BringFido's Guide to Martha's Vineyard

Posted by Billy Francis

Martha’s Vineyard is a small island off the coast of Cape Cod with a storied history. Originally inhabited by the Native American Wampanoags, it was colonized by Englishman Bartholomew Gosnold in 1602. Since then, it has been home to whalers, merchants, A-list celebrities and even former presidents. These days, Martha’s Vineyard is a popular summer vacation spot where travelers on two legs and four are invited to discover quaint harbor towns, historic lighthouses and windswept sandy beaches.

Things to Do

"This beats a blow dry at the groomer.” Photo by Facebook.com/SteamshipAuthorityMA

Long walks on the beach, lighthouse photoshoots and off-leash fun await canine visitors to this New England island “paw-radise.”

Full Steam Ahead!

Established in 1960, the Steamship Authority has long been the fastest and funnest way of getting to and from Martha’s Vineyard (unless you have a private helicopter). Set sail from the terminal at Woods Hole on Cape Cod, where cashiers at the ticket booth have been known to hand out treats and bowls of water to four-legged passengers. Once on board, chill with Fido on the outer deck or in your car. There are two Steamship Authority terminals on the island: Vineyard Haven, also known as Tisbury, and Oaks Bluff. Film buffs will recognize Vineyard Haven and other coastal spots from the Spielberg classic, “Jaws.” Roundtrip tickets start at $19 for humans, and dogs travel for free. You and your pooch can also get to Martha’s Vineyard from Falmouth on the Island Queen Ferry.

Frolic Through the Fields

When you arrive on dry land, make the short trip to Tradewinds Fields Preserve for off-leash fun at the island’s unofficial dog park. Owned by the Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank, this 72-acre property consists of walking trails through wooded areas and a vast open meadow. Visiting canines and Vineyard residents alike are welcome to explore the preserve, as long as pups are cleaned up after. Be mindful of hikers and joggers also using the land and keep your eyes to the sky as the former grass-field airport still receives the occasional small plane landing.

Pedal With Your Pooch

Pick up the pace and reserve a bicycle and Burley trailer at Martha's Vineyard Bike Rentals. From the rental shop, take the Beach Road between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs for a 6-mile cruise along a paved trail with the Nantucket Sound on one side and Sengekontacket Pond on the other. When you arrive in Oak Bluffs, check out the gourmet treats and other swag at Good Dog Goods.

“The sand is grand!” Photo by @larisastingaphotography

We Beach Chillin’

During the off-season from September 15 to March 31, dogs are free to roam on most beaches on Martha’s Vineyard, including Eastville Point Beach and Norton Point Beach. Unfortunately, pups are prohibited on these sandy stretches the rest of the year, but you and your pooch can still take a stroll along Fuller Street Beach to Lighthouse Beach at sunrise or sunset year-round.

Carve Out an Atlantic Adventure

Island Spirit Kayak is ready to give you and your pooch a different perspective of the place that the Wampanoags called “Noepe,” which translates as “Dry Land Amid Waters.” Join the ocean specialists on a sunset paddleboard or kayak tour, pausing on a beach for a picnic at sunset before enjoying a moonlit float back to where you started. You can also opt to rent a vessel and forge your own path. Water dogs are provided with a doggie PFD. Rentals start at $55 for a full day.

Spend a Day in the Forest

Located in the center of Martha’s Vineyard, Manuel F. Correllus State Forest offers 5,300 acres full of winding paths to explore with your leashed pooch. Hiking trails weave through the trees and a paved walkway also goes through the state forest, so there’s something for all levels of hiker. Along the way, stop by the disc golf course for Fido to disrupt your attempt at a hole in one with a flying catch.

"This is the highlight of our trip."Photo by @jaredmcnabb

Follow the Lighthouses

Take your terrier on a tour of Martha’s Vineyard’s historic lighthouses. Edgartown Lighthouse is surrounded by one of the only pet-friendly beaches during peak season, where you can share a nice walk on the sand together and enjoy panoramic views of Chappaquiddick. Continue on to Gay Head Lighthouse atop the beautiful red rocks of Aquinnah Cliffs. Formally known as the Chocolate Lighthouse, East Chop Lighthouse was the first lighthouse on the island to receive telegraph signals. When you first arrive at the harbor in Vineyard Haven, look out for the West Chop Lighthouse, the last one to become automated. Finally, the most secluded of the 19th-century structures is Cape Poge Lighthouse. Walk with your leashed dog around Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, home to a stunning sandy shoreline. Dogs aren’t allowed inside any of the lighthouses, but you can get close enough to all of them to snap a memorable pic together.

Places to Stay

“I’m a member of the one 'pawcent.'” Photo by Facebook.com/hobknobmv

From historic hotels to rustic homes in natural surroundings, Martha’s Vineyard has accommodations for every mutt.

Calling All Very Important Pups!

Four-legged guests will be in good company at Hob Knob Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa near Edgartown Lighthouse. The plush accommodations inside the shell of a 19th-century gothic revival home welcome pets of all sizes to stay. Pups can relax inside a light and airy room, wander the grounds and receive lots of pets from the hotel's dog loving staff.

