Moshup Beach (public)

Below the famous Gay Head Cliffs — dramatic red, orange, and white clay cliffs that are among the most photographed landmarks in New England. The beach itself has strong waves and a wild, untouched feeling.

Moshup Beach sits at the base of the Gay Head Cliffs — those vivid bands of red, ochre, and grey clay that are a National Natural Landmark and arguably the most photographed coastal feature in New England. Owned by the Martha's Vineyard Land Bank and the Wampanoag Tribe, the beach is open to everyone but rewards effort: it's a ten-minute walk from the parking circle at the end of State Road, down a sandy path, and there are no facilities once you arrive (a restroom and shower live at the lot). The waves come in long and clean off the Atlantic, often shoulder-high in a south swell, and the rip-current risk is real — there are no lifeguards. Most visitors come for the cliffs at sunset, when the clay glows and the lighthouse on the bluff above catches the last light. Bring water, sunscreen, and shoes; the sand can be hot and the walk back uphill in soft sand is no small thing. Note that climbing on the cliffs or removing clay is prohibited — both protect a fragile geological site and respect Wampanoag sacred land.