What Are The Best Tours & Things To Do In Marthas Vineyard? Our Top 15 Picks

Martha’s Vineyard offers a unique blend of charming towns, historic landmarks, and cinematic history, making it a perfect destination for sightseeing tours and things to do. Whether you’re interested in private customized explorations, historical bus rides, or exploring famous movie sites like Jaws, you’ll find options that suit all interests and budgets.

We love the Private, Guided Sightseeing Tour of Martha’s Vineyard, which offers a personalized experience in a luxury minivan, and the All Island Bus Tour for a quick overview with local stories. With so many options, you’re guaranteed to find a tour that makes your trip memorable.

Quick Overview

Our list includes private tours, small-group excursions, and themed experiences like the Jaws movie locations or African American heritage tours. There are options for all budgets, from under $20 self-guided audio tours to luxury private experiences costing over $500 per group.

Each offers a different way to see the island’s highlights, whether that’s the iconic Aquinnah Cliffs, Edgartown’s whaling history, or the colorful gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs. Now, let’s get into the details.

1. Private, Guided Sightseeing Tour of Martha’s Vineyard Island

If you want to see Martha’s Vineyard in style and comfort, this private, guided tour is hard to beat. It lasts about three hours and allows you to explore the island at your own pace with a local guide. For around $650 per group (up to five people), you get a luxury minivan, personalized stops, and insider knowledge.

The itinerary includes a drive past the Steamship Authority Wharf, scenic West Chop Lighthouse, and the Aquinnah Cliffs, with plenty of photo stops and time for questions.

What makes this tour special is the flexibility—either morning or afternoon—so you can tailor the experience to your schedule. The guide, Craig, is praised for his engaging storytelling and deep local knowledge. Reviewers say, “Craig did a fantastic job,” and it’s clear that a private tour like this is perfect for families or small groups wanting a bespoke experience.

Bottom line: If you want a personalized, relaxed way to absorb Martha’s Vineyard’s sights and stories, this private tour delivers. It’s a bit pricier but offers the intimacy and flexibility that many travelers cherish.

2. All Island Bus Tour

For those visiting Martha’s Vineyard for the first time and craving an overview, the All Island Bus Tour offers an efficient, guided ride around the major highlights. Priced at just $75 per person and lasting about three hours, it’s an affordable way to sample the island.

Led by a friendly local guide, the tour covers Aquinnah Cliffs, Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, and the historic Gingerbread Cottages, with stops for shopping, sightseeing, and snacks.

Guests love the storytelling aspect—owners pass around shells and wool, making it engaging for all ages. The review “Stan was fantastic,” reflects the tour’s reputation for knowledgeable guides and personal touches. It’s especially suited for first-timers or travelers on a tight schedule who want a broad overview with minimal hassle.

Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those wanting to learn about Martha’s Vineyard’s culture and history without the need for extensive walking or private arrangements. It balances affordability with a personal touch.

3. Best of Martha’s Vineyard 3-hour Full-Island Tour

If your goal is to get a quick but comprehensive look at the six towns of Martha’s Vineyard, this full-island tour hits the mark. Over three hours, you’ll visit Edgartown, Menemsha, Oak Bluffs, and the Aquinnah Cliffs, with stops at filming sites from Jaws and the famous Jaws Bridge.

This tour is well-regarded for its balance—covering iconic spots like the whaling captain’s homes, the harbor where Jaws was filmed, and local attractions like the oldest merry-go-round in the country.

The guide, Liz, combines humor with detailed insights, making the experience lively and memorable. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour maintains a personal touch while efficiently covering the highlights. Reviewers mention, “Our guide Liz was very knowledgeable,” and appreciate the mix of history, pop culture, and scenic beauty.

Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers or those with limited time who want to see the essentials of Martha’s Vineyard without rushing or missing key spots.

4. Down Island Tour with One Hour in Edgartown

This three-hour guided bus tour offers a fantastic way to explore Martha’s Vineyard’s down-island towns, including Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and Vineyard Haven.

