Edgartown Beaches

On the island of Chappaquiddick, East Beach is one of the finest on Martha’s Vineyard. The surf is calm, and the scenery peaceful. Vehicle access is available either by way of Chappy's On-Time ferry, or by oversand drive from one of Martha's Vineyard's two drive-on beaches (permit required). East Beach is also close to the Norton Point Breach that leads into Edgartown Harbor, a recent and popular phenomenon frequented by fishermen and sightseers alike. East Beach is open to all, but is subject to the regulations of The Trustees of Reservations, who perform general upkeep  and maintenence of the beach.

Fuller Street Beach sits in the heart of Edgartown at the end of Fuller Street. It is located a safe distance away from the bustle of harbor activity, yet still close enough to admire the passing harbor goers. Calm water makes it a great spot for families and kids while the nearby Eel Pond provides a sheltered spot for those seeking an alternative beach experience. Access by foot or bicycle is recommended due to limited parking.

Joseph Sylvia State Beach stretches along two miles of clear, mild beach between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs (the Edgartown portion is often called Bend-in-the-Road Beach). Calm surf and soft sand make State Beach an ideal destination for families with small children. For older children there is the option of jumping off Memorial Bridge, of one of two bridges spanning the gaps between the beach and Sengekontacket Pond. Sengekontacket Pond is located directly behind the beach and is ideal for wind and kite surfing as well those seeking a safe area to jet ski. On street parking is available (although quickly fills during peak summer months), as well as access by bike path from Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

An Edgartown harbor beach at the juncture of Starbucks Neck and North Water Street, just a short walk to downtown. Lighthouse Beach, with its famous lighthouse and calm water, is the perfect venue for taking in nearby bustle of harbor activity. The comings and goings of local fishermen as well as the frequent trips of the Chappy's On-Time ferry are just a few of the sights to be had from the beach. This historic beach is perfect for relaxing and taking in the view after an afternnon or evening on the town, and an ideal place to fish from the shore into the depths of the harbor. The lighthouse itself is one of five located on the island and, when coupled with the harbor, completes a picturesque backdrop worthy of any photo opportunity. Access by foot or bicycle is recommended due to limited parking.

South Beach stretches three miles of south shore barrier beach, with big surf at one end, and a protected salt-pond at the other. As Edgartown’s largest and most popular beach, crowds are often found surfing, sunbathing, and people watching. South Beach has a large main parking lot, and ample roadside parking that span its length. The beach also has plenty of changing stations situated at most entry junctures. South Beach is one of two island beaches permitting oversand driving (permit required) and is perfect for those wanting to visit the popular breach at Norton Point, an ideal fishing and scenic spot extending to the Edgartown Harbor.