Martha’s Vineyard offers a wide range of tour experiences that highlight its charming towns, stunning coastlines, and movie fame. Its scenic beauty and rich stories make it a favorite for travelers eager to see more than just the usual highlights. We especially love the Private Guided Sightseeing Tour for its personalized pace and insider knowledge, and the All Island Bus Tour for a quick, rundown ideal for first-timers. Whether you prefer a private experience, a guided bus trip, or a self-guided adventure, Martha’s Vineyard has options for every interest and schedule.
One thing’s for sure—these tours provide a deeper look into the island’s character, from its iconic lighthouses to famous movie sites. For instance, the Private, Guided Sightseeing Tour of Martha’s Vineyard Island offers a relaxed, tailored experience with local insights, perfect if you want to see the highlights at your own pace. Meanwhile, the All Island Bus Tour is great for a quick, engaging overview, especially if you’re pressed for time or traveling with a group.
1. Private, Guided Sightseeing Tour of Martha’s Vineyard Island
If you want a custom, intimate look at Martha’s Vineyard, this private 3-hour tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to explore the island’s most scenic spots in comfort. The tour is conducted in a luxury minivan, driven by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories about the area—think lighthouses, historic homes, and coastal overlooks. The itinerary is flexible, with options to start in the morning or afternoon, letting you pick what fits your schedule.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized attention and the chance for plenty of photo stops, including West Chop Lighthouse and the Aquinnah Cliffs. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, describing it as “an enjoyable visit at our own leisurely pace.” It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a tailored experience with lots of local insights. The $650 price per group makes it a premium experience, but the focused, private nature offers excellent value for those wanting to maximize their time on Martha’s Vineyard.
Bottom Line: For privacy and a custom experience, this tour excels, especially if you want to avoid large crowds and hear behind-the-scenes stories.
2. All Island Bus Tour
A favorite for first-time visitors, the All Island Bus Tour offers an efficient way to see a broad swath of Martha’s Vineyard in about three hours. Led by a local guide, this tour takes you from the scenic Aquinnah Cliffs to the historic Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, weaving in stories about the island’s past and present. Tasting and shopping stops are included, giving a true sense of the local culture.
This tour’s highlight is the chance to see the Gingerbread Cottages and the Gay Head Lighthouse, with plenty of time for photos and souvenirs. Guests love the mix of storytelling and sightseeing, often describing the experience as “very well organized” and appreciating the personal touch of the guide. The price is affordable at $75 per person, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers or those new to Martha’s Vineyard who want a quick but rundown.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers and those with limited time, this tour provides a solid snapshot of the island’s highlights with engaging commentary.
3. Best of Martha’s Vineyard 3-Hour Full-Island Tour
For a broader look at the island’s six towns in just three hours, the Best of Martha’s Vineyard 3-Hour Full-Island Tour hits the mark. This tour covers the historic whaling homes in Edgartown, the colorful gingerbread cottages, and the famous Jaws filming sites, including the iconic Jaws Bridge. It’s a quick, lively introduction suited for travelers who want a taste of everything.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, guests rave about the “enjoyable trip” and the “fascinating stories about the filming of Jaws.” The small group size (maximum 14) encourages a more personal experience. Pricing at $65 per person makes it a good value for those eager to see multiple highlights without a full day commitment. The tour is especially popular with visitors interested in movie history and classic New England architecture.
Bottom Line: A great choice for first-time visitors wanting to see a wide range of sights and learn the island’s film history in a relaxed setting.
4. Down Island Tour with One Hour in Edgartown
If you’re looking for a relaxed, 2.5-hour tour that includes a dedicated hour to explore Edgartown, this Down Island Tour is a smart pick. Starting from the Vineyard Haven ferry, it’s designed for visitors who want a taste of Martha’s Vineyard’s historic whaling port and its charming streets. The tour includes highlights like Oak Bluffs, the Jaws filming sites, and the Edgartown waterfront.
The highlight here is the hour you get in Edgartown—time enough to shop, stroll, and take photos of the iconic whaling captain’s homes. The guide provides local insights, including stories about Nancy Luce, the chicken lady, and other local legends. The tour often receives praise for its knowledgeable guide Stan, who “told us stories about his youth on the island.” At $65 per person, it’s a good value for a quick, comprehensive tour with a dedicated visit to Edgartown.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a brief overview with a substantial stop in Edgartown to soak in the town’s character.
5. Martha’s Vineyard Luxury Tour (2hrs)
For those seeking a private, upscale experience, the Martha’s Vineyard Luxury Tour offers a bespoke journey for groups of up to five. This private 2-hour tour is tailored to your interests as we drive along the scenic coast, stopping for photos at West Chop Lighthouse and passing the West Chop Club. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a more intimate and relaxed experience without the rush.
The guide discusses local celebrity sightings, historical facts, and the island’s scenery, all in a luxury vehicle. Guests describe the experience as “very personalized and engaging,” with the guide sharing stories about the famous people who summer here. The $525 price per group offers good value for a private experience, particularly for couples or small groups who want exclusivity and comfort.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a private, detailed tour that emphasizes comfort and tailored insights.
