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Find competitive rental car prices on Martha's Vineyard with Road Genius. Check rates for SUVs, compact cars, minivans and make reservations with no booking fees. Compare offers from agencies at Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) and near the Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs ferry docks and book early to secure the vehicle you want before peak-season inventory disappears.
Martha's Vineyard has limited car rental options due to its island location. Most visitors either bring their own vehicles via ferry or rent on-island.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) |
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| In-Town Agencies |
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| Bringing Your Own Car |
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Transportation to rental locations:
Ferry vs. on-island rental considerations:
On average, car rentals at Martha's Vineyard Airport cost around $212 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $39 per day.
Compare pick-up spots: Airport rentals include a 10-11 % fee. In-town agencies near Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs skip that charge and are walkable from the ferry, so run quotes for both locations.
Do the ferry math: Bringing your own car costs about $175-$200 round-trip on the Steamship Authority plus passenger fares. For visits under two weeks, an on-island rental often comes out cheaper.
Shift your dates: Prices plummet after Labor Day and in spring/fall. If your schedule is flexible, nudging the trip a week or two can cut the rate in half.
Think in weeks, not days: Weekly rates are frequently cheaper than four or five individual days. Always check the 7-day price even for shorter stays.
Options for leaving your car:
| Location | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Oak Bluffs | Metered | Limited spaces; time limits strictly enforced |
| Downtown Edgartown | Paid lots | Street spaces limited and restricted; town lots fill early in summer |
| Vineyard Haven | Limited free or metered | Mainly for shorter stays; few all day options |
| Public Beaches | Paid lots | Beach lots fill by mid morning in summer; some resident-only beaches |
| State Forest | Free | Multiple access points for hiking and biking trails |
Driving regulations:
Local driving challenges:
A rental makes it easy to reach every corner of the island without relying on limited transit.
Down-Island loop – Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown
Up-Island drive – West Tisbury farms, Chilmark stone walls, Aquinnah Cliffs
Beach circuit – South Beach, Katama shoreline, parking lots
Menemsha evening – fishing village, harbor sunset
Is it necessary to rent a car on Martha's Vineyard?
You don't really need one, especially if you're staying in a main town and are okay using the island's bus system (VTA). However, a car can make things easier for families, give you more flexibility to explore faraway spots and let you get around freely in bad weather.
How difficult is it to bring my own car to Martha's Vineyard?
It's tough during the busy season. You have to book a spot for your car on the Steamship Authority ferry ahead of time. For summer weekends, you might need to book 3 to 6 months early. A round-trip ticket for your car costs about $200 to $240 or more and you also have to pay for passenger tickets. Because there isn't much space for cars, it's hard to get a reservation.
What's the best way to get around Martha's Vineyard without a car?
You can ride the Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) buses, which connect all the major towns and beaches. A day pass costs about $10 for an adult. Many people also ride bikes since there are dedicated paths in a lot of areas. Taxis and some ride-sharing services are around, but they can be expensive if you take many trips.
Can I take a rental car on the ferry to Martha's Vineyard?
Yes, you can, but only if the rental company allows it and you book a spot on the ferry for the car. There aren't many spots for cars on the ferry, so you have to book far in advance. Many rental companies on the mainland don't let you take their cars to islands, so make sure to check their policies.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring Martha's Vineyard?
A regular car works for most paved roads and getting into towns. You might want an SUV or a Jeep if you plan to drive on unpaved roads or visit beaches that require a special permit. The island is small, so gas mileage isn't a big worry. Parking space can be tight, so a smaller car is often more practical in town centers.
Are there any restricted driving areas on the island?
Yes, there are. Some beaches require a resident permit to park and you'll need a special permit and the right kind of vehicle to drive on the sand. Downtown areas sometimes have seasonal rules or zones just for residents. You should always check the signs carefully since the rules change from season to season.
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