Located "down-island" on the western edge of Martha's Vineyard, Edgartown is a popular summer destination known for its white sand beaches, historic architecture and boutiques. From mid-May through September, the quiet island town is bustling with tourists from all over the world. In addition to beaches, shopping, bars and restaurants, the island features a handful of world class golf courses. Guests of the exclusive Vineyard Golf Club in Edgartown include President Barack Obama on his summer vacation in 2009. Call early to secure a tee time at this 2002 Donald Steel designed-course and see if you can beat the President's score.
Harbor View Hotel & Resort
The Harbor View Hotel & Resort was built in 1891 and overlooks the Edgartown lighthouse. The resort has expanded to 114 rooms in three separate facilities, each with their own distinctive style and views of the harbor. The resort offers six types of rooms, from simple one bedrooms to large suites overlooking the harbor. Voted "Best Hotel on Martha's Vineyard" by Martha's Vineyard and Cape Cod Magazines, the resort is a short walk from the center of Edgartown. There is a seasonal outdoor, heated pool on the premises and each room is outfitted with high-speed Internet access and cable television. The resort has access to the walking and biking trails that cut through the town.
Three dining options are available to guests: the Water Street Restaurant, which received Cape Cod Life Magazine's "Best Breakfast on the Island" award, the Newes from America Pub and Henry's Hotel Bar.
Harbor View Hotel & Resort
131 N. Water St.
Edgartown, MA 02539
(508) 627-7000
harbor-view.com
Edgartown Inn
A short walk to Old Lighthouse Beach, the Edgartown Inn is a converted residence which dates back to 1798. The inn has a long list of distinguished guests, such as John F. Kennedy and Daniel Webster. Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote Twice Told Tales while a guest at the inn. The decor strives to balance modern amenities while honoring the historical nature of the building.
The inn has 12 guest rooms available, some with harbor views and balconies. Adjacent to the inn are the Garden House with three rooms and Le Barn with two rooms available. Guests are invited to a country breakfast daily, which features homemade breads and muffins.
Edgartown Inn
56 N. Water St.
Edgartown, MA 02539
(508) 627-4794
edgartowninn.com
Colonial Inn & Suites
The Colonial Inn & Suites is centrally located in Edgartown overlooking the harbor and just a short walk from the town's boutiques, restaurants and bars. The Colonial has 34 suites available, all with air conditioning and wireless Internet access. The inn even makes room for man's best friend--bring your dog and stay in one of their dog-friendly suites. There is a fitness center, day spa and salon on site for all guests and afternoon tea is served daily in the atrium.
Several private spaces are available only for guests of the hotel, such as the rooftop veranda with sweeping views of the town and harbor, the garden courtyard and the wraparound porch with views of the harbor. Chesca's Restaurant is built off the lobby and is open seasonally for dinner. They have an extensive wine and cocktail menu to compliment their fresh seafood dishes.
Colonial Inn & Suites
38 N. Water St.
Edgartown, MA 02539
(508) 627-4711
colonialinnmvy.com
About The Author
Matt Manco is a freelance writer based in New England. A member of the award-winning Maroon student newspaper at Loyola University, his work has appeared across the Beacon Communications newspaper and magazine group as a local government reporter and photojournalist.