Martha’s Vineyard in April: 14 Spring Activities (Best Time to visit!)

Are you thinking of a spring getaway for school vacation? While many think of the island as a summer vacation destination, Martha’s Vineyard in April is perfect for family adventures. 

Imagine fewer crowds, mild weather, and a range of events tailor-made for families. I’ve been exploring this beautiful island for years, and I’m excited to share my knowledge with you.

While Memorial Day weekend is traditionally the kickoff of high season on the island, here’s why April on Martha’s Vineyard is actually an ideal time to visit.

Martha’s Vineyard Things to do In April

April is a great time on the island for kids as there are plenty of things to do during the April vacation week (April 21st 2025) and at Easter on Martha’s Vineyard (20th April). Many local businesses will begin to open this month too.

1. Spring Into Nature at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary

When: April 21st-25th 2025 | Where: Island-wide

Explore the natural beauty of Martha’s Vineyard at Felix Neck April vacation camp. Camp runs from the 21st – 25th, from 10am-2pm at a different location each day. Kids (age 5-10) will love learning about wildlife, making crafts, and more.

Monday kicks off at The Farm Institute, followed by Long Point Wildlife Refuge, Island Grown Initiative, Native Earth Teaching Farm, and ends at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary in Edgartown. If you don’t make it for April vacation, consider a Felix Neck Summer camp instead

My kids love to visit Felix Neck and hike the trails before the intense heat of the summer and enjoy being outdoors without the bugs. This is one of the best things to do in Martha’s Vineyard in April.

2. Join Island Alpaca for their Annual Shearing Day Celebration

When: April 26th 2025 | Where: Island Alpaca, Vineyard Haven

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m, head to Island Alpaca for a really unique experience. Watch as 35+ alpacas and llamas get their winter coats sheared. Learn how alpaca fleece turns into fiber, enjoy spinning demos, and visit the gift shop for soft yarns and garments.

It’s a day of activities with furry (not for long!) friends, refreshments and door prizes, perfect for the whole family. $8 per person. Reserve your tickets in advance. This is one of the most fun things to do in Martha’s Vineyard in April!

My Best Tip: There are always some seriously cute baby alpacas at the farm so make space on your phone for all the pictures,

3. Explore Island History at the MV Museum

When: April 2025 | Where: MV Museum, Vineyard Haven

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the island this month, with these three fascinating exhibitions showing in April. “Ferry Tales” takes you through 300 years of ferry history, with ship models, old photos, and stories about how Islanders got back and forth.

“Stay Safe, Stand Strong” is a moving black-and-white photo exhibit showing life on the Vineyard during the crazy ups and downs of 2020. “Where They Still Remain” explores the deep connections between African American and Wampanoag communities through photos and old records

My Best Tip: While at the museum, find the exhibit about how the Gay Head Lighthouse was lifted up and moved further away from the cliff edge. No matter how many times I hear it, I never get tired of this fascinating story.

4. Join an egg hunt!

When: April 2025 | Where: Island-wide

‘Tis the season for egg hunts on Martha’s Vineyard! Grab your baskets and stay tuned for updates as more events are announced.

The Oak Bluffs library egg hunt is on April 12th and is divided by age group: 0-2, 3-5 and 6-11. Bring a bag or basket and arrive a little early. The hunt starts at 10am sharp!

The legendary Vineyard Confections Spring Egg Event happens on April 13th from 8am to 11am. Get ready for a race around the island to find hidden eggs!

You’ll need to tune in to their social media accounts for the clues and brush up on your island knowledge to figure out where the eggs are hidden. This is a hugely popular and much anticipated event, generously hosted and managed by Vineyard Confections.

On April 19th, you can visit Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center for their Spring Egg Hunt from 10am-12pm. The West Tisbury library egg hunt starts at 10.30am, followed by family crafts in the children’s room.

The Aquinnah library hunt is at 11.30am on the 19th at the Aquinnah Town park.

Also on the 19th, the FARM Institute holds three separate egg hunts based on age. There is a charge of $5 for Trustees members ($10 for non-members). Pre-booking is recommended as it usually sells out.

