Few destinations on the East Coast capture the imagination of families quite like Martha’s Vineyard. Tucked just seven miles off the southern coast of Cape Cod, this storied island has been welcoming generations of vacationers to its sun-drenched shores, charming village streets, and unhurried way of life. With roughly 4 million visitors arriving each year and 124 miles of breathtaking coastline to explore, it’s easy to understand why families return summer after summer, building traditions that last a lifetime.
To help you navigate your options, we’ve rounded up the best family-friendly resorts and inns on the island, all of them proud members of marthasvineyardlodging.org.
Winnetu Oceanside Resort
If you’re dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves and stepping directly onto the sand with your kids in tow, look no further than the Winnetu Oceanside Resort. Situated near the legendary South Beach, this family-owned gem is purpose-built for families who want space, comfort, and direct beach access all in one place. The resort’s spacious suites mean you won’t be tripping over suitcases or negotiating bedtime in a single cramped room.
Summercamp Hotel
Staying at the Summercamp Hotel in Oak Bluffs is less like checking into a hotel and more like arriving at the best summer camp you never got to attend as a kid — only this time, the whole family is invited. Housed in the beautifully renovated historic Wesley Hotel, Summercamp brings a vibrant, playful energy to one of the island’s most storied buildings. The fun, family-friendly rooms are designed to spark joy from the moment you walk in.
The Harborside Inn
For families who want to be in the thick of Edgartown’s storied charm, The Harborside Innoffers an unbeatable combination of location, comfort, and waterfront atmosphere. This 90-room property sits steps from Main Street, placing you within easy walking distance of Edgartown’s boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants. On-site dining means you can keep the family fueled without the logistical challenge of finding a restaurant that works for everyone, every night.
Madison Inn
With just 15 rooms, the Madison Inn in Oak Bluffs offers a boutique experience that larger resorts simply can’t replicate. Modern amenities ensure that comfort is never compromised, while the inn’s walkable location puts downtown Oak Bluffs right at your doorstep.
Dockside Inn
The Dockside Inn‘s harbor-front location in Oak Bluffs offers scenic waterfront views and proximity to the ferry terminal — a practical bonus for families arriving by boat.
Top Family Activities on Martha’s Vineyard
- Hit the Beaches: South Beach and State Beach both offer public facilities and parking. Oak Bluffs’ Inkwell Beach and the nearby ocean park are perennial favorites for families.
- Ride the Flying Horses Carousel: Located in Oak Bluffs, this beloved National Historic Landmark has been delighting visitors since 1876.
- Explore Aquinnah’s Red-Clay Cliffs: One of the island’s most dramatic natural wonders, accompanied by a historic lighthouse.
- Bike the Scenic Routes: The island’s network of bike paths makes cycling a genuinely enjoyable family activity.
- Go Whale Watching: Guided whale-watching tours offer an unforgettable wildlife experience.
- Attend a Lobster-Bake Feast: A quintessentially New England dining experience the whole family will talk about.
- Visit Chappaquiddick Island: A short ferry ride from Edgartown, featuring the Cape Poge Lighthouse.
Best Time to Visit Martha’s Vineyard with Kids
The island’s peak season runs through July and August. Families who can be flexible may find that May through June and September offer a more relaxed experience — milder crowds, easier ferry reservations, and a quieter atmosphere that suits families with younger children especially well.
Plan Your Family Escape Today
To explore the full range of member properties and start planning your family vacation, visit marthasvineyardlodging.org. Your best summer yet is waiting on the other side of that ferry ride.
Source: marthasvineyardlodging.org (member properties); web research (4 million annual visitors, 124 miles of coastline, Flying Horses Carousel history)