A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Sonoma for Food, Resorts, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma. 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. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking. See Sonoma travel costs.

Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors for its resorts and small town charm. Sonoma is more touristy than Martha's Vineyard and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. Martha's Vineyard is famous for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping.

How is Martha's Vineyard different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sonoma 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 Sonoma?

You'll find a number of reasonable museums and attractions in both Sonoma and Martha's Vineyard.

While most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

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

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Sonoma, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Martha's Vineyard makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Sonoma is a great county for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Sonoma has something for everybody. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for its resorts.

Martha's Vineyard is a world class resort vacation destination. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

There are plenty of resorts in Sonoma to choose from. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma both offer very good 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.

Sonoma is considered a top beach destination. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Sonoma is a great county for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. 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.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma both offer plenty of very good 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.

Sonoma is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Martha's Vineyard is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The rugged coastline and rolling hills give this area a natural beauty.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma Better for Families?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma are nice family-friendly destinations.

Martha's Vineyard offers lots of family activities. 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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma both fantastic 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.

Sonoma makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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

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

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

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

Martha's Vineyard is a island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

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

Sonoma is not a walkable island. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

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

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Martha's Vineyard, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma 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 Sonoma.

One day in Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma?

Martha's Vineyard might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sonoma, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Sonoma?

Martha's Vineyard is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the scenic county of Sonoma, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Martha's Vineyard. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the serene destination of Sonoma. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Martha's Vineyard or Sonoma?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sonoma is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This county 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma, we can see that Martha's Vineyard is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sonoma Expensive?.

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

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, Martha's Vineyard usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Martha's Vineyard gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Sonoma and Martha's Vineyard during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In the autumn, Martha's Vineyard is cooler than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Martha's Vineyard and Sonoma. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Martha's Vineyard in the winter. In January, Martha's Vineyard is generally much colder than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Martha's Vineyard average around 28°F (-2°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Martha's Vineyard usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Martha's Vineyard as well as Sonoma. Many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sonoma in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Martha's Vineyard is cooler than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Martha's Vineyard