6. Martha’s Vineyard Bus Tour
The Martha’s Vineyard Bus Tour is a solid, budget-friendly option that stands out with its four stop-offs allowing passengers to step out and explore. The tour includes East Chop Lighthouse, Menemsha, the Aquinnah Cliffs, and Morning Glory Farm. The unique feature is the screen at the front of the bus, showing historical imagery that enhances understanding of the island’s past.
Customers note the driver, Stan, as “knowledgeable and personable,” and appreciate the personal insight he shares during the ride. The $60 per person fee makes it a good option for travelers who want a guided experience but prefer to keep costs in check. The tour’s moderate length and interactive presentation make it suitable for families and casual visitors.
Bottom Line: Great for budget-conscious travelers who want a guided tour with meaningful stops and educational content.
7. All New Shared Jaws Tour Budget Friendly
Movie fans will love the Shared Jaws Tour, a 4-hour journey through the filming locations of the classic movie. It’s a budget-friendly, shared experience that takes you to the Jaws bridge, Captain Quint’s house, and other key sites, all with stories about behind-the-scenes moments. The tour also lets you take photos at iconic spots and hear stories about the actors and filming.
Guests rave about the guide’s storytelling and the opportunity to learn non-published stories about the movie. At $130 per person, it’s an affordable way to combine the island’s scenic sites with film history. The tour’s length and focus make it ideal for movie buffs or families interested in the iconic film.
Bottom Line: Perfect for movie enthusiasts who want a fun, informative experience at a reasonable price.
8. 4 Hours Hop-on Hop-off Jawsome Jaws Tour
This Hop-on Hop-off Jaws Tour offers flexibility for fans of the film, with stops at Edgartown Beach, Jaws Bridge, Menemsha, and Gay Head Lighthouse. You can hop off to explore or stay on for the full 4 hours. Special trivia contests and surprises make it more interactive, giving a more engaging experience with movie behind-the-scenes stories.
The tour is designed for film fans who want to see the filming sites at their own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities. The $120 price includes multiple stops, making it a value-packed option for those who like a flexible schedule. The tour’s highlights include the famous Jaws filming locations and scenic spots around Martha’s Vineyard.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Jaws fans wanting a flexible, interactive tour that combines sightseeing with film lore.
9. Martha’s Vineyard Driving & Walking GPS-Guided Audio Tour
If you prefer to explore independently, this GPS-guided audio tour offers a flexible way to see Martha’s Vineyard at your own pace. It includes driving and walking segments through Oak Bluffs, with commentary on the Wampanoag, the gingerbread houses, and famous residents.
Guests appreciate the detailed narration, describing it as “thorough and engaging,” though some mention the drain on phone batteries. It’s a cost-effective way to discover the island without a guide, especially if you enjoy self-paced sightseeing. Designed for travelers comfortable with technology, it suits those seeking control over their schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for tech-savvy travelers who want a self-guided tour with rich storytelling.
10. Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided (APP/GPS) Audio Walking Tour
This self-guided walking tour is excellent for exploring Edgartown at your own pace. It covers highlights like the Jaws filming sites, historic homes, the lighthouse, and secret spots. The narration offers insights into the settlers, Native Americans, and local legends, making it a personalized experience.
Guests highlight the ease of use and the depth of information, describing it as “a great way to learn the town’s stories.” The price is very affordable at $7.75 per person, making it accessible for budget travelers. Ideal for people who love to walk and want to absorb local stories while exploring.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent explorers who want a rich, self-paced experience with detailed narration.
11. Best 3-Hour Martha’s Vineyard Shared Island Tour from Oak Bluffs
This shared half-day tour from Oak Bluffs packs highlights into just three hours. It covers Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and the Aquinnah Cliffs, with stories about island life and history. The small group size (14 people max) means you’ll get more personal attention from the guide, who is praised for their deep local knowledge.
Guests note it as “very informative” and appreciate the ability to see several attractions quickly. The $65 fee makes it a practical choice for travelers who want a quick, comprehensive introduction without a full day’s commitment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with limited time who want a guided overview of Martha’s Vineyard’s top sights.
$65.00 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a tour in Martha’s Vineyard, consider your interests and schedule. If you love a tailored experience, the Private Guided Sightseeing Tour offers personalized insights. For first-timers or quick visits, the All Island Bus Tour provides a broad overview at an affordable rate. Movie fans should consider the Jaws Tours for behind-the-scenes stories, while history buffs might enjoy the Self-Guided Audio Tour.
Budget travelers can opt for self-guided options like the GPS Audio Tour, and those seeking exclusivity will value the (Luxury Tour). Remember to book early, especially in high season, and check the length and focus of each tour to match your interests.
To sum it up, Martha’s Vineyard offers a variety of tours to suit all tastes—from private and luxury experiences to film locations and self-guided explorations. Two or three standout options include the private Guided Sightseeing Tour for a tailored day and the All Island Bus Tour for a quick, rundown. If you’re a movie fan, don’t miss the Jaws Tours. Whatever your travel style, early booking is wise—Martha’s Vineyard fills up fast, especially during summer weekends.