Ages two and under begin their hunt at 9:45am, the age 3 to 5 egg hunt begins at 10:15 and age 6+ starts at 10:30. There is a single golden egg with a special prize for each of the age groups so make sure to hunt in every corner!

The Easter Egg hunt at The Faraway Hotel takes place on April 20th from 10-11. Afterwards, you can head next door to the Newes from America for brunch from 11 am

Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery has an egg hunt from 11-4 on April 20th as well as a special brunch pizza. Sign up via DM on Instagram if you plan to attend!

5. Take advantage of the off-season to visit restricted Beaches 

When: April 2025 | Where: Chilmark and West Tisbury

Visiting the beach is at the top of most lists of things to do on Martha’s Vineyard. April is the best time to take a stroll on certain beaches that have restricted access in the summer months.

From June, Lucy Vincent and Squibnocket beaches are only accessible to those who are residents of (or are renting a home in) Chilmark. Likewise, Lambert’s Cove beach in West Tisbury has the same restrictions.

These are some of the most stunning beaches on the island so don’t miss the chance to enjoy these beautiful spots before the summer restrictions kick in.

6. Earth day Beach Cleanup with Vineyard Conservation Society

When: April 19th 2025| Where: Beaches all over the island

Join the 33rd annual Earth Day Beach Cleanup and help keep the island’s beaches pristine. Join with other volunteers to clean your favorite beach, and then celebrate at the Annual Conservation Festival at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum.

Volunteers will be on-hand from 10am to 12pm with bags and gloves for you at 25 Island beaches. Afterwards, make your way to the museum for a volunteer lunch donated by local restaurants.

Don’t forget to snap a photo of any strange or unusual beach finds. There’ll be “best of” awards given out at the museum! This is a great way to give back and enjoy a community event.

7. Enjoy Easter Brunch

When: April 20th 2025| Where: Harbor View Hotel, Edgartown

What better way to celebrate Easter Sunday than with a special holiday brunch at the elegant Bettini Restaurant? The view of the lighthouse and ocean from the dining room is stunning and their menus are always so thoughtfully crafted.

The choices are seriously mouthwatering this year – perfect lobster benedict with tarragon hollandaise, honey glazed ham with duckfat potatoes, and cinnamon brioche French toast with berry compote and Vermont maple syrup. There’s also a seared seabass and a smoked shrimp cocktail that sounds divine.

Brunch is served from 11-3. Call or email for reservations!

8. Spend time at the Libraries

When: April 2025 | Where: Island-wide

There are six libraries on Martha’s Vineyard, one in each town. Each of these has a comprehensive program of events taking place year-round and April is no different! We often go to the Oak Bluffs library on rainy days or whenever the kids are looking for a change of scenery.

The libraries are open to island visitors and the programs truly have something for everyone. You may need to sign up for a library card but this is usually free for Massachusetts residents.

You can expect to find activities like Easter egg hunts, storytimes, drop-in lego club, family yoga, VR games, music time, toddler tumble time, dance classes and Nintendo switch game clubs daily throughout April.

9. Wrap up warm and go kayaking!

When: April 2025 | Where: Island-wide

Island Spirit Kayak opens on April 15th this year. Although their kayak rental location at Sengekontacket pond may not be there every day, they can still deliver kayaks and paddle boards to you.

Sign up to their mailing list because they often have discounts for rentals and deliveries at this time of year. Edgartown Great Pond, Pocha Pond, Katama Bay and Sengekontacket are some good locations for kayaking on the Vineyard.

10. Take a stroll and enjoy the Spring blooms.

When: April 2025 | Where: Polly Hill, Donaromas, Gingerbread Cottages

Despite the wind and occasional heavy showers, some spring flowers will be in full bloom by April. Look for brightly colored daffodils, tulips and forsythia and enjoy the fragrance of hyacinths in the air.

The homes in downtown Edgartown, the gingerbread cottages around Ocean Park, Polly Hill Arboretum and Donaroma’s nursery are some hotspots for beautifully landscaped gardens, shrubs and spring-blooming bulbs. 

Polly Hill has a series of events in April including classes on pruning spring blooming shrubs, propagating native plants and Forest Bathing. On the 25th, they will celebrate Arbor day with a tour of notable trees and a tree-planting demonstration.

