Chappaquiddick Island
A serene island escape known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and the charming Chappy Ferry.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Chappaquiddick Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island escape known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and the charming Chappy Ferry.
"Chappaquiddick is an iconic and gorgeous must-see spot on Martha's Vineyard."
🚗 Chappy Ferry Logistics
The ferry fits only 3 cars. Be prepared for waits, especially in summer. Consider biking!
💰 Permit for Trustees Land
Access to East Beach & Cape Poge Refuge may require a Trustees permit ($200). Check their site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

East Beach
Chappaquiddick Island
Miles of pristine, undeveloped shoreline perfect for long walks, shelling, and soaking in the natural beauty.

Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge
Chappaquiddick Island
Explore diverse habitats, observe abundant wildlife, and enjoy stunning coastal views. A nature lover's paradise.

Mytoi Japanese Garden
Chappaquiddick Island
A serene and tranquil oasis offering a peaceful escape with beautiful landscaping and quiet contemplation.

Poucha Pond
Chappaquiddick Island
Calm waters perfect for kayaking or birdwatching, reflecting the island's unspoiled natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ferry Adventure
Accessing East Beach & Wildlife Refuge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Chappy Ferry Logistics
The ferry fits only 3 cars. Be prepared for waits, especially in summer. Consider biking!
💰 Permit for Trustees Land
Access to East Beach & Cape Poge Refuge may require a Trustees permit ($200). Check their site.
🚴 Bike the Island
Biking is a fantastic way to explore. Some sandy paths, but mostly manageable.
🐚 Shelling Paradise
Chappaquiddick is renowned for its incredible shelling opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Chappy Ferry Logistics
The ferry fits only 3 cars. Be prepared for waits, especially in summer. Consider biking!
💰 Permit for Trustees Land
Access to East Beach & Cape Poge Refuge may require a Trustees permit ($200). Check their site.
🚴 Bike the Island
Biking is a fantastic way to explore. Some sandy paths, but mostly manageable.
🐚 Shelling Paradise
Chappaquiddick is renowned for its incredible shelling opportunities.
📍 Dike Bridge Note
The infamous bridge is still there, though upgraded. A historical point of interest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chappaquiddick Island is widely praised for its stunning, undeveloped natural beauty, particularly its expansive beaches and rich wildlife. Visitors love the serene atmosphere and the unique experience of the Chappy Ferry. However, some find the cost of accessing certain areas, like The Trustees' lands, to be high.
"We took the Chappy Ferry and biked to Wasque Point. Nice ride, but but several small hills. Also part of road is packed sand. At end of road there is a bike rack. It's impossible to ride bike in the sand. If you're a nature-lover, this is definitely worth it. Lots of wildlife to observe. Port a potty at Wasque Point."
Michelle C
"Travellers, chappaquidick is an iconic and gorgeous must-see spot on Martha’s Vineyard. The beach is beautiful and you can drive right on the beach for miles and miles. The views are never ending and they are located in each and every corner of this barrier island. The bay side of the island is gorgeous. The ocean side of the island is gorgeous. There are shells of every sort so shelling is fantastic here. There are live scallops washed up on the shore sitting bucolically in the sand. It is not cheap to get there however. You must pay the trustees $200 to gain access to all their lands on Martha’s Vineyard. It is worth the price. There are other places to go and other beaches to visit. Check it out. We recommend.
TLDR gorgeous beach Wilderness."
Lisa DeWitt
""Chappy" still has some of the most virgin land on the east coast and whether by land or sea it is still possible to find vast streatches of beach without a soul for miles. It is popular for fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, and has a small and secluded population. By car a ferry is necessary from Edgartown and the wait and cost is typically reasonable. I prefer to visit by boat into the magestic Cape Pogue bay though most areas can be reached by multiple means. Tourists will enjoy finding the bridge where Kennedy killed his girlfriend but don't expect it to look as it did back in the 60s (the bridge has been upgraded since the controversial incident). "Chappy" is a special place and it's a great way to get a sense for the island's reputation without trespassing."
Christopher Stevens (Chris)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Chappaquiddick Island is via the Chappy Ferry from Edgartown. This small ferry can accommodate about three cars and offers a scenic, one-minute ride. You can also arrive by boat into Cape Poge Bay.
Yes, you can drive your car onto the Chappy Ferry from Edgartown. However, be aware that the ferry has limited capacity, and waits can be long during peak times.
While there isn't traditional public bus service, the Chappy Ferry serves as a vital link. Many visitors opt to bike or walk onto the ferry to explore the island.
Biking is a very popular and recommended way to explore Chappaquiddick, offering access to many areas. Some roads can be sandy, so a sturdy bike is advisable. Driving is also an option, especially for accessing beaches.
The ferry ride itself is very short, typically only about one minute, making it a quick and efficient way to cross between Edgartown and Chappaquiddick.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a fee for the Chappy Ferry for vehicles and passengers. Additionally, access to certain natural areas like East Beach and the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, managed by The Trustees, may require a separate permit or day-use fee.
Ferry costs vary for vehicles and passengers. While generally considered reasonable for the convenience, it's best to check the official Chappy Ferry schedule and rates for current pricing.
Some of the most popular beaches, like East Beach and areas within the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, are managed by The Trustees and may have an entrance fee or require a Trustees membership for free access.
Yes, biking and walking onto the Chappy Ferry is a popular and often more economical option. There are bike racks available at Wasque Point.
The Chappy Ferry typically operates seasonally, with extended hours during the summer months. It's advisable to check their schedule in advance, as hours can vary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the expansive East Beach, the wildlife-rich Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, the tranquil Mytoi Japanese Garden, and the serene Poucha Pond. The unique Chappy Ferry ride is also an experience in itself.
Absolutely! Chappaquiddick is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and undeveloped landscapes, making it ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and nature observation.
Popular activities include biking, hiking, beachcombing, shelling, birdwatching, kayaking on Poucha Pond, and simply enjoying the quiet, unspoiled beaches.
Restrooms are available at key locations such as Wasque Point, which is part of the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge. It's always a good idea to be prepared, especially when exploring more remote areas.
The Dike Bridge is a historical landmark on Chappaquiddick, known for its association with a past incident. While it has been upgraded, it remains a point of interest for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Chappaquiddick offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the vast, undeveloped beaches of East Beach and Cape Poge to the serene reflections on Poucha Pond and the unique Chappy Ferry. The natural landscapes and wildlife provide endless subjects.
Yes, the island's expansive beaches, salt marshes, and coastal vistas make it a prime location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge is a haven for various bird species and other wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for nature and wildlife photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour can create magical scenes on the beaches and ponds.
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any posted signage within wildlife refuges or gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Chappy Ferry Experience
While the ride is short, be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. For those seeking a more active and often more economical way to reach the island, biking or walking onto the ferry is a popular choice. This allows for immediate immersion into the island's natural beauty upon arrival.
Exploring Chappaquiddick's Natural Havens
For a more serene experience, Poucha Pond provides calm waters ideal for kayaking or simply enjoying the reflective beauty of the landscape. The Mytoi Japanese Garden offers a meticulously designed, tranquil escape, showcasing a different facet of the island's natural charm. Access to these natural areas, particularly East Beach and the wildlife refuge, is often managed by The Trustees, and a permit or day-use fee may be required.
Chappaquiddick's Unique Vibe and History
Historically, Chappaquiddick is also known for the infamous Dike Bridge, a site associated with a notable event in the 1960s. While the bridge has been updated, it remains a point of historical interest for some visitors. The island's relatively undeveloped nature means that while it offers incredible natural beauty, visitors should be prepared for limited amenities in some areas and potential access fees for certain protected lands.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit