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The Gay Head Lighthouse is the first lighthouse built on Martha's Vineyard. It is made with bricks. The lighthouse is located over by the Aquinnah Cliffs. The entire area is beautiful. The lighthouse makes the area and the cliffs even more picturesque. The lighthouse was closed in October when I visited. But, that did not stop me and others from walking outside and taking photos. It is one of the places you need to visit when on Martha's Vineyard.
The Lighthouse at Aquinnah [Martha's Vineyard MA] VTA Bus #5 takes passengers from West Tisbury to the Town of Aquinnah. Aquinnah is the least populous town on the island, very different from the Town of Edgartown where we visited first. We came here to explore the points of interests and landmarks at Aquinnah which was the Gay Head Cliffs and the Lighthouse. It is just a short walk from the Cliff's overlook to the lighthouse. During our visit the lighthouse was open to visitors and for an admission fee of $6 you can descend up to the top. Please note the schedule of the lighthouse, they are only open seasonally. The Gay Head Lighthouse has an interesting history. It is beautiful up close and makes a nice backdrop for photos. Aquinnah is a small town, but soaking up the natural beauty, walking the trails, and checking out the native-owned businesses kept us busy enough and we spent an hour here. The Gay Head Lighthouse was featured in Steven Spielberg's Jaws. Go see! Review #3028
A great spot to visit an afternoon when trying to change it up a little bit while staying in Martha's Vineyard. Amazing views and nice shops nearby. Let me first say that it is a decent drive from the touristy spots which are on the opposite end of the island. It's probably a good 40 minute ride or so. So you'll need to plan this for a few hours round-trip maybe 2 1/2 to three hour excursion. But it is really great to go off and see the other side of the island in addition to the Oak Bluffs area. Absolutely amazing views here, the cliffs, the rocks, the lighthouse, it's interesting, because it's so different from the rest of the island. After visiting Martha's Vineyard for a week the views here is not what I think of when I think of Martha's Vineyard. However, a nice scenic spot. All the way on the far end of the island is not to be missed! It would be best to have a car, because there are some nice farm stands along the way that are totally worth a stop. Also, this side of the island is where more of the celebrities live, hidden in the woods somewhere. I was lucky to see an on-site artist, painting the scene, see my pictures. I definitely recommend seeing the lighthouse which is right next door while you're here, they have a very cute gift shop village right next to the scenic site. Highly recommended to visit this area while you're in Martha's Vineyard. Not sure it needs to be visited twice though.
The ride up island to the lighthouse and clay cliffs are always a highlight of our island visits. I never grow tired of the winding roads and stone walls that line the roads or the amazing views of the cliffs. For a small fee you can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse. The fee goes toward the upkeep of the lighthouse. You can view the Fresnel lens close up and they are pretty cool. Often we pack a lunch and have a picnic at the base of the lighthouse. I figure that if I am going to take the time to drive up there that I should spend a little time and enjoy the view and fresh air. The views out to the main land, Elizabeth Islands and the Atlantic Ocean are worth the trip.
Gorgeous views, informative staff, really cool experience! Our family visit to the lighthouse offered a great opportunity to see the cliffs, and take in breathtaking views abs some gorgeous pictures. The walk was short and very manageable and the lading area for photo opportunities was large enough for everyone to get their own space. When she let the viewing area we walked to the lighthouse and we're surprised to se that it's a working lighthouse and you are able to crawl all the way to the top where the extremely hot lights rotate. We had to stay close to the kids, they both wanted to get up close. Before entering we were given a brief history and we were able to ask questions! It's definitely an experience that I'd recommend when visiting Martha's Vineyard!
The light house is pretty, but what makes it special is that it's in the most gorgeous destination! Visit Aquinnah if you have the chance!
We drove to gay head mid day on what I thought was going to be a beautiful day. It took us about 30-40 minutes from Edgartown. As soon as we arrived, the clouds started rolling in. Thank goodness it didn't start pouring until about an hour after we left. Because of the clouds, we didn't have the spectacular view I'm sure you will see on a clear day. The lighthouse is open to the public. You do have to pay to go in. It's under $10 per person. Since it was too cloudy, we decided just to explore the ground The lighthouse is located on top of a beautiful cliff. It has been maintained well. Parking is limited. They do have a parking across from the bathrooms that charges $10. I went around about four times and ended up with a free spot.
Very beautiful and very serene. The scenes here reminded me of the images that I thought I would only be able to see in postcards or calendars and never in person. I stopped by in the afternoon and caught the picturesque view if the sun glistening as it reflected on the water. It was stunning just starting at that clear horizon line in the distance. I wish I was here at sunset though! I can't imagine how great of a view that would be. Regardless, anytime you come, it's an excellent photo opportunity. There's a slight inclined path that leads you to the top with little shops of souvenirs and food along the way. I wish I had more time to go down right by the lighthouse but hopefully next time!
