Martha’s Vineyard’s shoreline folds into sheltered inlets, working harbors and quiet coves that shape the island’s boating, fishing and beach habits. Whether you’re scouting a launch point, planning a shoreline walk, or compiling coordinates for a trip, the bays are the easiest way to break down the coast.
There are 5 Bays in Martha’s Vineyard, ranging from Edgartown Harbor to Vineyard Haven Harbor. The list shows the columns Town, Coordinates (°), and Access & activities for each bay — you’ll find below.
Which bays are best for kayaking or paddleboarding?
Look for bays with protected water and public launch points; smaller harbors and coves often offer calmer conditions. Edgartown Harbor tends to be sheltered and popular with paddlecraft, while quieter coves away from major ferry channels give gentler water; always check wind and tide forecasts before heading out.
Can I reach these bays easily without a private boat?
Yes — many bays have town docks, public beaches or nearby parking and launch ramps, and towns like Vineyard Haven and Edgartown are served by ferries and shuttles. If you need a launch or rental, check the Access & activities column for each bay for specifics before you go.
Bays in Martha’s Vineyard
| Name | Town | Coordinates (°) | Access & activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vineyard Haven Harbor | Tisbury | 41.46 N, 70.61 W | Ferries, public docks; boating, fishing, swimming |
| Edgartown Harbor | Edgartown | 41.38 N, 70.49 W | Public slips, town dock; boating, whale-watching, dining |
| Oak Bluffs Harbor | Oak Bluffs | 41.47 N, 70.58 W | Public marina, town dock; ferry, sailing, fishing, sightseeing |
| Menemsha Harbor | Chilmark | 41.36 N, 70.88 W | Town dock and ramp; fishing, charters, sunsets |
| Katama Bay | Edgartown | 41.37 N, 70.51 W | Shore access, seasonal launches; kayaking, clamming, swimming |
Images and Descriptions
Vineyard Haven Harbor
Major deepwater harbor on the island’s north shore, home to the Steamship Authority ferries and lively waterfront. Easy shore access, marinas, and protected anchorage make it popular with visiting boaters and fishermen; tidal currents notable near the channel.
Edgartown Harbor
Sheltered harbor off Katama Bay with a working waterfront and historic wharves. Popular for charter boats, whale-watch departures, and paddle sports; scenic lighthouse views and straightforward access to Nantucket Sound and nearby beaches for visitors.
Oak Bluffs Harbor
Busy harbor adjacent to downtown Oak Bluffs with ferries and marinas. Family-friendly shorefront, a walkable harbor park, and launch ramps attract day-trippers, sailboats, and anglers; vibrant summer scene with regular harbor traffic and paddle access.
Menemsha Harbor
Working fishing harbor on the island’s rugged west end, noted for seafood shacks and dramatic sunsets. Offers public ramps, moorings and commercial activity; gateway to Vineyard Sound and nearby Elizabeth Islands, with careful navigation advised around rocks and currents.
Katama Bay
Shallow bay south of Edgartown and Chappaquiddick protected by barrier beaches and dunes. Popular for paddle sports, clamming, and relaxed beach days; rich birdlife in marsh edges and easy access to open water via local inlets.
