The Harbor View Hotel is Edgartown's best-known place to stay, a large shingle-style hotel above the harbor with a view of the Edgartown Lighthouse and a short walk to the village. Its FAQ says the hotel is open year-round, closing for a few weeks in January for maintenance and updates. Bettini Restaurant serves coastal cuisine, and Behind The View is a casual spot for shareable plates that offers breakfast and brunch in winter. The heated saltwater pool is typically open mid-May to mid-October, and the poolside bar runs May through October, so in November the focus is on the rooms, the restaurants and the village. Complimentary parking and EV charging are available for guests, select accommodations welcome dogs with advance arrangement and check-in begins at 4 p.m. with check-out at 11 a.m.
Location and getting around: Edgartown is the most photogenic village on Martha's Vineyard, with white captains' houses, brick lanes and the harbor. The hotel is a short stroll from the center, so you can walk to shops, galleries and restaurants that stay open in the off-season. The ferry to the island arrives at Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs, about thirty minutes by taxi or bus from Edgartown. The hotel notes that the Steamship Authority is the only ferry that carries vehicles and that reservations are required, so most winter visitors leave the car behind and take a taxi.
Rooms and who it suits: the hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, some with harbor views, and cottages for longer stays. It suits couples and small groups who want a classic island base and a winter weekend of long walks, cozy dining and quiet streets. It is also a good base for the island tour, a visit to the Gay Head cliffs and the beaches. Families can stay but the winter atmosphere is peaceful.
What is good to know: the hotel closes for a few weeks in January, so avoid that period or check the exact dates. Many Edgartown shops and restaurants are on reduced winter hours, and a rental car or taxi is useful for the up-island towns. Book rooms with views early for weekends, and ask about the winter special offers on the hotel's website.
Why stay here
- ✓Open year-round except a few weeks in January
- ✓Bettini Restaurant
- ✓Behind The View breakfast and brunch in winter
- ✓Heated saltwater pool (mid-May to mid-October)
- ✓Complimentary parking and EV charging
- ✓Select dog-friendly rooms
- ✓Short walk to Edgartown village
- ✓Harbor-view rooms and suites
Good questions
Is Harbor View Hotel open in November?+
Yes, the hotel says it is open year-round and closes for a few weeks in January. Winter breakfast and brunch are served at Behind The View.
Is the pool open?+
The heated saltwater pool is typically open from mid-May to mid-October, weather permitting. In November expect to use the restaurants and village rather than the pool.
Can I bring a car on the ferry?+
The Steamship Authority carries vehicles and reservations are required, so arrive at least 45 minutes before departure. Many winter visitors travel as foot passengers.