Although on the opposite side of the island from the ferry and towns, the trek over to the lighthouse is completely worth it. It is about a 30 minute drive (not sure about the bus schedule) and there is a limited free street parking (1-2 hours I think) and there is a parking lot that you can pay to park at (not sure how much) next to public bathrooms. It should be enough time to go up to the lighthouse for photos and check out the souvenir shops nearby. Definitely go early in the morning before the rush of tourists. Admission to the lighthouse is a couple of dollars. I don't have alot of lighthouse experiences to compare to, but I love that you can climb all the way to the top (very steep steps) and watch the light spin around and shine in your face. You get a great view of the area and can see the beautiful cliffs in the background. When you come back down, you can see some more of the cliffs from the lighthouse or walk over to the souvenir shop area to see the cliffs.
Apparently this light house is so named for the multicolored Aquinnah cliffs that one can view from atop. I thought it was named because it was such a cheerful colour against the white background of the cliffs. The entrance fee is 6 dollars, and there is a 8 person limit on the balcony at a time. There was no queue when we went in. And we were able to enjoy the amazing views from the tower. We were also blessed with amazing weather and I can't recommend this lighthouse enough. The people taking care of it were also very friendly, welcoming and chatty. A nice change from the wearied attitude of other people at Martha's vineyard who must have been exhausted by the constant throngs of tourists visiting all summer!
Beautiful view and greenery around the lighthouse. It cost $6.00 per person to walk up to the top of the lighthouse. I liked the view from the ground and we took some great pictures so we opted to not climb up to the top. Great place to stop and learn. Staff was very informative and kind.
Loved visiting this area, and getting to check out the light house and going in side. The lady working the front where you purchase tickets is kind, warm, and inviting. Full of so much fun facts and knowledge. Seeing/learning how they moved the light house over from its original spot is stunning. Great views once you're on top! The only negative I have to say is the women with the grayish-white hair thats a bob cut - learn some manners. Upon entering back into the light house from the balcony, there were people trying to head up to the light display. Obviously space is limited and its tight - theres a way to ask us to wait vs slamming the door in someone's face. Which is exactly what happened to my partner who was ahead of me. In fact, the family behind us noticed, and the 9 year old daughter mentioned how rude that was. Just saying. Honestly - that interaction almost ruined the entire experience for us - but luckily the views, and the front worker's hospitality, saved it.
Fog wind desolation and a lighthouse This is one of those places you will never forget. The actually lighthouse was built in 1856, is 51 feet tall and sits on the cliffs over 160 feet above the ocean. You can't go in the tower but you can get close and stand in a observation platform built on the edge on the cliffs. The view is literally breathtaking. Even if you are used to visiting such places, Gay Head will still impress. It always seems to be foggy or windy and cool even in the summer months and the whole place has an ethereal feel to it. The area around the light is owned by the Wamponoag Tribe and they understandably consider it a sacred place and are doing everything they can to persevere it. There's not much out here, just a little snack type place and a gift store. There is a huge parking lot and public bathrooms and many tours end up at the light and cliffs for a quick look. If you don't want to sit in a van, this makes a fantastic bike ride from Vineyard Haven if you don't mind the hills. There are many stories about where the name Gay Head came from. The truth is that it comes from the "gaily" colored clay in the cliffs. This gaily colored clay is one of the things that makes the cliffs so lovely. This entire area is about as beautiful and spectacular as anything I have ever seen.
