Moshup Beach (public) — Attraction in Aquinnah

Beautiful beach, and maybe something more?

To preface this story, I had no idea of the cultural significance of the cliffs when I walked to them via the beach, nor am I the new agey type that buys into healing crystals and such, nor am I even religious. Now that that is out of the way, I want to share the experience I had as I remember it.

The day I was at Moshup Beach, which happened to be the summer solstice, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe at this place as I rounded a bend and was met with the clay cliffs. I have been to many beautiful places in the world like Zion, Bryce Canyon, etc, and I swear this was the most overwhelming feeling I ever received in a location like this. Something here was different. Shortly upon arriving, a specific boulder, perfect for sitting, and facing due west near the high tide line, drew me. Despite never ever being nude in public, I felt compelled to meditate, nude, atop the boulder. The sun directly ahead, the cliffs behind, and the sea breaking at the base of the boulder... everything felt aligned. It felt instinctual that this was the right place and this was the right time. As my breathing synced with the waves, I felt a sense of great pleasure from my head down my whole body... not sexual, but more like a caress between a mother and child, along with the accompanying feelings of bliss and peace. I don't understand what happened, but I do know it was a completely foreign experience for me that I may never experience again. I like to think it was Moshup's blessing, but... It's hard to believe even though it...

I've been to most beaches in Mass, from gloucester to the cape, and this beach is hands down the best of them. It felt like I spent the day in florida. The water was clean, there was constant waves perfect for body boarding, and somehow the water was warm! The sand was easy on the feet, and the dunes.. are incredible. Clay cliffs, pinkish colored and huge. And the beach is positioned facing slightly west so the sun sets right on the water! Beautiful sunsets. The people here are also so nice it's refreshing!

How to get there: My wife and I had a day trip there and I'll tell you what we wish we knew before going. This beach is on the other side of the island, opposite where the ferry drops you off, so expect a 35-40 min drive or 60$ uber. You can also take the bus but the bus takes a lot longer. Beware that your phone's connection may be bad. Service seems not so good in the area. Also, we had trouble getting an uber back as there weren't any drivers around. Maybe the area isn't popular. Some very kind people had to give us a lift! Thanks a million you guys.

Side note: There is a nude section if you take a right at the entrance to the beach and walk toward the cliffs. The people here are very nice and it's clothing optional, even families with kids would walk by and not mind the nude sun bathers, the atmosphere here is very accepting and comfortable. This beach is amazing and everyone should check it out...

If you haven’t visited Acquinnah/Moshup during your visit to Martha’s Vineyard, your trip is incomplete. If you have visited the Acquinnah overlook, but fail to make that hike down to Moshup Beach, you really missed out.

Moshup beach is so unique and picturesque. It is kept at most pristine condition by totally being devoid of commercial activities. Thank god! Walking along the beach feels like you’re in another planet. Watching the magnificent cliff, browsing through all those unique rocks and marveling when that clean, crisp waves collide with awesome geographical formations. It is such an awesome experience I haven’t had anywhere in the world.

There’s a parking lot near the beach, but I strongly recommend you to park at Acquinnah overlook and take a hike down the beach. The hike itself is another awesome experience. I am running out of adjectives to describe the beauty of it. Experience...