Martha’s Vineyard

Like so many island escapes, Martha’s Vineyard can be both a chore to get to and every bit worth the hassle. That’s good news for careful planners: While others are frustrated by traffic and ferry schedules, persistent brides reap the rewards of myriad venues, upscale restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere.    

Couples intent on an intimate ceremony will love the refurbished 17-room HOB KNOB hotel (508-627-9510, hobknob.com). The former Edgartown captain’s home is now the island’s only eco-friendly lodging, with low-VOC wall paint, kitchen composting, and a menu of local, organic offerings. Its adjacent Tilton and Thaxter buildings can house entire wedding parties—or just happy newlyweds. Somewhat grander in scale, the HARBOR VIEW HOTEL, which just finished a multimillion dollar renovation that includes upgraded amenities like soaking tubs and outdoor showers, can accommodate weddings of up to 300 people (508-627-7000, harbor-view.com). Its sweet spot for ceremonies is a gazebo overlooking the ocean and nearby Chappaquiddick Island. Indoors, new chef Levon Wallace cooks up cuisine using produce from Vineyard farms.   

As many as 75 guests can sit down for a rehearsal or post-ceremony meal in the dining room at the up-island LAMBERT’S COVE INN AND RESTAURANT (508-693-2298, lambertscoveinn.com). The expanded venue prepares its local fare the day of—no flavor-leeching warming bins in sight. Back in Edgartown, ATRIA, with its candlelit interior and charming outdoor garden, can host meals—of the clambake or white-tablecloth variety—for up to 300, ensuring guests go home sun-kissed, happy, and well fed (508-627-5850, atriamv.com).  SASCHA DE GERSDORFF

Photo by Nicole Friedler.