Looking for the best bars on Martha’s Vineyard to unwind after a day at the beach bathing in the surf and sun? But, are you feeling a bit overwhelmed by the abundance of choices?
We’ve all been there.
With so many options it’s hard to know where to begin. Fear not, fellow island-goer – we’ve got you covered. We’ve done the…ahem… research (and a few cocktails, of course), we’ve narrowed down the 7 best beach bars on Martha’s Vineyard
So, strap on your flip flops, grab some after sun lotion, and get ready to hit the town – the ultimate island bar crawl awaits!
Martha’s Vineyard – It’s just as you pictured it!
Ah, Martha’s Vineyard – the stunningly beautiful island off the coast of Massachusetts that’s home to pristine beaches, rolling hills, and some of the best restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
The island’s history dates back to the 1600s when it was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag tribe. Today, the island is an extremely popular summer destination known for its sandy beaches, quaint towns, and charming island atmosphere. But the real highlight of the Vineyard isn’t just the beaches themselves, it’s the restaurants, bars, and social atmosphere!
Let’s dive into some of the best beaches on the island before we enjoy the watering holes.
Best Beaches on Martha’s Vineyard (that are open to the public):
Aquinnah Beach
If you ask people who have been to most of the beaches on the island what their favorite is (aside from Chilmark town resident-only St Lucy Vincent), more often than not you will hear Aquinnah. While you have to pay for parking, combined with the fact that it takes a bit of a drive across the island if you are coming from Edgartown, OB, or Vineyard Haven, it is well worth it. The sand is perfect. The water is perfect. This is a great walking beach. Yes, we know this is the beach where on the far side near the cliff’s is the nude beach. It’s not our thing so we stay on the Aquinnah side (the nude beach is set off a few hundred yards, so you don’t have to worry about encountering any of the patrons if you don’t want to).
South Beach/Katama
The biggest (and most popular) beach on the island, South Beach is a fun beach, especially if you like big waves. The sand is great, with minimal rocks, while the drop off and surf is pretty strong in the morning/early afternoon. Mid to late-afternoons are the best here. From paddle ball and soccer, to cornhole, body surfing, and soccer, this beach has something for everyone. If you want to deflate your tires and drive out onto the beach, you’ll see the signs on the left (at the sharp turn) as you are coming from downtown Edgartown. This is a really fun adventure with lots of vehicles out there on a hot, sunny summer weekend (you’ll need to pick up a day pass to drive out on to the beach).
Lambert’s Cove
After 4:00pm to the general public – Our personal preference for the best place for sunset dinner on the beach. We know Menemsha is quite popular especially with Larsons take out (our preference for best lobster rolls), but it does get quite crowded and the beach is much more rocky. Lamberts Cove is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. After a 1/10th to ¼ mile walk down a white sandy path from the parking lot through the woods, you’ll come up the hill and wham…a beautiful crescent shaped, sandy beach with the sun going down directly in front of you. The sand has minimal to no rocks, while the water is calm (with no rocks as well). Just make sure you don’t try to walk on to the beach (we’ve tried) before 4:00PM as they won’t let you. If you have a boat however, you can anchor off shore down the beach.
State Beach
Along State road between Oak Bluff and Edgartown is Joseph Sylvia State Beach. This is where the famous jaw bridge and “shark…shark…it’s going into the pond” scene takes place. Visitors come from all over to jump off the bridge, kite surf, or enjoy a the calm, blue waters. We’d recommend getting there before 11:00 on a summer weekend as roadside parking can fill up quickly.
Longpoint
This Trustees beach is a hidden gem on the island. Located near the Edgartown airport, just follow the small Trustees sign (on the left as you pass the airport on the right) down a 1-2 mile dirt road that leads you through the woods. Once you come out of the canopy of trees, the sky opens up and you are at the coast. Since Covid, reservations are now required as parking is limited.
Lake Tashmoo
Speaking of driving adventures through the woods, getting to Tashmoo beach by car is just that. Good luck finding it (Finding Dagget Road is the key). You will drive down a long and windy one lane dirt road that seems like it was carved into the surrounding terrain. There are pull-off when another car is coming in the opposite direction. The amazing part about the drive is you will pass giant houses all along the way. Once you get down closer to the beach, you’ll follow the road, which now turns to sand, along the water. Parking is minimal, so make sure you get there early enough. The large beach to the right is rocky in most areas. We recommend finding a spot to park your blanket, chairs and towels to the left, along the water way that leads to the pond. The water is calm here and the sand is much better. Also, take a walk out to the shallow pond.
Now, back to the reason you came here: the bars. We’ve toured the island, visited these watering holes, asked the locals (and visitors), and found the 7 best bars (in no particular order) that you absolutely must visit in 2023.
It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere: The Best Bars on Martha’s Vineyard 2023
1. The Port Hunter (Edgartown)
Winner of several awards including Best of Boston Best Bars on Martha’s Vineyard, The Port Hunter is a great place to enjoy the island’s nightlife. Located in Edgartown, this place starts getting really busy on weekends after10:00PM. We suggest getting there between 8:30-9:30 as lines do form. They offer great atmosphere for young and old(er). Here you’ll find a great mix of couples, groups, bachelorette parties, and guys…ahem…”golf” weekend crews. Barney the Dinosaur, or at least a great impersonator has even made an appearance there.
Once the dinner time tables are cleared, the live music and dancing begins. This is a great place to mingle and/or dance the night away.The Port Hunter is famous for its craft cocktails and super-knowledgeable who are bartenders happy to create a custom drink just for you. Some of their signature cocktails include The Cucumber Cleanse, The Smokin Margarita, The Water Street, Espresso Martini (it’s real espresso-not the syrup), and The Port Hunter Punch.
If you’re looking to grab a bit to eat ahead of time, check out their dinner menu here.
2. The Ritz (Oak Bluffs)
The Ritz, located in Oak Bluffs, is a legendary Martha’s Vineyard bar. With history dating back to the 1940s, this “dive bar” has been a popular year-round watering hole for local tradesmen, fisherman, and residents. For a great read on the history of “the last real bar on Martha’s Vineyard” check out Doug Cabral’s Boston Magazine article.
Quite possibly the best place for live music on the island, The Ritz has hosted many prominent guests ranging from celebrities to pop stars.There was even an apartment upstairs from the bar, where local and national bands would stay when playing here.
Though it gets a bit crowded on weekends, if you are in the mood for a fun night out in Oak Bluffs, this is the place to be.
The bar is separated into two sections. The first, when you walk in, is the bar area with some high top tables, an old school bar, and plenty of vineyard island history lining the walls. We’re sure if those walls could talk, they would have some great stories to tell. The upstairs section is home to the band and dance floor.
The atmosphere early in the early evening is a bit more laid-back and relaxed. Then once the night crowd starts to line up at the door and pile in, the live music, dancing, and memorable night begins.
For a sampling of the fun to be had, check this out.
3. The Lookout Tavern (Oak Bluffs)
If you’re looking for a (beach) bar with a view, The Lookout Tavern is the place to go! Located right across the street from Oak Bluffs Harbor, this happy hour/early evening hotspot offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. The atmosphere is always upbeat and vibrant. The bartenders are great.
They also have outdoor seating, with some tiki torches to add to the ambiance. This is one of the best places on the island to catch sporting events.
If you like your Margaritas and tequila, they have a few “south of the border” drinks including The Dynamite Dave, The Sayulita Margarita, The Smoke There is Fire (has muddled jalapenos), and the Spicy Chinola. They also have a Cucumber Cosmo, a Casamigos Mezcal, a Stateside Sipper, and many more.
In addition to the drinks, the restaurant here is well-known for its lobster rolls –voted best on the vineyard 2012-2021– a true Martha’s Vineyard delicacy!
4. The Seafood Shanty (Edgartown)
The Seafood Shanty, located in Edgartown Harbor, is a waterfront bar with a history. Originally opened in the 1970s, this beach bar has had a colorful past, attracting scores of tourists and celebrities from all over the world. In fact, just like The Ritz, The Seafood Shanty has hosted many famous people over the years, among them being celebrities like John Cusack and the former New York Mayor, Rudy Giuliani. The atmosphere here is lively and fun, with live music every night.
They have a Ghost Pepper Margarita, Captain Porky’s Goombay Smash, a selection of Mules, and the Best Damn Bloody Mary Evah, and more amongst their great selection of specialty cocktails.
