One of my happy places is undoubtedly Martha’s Vineyard: a small island just off the coast of Massachusetts. The vineyard’s seaside cliffs, quaint towns and top-tier seafood make for a relaxing getaway from the busyness of everyday life. I was so excited to spend this past summer there with family and friends, soaking up all of its summer charm like a sponge. While the island itself is relatively small, each town has its own unique offerings and trademarks. So without further ado, here’s what I’d recommend to do, so you can have the perfect day on the Vineyard. 

Breakfast at Behind the Bookstore Cafe

An iconic Vineyard favorite, Behind the Bookstore Cafe is located in the heart of Edgartown right behind Edgartown Books, a locally loved bookstore. Grab a summer read from the bookstore and head to the back for a fresh pastry, a lavender latte and a seat on the open outdoor patio. My favorites: their iced mint latte and cheesy scrambled plate. 

Aquinnah Cliffs

After a good breakfast, I’d definitely make the trek to go visit the Aquinnah Cliffs — at the westernmost tip of Martha’s Vineyard, these beautiful clay cliffs have been an attraction for decades. I’d recommend going right after breakfast as parking is really hard to find in the afternoons. Take in all the views and then browse the little gift shops to bring a souvenir home. Fun fact: Aquinnah is also home to the Gay Head Lighthouse which was famously featured in the hit movie “Jaws.” 

Lunch at Larsen’s

On your way back, stop at Larsen’s Fish Market for some drool-worthy lobster rolls. Located right on the Menemsha harbor, Larsen’s is a local favorite. They offer fresh seafood and the best daily specials: my favorites are definitely the lobster rolls and the stuffed scallops! Grab a table right outside and people watch while digging in.

Snack at the Orange Peel Bakery

Before you get to your next destination, you have to visit this magical native owned bakery. Right when you walk in, you’re bombarded by alluring warmth and an amazing mixture of citrus, flour and cranberry. The owner and baker Juli Vanderhoop has a jar for payment so she doesn’t have to break her rhythm of rolling and kneading dough. Take your goods to go and try not to devour it all on the drive back. My favorites: the millionaire’s bar, the snail cinnamon bun and the apricot tart.

Katama Beach

One of the more popular beaches located right on the edge of Edgartown, Katama Beach has it all. Whether you’re looking to boogie board and meet new people or chill out while sunbathing, Katama has enough to offer for everyone. It’s one of my favorite beaches to just lay around with friends after a good swim. 

Explore Edgartown

After you’re thoroughly tanned, I’d recommend doing a lap around all of the shopping Edgartown has to offer. The plethora of boutiques and small businesses lends itself to always finding a new staple (this year: the cutest pajamas from Nell). If you’re a fan of candy shops, art galleries, home decor and coastal themed boutiques, you’ll have a blast window shopping at Edgartown.

Dinner at Alchemy

As your final destination after a long day of exploring, I’d go to an amazing serene restaurant such as Alchemy. Inspired by Italian, French and Spanish cuisines, you can always depend on Alchemy for some amazing comfort food with a flavorful twist! I recommend checking out their pesto pasta, kimchi buns and warm peach pie. 

And that’s a wrap for this jam-packed day on Martha’s Vineyard! I hope you try out some of these recommendations and find Martha’s Vineyard just as magical as I did.