"Gingerbread Houses" and the "Movie Jaws" Birthplace Await the Martha's Vineyard Traveler

As an avid outdoor photographer I had a unique opportunity to spend three months on the island during the summer of 2007. It is a laid-back island with a lot of bikes, mopeds, fish shacks and beautiful beaches. Only 26 miles long this island has six communities each with its own characteristics and beauty. The movie "Jaws" was filmed at Menemsha where down by the dock I discovered some of the best lobster rolls and clam chowder I have ever thrown a lip over. An annual shark fishing tournament is held in the movie's honor.

With a top speed limit of 45 mph the entire island thrives at a more leisurely pace than most of us are accustomed to. In fact during the nicer weather times a good portion of the population, visitors and locals alike pedal around on bicycles. Skunks and wild turkeys abound as well as Osprey and deer. The five lighthouse on the island are all on the north side looking out over Vineyard Sound and Nantucket Sound, and over the entrance to Edgartown Harbor and Cape Poge.

At Oak Bluffs enjoy an ice cream cone from Mad Martha's and ride the Flying Horses Carousel, said to be the oldest working carousel in the country. While there check out the "gingerbread" cottages behind circuit avenue.

If it's remoteness that you crave take a short ride over to Chappaquiddick Island on the Chappy Ferry. Chappaquiddick is the least developed district of the Vineyard and boasts of several beautiful beaches as well as nature reserves and a tranquil Japanese garden.

To view a few photos of the area click on Martha's Vineyard Travel.