Starting from the Vineyard Haven ferry, you’ll visit Oak Bluffs’ colorful cottages, East Chop Lighthouse, and the Jaws filming sites. The highlight is a full hour in Edgartown—once the whaling capital—where you can stroll, shop, or grab a bite.

Your local guide, Stan, is praised for his storytelling, blending history with personal anecdotes. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for many travelers. With reviews like “Stan was very knowledgeable,” it’s clear this tour appeals to those seeking a deeper understanding of the island’s past and present within a short time.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for visitors who want a focused yet rich tour of Martha’s Vineyard’s key towns, with an extra hour to explore Edgartown.

5. Martha’s Vineyard Luxury Tour (2hrs)

For a truly private, upscale experience, this Luxury Tour is designed for small groups of up to five people. Over about two hours, the driver narrates stories while you pass through Vineyard Haven, West Chop, Katama Beach, and Edgartown’s historic streets. The tour includes stops at West Chop Lighthouse, with its charming architecture, and scenic views of the Elizabeth Islands.

Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to learn about local celebrities and history in a relaxed setting. “The guide was very knowledgeable,” says one reviewer, emphasizing the custom nature of the experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate, flexible tour that can include photo stops and tailored commentary.

Bottom line: Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a private, luxurious tour with a relaxed pace and personalized storytelling.

6. Martha Vineyard Bus Tour

This three-hour bus tour stands out by offering four stops to get off and explore—not just drive by. The itinerary includes East Chop Lighthouse, Menemsha, Aquinnah Cliffs, and Morning Glory Farm.

It’s perfect for travelers who want some walking time and a bit more interaction with the sites. The tour features a unique onboard screen that shows historical images, providing context for the present-day view.

The owner’s personal approach impressed visitors; one reviewer shared, “They personally took us on a different tour when others were booked.” The tour price is $60 per person, making it a good value considering the in-depth experience.

Bottom line: Best for curious travelers who appreciate a mix of guided commentary and opportunities to stroll and take photos.

7. All New Shared Jaws Tour Budget Friendly

Movie buffs will love this Jaws-themed tour that takes you to key filming locations like the Jaws Bridge, Quint’s house, and Amity Ville. For $130, you get about four hours exploring the island’s Jaws history, with stops for photos and stories about the filming process. The tour includes a visit over the Jaws Bridge, one of the island’s top attractions, and plenty of non-published movie trivia.

The tour is highly rated for its engaging narration and the chance to see real filming sites. Reviewers mention, “We loved the stories about the actors and filming,” and it’s perfect for fans of the movie or anyone interested in film history.

Bottom line: A great pick for movie fans wanting an affordable, fun, and film-focused experience.

8. 4 Hours Hop-on Hop-off Jawsome Jaws Tour

This interactive tour offers a flexible hop-on, hop-off experience focused on all things Jaws. Over four hours, you’ll visit Jaws filming sites like Oak Bluffs Harbor, Gay Head Lighthouse, and South Beach. The tour includes trivia contests with prizes, making it lively and engaging.

While it covers many locations, you can customize your visit, making it suitable for movie enthusiasts who want a more personalized experience. Reviewers appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to explore at their own pace.

Bottom line: Ideal for Jaws fans who want a fun, interactive tour that lets them choose where to linger.

9. Martha’s Vineyard Driving & Walking GPS-Guided Audio Tour

Looking for a self-paced adventure? This GPS-guided tour blends driving and walking, guiding you through key sites like Inkwell Beach, the Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, and the historic houses of Oak Bluffs. Priced at just $14.99, it’s an excellent budget choice for independent travelers.

Listeners rave about the detailed commentary, from the origins of the gingerbread cottages to the underground railroad history. The tour covers 2 to 3 hours of exploration—perfect for those wanting flexibility. Reviewers say, “I appreciated the detailed stories,” though some note it’s a bit battery-intensive.

Bottom line: A good option for independent travelers who want to learn at their own pace with a comprehensive audio guide.

10. Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided (APP/GPS) Audio Walking Tour

This self-guided walking tour is perfect for exploring Edgartown at your own pace. For just $7.75 per person, you’ll see the whaling church, the oldest buildings, and spots used in Jaws. The tour includes stories about the town’s settlers, ghosts, and famous residents like the Kennedys.