I would usually recommend a trip to Mytoi Gardens on Chappaquiddick for gorgeous landscapes but April is still a little early for the plants here. May or June are better months to experience these gardens at their best.

11. Visit “must-see” island landmarks

When: April 2025 | Where: Oak Bluffs

It may not be beach weather, but spring on Martha’s Vineyard is a great time to visit popular attractions without the crowds. The Flying Horses Carousel is open in April and you will get to enjoy a ride or two on the beautifully restored horses without having to wait in line.

This is one of the most popular things to do on Martha’s Vineyard with kids so it’s usually pretty busy during the summer. If your kids are very young or very impatient (like mine!) I definitely recommend going at a time where you don’t have to wait in line

12. Lace Up for Race Day

When: April 27th 2025| Where: Oak Bluffs

The MV Spring Classic on April 27 is a full or half marathon race that brings runners by the incredible ocean views of Beach Road and other scenic island routes. The course is mostly flat (with just a few hills) and starts at the High School at 8am, finishing up at Waban Park.

From 1-3 there is a post-marathon party at the Harbor View hotel, one of the race sponsors. They are offering complementary shuttles from the finish line to the hotel.

Local kids help run the event, which supports island youth programs, and you’ll find them manning water stations along the way. Just don’t wait too long to sign up – they cap the total runners at 500, and registration closes April 25.

13. Hot Cross Buns Workshop

When: April 12th 2025| Where: The FARM Institute, Edgartown

Join local baker Teri Culetto (the “Vineyard Baker”) for a hands-on workshop creating traditional hot cross buns, just in time for Easter! This workshop gives you a chance to learn from a master baker and you’ll get to take home half a dozen freshly-baked buns of your own making.

The workshop is $40 for members, $50 for non-members and pre-registration is required. The FARM Institute’s spring cooking classes often sell out, so book early.

14. April is for Brunch!

When: April 2025| Where: Edgartown

On April Celebrate your favorite pop icons at a music-themed brunch at Town Bar & Grill on the 26th. Enjoy creative cocktails like “That’s Me Espresso” and classic brunch foods like chicken & waffles. lnteractive activities include sing-along music bingo, a look-alike contest, and friendship bracelet making. Costumes encouraged!

If you’re looking for something more relaxing try Sunday brunch with stunning lagoon views at the MV Museum’s First Light Café. Non-alcoholic beverages are available as well as dishes like clam lobster chowder, pita with hummus and curry chicken salad.

Classic, soulful vinyl sets by DJ Vincent Patricola and occasional special guests set the tone for the afternoon. The perfect way to wind down your weekend with good food and mellow vibes.

The Black Dog Bakery cafe has a specially crafted Easter brunch menu on the 20th. On offer from 11-4, the menu features highlights like Crabcake Eggs Benedict, Baked Bourbon Peach Glazed Ham and Braised Lamb Shank. Their full daily menu is also available that day.

The Newes from America has an Easter brunch on April 20th from 11-3 after the Easter egg hunt at the Faraway Hotel next door.

Also on April 20th, S&S Kitchenette in Vineyard Haven hosts a special Polish Easter Brunch, cooked by Good Pierogi. This unique menu features vegetarian options as well as arctic char, roast beef and zurek (sour rye soup)

The Easter lunch at Alchemy looks incredible. Available on April 20th from 11.30 – 2.30, the menu offers gourmet appetizers like Jonah Crab & Grilled Asparagus Salad alongside hearty entrées like Bourbon Glazed Smoked Ham and my favorite thing to order there – Alchemy’s outstanding Wagyu Burger

My top tips for visiting Marthas Vineyard in April

Keep an Eye on Hotel Mailing Lists and Social Media in March

Many hotels on Martha’s Vineyard open for the season in April and they often announce special offers and discounts for their opening weekends.

Plan for a Family-Focused Getaway

April activities and events are more geared towards families, so it’s an ideal time for a Martha’s Vineyard family vacation.

Visit later in April

Early April is still considered off-season on Martha’s Vineyard but by late April, the island is moving into shoulder season. To make the most of your trip, consider visiting later in the month. By this time, more attractions and businesses are open.

