Oak Bluffs Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Oak Bluffs is primarily accessed via ferry services operating from several mainland ports including Woods Hole, Hyannis, New Bedford, and Falmouth in Massachusetts, with journey times ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on departure point. The Steamship Authority and Hy-Line Cruises operate year-round and seasonal services respectively, with increased frequency during summer months. For those driving to catch the ferry, ample parking is available at mainland terminals, though reservations are strongly recommended during peak season. Once on Martha's Vineyard, the ferry terminal in Oak Bluffs is conveniently located within walking distance of the town center, with taxis and seasonal shuttle buses readily available for onward travel across the island.

Perched on the northeastern shore of Martha's Vineyard, Oak Bluffs welcomes visitors with its distinctive Victorian charm and lively waterfront atmosphere. This vibrant seaside town blends historic character with modern beach resort appeal, serving as a key gateway for ferry travelers to the island. From the moment you step off the ferry, Oak Bluffs promises a quintessential New England coastal experience with its gingerbread cottages, bustling harbor, and relaxed island ambiance.

Oak Bluffs experiences classic New England seasons, with summer (June-August) bringing warm temperatures, bustling activity, and the fullest range of open businesses and attractions. Late spring (May) and early fall (September-October) offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation rates while still maintaining decent ferry schedules. The annual Grand Illumination Night in August transforms the town's famous campground into a magical display of colorful lanterns, making it a particularly special time to visit. Winter brings a quieter, more authentic island experience with reduced ferry services but provides a peaceful atmosphere for those seeking solitude and local character without the summer crowds.

Oak Bluffs serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Martha's Vineyard's diverse towns and landscapes. Vineyard Haven lies just a short 10-minute bus ride away, offering charming shops and a year-round working harbor. The elegant town of Edgartown, with its stately sea captains' homes and upscale boutiques, is accessible via a picturesque 15-minute ferry ride or bus journey. For nature enthusiasts, the dramatic clay cliffs of Aquinnah can be reached in about 45 minutes by bus from Oak Bluffs. During summer months, short ferry hops connect Oak Bluffs to Nantucket (about 1 hour), allowing for fascinating day trips between these two distinctive island destinations.

Oak Bluffs captivates visitors with its unique collection of colorful gingerbread cottages in the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, a national historic landmark featuring over 300 whimsically decorated Victorian-era homes. Beach lovers will appreciate Oak Bluffs Town Beach and nearby Inkwell Beach, both offering gentle waters perfect for families. The Flying Horses Carousel, America's oldest operating platform carousel, provides nostalgic entertainment for all ages. Culinary adventures await at waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, particularly the island's famous clam chowder and lobster rolls. The Ocean Park area, with its expansive green space facing Nantucket Sound, offers an ideal spot for relaxation and people-watching after disembarking from the ferry.

Oak Bluffs holds the distinction of being home to America's oldest continuously operating carousel, the Flying Horses, which was brought to the island in 1884 after initially operating in Coney Island. The town was historically known as a Methodist camp meeting site before evolving into one of America's first planned summer resort communities for the middle class. Oak Bluffs has deep significance in African American history, with Inkwell Beach serving as an important gathering place for Black vacationers since the late 19th century when the town became one of the first resort destinations where African Americans could purchase property. The annual Grand Illumination tradition dates back to 1869, when Chinese paper lanterns were first hung to create a magical atmosphere in the campground.