Martha’s Vineyard is a classic New England summer colony, and the best times to visit Martha’s Vineyard are June, July and August. These months offer the warmest weather, perfect for lazy beach days, and everything on the island — restaurants, shops and attractions — is open. Just brace yourself for big (but friendly) crowds and that your dollars don’t go as far.
Strong candidates too, the months of April, May, September and October mean a sweet weather/crowd ratio, with comfy outdoor temperatures yet without the overwhelming summer crowds.
Tip: If you’re planning on visiting Martha’s Vineyard in summer, check out our ultimate guide to where to stay on Martha’s Vineyard right away. The best hotels often sell out long in advance for the peak season.
April–May
April and May are beautiful months to visit Martha’s Vineyard. Now, temperatures between the mid 50s and mid 60s (13–18°C) make sightseeing of its six cute towns and five lighthouses pleasant. Just don’t expect the entire island to have opened up after winter yet; some restaurants and shops may still not be fully operational.
June–August
Memorial Day kicks off Martha’s Vineyard’s busy summer season. Come June, the popular Flying Horses Carousel (America’s oldest platform carousel built in 1876) spins visitors like never before. North, south, east or west, visitors flock to the island’s beaches. And why wouldn’t they? Temperatures are in the delightful low 80s (27°C), and they vacation on one of the best island in the USA.
September–October
Some of the businesses on Martha’s Vineyard shutter up after Labor Day, when families return to their everyday lives elsewhere in America. But those lucky who can happily vacation on Martha’s Vineyard in September and October. Daytime temperatures hover around the low 70s (21°C), and the ocean often remains warm enough to swim throughout September.
November–March
This is the golden window for budget travelers. Martha’s Vineyard has about 20,000 permanent inhabitants, and if you visit during the November-to-March off season, it’s mostly just you and them. January and December regularly see temperatures below freezing, and the Atlantic winds make it feel even chillier, but the rates at the hotels on Martha’s Vineyard (those that are open year round) are pleasantly low.
Best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard FAQ
Here you find the answers to some frequently asked questions about when to visit Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.
June, July and August are the best months to visit Martha’s Vineyard, offering that quintessential summer experience. However, the quieter months of April, May, September and October are great options for those who don’t mind cooler weather. Just keep in mind that some establishments may be closed during these shoulder periods.
High season begins at Memorial Day and ends at Labor Day. Now, during June, July and August, the island is fully operational, and warm temperatures encourage visitors to hit the beach.
November to March means off season on Martha’s Vineyard. While this is a great time to visit Martha’s Vineyard on a budget, expect cold weather and a limited range of open businesses.
April is when Martha’s Vineyard finally starts to get going after the the long off season. Although temperatures hover around the mid 50s (13°C), attractive hotel rates make up for it.
While the Atlantic winds may be freezing, the winter deals on Martha’s Vineyard are smoking hot. Come to Martha’s Vineyard between November and March (but avoid the holidays) to enjoy the year’s cheapest rates.
