It was an escape from Texas’ sweltering 100-degree heat that lured a few friends and me to the idyllic coastal haven of Martha’s Vineyard this past summer. Instead of staying at one of the island’s many high-end resorts or charming bed and breakfasts, we opted for an expansive four-bedroom residence called The Beach House, Martha’s Vineyard, which we found via StayOne, a vacation rental site offering ultra-luxe properties all over the country.
Located just a stone’s throw from the upscale restaurants and shopping in Edgartown—and a short five-minute bike ride from the picturesque South Beach—it sleeps seven with a pool house, guest house, and main home featuring spectacular views of 1.6 acres of pristine greenery. Pulling up to the gated residence, we were welcomed by the friendly property manager, Dave, and beautiful blooming flowers all around the perfectly manicured grounds. We spent the first evening huddled around the home’s firepit, imbibing on a glass or two of vino and soaking up the ambiance of this spectacular property.
We grilled fresh jumbo shrimp and veggie kebabs for lunch on day two, utilizing the fantastic outdoor kitchen. After a day of rest and relaxation spent sunbathing and making use of the heated saltwater swimming pool and Jacuzzi, we made reservations for dinner at Alchemy Bistro & Bar for new American fare in a casual, yet refined, atmosphere. The Edgartown Old-Fashioned, Jonah Crab & Grilled Asparagus Salad, and Pan-Seared Halibut were all standout dishes.
The next day, after a quick morning workout at the in-home gym, we ventured back into Edgartown for some sightseeing and much-needed retail therapy. The most Instagram-worthy views of the pier can be seen from the rooftop of Seafood Shanty, where we sampled local ales. The refreshing MV Ale by Bad Martha Brewery quickly became a favorite. Be sure to take some obligatory selfies at the famous Edgartown Lighthouse and Joseph Sylvia State Beach, where the views of the ocean seem to go on forever.
If you’re feeling super adventurous (not me!), you can also jump off the bridge that was featured in the 1975 blockbuster Jaws. For something different, visit Oak Bluffs Harbor. From gingerbread-like cottages to a flying horse carousel, the area delivers on family fun.
We ended our eventful day by taking a sunset stroll along South Beach, a barrier beach offering fantastic surfing and a calm, protected pond for swimming. I dipped my toes in the water before finding a secluded site to stare out and appreciate the expansive Atlantic Ocean. There was something quite magical and soothing about taking a minute to be in the moment there, miles away from the hustle and bustle. I felt my blood pressure lower and my worries melt away.
A late dinner reservation at L’Etoile Restaurant and its fine French cuisine at the Sydney Hotel-— the highlight of our culinary finds in Martha’s Vineyard—was the perfect way to punctuate our stay. We started with the scrumptious Pan-seared Duck Foie Gras, which was divine. The star of the evening, though, was the L’Etoile Surf and Turf, which included lobster etuvée and an 8 oz. filet mignon. Our bellies full and hearts content, we returned home for a final slumber in paradise.
We enjoyed coffee and croissants on the sundeck, then grabbed a quick lunch at takeaway hotspot Square Rigger for one last lobster roll, before saying goodbye to our home away from home. We’re already making plans to return.
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