2 months ago
This is a pretty cool lighthouse which has received historical designation. For a $6 entry fee (Free for kids 12 and younger), you can explore inside the actual lighthouse. There are spiral staircases to reach each floor, and an even more narrow spiral staircase to reach the actual light portion. There are amazing views from the top two floors. Worth the visit. read more
My tour group stopped at Aquinnah Cliff and this lighthouse is right next to it. $6 to be able to go to the top, unfortunately I didn't have the time to go up and check that out, but form what I did experience this brick lighthouse was quite the site. For me, at least, the lighthouse ended up popping more than the Cliffs. read more
2 years ago
Bottom Line: 168+ year old brick, conical lighthouse nestled amongst beautiful scenery. Gay Head Lighthouse, as we see it today, was built in 1855 and first lit in 1856. The brick lighthouse is a conical shape and 52 feet in height. Although it may be considered short as far as lighthouses go, it is perched above the Aquinnah Cliffs. In 2015 it was moved back 134 feet to safeguard the historic structure from the erosion of the cliffs. My husband and I visited in early May and the lighthouse was not open for climbing yet but we still enjoyed visiting the grounds. The upside to visiting in the shoulder season is that we were the only ones at the lighthouse and we were able to enjoy the grassy lawn and nifty brick structure in peace. We were easily able to get a parking spot and then it was a short walk through some brush and trees to the lighthouse. As I understand it, the lighthouse is open for climbing between Memorial Day and Labor Day and the views from the top are lovely. read more
The Gay Head Lighthouse is the first lighthouse built on Martha's Vineyard. It is made with bricks. The lighthouse is located over by the Aquinnah Cliffs. The entire area is beautiful. The lighthouse makes the area and the cliffs even more picturesque. The lighthouse was closed in October when I visited. But, that did not stop me and others from walking outside and taking photos. It is one of the places you need to visit when on Martha's Vineyard. read more
The Lighthouse at Aquinnah [Martha's Vineyard MA] VTA Bus #5 takes passengers from West Tisbury to the Town of Aquinnah. Aquinnah is the least populous town on the island, very different from the Town of Edgartown where we visited first. We came here to explore the points of interests and landmarks at Aquinnah which was the Gay Head Cliffs and the Lighthouse. It is just a short walk from the Cliff's overlook to the lighthouse. During our visit the lighthouse was open to visitors and for an admission fee of $6 you can descend up to the top. Please note the schedule of the lighthouse, they are only open seasonally. The Gay Head Lighthouse has an interesting history. It is beautiful up close and makes a nice backdrop for photos. Aquinnah is a small town, but soaking up the natural beauty, walking the trails, and checking out the native-owned businesses kept us busy enough and we spent an hour here. The Gay Head Lighthouse was featured in Steven Spielberg's Jaws. Go see! Review #3028 read more
![Gay Head Lighthouse - 06.09.23 Film location from the movie Jaws [1975] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Aquinnah, Massachusetts](https://s3-media0.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/qwqL9fx47iWgkiNNM5gijw/348s.jpg "Gay Head Lighthouse - 06.09.23 Film location from the movie Jaws [1975] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Aquinnah, Massachusetts")
![Gay Head Lighthouse - 06.09.23 Gay Head Lighthouse was featured in a scene from the movie Jaws [1975] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Aquinnah, Massachusetts](https://s3-media0.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/DoReFu8iFJ9IKsglSxwqrw/348s.jpg "Gay Head Lighthouse - 06.09.23 Gay Head Lighthouse was featured in a scene from the movie Jaws [1975] - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Aquinnah, Massachusetts")
A great spot to visit an afternoon when trying to change it up a little bit while staying in Martha's Vineyard. Amazing views and nice shops nearby. Let me first say that it is a decent drive from the touristy spots which are on the opposite end of the island. It's probably a good 40 minute ride or so. So you'll need to plan this for a few hours round-trip maybe 2 1/2 to three hour excursion. But it is really great to go off and see the other side of the island in addition to the Oak Bluffs area. Absolutely amazing views here, the cliffs, the rocks, the lighthouse, it's interesting, because it's so different from the rest of the island. After visiting Martha's Vineyard for a week the views here is not what I think of when I think of Martha's Vineyard. However, a nice scenic spot. All the way on the far end of the island is not to be missed! It would be best to have a car, because there are some nice farm stands along the way that are totally worth a stop. Also, this side of the island is where more of the celebrities live, hidden in the woods somewhere. I was lucky to see an on-site artist, painting the scene, see my pictures. I definitely recommend seeing the lighthouse which is right next door while you're here, they have a very cute gift shop village right next to the scenic site. Highly recommended to visit this area while you're in Martha's Vineyard. Not sure it needs to be visited twice though. read more
4 years ago
The ride up island to the lighthouse and clay cliffs are always a highlight of our island visits. I never grow tired of the winding roads and stone walls that line the roads or the amazing views of the cliffs. For a small fee you can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse. The fee goes toward the upkeep of the lighthouse. You can view the Fresnel lens close up and they are pretty cool. Often we pack a lunch and have a picnic at the base of the lighthouse. I figure that if I am going to take the time to drive up there that I should spend a little time and enjoy the view and fresh air. The views out to the main land, Elizabeth Islands and the Atlantic Ocean are worth the trip. read more
