Can you cycle around Martha's Vineyard?
Yes, about 60+ miles
Yes. Riding the whole perimeter of the island is 60 miles or more. Down-Island, paved bike paths connect Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, the State Forest, and South Beach. Up-Island, West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah have no designated bike paths, and the roads are narrow, winding, and hilly with little or no shoulder, so a full loop suits confident riders. Start early to avoid traffic, and remember that VTA buses carry 2 or 3 bikes on a front rack if you want to shorten the day.
See the up-Island routes
What is the longest paved bike path in Massachusetts?
Cape Cod Rail Trail
The Cape Cod Rail Trail is widely described as the longest bike trail in Massachusetts. It is a paved rail trail of roughly 22 to 27 miles, depending on which sections are counted, running from Yarmouth to Wellfleet on Cape Cod. On Martha's Vineyard, the longest single path is the one along the Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road, about 7 miles, and together the island's shared-use paths add up to more than 40 miles.
See the Vineyard routes
What is the best way to get around Martha's Vineyard?
Bike + VTA bus
Without a car, the easiest combination is a bike plus the Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) buses. Bike paths link the down-Island towns, and every VTA bus has an outside rack for 2 or 3 bikes, first come, first served. Bikes are not allowed inside buses, and some bikes (tandems, carts, some small kids' bikes) won't fit. Bicycles are also allowed on the ferries to the island, usually for an extra fee.
Plan a car-free day
Where can I rent bikes on Martha's Vineyard?
Oak Bluffs & Edgartown
Several shops rent bikes near the Oak Bluffs ferry and in downtown Edgartown, including All Star Bike Rentals in Oak Bluffs and Martha's Vineyard Bike Rentals in Edgartown. Most are open daily in season, roughly spring through fall. Call ahead in July and August.
See all rental shops
Can I bring my bike on the ferry?
Yes, usually for a fee
Yes. Bicycles are allowed on the ferries to Martha’s Vineyard, generally for an additional fee. Check with your ferry line for current prices.
Do kids have to wear a helmet?
Yes, 16 and under
Yes. In Massachusetts, cyclists 16 and under must wear a helmet. Wearing one is a good idea at any age.
Read the safety guide
Can you bike from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown?
Yes, 6 flat miles
Yes. A paved bike path runs about 6 flat miles along Beach Road between the two towns. It is the island’s most popular ride.
See the route
Is there a bike path from Vineyard Haven to Oak Bluffs?
Mostly roads
Only for short stretches. There are short shared-use path sections along Beach Road and Eastville Avenue near Vineyard Haven, but most of the 3-mile trip is on roads. East Chop Drive is quieter and more scenic than Beach Road.
See the route
