How to split our time Cape Cod Nantucket Marthas Vineyard

Question

Coming to the area in the beginning of September and looking for advice how to split our time. We will be there for 2 weeks and were thinking of spending a week in Cape cod. Is that too long? or will this give enough time to go to various towns?

The other week we are unsure whether to spend a week in MV, and just do a day trip to Nantucket, or do we need longer? We haven't been to any of the places before so are just hoping to do some sight seeing and see the beautiful quaint little places we usually watch on TV! We didnt want to have to keep packing and unpacking, but if we need a few nights in MV and a few in Nantucket then would consider.

Any help and advice would be gratefully received.

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting two-week trip planned, and Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket are all wonderful destinations. Here’s how I would suggest splitting your time based on your interests and the beauty of each area:

Cape Cod (1 week): A week in Cape Cod is definitely not too long. The Cape is filled with charming towns, beaches, and scenic views that make it well worth spending a full week exploring. Each town on the Cape has its own unique vibe and attractions. Some towns to consider visiting during your week are:

Provincetown – Located at the tip of the Cape, known for its artsy vibe, great seafood, and stunning views of the dunes and beaches.
Chatham – A quaint, traditional Cape Cod town with scenic walking areas and the iconic Chatham Lighthouse.
Hyannis – The commercial hub of the Cape, with great restaurants, shopping, and ferry access to the islands.
Wellfleet – Known for its art galleries, beautiful beaches, and the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.
Sandwich – A historical town with great beaches and natural beauty.

In addition to visiting the towns, be sure to explore the Cape Cod National Seashore, which offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and amazing vistas. Renting a bike and riding along the Cape Cod Rail Trail is also a great way to enjoy the area.

Martha’s Vineyard (4 days): I recommend spending about four days on Martha’s Vineyard. It’s the perfect amount of time to explore its different towns, beaches, and natural beauty. The island is bigger than it looks, so having a few days will allow you to really enjoy its charm. Some highlights include:

Edgartown – Known for its beautiful, classic New England architecture, white picket fences, and great dining options.
Vineyard Haven – The main port of entry to the island, with some great shopping and restaurants.
Oak Bluffs – Famous for its colorful gingerbread cottages and lively atmosphere.
Chappaquiddick – A quieter area of the island that offers secluded beaches and scenic spots.

For a relaxing day, consider taking a ferry ride around the island, visiting the iconic Aquinnah Cliffs, or exploring the many trails. The island is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, so four days should give you a nice balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure.

Nantucket (2-3 days): Nantucket is a smaller island, so you don’t necessarily need a full week to explore it, but I’d recommend spending at least two to three days there to take in the charm. Nantucket is known for its cobblestone streets, beautiful beaches, and historic homes. You could either do a day trip from Martha’s Vineyard or stay for a couple of nights. If you stay overnight, you’ll get to enjoy Nantucket’s quieter evenings and its renowned restaurant scene. Highlights include:

Nantucket Town – The main town on the island, with great shops, museums, and historic sites like the Whaling Museum.
Siasconset – A lovely village with quaint cottages and beautiful beaches.
The beaches – The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in New England, including Surfside Beach and Madaket Beach.

If you do stay in Nantucket for a night or two, I would recommend taking the time to explore the town’s history and enjoy some of the best seafood around.

Summary: In total, I would recommend the following:

1 week in Cape Cod – plenty of time to visit the charming towns, relax at the beaches, and explore the Cape Cod National Seashore.
4 days in Martha’s Vineyard – gives you enough time to enjoy all the towns and natural beauty the island has to offer.
2-3 days in Nantucket – either as a day trip from Martha’s Vineyard or an overnight stay to experience the island's unique charm.

If you prefer to avoid switching hotels, you could base yourself on Martha’s Vineyard for the week and do day trips to Nantucket, though staying overnight on Nantucket will give you more time to experience its laid-back vibe. It’s totally possible to do a day trip from Martha’s Vineyard, as the ferry ride is about an hour long, but if you prefer not to rush, staying a night on Nantucket is ideal.

Either way, you’ll have a wonderful time exploring these picturesque, iconic destinations, and early September is the perfect time to visit, as the weather will be great and the summer crowds will have thinned out!