The narration helps you imagine what the town was like centuries ago, but some reviews mention it can drain phone batteries quickly. Still, it’s a cost-effective way to get a detailed look at Edgartown without a group.

Bottom line: Best for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration with rich storytelling.

11. Best 3-Hour Martha’s Vineyard Shared Island Tour from Oak Bluffs

This popular small-group tour departs from Oak Bluffs and explores Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and the Aquinnah Cliffs in just three hours. With over 1,200 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it’s a proven favorite. You’ll visit the oldest carousel, learn about the whaling industry, and stop at the iconic Aquinnah Cliffs with a 15-minute break.

The guide, Matt, is praised for his deep knowledge and friendly approach. Many say it’s a perfect way to see the main attractions quickly without feeling rushed.

Bottom line: An excellent option for travelers staying in Oak Bluffs who want an efficient, personal tour of the island’s highlights.

12. Martha’s Vineyard Venture Scavenger Hunt

For a fun, interactive experience, this scavenger hunt uses your smartphone to guide you through Martha’s Vineyard’s landmarks. You’ll learn about the island’s culture and history through challenges and trivia, competing against other players. It’s a different way to see the island, especially for families or groups looking for a playful challenge.

The tour is affordable at $27 per person and offers the chance to extend the experience for free. Reviewers mention it’s engaging and a great way to explore at your own pace.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy gaming and learning simultaneously, and want a flexible, budget-friendly adventure.

13. Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard Audio Tour

This audio tour takes you through Oak Bluffs, with stops at Ocean Park, Inkwell Beach, and the gingerbread cottages. It’s priced at $12.99 and lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. The narration covers the town’s transformation from a religious camp into a popular vacation spot, sharing stories about the Camp Meeting Association and local icons.

Reviewers enjoy the rich stories but note that it can drain phone batteries. It’s a good choice for travelers looking for a guided experience without a guide, at a low cost.

Bottom line: Suitable for visitors wanting a quick but informative self-guided exploration of Oak Bluffs.

14. New Budget-Friendly Shared 4-hour African American Heritage Tour

Explore Martha’s Vineyard’s African American history on this four-hour small-group tour. Highlights include the Grace Church, the underground railroad connections in Menemsha, and notable figures like Nancy and William Marti. The tour also touches on the history of the Wampanoag and local landmarks like Nancy Luce’s chicken farm.

This tour is a meaningful way to understand the island’s diverse cultural roots, with reviews waiting to come in. It’s perfect for history buffs and those interested in social history.

Bottom line: A thoughtful, educational tour ideal for travelers interested in Martha’s Vineyard’s African American heritage and community stories.

15. Discovering Oak Bluffs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Finally, this self-guided walking tour focuses on Oak Bluffs’ evolution into a vibrant vacation destination. Starting at Ocean Park and ending at Inkwell Beach, it covers the town’s gingerbread cottages, the Camp Meeting Association, and local legends.

Priced at $11.99 per person, it offers a detailed narration that makes the exploration educational and fun. Some reviews mention the app’s difficulty in navigation, but overall it’s a good budget option for those wanting to dig into Oak Bluffs’ story at their own pace.

Bottom line: Perfect for independent explorers interested in local architecture and cultural sites, with an affordable price.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When selecting your Martha’s Vineyard experience, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you have. For a personalized, luxurious outing, the Private Guided Tour is ideal.

If you prefer a broad overview with minimal planning, the All Island Bus Tour offers a good balance of sights and stories. For movie fans, the Jaws tours—Jaws Budget Tour and the Jaws Hop-on Hop-off—bring film locations vividly to life.

Those interested in history and culture will appreciate the African American Heritage Tour, while budget travelers can opt for self-guided options like the Edgartown walking tour. Remember, booking early is wise—especially in peak season—to ensure your preferred tour date and size.

Martha’s Vineyard offers a range of tours to suit all tastes. Whether you choose a luxury private experience or an interactive scavenger hunt, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of this charming island. With so many options, planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your visit—and perhaps even inspire a second trip to uncover more hidden stories.