A Local's Guide to Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is calling.

Early risers can catch a glimpse of Edgartown’s stunning setting at dawn

No New England summer would be complete without a visit to the Vineyard—and many A-listers, from the Obamas to Diane Sawyer, agree. Savor every moment of this estival escape, thanks to island expert Bernard Chiu. As the owner of the destination’s most sought-after stay, the Harbor View Hotel (harborviewhotel.com), he curated the perfect day of isle delights.

Bernard Chiu.

7:30 a.m.
MORNING STROLL
Lighthouse Beach and Downtown Historic Edgartown
“Begin your day with a jog or a leisurely walk to Lighthouse Beach or along the brick sidewalks of North Water Street, which will lead you to historic Edgartown. During your walk, you will be able to experience the harbor views and fresh Vineyard air.”

8:30 a.m.
BREAKFAST AND COFFEE
Behind the Bookstore, btbmv.com
“If you are a coffee lover, stop at Behind the Bookstore in Edgartown. It’s a charming spot with amazing baristas who make all kinds of specialty coffees like cappuccino, matcha, chai latte and more. They also offer breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast and delicious pastries. Say ‘Hi’ to my friend Misha while you are there.”

The Mytoi Japanese Gardens on Chappaquiddick Island.

10:00 a.m.
BIKE AND EXPLORE
Chappaquiddick Island
“An unforgettable experience is a trip to Chappaquiddick Island—a 10-minute ferry from Edgartown. The best way to explore the island is by bike or off-road vehicle. There is a paved road through the island, and for those who want to venture off the beaten path, follow the split in the road that takes you along a dirt path to Mytoi Japanese Gardens and East Beach. Deflate your tires and drive onto the beach for a day of tailgating.”

1:30 p.m.
LUNCH
Atlantic Fish & Chop House, atlanticmv.com
“One of my favorite places to have lunch is at Atlantic Fish & Chop House in Edgartown. It’s a spiffy indoor-outdoor venue for steak and seafood with a yacht club vibe and harbor views. If you go, you might see me in one of the comfy booths on the deck near the dock. Eli will take good care of you there!”

Shop beautiful pieces at Eisenhauer Gallery like Michel Brosseau’s “Calm Water” oil painting on linen

2:30 p.m.
SHOP IN EDGARTOWN
Backwater Trading Co. and Eisenhauer Gallery, backwatertradingcompany.com,eisenhauergallery.com
“Take a left out of the Atlantic onto Main Street where you can stop at many shops for local Vineyard products, like Backwater Trading Co. Get a Yeti cooler with the island logo, Vineyard totes, flip flops, sweatshirts, hats, sunglasses, candles, postcards and more. From there, turn onto North Water Street for Vineyard Vines, Black Dog and art galleries, like Eisenhauer Gallery, where I have purchased many beautiful pieces.”

The Carnegie Atrium

4 p.m.
A DOSE OF ISLAND HISTORY
The Carnegie Heritage Center, vineyardtrust.org
“The Carnegie Heritage Center is worth a visit for a little island history. Historic Edgartown walking tours are also available in season.”

5 p.m.
PRE-DINNER COCKTAILS
Alchemy Bistro & Bar, Behind The View, alchemyedgartown.com,harborviewhotel.com
“Alchemy has some of the best cocktails in Edgartown and on the Vineyard. It is very popular among the locals and has a friendly neighborhood vibe. After a few minutes, Meaghan and the bartenders will know your name, and you will feel like a local too. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention Behind The View, located off theA Harbor View Hotel veranda. The atmosphere is fun and casual with an eclectic all-day menu of tapas, upscale comfort food and craft cocktails.” 8 p.m.

The wine room at Bettini Restaurant

DINNER
Bettini Restaurant, harborviewhotel.com
“Bettini Restaurant is a contemporary American restaurant with breathtaking views of Edgartown Harbor and an award-winning wine list. The approachable, fine-dining experience attracts food and wine connoisseurs from all over the world.”