Paws at a Private Beach

This 50s cottage in Aquinnah near Gay Head Lighthouse is described as being one step up from a glamping experience. Even though she'll have to “ruff” it with no WiFi, your pooch will be rewarded with her own 300-foot stretch of sand that overlooks Vineyard Sound and the Elizabeth Islands. Dogs are welcome for no additional fee.

Nature in Your Backyard

If you can’t get enough of Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, this charming home backs right up to the forest’s pitch pine and white oak. Hang out with your hound in the sunroom during the day, then head outside for stories around the crackling fire pit. Don’t worry if Fido gets dirty paws on pathways, there’s an outdoor shower where he can clean up. Dogs are welcome for no additional fee.

“Bone" appetit!Photo by Airbnb

Stay in a Recycled Tiny Home

The Banana Stand is a one-of-a-kind cabin made from reclaimed materials. Situated just 2 miles from Edgartown, it’s a great hub for visitors who want a central location to explore the island with ease. Guests are invited to share the big green space with their hosts and use the dog bowls provided, so you can pack small for your tiny stay. Dogs are welcome for no additional fee.

Hang Out in a Historic Hotel

Old dogs may have thought their camp days were long gone, but Summercamp in Oaks Bluff has other ideas. Originally constructed in 1879 for the sum of $18,000, the historic Wesley Hotel went through a major renovation to become the light and airy Summercamp. Reserve an ocean-view room with your pooch, and she’ll receive use of a dog bed and bowls. Summercamp welcomes two dogs up to 70 lbs for an additional fee of $45 per pet, per night.

Relax in a Converted Barn

Hang out with your hound in the huge fenced yard at this hidden gem in West Tisbury. When it comes time for her evening walk, cross the street and enjoy the peace and tranquility of a beautiful pond surrounded by 10 acres of conservation land. Dogs are welcome for no additional fee.

Enjoy the View

Whether you want to take to the water on two complimentary kayaks, explore the land on shared bicycles, or simply sit back and admire the water view from the big deck overlooking the pond, this rustic home has everything you need for your next Vineyard vacay. There’s also an outdoor shower to use before you head inside for the night. Dogs are welcome for no additional fee.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Ready for lunch. Photo by @theblackdogmv

The Captain is calling salty sea dogs to grab treats from the deep together, share a coffee in good company, and toast your trip to Martha’s Vineyard at an island brewery.

Legendary Eats

Founded in 1971 by Captain Robert Douglas and named after his beloved best friend, The Black Dog Tavern was the first year-round restaurant on Martha’s Vineyard. It became the go-to place for tourists and locals to gather in Vineyard Haven Harbor with ocean sounds in the background. Leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas and inside the general store to buy branded gear featuring the famous black dog.

Seafood With a Sea View

The Aquinnah Shop is a family-owned and operated seafood restaurant. Bring your leashed pooch with you on the patio, where you can try traditional Wampanoag treats accompanied by incredible ocean views. After dinner, complete your lighthouse tour at Gay Head Lighthouse.

Take a Break at a Brewpub

Don’t let the small patio at Offshore Ale Co put you off. This much-loved establishment in Oaks Bluff delivers on their promise to serve hearty meals like wood-fired pizza, fish and chips, lobster rolls and more. The island’s first and only year-round brewpub has nine beers on tap and a patio and beer garden open during the summer months. Fido can rehydrate with a refreshing bowl of water. Reservations are recommended if you want to bag one of the pet-friendly tables.

Dine Downtown With Your Dog

Nat's Nook in downtown Vineyard Haven serves up fresh crepes, coffee and tea in a beautiful walled garden. Bring your leashed pooch along for company as you devour a savory or sweet French treat.

“They’re not Nancy’s snacks, they’re mine!” Photo by @r1ckhouse

Ferry Views With Your Furry Friend

Sit on the dock of the bay and watch the tide roll away at Nancy's Snack Bar and Harborview Restaurant in Oaks Bluff. During the summer season, dogs are welcome on the lower deck to keep their owners company while they sample snacks from the sea.

The “Pawfect” Blend

If you’re looking for pep with your pup, Espresso Love will give you the edge in Edgartown. Buy fresh-baked goods and a black coffee, and head to the patio of this local hangout. The food menu includes breakfast bagels, sandwiches, bowls and more. After you get your caffeine fix, the walk to Edgartown Lighthouse will seem even shorter.

Live the Good Life at Lobsterville

Don’t let the sun set on your trip to Martha’s Vineyard without dinner at Lobsterville Bar and Grille. Their motto is to provide “seafood, good company and spectacular views of Oak Bluffs Harbor.” Dig into littleneck clams, lobster spring rolls, fried oyster po'boys and Norwegian salmon, and wash it down with something from the wine menu. Dogs can join you for a toast with a fresh bowl of water and a treat to soak it up with.

What are your favorite pet-friendly places in Martha’s Vineyard? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by @magda.n.pearson.