A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Newport for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Martha's Vineyard and Newport. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a coastal, peaceful, and affluent island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Newport travel costs.

Martha's Vineyard and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Martha's Vineyard and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights, while Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Martha's Vineyard is famous for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street.

How is Martha's Vineyard different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport and Martha's Vineyard. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Newport is a great town for its historical sights. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Martha's Vineyard offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.


Is the Food Better in Martha's Vineyard or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Martha's Vineyard and Newport can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Martha's Vineyard has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Newport is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Newport has a few options to choose from. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Martha's Vineyard is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Martha's Vineyard is a perfect choice. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Martha's Vineyard and Newport both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Martha's Vineyard for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Newport is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Martha's Vineyard does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Martha's Vineyard does not have a historic old town.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Hiking?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Martha's Vineyard is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Martha's Vineyard. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Newport is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

If you're looking to go shopping, Martha's Vineyard and Newport both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport More Beautiful?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. The rugged coastline and rolling hills give this area a natural beauty.

Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Families?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Newport is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Martha's Vineyard is a family-friendly place to visit. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.


Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Martha's Vineyard and Newport both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Martha's Vineyard is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Newport is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Newport a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard
Newport

Newport is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Martha's Vineyard is somewhat walkable. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

In either Martha's Vineyard or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Martha's Vineyard because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Martha's Vineyard, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

Families should spend more time in Newport than Martha's Vineyard. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Newport, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Newport than Martha's Vineyard. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newport that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Martha's Vineyard if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Newport.


  • How many days in Martha's Vineyard or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Martha's Vineyard 1-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Martha's Vineyard might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Martha's Vineyard has to offer.

With museums and nightlife around the coastal town of Newport, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Martha's Vineyard is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

With nightlife and food around the historical destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.


A week in Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Martha's Vineyard. Since Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Newport or Martha's Vineyard?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Martha's Vineyard Prices
    USA Prices
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Martha's Vineyard $285
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in Martha's Vineyard is $285, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Martha's Vineyard and Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Martha's Vineyard $132
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Martha's Vineyard $264
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Martha's Vineyard and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Martha's Vineyard or Newport? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Marthas Vineyard


Hotels in Newport


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Martha's Vineyard Hotel Prices and Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Martha's Vineyard $83
    Newport $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport and Martha's Vineyard change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Martha's Vineyard $104
    Newport $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Martha's Vineyard $30
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Martha's Vineyard

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Martha's Vineyard.

  • Best of Martha's Vineyard 3 hour Full-Island Tour: $65
  • 4 hours Hop-on Hop-off Jawsome Jaws Tour: $120
  • All Island Bus Tour: $75
  • All New Shared Jaws tour Budget Friendly: $130
  • Best 3-Hour Martha's Vineyard shared Island Tour from Oak Bluffs: $65
  • Discovering Oak Bluffs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Down Island Tour with One Hour in Edgartown: $65
  • Edgartown Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided (GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Martha Vineyard Bus Tour: $60
  • Martha's Vineyard: All Island Tour: $70
  • Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard Audio Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $32
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40
  • America's Cup Evening Sailing Adventure Newport, RI: $125
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Hour Cruise: $45
  • Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV : $129
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $100
  • Historic Scenic Tour Through Newport With Elms Admission: $45
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $41
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Martha's Vineyard $22
    Newport $14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Martha's Vineyard and Newport, we can see that Martha's Vineyard is more expensive. And not only is Newport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newport and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Martha's Vineyard would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Martha's Vineyard than you might in Newport.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Martha's Vineyard Expensive? and Is Newport Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Martha's Vineyard or Newport?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Martha's Vineyard and Newport. Many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Martha's Vineyard is around the same temperature as Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Martha's Vineyard, it's very sunny this time of the year. Martha's Vineyard usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Martha's Vineyard gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Martha's Vineyard usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Martha's Vineyard gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Martha's Vineyard 73°F (23°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Martha's Vineyard as well as Newport. Many visitors come to Martha's Vineyard in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Martha's Vineyard is around the same temperature as Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Martha's Vineyard this time of the year. In the autumn, Martha's Vineyard often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Martha's Vineyard gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Martha's Vineyard usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Newport. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Martha's Vineyard 53°F (12°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Martha's Vineyard can be very cold during winter. In January, Martha's Vineyard is generally around the same temperature as Newport. Daily temperatures in Martha's Vineyard average around 28°F (-2°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during winter. Martha's Vineyard gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Martha's Vineyard usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Martha's Vineyard 28°F (-2°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Martha's Vineyard during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Martha's Vineyard is around the same temperature as Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Martha's Vineyard. In the spring, Martha's Vineyard often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Martha's Vineyard gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Martha's Vineyard usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Newport. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Martha's Vineyard 48°F (9°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)