Gorgeous views, informative staff, really cool experience! Our family visit to the lighthouse offered a great opportunity to see the cliffs, and take in breathtaking views abs some gorgeous pictures. The walk was short and very manageable and the lading area for photo opportunities was large enough for everyone to get their own space. When she let the viewing area we walked to the lighthouse and we're surprised to se that it's a working lighthouse and you are able to crawl all the way to the top where the extremely hot lights rotate. We had to stay close to the kids, they both wanted to get up close. Before entering we were given a brief history and we were able to ask questions! It's definitely an experience that I'd recommend when visiting Martha's Vineyard! read more
We drove to gay head mid day on what I thought was going to be a beautiful day. It took us about 30-40 minutes from Edgartown. As soon as we arrived, the clouds started rolling in. Thank goodness it didn't start pouring until about an hour after we left. Because of the clouds, we didn't have the spectacular view I'm sure you will see on a clear day. The lighthouse is open to the public. You do have to pay to go in. It's under $10 per person. Since it was too cloudy, we decided just to explore the ground The lighthouse is located on top of a beautiful cliff. It has been maintained well. Parking is limited. They do have a parking across from the bathrooms that charges $10. I went around about four times and ended up with a free spot. read more
Very beautiful and very serene. The scenes here reminded me of the images that I thought I would only be able to see in postcards or calendars and never in person. I stopped by in the afternoon and caught the picturesque view if the sun glistening as it reflected on the water. It was stunning just starting at that clear horizon line in the distance. I wish I was here at sunset though! I can't imagine how great of a view that would be. Regardless, anytime you come, it's an excellent photo opportunity. There's a slight inclined path that leads you to the top with little shops of souvenirs and food along the way. I wish I had more time to go down right by the lighthouse but hopefully next time! read more
Although on the opposite side of the island from the ferry and towns, the trek over to the lighthouse is completely worth it. It is about a 30 minute drive (not sure about the bus schedule) and there is a limited free street parking (1-2 hours I think) and there is a parking lot that you can pay to park at (not sure how much) next to public bathrooms. It should be enough time to go up to the lighthouse for photos and check out the souvenir shops nearby. Definitely go early in the morning before the rush of tourists. Admission to the lighthouse is a couple of dollars. I don't have alot of lighthouse experiences to compare to, but I love that you can climb all the way to the top (very steep steps) and watch the light spin around and shine in your face. You get a great view of the area and can see the beautiful cliffs in the background. When you come back down, you can see some more of the cliffs from the lighthouse or walk over to the souvenir shop area to see the cliffs. read more
Apparently this light house is so named for the multicolored Aquinnah cliffs that one can view from atop. I thought it was named because it was such a cheerful colour against the white background of the cliffs. The entrance fee is 6 dollars, and there is a 8 person limit on the balcony at a time. There was no queue when we went in. And we were able to enjoy the amazing views from the tower. We were also blessed with amazing weather and I can't recommend this lighthouse enough. The people taking care of it were also very friendly, welcoming and chatty. A nice change from the wearied attitude of other people at Martha's vineyard who must have been exhausted by the constant throngs of tourists visiting all summer! read more
Beautiful view and greenery around the lighthouse. It cost $6.00 per person to walk up to the top of the lighthouse. I liked the view from the ground and we took some great pictures so we opted to not climb up to the top. Great place to stop and learn. Staff was very informative and kind. read more
8 years ago
Loved visiting this area, and getting to check out the light house and going in side. The lady working the front where you purchase tickets is kind, warm, and inviting. Full of so much fun facts and knowledge. Seeing/learning how they moved the light house over from its original spot is stunning. Great views once you're on top! The only negative I have to say is the women with the grayish-white hair thats a bob cut - learn some manners. Upon entering back into the light house from the balcony, there were people trying to head up to the light display. Obviously space is limited and its tight - theres a way to ask us to wait vs slamming the door in someone's face. Which is exactly what happened to my partner who was ahead of me. In fact, the family behind us noticed, and the 9 year old daughter mentioned how rude that was. Just saying. Honestly - that interaction almost ruined the entire experience for us - but luckily the views, and the front worker's hospitality, saved it. read more
18 years ago
