Lucy Vincent Beach
A secluded gem on Martha's Vineyard, known for its dramatic clay cliffs and off-season charm. Primarily for Chilmark residents in summer.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy solitude & stunning views
Lucy Vincent Beach
Best Time
Enjoy solitude & stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded gem on Martha's Vineyard, known for its dramatic clay cliffs and off-season charm. Primarily for Chilmark residents in summer.
"Truly magic. One of my favorite places on earth."
🎯 Off-Season Access is Best
Visit outside summer for non-resident access. Check with local inns for passes.
🧥 Pack Layers for Wind
Martha's Vineyard can be breezy; dress in layers for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Clay Cliffs
Southern Shore
Breathtaking natural formations offering stunning ocean views and unique geological beauty.
Secluded Beachcombing
Shoreline
Explore the shoreline for treasures, especially during quieter off-season visits.
Off-Season Serenity
Entire Beach
Experience the magic of having this beautiful beach almost entirely to yourself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Off-Season Access is Key
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Off-Season Access is Best
Visit outside summer for non-resident access. Check with local inns for passes.
🧥 Pack Layers for Wind
Martha's Vineyard can be breezy; dress in layers for comfort.
👟 Shoe Parking Available
Appreciate the thoughtful 'shoe parking' signs near the beach entrance.
🐶 Dogs Welcome Off-Season
Bring your furry friends during the off-season for a delightful beach walk.
Lucy Vincent Beach without a pass
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Off-Season Access is Best
Visit outside summer for non-resident access. Check with local inns for passes.
🧥 Pack Layers for Wind
Martha's Vineyard can be breezy; dress in layers for comfort.
👟 Shoe Parking Available
Appreciate the thoughtful 'shoe parking' signs near the beach entrance.
🐶 Dogs Welcome Off-Season
Bring your furry friends during the off-season for a delightful beach walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lucy Vincent Beach's stunning clay cliffs and secluded atmosphere, especially during the off-season when non-residents can access it. While its summer exclusivity for Chilmark residents is a drawback for some, the natural beauty and peacefulness make it a memorable destination for those who can visit.
"Lucy Vincent is a private beach for Chillmark residents, accessible only in the off-season for non residents. We visited on a beautiful 65° April day, and what a gift it was. Beautiful views of the cliffs and ocean, and it's great for beachcombing!!"
W Miller
"Beautiful beach along the southern shore on our dribe to Aquinnah Cliffs overlook. Was a cold, windy day, but it was fun walking the secluded beach."
Alan Bielefeldt
"We stayed at a nearby inn and were able to visit this residents only beach with a pass from the inn. The bike ride there was a little precarious since there’s no shoulder on the road, but we made it!
The staff were very friendly and lifeguards were staffed along the long stretch of shore. Portapotties and bike racks are available in the parking lot. A very short walk to the beach. Appreciated the shoe parking signs!
There were on again off again showers the day we visited, so there was no one there. It’s pretty exceptional to visit a beach in July and have it completely to ourselves!"
Melissa Burke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lucy Vincent Beach is located on the southern shore of Martha's Vineyard. Access can be tricky as it's primarily for Chilmark residents during summer. If you're not a resident, the best bet is to visit during the off-season. Some local inns may offer passes for their guests. Be aware that roads leading to the beach might have limited shoulders, so cycling requires caution.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at Lucy Vincent Beach, which includes bike racks and porta-potties. The walk from the parking area to the beach is quite short.
During the summer, a Chilmark pass is generally required for non-residents. However, visiting during the off-season (spring, fall, winter) typically allows access without a pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lucy Vincent Beach is a private beach for Chilmark residents during the summer months. Non-residents can usually visit during the off-season or if they have a pass from a local accommodation.
During the summer season, beach hours are typically from 9 am to 7 pm. However, access for non-residents is restricted during these times. Off-season access is generally more flexible.
You do not need to buy a ticket in the traditional sense. Access is based on residency or a pass provided by a local inn during the summer. Off-season visits are usually free for all.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic clay cliffs and the expansive shoreline offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the interplay of light on the cliffs, especially during sunrise or sunset. The secluded nature of the beach during off-season also makes for intimate and beautiful family portraits.
There are no widely publicized photo restrictions for personal use. However, commercial photography or large-scale shoots might require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the natural beauty of the cliffs and ocean. Family photography sessions, especially during the off-season when the beach is less crowded, are also very popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Visit during the off-season for easier access and a more peaceful environment. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the cliffs. The 'shoe parking' is a fun, quirky detail that kids might enjoy!
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Recommendations: Embrace the off-season for maximum solitude. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy with the ocean views. The beach is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the natural beauty of Martha's Vineyard.
🐶 Pet Owners
Important: During the summer, dogs are generally not permitted to maintain the beach's exclusivity for residents. Always check local regulations before visiting with pets, but the off-season is your prime time for a dog-friendly beach adventure here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Access and Residency
For travelers eager to experience Lucy Vincent Beach, the best strategy is to plan a visit during the off-season. This includes spring, fall, and winter. During these times, the beach is generally open to everyone, allowing you to explore its unique landscape without the residency restrictions. Many visitors find the off-season offers a more peaceful and intimate experience, with fewer crowds and a chance to truly appreciate the natural beauty.
If a summer visit is unavoidable, inquire with your accommodation about potential beach passes. Some inns and rental agencies in the Chilmark area may offer these as a perk to their guests. Always confirm the specifics of pass availability and usage rules directly with your lodging provider.
The Unique Landscape: Cliffs and Erosion
It's important to note that these cliffs are subject to natural erosion, a process that has visibly altered the beach over the years. While this erosion means the landscape is ever-changing, it also adds to the beach's dynamic beauty. Visitors often remark on how the beach feels 'new every time,' a testament to its evolving natural state. This constant transformation is part of what makes Lucy Vincent Beach so captivating and memorable.
Beyond the cliffs, the beach itself is characterized by its beautiful sand, making it ideal for leisurely walks and beachcombing. The combination of the rugged cliffs and the soft sand creates a diverse and engaging environment for exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit