Chappaquiddick Island: A Hidden Slice of Coastal Solitude

What Is Chappaquiddick Island?

Where Is Chappaquiddick Island Located?

Chappaquiddick Island is a small peninsula-turned-island located off the eastern end of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Though just a stone’s throw from Edgartown, it’s separated by a narrow channel and accessible only via the On Time Ferry—a quirky, two-car barge that’s as charming as the island itself.

What Makes Chappaquiddick Special?

Chappaquiddick is the definition of “off-the-beaten-path.” With fewer than 200 year-round residents, no restaurants or gas stations, and just a smattering of dirt roads, it’s a place where nature reigns supreme. The island boasts secluded beaches, bird sanctuaries, pine forests, and some of the East Coast’s best saltwater fishing.

---

Things to Do on Chappaquiddick Island

1. Explore Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge

Cape Poge is a 516-acre barrier beach and salt marsh sanctuary managed by The Trustees of Reservations.

Highlights:

• 4×4 Oversand Tours to Cape Poge Lighthouse
• Birdwatching: osprey, terns, and herons galore
• Fishing: Striped bass in abundance
• Kayaking: Rent a kayak and paddle through marshes

2. Visit Cape Poge Lighthouse

This historic 1893 lighthouse offers:

• Guided ranger tours
• Climb to the top for panoramic Atlantic views
• Photography opportunities at sunrise or sunset

3. Hike the Mytoi Japanese Garden

This serene 1-acre garden, set within a pine forest, is an unexpected treasure. Think footbridges, koi ponds, and stone paths through sculpted greenery.

4. Walk the Dike Bridge Trail

Infamous for its political history, the Dike Bridge is now a popular fishing and photography spot. The nearby Wasque Point offers stunning cliff views and beach access.

---

Where to Stay on Chappaquiddick Island

Though small, Chappaquiddick offers a few select vacation rentals and charming inns.

Vacation Rentals

Property Name	Type	Price/Night (Seasonal)	Sleeps	Features
Chappy Retreat House	Private home	$300–$700	6–8	Ocean views, wraparound deck
Pine Hollow Cottage	Beach cottage	$250–$500	4–6	Walk to beach, outdoor shower
The Bluff House	Waterfront house	$600–$1000+	10	Private beach, kayak access

Note: Most stays require a weekly rental during summer.

 Nearby Options in Edgartown

Since lodging is limited on Chappy, many visitors stay in Edgartown and ferry over for the day.

Hotel Name	Type	Price/Night	Distance to Ferry	Perks
Harbor View Hotel	Luxury	$500–$900	5-minute walk	Pool, dining, oceanfront
The Richard Hotel	Boutique	$300–$600	7-minute walk	Chic, modern, great location
Edgartown Inn	Historic Inn	$250–$400	6-minute walk	Cozy, intimate, breakfast incl.

---

How to Get to Chappaquiddick Island

Take the On Time Ferry

• Route: Edgartown to Chappaquiddick
• Duration: 3 minutes
• Cost: $4 per passenger, $16 for car (round trip)

The ferry runs on demand, every few minutes during daylight hours.

 Should You Bring a Car?

Only if you’re staying on the island and your rental provides parking. Most places are walkable or bike-friendly, and off-road tours cover the more remote areas.

---

Best Time to Visit Chappaquiddick Island

Season	Pros	Cons
Spring	Fewer crowds, bird migrations	Cool weather, some areas closed
Summer	Perfect beaches, peak bloom	Higher prices, more visitors
Fall	Gorgeous foliage, peaceful	Shorter days, ferry less frequent
Winter	Complete solitude	Cold, limited services, closed roads

---

Where to Eat (Hint: It’s Off-Island!)

There are no restaurants or cafes on Chappy, so plan to:

• Pack a picnic: Grab sandwiches from Edgartown Deli.
• Dine in Edgartown before or after.
• Self-cater if you’re renting.

Top Picks in Edgartown

Restaurant	Type	Price Range	Known For
The Port Hunter	New American	$$	Creative small plates
The Seafood Shanty	Casual	$$	Lobster rolls, waterfront view
Alchemy	Fine Dining	$$$	Upscale seafood and cocktails

---

Tips for Visiting Chappaquiddick Island

• Bring your own food and water.
•  Rent a bike in Edgartown and take it on the ferry.
•  Bug spray is a must, especially near the marshes.
• No cell service in some parts—download maps in advance.
• Bring a good camera—the views at Cape Poge and Wasque are unreal.
•  Respect wildlife—this is a conservation-focused island.

---

15+ Frequently Asked Questions About Chappaquiddick Island

If you’re craving stillness, simplicity, and sand beneath your feet with hardly another soul in sight, Chappaquiddick is calling. Just don’t expect a Starbucks—expect serenity.

See you on the ferry,
Robert Taller