Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most storied summer getaway spots in New England, and with good reason. The island has all the charm of coastal New England in an environment that’s surprisingly unpretentious. Despite the plethora of wealthy summer residents (hi, Obama), the island is also home to working farms, a strong Indigenous community, and a diverse group of visitors.
On my most recent trip to Martha’s Vineyard I had the pleasure of staying at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort in Edgartown. Sister property to The Nantucket Hotel, Winnetu offers all the upscale perks of a boutique experience but with the attentive customer service and charm of a small inn.
The rooms on site are bright and spacious and come in a variety of styles. Visitors can opt for more traditional hotel room or a suite with a full fridge, kitchenette, and balcony. The suites are equipped with a sitting area and pull down bed, ideal for accommodating a family.
The rooms are beautiful and the views are bask-worthy, but it’s the grounds that truly stun at this property. The incredibly expansive lawn that stretches out behind Winnetu features a small pond surrounded by Adirondack chairs and a mini lighthouse beloved by young visitors. Picnic tables, yard games, and even a sculpture by local artist Tom Maley also adorn the property.
An interior courtyard features a ping pong table and a giant chess board, plus fire pits where you can roast s’mores with complimentary kits provided by the hotel. I don’t have any children but there were lots of families visiting while we were there and it seemed like the ideal place to bring little travelers.
The large pool is a perfect way to cool off on warm days, or you can take the five minute path to South Beach. Beach chairs and towels are provided in every room.
The Dunes is Winnetu’s on site restaurant and it’s not to be missed. Start the evening off with craft cocktails at the bar. This summer the bar is managed by Taylor and she’s an absolute delight and makes an excellent drink. The tropical feel of the beverage menu pairs perfectly with the oceanside setting.
The Dunes’ new executive chef, Chef Michael Hervieux, has deep roots in the New England area. He combines classic New England dishes with innovative twists and uses fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Above are oysters by local company Signature Oysters, they were divine, very clean and light on brine, an extremely accessible oyster. Winnetu partners with Signature Oysters so guests can go out on the oyster boat and farm them with the crew.
Here is the New England Fish Pot, a personal portion take on a clambake with lobster tail and claw, native littlenecks, mussels, grilled chourico, sweet corn, and marbled potato in a lemon herb broth.
If you’re traveling to Martha’s Vineyard, a stay at Winnetu is one of the best ways to do it. There are countless activities on the property as well as fine dining and easy access to the beach. A free shuttle from the property brings you into Edgartown for all the sites and sounds of Jaws’ Martha’s Vineyard. Minus the shark that is.
*Please note: I was provided with a complimentary stay by The Winnetu, but all opinions expressed are my own.