Visitors can expect to come and enjoy a drink and take in the beautiful ocean views while basking in the bar’s rich historical ambiance.
Quick Side Note Tip: While you are in Edgartown, stop by Alchemy for one of their award-winning signature cocktails. They have been voted best cocktails on the vineyard for a few years. Another place to try is The Atlantic. Have you ever had a $50.00 Margarita? The Admiral’s Margarita, made with Clase Azul Reposado Tequila, Bacchant, Agave, and house sour. They also make an excellent espresso martini among many other specialty cocktails. They also have their after 10:00pm dance floor back online after taking off the past few years.
5. The Sand Bar and Grille (Oak Bluffs)
The Sand Bar and Grille is another popular bar that you’ll find located along the harbor in Oak Bluffs. This vibrant bar is the perfect spot for those looking to let their hair down and enjoy an outdoor bar with some great cocktails (and lobster rolls).
Be sure to try the Jalapeno Margarita, the Coconut Mojito or the Loaded Mary (Grey Goose, shrimp, bacon, and pepperoncini).
With a fun and relaxed outdoor atmosphere on the water, the bar is a great place to start the night off and catch up with friends over a drink or two.
6. Nomans (Oak Bluffs)
Nomans is a bit different from the other entries on this list. Located on the same road as State Beach, they offer a huge outdoor area with live music, chill daytime atmosphere, and plenty of lawn games including cornhole, Jenga, and connect 4.
One of the coolest things about this spot is they make their own rum.Most of the specialty cocktails on the menu are rum based, with the pineapple mint Daiquiri, Jungle Bird, and OB Peach Tea being some of our favorites.
7. The Wharf (Edgartown)
The Wharf, located at the bottom of Main Street in Edgartown, combines three atmospheres into one place. There is the restaurant, the Pub and the Back Bar.
This is one of the best bars on Martha’s Vineyard to catch a game (especially if you are a Bruins fan).
The Rum Punch (bacardi rums, orange juice, pineapple juice, coconut
Open seven days a week, year-round, The Wharf features nightly entertainment all summer and weekends off season. The Back Bar has bands, DJ’s, theme nights, karaoke and more.
When it comes to food, the Jambalaya and pulled pork sandwich are two of our favorites. They even have the Lobster tank where you can pick your own live lobster. Check out the menu here.
Bonus: Best Place(s) To Grab A Margarita(s) After the Beach
1: Sharky’s Cantina:
With their popular Edgartown location now closed, you can still enjoy one of their signature Margaritas in Oak Bluffs. Their Grandios (ask for it skinny though) is consistently one of the best classic margaritas on the island. While the atmosphere is a bit smaller and condensed in the Oak Bluff location (disappointed the Edgartown one closed), the Margs are still made with the same love. Best Nachos on the island as well!
2::Dos Mas (Oak Bluffs):
From a Patron Mule, to their Oxacan Sunset, to their Spicy Margarita, they have an extensive drink menu, especially for a taco (and burrito….and brunch) joint. Our personal favorite is the Extra Spicy Margarita. Be sure to ask for it with some Don Julio or Cabo). They also have a small rooftop area (if you’re lucky enough to get a seat up there), where you can enjoy dinner and a drink while basking in the “” island air.
Speaking of Margaritas, a quick joke for you: What do Margaritas and boobs have in common?
……One is not enough…..but three is too many.
On that note, we are waiting for one of the places on the island to create a Margarita sampler menu like this place has. You can choose 3 different types of Margaritas that come out on a cool wooden flight.
Grab the Ferry and Raise a Glass to the Best Bars on Martha’s Vineyard
After a day at one of the island’s best beaches, Martha’s Vineyard has a bar to suit your mood.
Whether you’re looking for live music, sunset cocktails, fresh seafood, or a fun and exciting night out, there’s something for everyone.
Think of it as your chance to escape the daily grind and soak in a joyful atmosphere that refreshes the soul!
There’s nothing quite like a cold drink, live music, ocean views, and the island vibe to set the mood for a memorable vacation.
So grab a drink, let your hair down, and get ready to enjoy the best bars on Martha’s Vineyard in 2023!
Trust us, you’ll leave eager to plan your next trip back.
See you next time!
For more fun and exciting beach bars and hidden gems be sure to check out our blog here or sign up for our email newsletter!
Cheers!
JP
