
Picture this: You’re on your way to Martha’s Vineyard, one of the most enchanting destinations on the East Coast. But before you set sail, don’t pass up the chance to make the most of magical Woods Hole. This picturesque village on Cape Cod’s southwestern tip offers not just a captivating stopover experience but a delightful destination in its own right.
Woods Hole oozes with maritime charm, delectable cuisine, and intriguing attractions, all in a beautiful seaside New England setting. Whether you have just a few hours or a weekend to spare, exploring Woods Hole is the perfect way to kickstart your Martha’s Vineyard adventure. Here we’re offering up several ways you can make the most of your journey en route to iconic Martha’s Vineyard. Be sure to reference our handy map to effectively utilize your time here!
Before we get into our tips and recommendations, we wanted to make a few notes: Woods Hole is the only year-round terminal that services Martha’s Vineyard and THE only way to get your car to Martha’s Vineyard, run by the Steamship Authority. Booking your car ferry tickets in advance is always highly recommended as summer reservations sell out quickly. Note that parking is also very limited in Woods Hole, so make sure to take advantage of the connecting Steamship Authority buses from their designated parking areas as well as the local Whoosh Trolley!
First Things First, Embrace the Coastal Magic
As you step foot in Woods Hole, you’ll immediately be drawn to its breathtaking coastal beauty. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the serene views of Vineyard Sound and adjoining Eel Pond. Take a moment to savor the refreshing sea breeze and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. Snap a few photos by the waterfront and appreciate the local landmarks such as the bronzed Rachel Carson statue and the sculpture of the whale’s tail. To admire all the stunning views of Woods Hole’s coastal landscape be sure to walk The Knob and stroll along nearby Quissett Harbor.
Explore the Village Center
Woods Hole’s quaint village center is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Browse the local boutiques and art galleries, where you’ll find unique handcrafted goods and artwork. Consider taking home a souvenir that represents the essence of Woods Hole, crafted by talented local artisans.
Savor the Local Cuisine of Woods Hole Village
Foodies, rejoice! Woods Hole boasts a vibrant culinary scene that will leave your taste buds delighted. Try some of the freshest seafood at renowned restaurants like Landfall and The Captain Kidd, offering scenic waterfront dining. Don’t forget to sample the delectable pastries at Pie in the Sky Bakery & Cafe – they’re simply heavenly.
When time is of the essence (don’t miss the boat!) grab a quick bite at Quicks Hole Taqueria or Woods Hole Market & General Store. Quicks Hole Taqueria offers easy-to-eat tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and Baja bowls, plus they even have margaritas to go! Woods Hole Market also offers Baja bites as well as savory customized sandwiches, scratch-made pizza, and their beloved fresh lobster rolls! Both eateries allow for easy online ordering, so skip the lines, enjoy your meal on either of their outdoor patios or take it with you on the ferry!
And of course, no stop to a Cape Cod seaside destination is complete without candy and ice cream, so be sure to grab a cup or cone at Candy Go Nuts. Check out our Foodie Guide for more tips on what to savor and sample along your way!
Dive into Maritime History and Ocean Exploration
Woods Hole is home to world-renowned scientific institutions and educational establishments that celebrate its rich maritime history–exploring it is a must. Visit the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, a fascinating stop where you can learn about marine life conservation and even see some fascinating sea creatures up close. In fact the Woods Hole Science Aquarium is the nation’s oldest public aquarium! Then there’s the Woods Hole Historical Museum which also offers insights into the area’s seafaring past, making for an educational and enjoyable experience. And of course, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) calls Woods Hole home and a visit to their Ocean Science Discovery Center is a must! Learn about the submersible Alvin, the discovery and exploration of the Titanic, the Ocean Twilight Zone, Hydrothermal vents, and more!
Take a Scenic Coastal Cruise
Before continuing your journey to Martha’s Vineyard, why not embark on an informative tour of Great Harbor and learn firsthand from a local about the history and culture of the area? Enjoy panoramic views of Woods Hole, the private neighborhood of Penzance Point, and the surrounding coastline. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the sea and soak up the coastal scenery while deepening your understanding and appreciation of the area. Should you want a longer tour you can even explore the nearby Elizabeth Islands or take a private ride to Martha’s Vineyard, all courtesy of Woods Hole Island Tours.
Admire the Drawbridge
Woods Hole is home to a fascinating drawbridge, a true mechanical marvel, that goes up and down multiple times a day allowing boats to enter in and out of Eel Pond. The magic of the drawbridge is that it commands the attention of hundreds of people everyday, stopping them in their tracks and delighting them as it thoughtfully goes up to allow boats to pass, and safely back down to again allow through pedestrian and auto traffic.
Make A Stop at the Woods Hole Library
If quaint seaside libraries intrigue you then the Woods Hole Public Library will surely impress! Founded in 1910 the Woods Hole Public Library boasts an impressive collection of books, magazines and newspapers, DVDs, audiobooks on CD, music CDs, eBooks, and eAudiobooks–totaling over 55,000 items! You would never guess it walking into the small, but stately stone building that’s a photo opp in its own right. Take some time to stop in read one of the village’s historical periodicals or a chapter from a new best seller.
Finally, it’s time to continue your journey to Martha’s Vineyard! Woods Hole is the departure point for the Steamship Authority ferry that will take you to the island. (Note: in the summer months you have the option to arrive into Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven on Martha’s Vineyard, while the Vineyard Haven terminal is the only one that operates year round, so be sure to know your specific destination and board the appropriate boat!) Once aboard it’s time to sit back and enjoy the short and scenic 45-minute ride across Vineyard Sound to your next destination.
As you can see, Woods Hole is not just a stopover but an enchanting destination in its own right. From savoring its coastal beauty and culinary delights to immersing yourself in its history and science, Woods Hole offers an unforgettable experience that will set the tone for your Martha’s Vineyard adventure. So, the next time you plan a trip to the island, don’t forget to make the most of your time in Woods Hole – it’s a journey within a journey you won’t want to miss!