Fog wind desolation and a lighthouse This is one of those places you will never forget. The actually lighthouse was built in 1856, is 51 feet tall and sits on the cliffs over 160 feet above the ocean. You can't go in the tower but you can get close and stand in a observation platform built on the edge on the cliffs. The view is literally breathtaking. Even if you are used to visiting such places, Gay Head will still impress. It always seems to be foggy or windy and cool even in the summer months and the whole place has an ethereal feel to it. The area around the light is owned by the Wamponoag Tribe and they understandably consider it a sacred place and are doing everything they can to persevere it. There's not much out here, just a little snack type place and a gift store. There is a huge parking lot and public bathrooms and many tours end up at the light and cliffs for a quick look. If you don't want to sit in a van, this makes a fantastic bike ride from Vineyard Haven if you don't mind the hills. There are many stories about where the name Gay Head came from. The truth is that it comes from the "gaily" colored clay in the cliffs. This gaily colored clay is one of the things that makes the cliffs so lovely. This entire area is about as beautiful and spectacular as anything I have ever seen. read more
Absolutely beautiful. We came by the lighthouse and realized that the views were worth seeing from the beach so we walked down. It took a while to get to the far end (through the nude beach) but it was SO WORTH IT. The cliffs are wampanoag reserve land so they are untouched. There is tons of naturally formed clay in red, gray, black and orange. The cliffs are a sight to see and I would go back in a heartbeat. read more
Having grown up on Cape Cod and having traveled to this lighthouse multiple times as a child, the beauty of this lighthouse and the surrounding area had faded until our last trip to Aquinnah. This gorgeous lighthouse overlooking Vineyard Sound is a great addition to the gorgeous cliffs. In the summer we love to visit the lighthouse so that we can see the sun settings over the water while watching the lighthouse come to life. In the end, I think that this is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in existence and the views from the lighthouse are incredible. It also doesn't hurt to have some lunch near the cliffs before doing a little shopping at the little shops in the area. This is such a great place to spend a summer day and night. read more
11 years ago
If you visit Martha's Vineyard, you must check out the Gay Head Lighthouse in Aquinnah. It's about an hour drive from Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven, but obviously worth the drive. The beautiful cliffs that over look the Atlantic Ocean are slated with amazing clay. The lighthouse sits firmly on the edge, making for a great photo opportunity. When you visit the island, if you're staying overnight, you should check out the sunset from the cliffs - indescribable views! The cliffs do host a few shops, but it's tricky with timing. The shops do not post business hours as they rely on the influx of tourists or visitors to the cliffs. There is a cute little restaurant that has a beautiful deck that sits above, what seems as, the ocean. Prices are reasonable, especially for the island. Also, the lighthouse was moved farther back as erosion on the cliffs caused the lighthouse to near the edge. However, the lighthouse just started allowing guests to view it as of last week. read more
11 years ago
It's truely impressive they moved this entire lighthouse. Come inspect the 1850s structure and ponder how they moved it over 100 ft. Or just come for the amazing views. I recommend a visit. If you're visiting the light house it is also worth it to check out the Aquinnah Cultural Center located on the south side of Aquinnah Circle. They have some very interesting old photos of the lighthouse and info about the local Wampanoag tribe and the histories that've surrounded the cliffs and the light for centuries. read more
7 years ago
I love Light Houses. Martha's Vineyard has 5 light house. I plan to visit all five. Absolutely breath taking right next to the Aquinnah Cliffs. I was awed. read more
12 years ago
Definitely something you have to see while you are on the island. It is 5 dollars to go inside the lighthouse, but the money goes towards the good cause of saving it. The people working are very friendly and have great knowledge of the history of the lighthouse and are more than willing to share it with you. The views of the cliffs and the ocean are absolutely beautiful. They have to move the lighthouse in April so go soon so you can say you saw the lighthouse in it's original place! It also may be closed for awhile while being moved and fixed. read more
13 years ago
All that needs to be said is this. Beautiful place and a great view. Pack a blanket, a bottle of wine and get here before the sunsets. Great place to hang and watch the day end as the sun drops below the horizon. Also, the lighthouse is awesome. Fellas, the ladies will love it! Also, the only reason it's not a 5 star is because it's not on the beach. Menemsha beach offers a more beach like experience. read more
If you are on the island, take an hour to go see this beautiful view of the lighthouse and the cliffs. It makes for great photo opportunities. Parking is a bit limited so I would suggest going early in the morning or later in the day after the tours are over. There are some small shops for souvenirs and some places for a quick bite. If you have the energy, walk on the beach towards the cliff to take picture by the actual cliffs not from the distance. It really is gorgeous and not to be missed. * Tip: Bring a selfie stick! read more
12 years ago
This place was beautiful! It's definitely a MUST SEE! (And could be romantic, if you're that type). While the scenic observation point was very nice, you cannot leave without going on the beach itself. It was breathtaking and as if I was in a dream. The colors of clay on the cliffs against the colors of the water'/beach was like a painting itself. But of course, you would not have this experience if you don't venture out onto the beach. read more
9 years ago
7 years ago
14 years ago
I love this place this is one of the top destinations in Martha's Vineyard. The views of the ocean from there is breathtaking. We didn't go into the lighthouse itself because they charge a small fee and the place itself is small so I passed on going in. But you will have enough scenery for plenty of pictures. read more
14 years ago
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