Oak Bluffs Beaches: From Sunrise to Sunset
Oak Bluffs is blessed with some of the most accessible and scenic beaches on Martha’s Vineyard — each with its own charm, history, and rhythm. Whether you’re catching a sunrise, riding a bike along the shore, or paddling across calm lagoon waters, there’s a beach for every mood and moment.
Oak Bluffs Town Beach
Oak Bluffs Town Beach stretches along the waterfront from the Steamship Authority pier to the Inkwell. This long and lively shoreline includes three distinct spots — Pay Beach, North Bluff Beach, and The Inkwell — all connected by the town’s signature seawall and walking path.
Pay Beach
Located between the Steamship pier and the Inkwell, Pay Beach is one of the most popular places to swim in town. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer, and in-season beach yoga sessions take place here in the mornings. It’s a perfect spot to start your day with a stretch as the sun rises over Nantucket Sound.
North Bluff Beach
Just below the Island Queen dock, North Bluff Beach is a local favorite for swimming, fishing, and enjoying the view of ferries gliding into the harbor. Walk out on the fishing pier for great photos, or jump into the water on a warm afternoon. Afterward, grab a bite or a drink at The Lookout, perched right above the beach with a spectacular view of the ocean. Sunrise and full moonrise views from here are breathtaking.
The Inkwell
One of the most iconic and culturally significant beaches on Martha’s Vineyard, The Inkwell holds a special place in African American history. For over a century, this stretch of sand has been a gathering place for generations of Black families who helped shape Oak Bluffs into the inclusive and welcoming town it is today. The Inkwell is a serene place for an early-morning swim or quiet reflection, especially at sunrise or under a full moon.
Jetty Beach
Just beyond the harbor, Jetty Beach offers a peaceful escape with shallow, gentle water and panoramic views of Vineyard Sound. It’s perfect for families, beachcombers, and anyone who enjoys a quieter setting. You can ride a bike here from downtown Oak Bluffs or along East Chop Drive. The sunrises and full moonrises are magical from this vantage point — the light reflecting off the calm water and the jetty stones creates a perfect Vineyard moment.
State Beach (Between the Bridges)
This classic island beach runs from the Jaws Bridge (yes, the one from the movie!) toward Edgartown. It’s one of the island’s best places for swimming, paddling, and relaxing on soft white sand. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals from Island Spirit Kayak are available nearby, making it easy to explore the calm waters of Sengekontacket Pond. You can also ride a bike or take the #13 bus from Oak Bluffs to get here — it’s a great way to spend the day. Families love this beach for its gentle waves and easy access.
Medeiros’ Cove/The Sailing Camp (The Lagoon)
Tucked along Lagoon Pond, Medeiros’ Cove offers a peaceful alternative to the ocean beaches. Its sheltered waters are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the shore. It’s also an excellent spot for a bike ride — quiet roads and scenic water views make it one of Oak Bluffs’ hidden gems. Come at day’s end to watch the sunset reflected across the lagoon — it’s a favorite local secret.
Eastville Beach (By the Drawbridge)
Right where Oak Bluffs meets Vineyard Haven, Eastville Beach sits beside the drawbridge and offers the best of both worlds — views of the outer harbor on one side and the calm inner lagoon on the other. It’s a favorite spot for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking for a quick dip close to town.
At Eastville, you can watch boats glide beneath the bridge, paddle into the lagoon, or wade into the saltier waters facing Vineyard Haven Harbor. This spot also featured in our previous blog post about Windshield Sunsets — a reminder that some of the island’s most beautiful moments can be enjoyed right from your car as the sun sets over Lagoon Pond.
From Sunrise to Sunset
Oak Bluffs beaches are a full-day experience: begin your morning with sunrise at Pay Beach or the Inkwell, cool off with a swim or paddleboard at State Beach, and end your day watching the sunset at Madeira’s Cove or Eastville Beach. Every beach has a story — and together, they capture the soul of summer on Martha’s Vineyard.
Tips for Visiting
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Parking: Limited parking is available near Pay Beach and the Inkwell; arrive early or walk from town. State Beach offers roadside parking along Beach Road, and there’s free parking by the Lagoon for Medeiros’
Cove. Eastville Beach has a small lot right by the drawbridge.
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Restrooms: Public restrooms can be found near the Steamship pier and by Our Market at the harbor. Portable toilets are available at State Beach in summer, and Eastville has seasonal facilities nearby.
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Accessibility: Pay Beach and The Inkwell are easily reached from Seaview Avenue with flat access points. State Beach and Eastville Beach both offer gentle entries and nearby parking.
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Getting Around: Walking and biking are the best ways to enjoy the Oak Bluffs waterfront. The #13 bus also runs between downtown Oak Bluffs and State Beach for a car-free day in the sun.
