Farmer's Market, Tribal Lands, Nude Beach, Denim, Sailing, Donuts, Jazz Bands & French Films

                         

Although breakfast awaits overlooking the Gay Head Cliffs, you won't want to miss Sunday's West Tisbury Farmer's Market. This manageably sized, outdoor market offers everything from veggies and fruits to, alpaca and woolen goods, meats, fish, eggs, soaps, candles, cheeses (remember Gray Barn Farm?), juices and baked goods. But the winner of the day was the flowers. You may never have seen a more color intensive selection. They were everywhere!

                          

Aquinnah, located on the island's far south west corner may boast a mere population of 311, but is packed with natural beauty. It is the center of the Native American Wampang culture,who were harvesting whales using small boats and long harpoons far before it became a thriving industry of the settlers. Drive or bike to the  Aquinnah shop and restaurant for a good food and amazing views from atop the Gay Head cliffs.

                        

The red clay of Gay Head cliffs are part of Wampang lore.  It also boast miles long sandy beach, punctuated by the nude Jungle Beach to the far west - just in case your looking to erase those pesky tan lines. The iconic 170 foot brick Gay Head light was first built in 1799. Rebuilt in 1856, cliff erosion has caused it to be moved back several times, but its remains on the island's most westerly point. It's red flashing light can be seen every 15 seconds from as fas 24 miles away. 

         

A stop in Menemsha's working harbor reminds you of the island's origins and that fish really does come from the water - not just the grocery store. Fresh fish can be bought to bring  home or eat right there on a lovely, quiet beach.  Menemsha Blue has a small retail store here, which may be one of the few places you can actually find a denim shirt made of - well denim.  Can't make it here? Try  ordering online. It's a classic. 

                       

The Alabama was built in 1926 was designed by Thomas McManus, a man widely regarded as the best designer of Gloucester fishing schooners. After a long retirement and a 90% facelift funded by Black Dog owner and completed by Captian Morgan Douglas, she was out back to work in 1997. The fishing schooner was an American invention and ships like her were relied on to provide the country with a staple of its economy, codfish. For us, it was the pleasure of hoisting sales, eating clams on the half shell, rum drinks and a grand sunset, right out of Vineyard Haven.

                      

After the sun goes down, we're off to Oak Bluffs for "Back Door Donuts." How the local bakery keeps up with its morning delivery, when the que for warm donuts snakes around the block is anyone's guess. The Extraordinary Rendition Band could be heard for blocks and must have been making its way from the Victorian Cottage community down to the village green. All we know is that we wondered if we weren't suddenly in New Orleans. Apparently the wonderfully costumed, jazz style band follow the national Jazz Fests, so keep your eyes and ears open.

         

The Manor House, our sprawling Victorian hotel, began its life in Vineyard Haven in 1791. Located on Main Street, it's within minutes of the ferry and harbor, with amazing views from its cupola and just at the edge of impressive and diverse shopping. And yes, you will enjoy modern amenities and a fantastic health club and spa.  Not to be missed, two of Martha's Vineyard Film theaters have been refurbished and are in walking distance from  the Manor House. We saw two entries from far sides of the spectrum - LBTG "Une Nouvelle Amie" and bucket list "The Hundred Year Old Man Who Jumped Out of the Window and Disappeared". We'll let you guess who liked which one best.

                          

Each of the Massachusets Iislands has its own personality. Martha's Vineyard is arguably the most artistic, diverse and has a sense of humor.  If you've not been here before, we encourage you to visit. If you have been here before, come back. Rent a car. Take a bike. Explore. There's truly something for everyone.