keep everyone entertained.

On the other hand, if a slower pace, old-world charm, and a quaint island experience is calling your name, Nantucket will steal your heart. From its iconic gray single cottages to the cobblestone streets, Nantucket offers a peaceful, timeless escape that lets you truly unwind and savor the old-world beauty.

When it comes to the Martha’s Vineyard vs. Nantucket debate, you really can’t go wrong. Both islands have their own unique draw, and whichever you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.

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