Check Out the Local Festivities and Events

April is a time for unique local events like the Annual Shearing Day at Island Alpaca. These events are great fun and also offer a glimpse into the local culture and community.

Bring your car

There are certain times of year where having a car on the island might be more of a hassle than a help but April is not one of them. There’s less pressure for reservation space on the ferry, very little traffic and it’s much easier to find parking. You can also rent a car on the island if you prefer.

How to get to Martha’s Vineyard in April

In April, transport options to the island are more limited than in the peak summer months but don’t let this stop you from planning a visit. It’s still very straightforward to get there.

Ferry to Martha’s Vineyard in April

Seasonal ferry routes from the Cape to Martha’s Vineyard usually open around Memorial Day so in April, there is just one option – the Steamship Authority ferry from Woods Hole, arriving in the main port on the island, Vineyard Haven.

This route takes 45 minutes, boats run frequently every day and is the option I use most (and recommend) when traveling to the island.

Advance car reservations are essential but foot passengers don’t need to book in advance. 

Fly to Martha’s Vineyard in April

The only direct flights to Martha’s Vineyard (MVY) in April are with Cape Air, from Boston’s Logan Airport (BOS). If you don’t like flying in very small planes (less than 10 passengers!) consider taking the ferry instead.

The airport is centrally located and it’s easy to get an Uber or taxi right outside or you can rent a car in the terminal.

Private planes can land at the airport year round and there are a number of charter companies offering flight bookings.

Where to stay on Martha’s Vineyard in April

These hotels are open in April, however, some are not open until late in the month. April is also a great time to book an upscale vacation rental. These properties are more affordable at this time of year and often double or triple their nightly rates in peak season

• Harborview Hotel
• Summercamp
• The Edgar Hotel
• Ashley Inn
• Island Inn
• The Franklin Hotel
• Lambert’s Cove Inn

🤩 Search for Martha’s Vineyard Hotels open in April

Restaurants open on Martha’s Vineyard in April

At this time of year, many restaurants, coffee shops and ice cream stores begin to open for the season. There are also some reliable year-round options. Here are some of the establishments already open or opening in April.

Edgartown

• Alchemy
• Bettini
• Bad Martha
• 19 Raw/19 Prime
• Dock Street Coffee Shop
• Espresso Love
• Town Bar and Grill
• Rockfish
• Rosewater Cafe
• The Wharf

Oak Bluffs

• Tigerhawk
• Offshore Ale
• Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Company
• The Barn Bowl and Bistro
• Dos Mas Tacos
• The Lookout

Vineyard Haven

• The Attic
• 9 Craft Kitchen & Bar
• The Black Dog Tavern
• The Scottish Bakehouse
• The Net Result

Up-Island

• 7a Foods

Martha’s Vineyard in April: Weather

April weather on the island is a mix of crisp spring air and occasional rain showers. The temperature in Martha’s Vineyard in April ranges from cool to moderately warm, averaging around the high 40’s.

In the best case scenario, you’ll experience a beautiful blend of warmer, sunny days and some cloudy moments, perfect for outdoor activities. However, it’s also a transitional month so you can still get high winds leftover from the storms of the winter months

What to wear in Martha’s Vineyard in April

Packing for April requires layers. Start with light shirts and add sweaters or fleece for warmth. You’ll likely need a waterproof jacket for unexpected rain.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring – I have Merrell hiking shoes rather than boots which I love for this time of year. Boots are a little too warm and heavy for the spring.

Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for any sunny days. Evenings can be cooler, so pack a cozy jacket or wrap. Dressing in layers is really the key to managing the changeable spring weather.

Wrap up: What to do in Martha’s Vineyard in April

A trip to Martha’s Vineyard is one of the best things to do in April on the East coast. Spring time is a unique opportunity to enjoy what the island has to offer, without the summer crowds.

I’ve highlighted a mix of indoor and outdoor activities so you have lots of choice, whatever the weather.  Remember to check out local events, consider bringing a car for easy exploration, and dress in layers to stay comfortable no matter the temperature. 

Check out Martha’s Vineyard with kids on Instagram for lots of family-friendly activities and tips. Enjoy visiting Martha’s Vineyard in April!