Favs
Favs!
I first came to Martha’s Vineyard when I was in my twenties and fell immediately, irrevocable in love with the Island. I’m intrigued by its history, enthralled by its beauty, and inspired by its people and lifestyle. When I’m not writing or sitting on the beach soaking up the sun, these are a few of my favorite Island things.
MV Goat Yoga
Baby goats. Cute, fuzzy, cuddly, and adorably noisy. Plus yoga with Josey at bucolic Native Earth Teaching Farm in Chilmark. ‘Nuff said.
Hiking the Land Bank Trails
…and the public trails offered by Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation, Trustees of the Reservation and others. My favorite hikes are Cedar Tree Neck, Waskosim’s Rock Reservation, Quansoo Farm, and Short Cove. Download the TrailsMV app and start exploring!
Island Farm Stands
Mermaid Farm on Middle Road in Chilmark. To-die-for lassi and a great selection of veggies and cheeses. Their Kings Highway cheese is in stiff competition with Eidolon cheese from the Grey Barn Farm stand on South Road. And don’t forget biggest-and-best of them all, Morning Glory Farm in Edgartown.
Alley's General Store
Since 1858, Alley’s has been the heart of West Tisbury. Owned by the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust, it is still my go-to store for essentials (milk, bread, cookies) and a few non-essentials (an adorable cow-painted butter dish). Recently restored and a delight to visit.
NOW SELLING “GOATS”!!! Thanks Alley’s!
Galleries
My favorite is Allen Whiting’s gallery in the Davis House in West Tisbury. “A farmer who paints,” he captures the Vineyard and its shapes like no one else. The Granary is a close second — room after room of paintings and sculpture beautifully curated. And when you are in Menemsha, be sure to stop by the Copperworks Gallery featuring Scott’s copper art and great nautical paintings.
Yes, it’s a long drive (or bus ride) to the far western end of the Island, but worth the trip—especially if you stop in the adorable fishing village of Menemsha for lobster rolls and chowder at the Menemsha Fish Market or Larsen’s, and a chocolate malt frappe at The Galley. The breathtaking Gay Head cliffs can be viewed from the overlook at the top near the lighthouse and/or via beach walk around the head—but watch out for the tides.(And a few nudies!) To get to the beach, park at the top—yes, it is expensive—and walk down the path to the public access point on Moshups Trail. (Insider’s tip – stop for a cocktail and nibbles at Outermost Inn on your way home.)