A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe?

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 South Lake Tahoe. 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 affluent, coastal, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Martha's Vineyard is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a idyllic, scenic, and breathtaking town. Many visitors also come to South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Martha's Vineyard and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although Martha's Vineyard and South Lake Tahoe are both popular with visitors, South Lake Tahoe has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. South Lake Tahoe is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Martha's Vineyard is known for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Martha's Vineyard is popular for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. South Lake Tahoe is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also home to the Heavenly Gondola.

How is Martha's Vineyard different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for skiing. However, Martha's Vineyard is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Martha's Vineyard is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find a number of decent museums and attractions in both South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

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

Martha's Vineyard is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Martha's Vineyard. 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.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

South Lake Tahoe has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Martha's Vineyard offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard is a well-known place for the beach. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Martha's Vineyard. 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

South Lake Tahoe is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

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 South Lake Tahoe?

Martha's Vineyard is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Martha's Vineyard is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town 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 South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, South Lake Tahoe is very family-friendly. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard and South Lake Tahoe both world-class 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.

South Lake Tahoe makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

South Lake Tahoe is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.

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

Martha's Vineyard and South Lake Tahoe both offer decent public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable destination. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

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 South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

One day in Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the destination of South Lake Tahoe, 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 South Lake Tahoe?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With shopping and skiing around the scenic town of South Lake Tahoe, 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. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or South Lake Tahoe?

Martha's Vineyard is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

With skiing and nightlife around the idyllic destination of South Lake Tahoe, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

Martha's Vineyard is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Martha's Vineyard and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that Martha's Vineyard is more expensive. And not only is South Lake Tahoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to South Lake Tahoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

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 South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.