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Winter Vacation Guide: Hotels in Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

The season may have slowed, but the ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are still chugging along. Instead of escaping during the off-season, why not plan a winter beach vacation instead?  Taking a trip to these Massachusetts islands during the winter opens new doors for travelers. It’s the best time to explore bare beaches in search of snowy owls, get tourist-free snapshots of stoic lighthouses, slurp bowls of hot clam chowder, and experience island life like a local. Planning a winter getaway is a breeze with our guide to hotels in Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket that stay open during the winter months.

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Nantucket

Nantucket Holiday Stroll
Photo: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism via flickr | CC BY-ND 2.0

Relax in the tranquility of the off-season with a trip to The Nantucket Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown Nantucket, the year-round hotel and resort invites guests to spend their winter getaways in cozy Islander rooms or one-to-four bedroom suites. On-site winter activities can include yoga classes or a trip to the sauna, and a fully loaded library with books, DVDs, and games make indoor winter nights even cozier. Venture off the property to skate around Nantucket Ice or take a walk to downtown shopping and the harbor. The island’s favorite brewery, Cisco Brewers, is open year-round for a winter warm-up, too!

Edgartown Hotels in Martha’s Vineyard

Staying in Edgartown puts visitors within reach of Martha’s Vineyard’s best. Beaches open up for long walks and sunset views (and, you can bring your dog!). Even a walk downtown becomes a serene stroll. At the end of the day, warm up and rest your head at one of these hotels in Martha’s Vineyard.

Martha's Vineyard winter beach.
Photo: D. Welch via flickr

The Kelley House, one of the oldest hotels in America, welcomes overnight guests until January. Accommodations include four classic houses and cottages, and one of the favorite local watering holes, The Newes from America Pub, is right in the building. Excluding the month of January, guests can curl up in front of a gas fireplace in one of Vineyard Square Hotel’s luxury suites. For anyone visiting with a four-legged family member, pet-friendly suites also stay open during the winter. Winter activities to keep you warm can include running the beaches with your pup or getting pampered with a massage from on-site Sea Spa Salon.

Edgartown Lighthouse
Photo: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism via flickr | CC BY-ND 2.0

Close to the harbor, Harbor View Hotel has 114 rooms and suites for year-round accommodation. A five-minute walk brings guests to the heart of downtown, where you can browse the shops or warm up with a meal at a local restaurant. With events like Christmas in Edgartown and Harbor View Hotel’s playfully festive Teddy Bear Suite, a trip during the holiday season never disappoints. From romantic walks along an empty beach to the bustle of local holiday festivals, the islands are far from dormant during the snowy season. Use our winter vacation guide to find open hotels in Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket for relaxing winter beach getaways!