As an artistic couple, my Husband a photographer, myself an Executive Producer/Writer, we’re always on the hunt for inspiring locations to visit… on the cheap.
We were delighted to find Martha’s Vineyard in the off-season has a few distinct advantages. Reduced prices on stays at Historic Inns like Kelley House among them. A place so charming, you’re welcomed in from the rain by free, freshly baked cookies and a fireside pint next door at The Newes From America Pub.
Wandering the 100 square mile island located south of Cape Code in Massachusetts, reveals a photographers textural paradise. The weather worn, shabby chic nature of empty docks costs not a penny to wander, exploring undeterred for hours.
All year round you can find fresh, affordable seafood by skipping the restaurant markup in favor of a beach picnic. Nip over to Larsen’s Fish Market in Menemsha and pick out your Lobster. A few moments of patience net a carefully prepared crustacean, claws cracked and butter drawn. Really, what else do you need for a picnic when you BYOB?
Perhaps the best advantage is the beaches flocked to in summer by nearly 100,000 tourists, lay bare for solo wandering. Hovering around 16,500 the local populations knows there is no better, cheaper way spend a few hours than in seaside contemplation and inspiration.
When the time comes to find a point of destination, there are perfectly picturesque options surrounding the shores, from Lighthouses to boat lined bays.
Perhaps poetically, on the day of our departure, the clouds loomed thick as we cued for the Ferry.
A final glance back and Martha’s Vineyard waves “come back again soon.”
Indeed we will.
