Winnetu Oceanside Resort — Hotel in Edgartown

Few properties have left such a lasting impression as the one that we have when staying at Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha’s Vineyard.

The only oceanfront resort on the island, it is the ultimate luxury New England getaway. Nestled in beautiful Katama, it is country charm meets coastal chic. Even on the island, you feel like you’re a thousands of miles away from everything.

After a quick ferry ride on the fast ferry, Seastreak, a shuttle greets you at the dock ready to whisk you about 30 minutes down island.

From the minute you pull into the long driveway, a dream vacation awaits. The friendly and attentive staff is there to greet you and welcome you to your island home away from home.

The hotel makes a tremendous first impression; luscious landscaping, gorgeous shingled architecture, steps that lead up to a lobby that welcomes you with the scent of fresh cut flowers and decor that is both chic and comfortable.

The halls and room decor is an extension of the design that started down in the lobby.  Most coastal resorts need to walk a fine line between nautical kitsch and upscale ambience. Too many whales and seashell knickknacks get old fast; and modern and sleek decor and design can hide the charm of the location. This hotel does it beautifully. Historical photos lined the walls as you find your room to settle in.

Guest rooms are all suites, with one-to-four bedrooms available, and include kitchenettes and living/dining areas. Private cottages are also an option; one-and-two bedroom homes are located right next to the main building. Depending on the side and floor you’re on, some rooms even offer ocean views.

The bathrooms are all sleek and modern, but family friendly enough for those traveling with little ones. We came home ready to renovate our own rooms to mirror some of the design that our suite had.

The devil is in the details and everything about the rooms are perfectly thought out.  It’s easy to forget where you are and just want to stay inside and enjoy every bit. But we have exploring to do!

Once you’re all checked in, you have an amazing assortment of in house activities and amenities to choose from. Heated pool and hot tub, kids + fitness club, massage and spa services, and a shuttle service into downtown Edgartown.  If you’re not ready for the gym, head upstairs to the bar for a cocktail on the veranda overlooking the entire property.

Hungry? The hotel features the popular ocean view restaurant The Dunes, which features a contemporary New England coastal and international menu. They serve a complimentary continental breakfast (get the hash browns, trust us!), lunch and dinner, and can also provide a picnic lunch to go for any island adventures you might have planned. The General Store, located in the lobby also offers a to go menu, and the pool side grill offers a typical menu of snacks and small dishes throughout the day as well.

But it isn't just the property that leaves a lasting impression - it is the people. For a four-star resort, it feels more like home with the camaraderie and attention that everyone who works here gives.

Owners Mark and Gwen Snider have cultivated such an amazing community of staff, many of whom come back year after year. It's one of the many reasons we always feel like a visit is like going back to see old friends. And we can't wait for the...

Winnetu Ocean Resort – A Slice of Vineyard Magic for Families

We had the most incredible stay at the Winnetu Ocean Resort — a place that doesn’t just welcome you, it wraps you in a warm hug the moment you arrive.

What truly sets Winnetu apart is the people. The team feels like one big family, and their energy is infectious. You can tell they enjoy working together — it’s not just service, it’s genuine care. Everyone was kind, attentive, and full of good vibes, creating an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and really special.

The location is a dream, especially for families. It’s like a giant, safe playground where kids can roam freely — swimming in the pool, playing ping-pong, giant chess, foosball, cornhole... the list goes on. Our little one was in heaven enjoying Night Camps and the Activity Center.

The tennis courts are fantastic — a great spot whether you’re looking to improve your game or just hit balls with friends. Huge shout-out to Cliff, who heads the tennis program. He’s not just a great coach, he’s a walking dose of Canadian enthusiasm with world-traveler’s charm. The guy just makes the courts come alive.

There are also so many small, delightful touches that make Winnetu Winnetu: the vintage fire truck rides, the weekly clam bake picnic, the water taxi to Edgartown, and the daily 3–4pm cookies and lemonade (yes, it’s as good as it sounds).

And while there are too many wonderful staff members to name, a few really stood out:

Tim, the concierge, who went above and beyond to make our stay seamless and memorable Anthony at the bar, who kept the drinks and the conversation flowing Andy from facilities, who was always around with a smile and a solution And of course Cliff who is simply the bomb!

In short: Winnetu isn’t just a resort. It’s a place that captures the joy of a Vineyard summer — laid back, full of charm, and powered by people who clearly care about making your stay special. We’re already planning...

Winnetu is a beautiful resort where my family has stayed for years. As a child, my parents took me. Now I take my own kids. The facilities are great, and the location is gorgeous. A major draw for me has been the camp for kids who are guests of the resort. However, in recent years, the counselors they hire who care for the children have become increasingly irresponsible. They show up to work hung over and talk about things like sex and partying in front of the kids. Some of this I know through a personal mutual connection, but some is because my kids have told me directly. When I approached management over this, the main contact was extremely kind. She also said when counselors show up hungover, they are asked to leave for the day. However, I don't feel this is enough. I also feel badly myself that I have not reported this sooner, so I consider reviewing this property part of my atonement. Please think twice about using the camp, especially if your children are on the young side and won't be able to report back to you on their sense of well-being there, as my kids, who are now older, have. On the other hand, if you don't have children or do but don't plan on sending them to the camp, you will have a lovely stay at...