While there are plenty of public beaches on Martha's Vineyard, some beaches are reserved during the summer for town residents, or seasonal visitors staying in that particular town. These beaches require parking or beach permits from the issuing town hall. These restrictions are strictly enforced during the summer season, but not so year-round.

VINEYARD HAVEN

Lake Tashmoo Town Beach
Follow Herring Creek Road to discover Lake Tashmoo in Vineyard Haven. Tranquil, off-the-beaten-path spot for beach-going and fishing. Lifeguard.

Owen Park Beach
A peaceful beach overlooking Vineyard haven Harbor. Follow Main Street to Owen Park. Near the ferry dock and town center, Owen Park Beach is a perfect spot for relaxing any day. Lifeguard.

Tisbury Town Beach
Near The Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, Tisbury Town Beach (also called Owen Little Way Town Beach) is easily found at the end of Owen Little Way. Lifeguard.

OAK BLUFFS

Eastville Beach
Located at drawbridge between Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven on Beach Road, this quiet beach goes somewhat unnoticed but is only a 10-minute walk from downtown Vineyard Haven. Located at drawbridge, Eastville Beach is also a favorite island fishing spot.

Joseph A. Sylvia State Beach
Calm beach that follows Beach Road, between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. Surrounded by beautiful views of Nantucket Sound, Chappaquiddick Island and Sengenkontacket Pond, State Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and fishing. Gentle, shallow water ideal beach spot for families with small children. Paved bicycle path runs along the same stretch.

Oak Bluffs Town Beach
A very easy walk to downtown Oak Bluffs, this beach has gentle water and convenience. Starting near the Steamship Authority's (seasonal) terminal, Oak Bluffs Town Beach also runs along several parts of Beach Road before it connects with State Beach.

EDGARTOWN

Bend In The Road Beach
Located on the Edgartown end of Joseph A. Sylvia State Beach, which runs between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. Parking along Beach Road that offers views of both Nantucket Sound and Sengekontacket Pond. Popular beach with calm surf is perfect for families with small children. Gorgeous part of bike path. Lifeguard.

Fuller Street Beach
Near the Edgartown Lighthouse, overlooks Edgartown Harbor and offers views of historic captains' homes and Chappaquiddick. Parking here is very limited.

Lighthouse Beach
A short walk along North Water Street in downtown Edgartown brings you to this beach at Starbuck's Neck. Nearby Fuller Street Beach also attracts a crowd so parking is difficult during peak season - take convenient Park & Ride shuttle bus into town.

South Beach State Park/Katama
Off Edgartown's south shore, this barrier beach is known for excellent surf and views of Katama Bay. Very popular summertime beach. An exception to most island beaches, parking is usually available at South Beach. Lifeguard.

East Beach
Chappaquiddick/Cape Pogue Wildlife Refuge and Wasque Reservation. This beautiful and treasured beach is owned and preserved by The Trustees of Reservations, who charge a small fee for nonmembers (children 15 and under, free).

WEST TISBURY

Lambert's Cove Beach
Prized for fine sand and the bright, clear water typical of the island's North Shore, Lambert's Cove is a favorite Vineyard beach - complete with stunning views of Vineyard Sound and the Elizabeth Islands. Reserved for West Tisbury residents and guests during summer.

Long Point Wildlife Refuge Beach
Serene barrier beach known for South Shore surf and freshwater swimming in Long Cove Pond. Maintained year-round by The Trustees of Reservations. Limited parking (fee) in summer.

CHILMARK

Menemsha Public Beach
Calm North Shore beach popular among bathers and fishing enthusiasts alike. By Menemsha Harbor and facing Vineyard Sound, Menemsha Beach is considered the premiere sunset on the island. Lifeguard.

Lucy Vincent Beach
Facing the island's South Shore, Lucy Vincent is a favorite beach with gorgeous bluffs and terrific surf. Open to Chilmark residents, visitors, and inn guests with permit, a restriction severely enforced in summer.

Squibnocket Beach
Beautiful surf beach, open to Chilmark residents and guests with permit.

AQUINNAH

Moshup Beach
Gay Head's public beach known for its scenery and surf, Moshup Beach runs from Philbin Beach (Aquinnah residents only) to the Gay Head Cliffs. Follow Moshup Trail to parking lot ($15 during summertime). Scenic path leads from lot to beach area.

Note: *The Gay Head Cliffs were declared a National Landmark in the 1960's but still suffer from erosion and human impact; the cliff area and beach are off-limits to the general public.

Lobsterville Beach
Dune beach overlooking Vineyard Sound, parking here is limited.

Philbin Beach
Aquinnah residents only, parking with town permit.

Head of the Pond Beach
Aquinnah residents only, parking with town permit.