Martha’s Vineyard is a wonderful place to visit. It’s easy to get to from the Boston area, and there is a ton to do once you’re on the island. My husband and I most recently enjoyed a wonderful stay at Nobnocket Inn, a lovely Martha’s Vineyard boutique bed and breakfast last Memorial Day weekend. And I can say without a doubt that Nobnocket made us fall in love with the Vineyard even more.
Exterior of Nobnocket Boutique B&B / Photo Credit: Nobnocket Inn
Located in Vineyard Haven, the historic arts and crafts building was originally built in 1908 as a doctor’s home. It was converted to a bed and breakfast in the 1980’s, aptly called The Doctor’s House. The property was then purchased, completely renovated, and renamed Nobnocket by current owners Simon and Annabelle Hunton in 2016.
When chatting with Huntons about their vision for Nobnocket, Simon noted that it was important to them to embrace the history of the building, but with a contemporary twist. “We wanted to create something unique for the island; an inn with exciting contemporary interiors and bespoke designer furnishings, somewhere we personally would choose to stay,” he told me.
As residents of Martha’s Vineyard, Simon and Annabelle both own and operate the Inn, which allows them to offer the most personalized service possible. “We have the knowledge and island connections to help guests plan and discover all the experiences that Martha’s Vineyard has to offer,” said Simon. And that allows guests of Nobnocket to truly experience the Vineyard as if they were locals themselves – which is what this blog is all about!
Nobnocket Inn: The Experience
The boutique B&B offers seven modern rooms and suites, all with luxurious amenities. The beds are made up with Frette linens, the towels are plush and the robes are comfy. Annabelle cooks a gourmet breakfast every morning, which is included with your stay. You have the option to take breakfast in your guest room, or downstairs in the sun room or on the patio in nice weather.
Immaculately kept, the Inn is clean and beautifully decorated with personal touches everywhere. Nightly turndown service includes delicious homemade cookies left by the bed, along with a note on the next day’s weather and a suggested activity. Complimentary WiFi and parking are also provided.
Nobnocket Inn: The Rooms
We stayed in a Deluxe Room with a king bed, which looked out over backyard and sizable garden. The decor is modern but cozy – dark hardwood floors and white duvets with colorful pillows and throw blankets. (I called ours the blue room, as it had lovely royal blue throw pillows and a pretty blue and white blanket on the bed).
Our room also had a small table and two chairs, where we could opt to enjoy our breakfast. The bathroom was large, with a tiled walk-in shower and luxurious Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. Some of the larger suites have fireplaces, along with soaking tubs. All rooms have ceiling fans and individually controlled air conditioners.
Nobnocket Inn: The Common Spaces
The living room of the Inn offers a large fireplace and comfy white couches. Books fill the built-in bookshelves, and a scrabble board begs to be played. In the sun room, Nobnocket offers coffee and tea 24/7, as well as an array of complimentary snacks including fruit and Cape Cod Chips. There are even decanters of port, brandy and whiskey left out for guests who may want a nightcap before bed. And if you bring your own wine or beer, they supply wine and beer glasses, along with a bottle opener and corkscrew.
Nobnocket also offers beautiful covered veranda where guests can enjoy breakfast, as well as a back patio where we enjoyed a few pre-dinner cocktails one evening during our stay. Located on a wooded lot, the area around the Inn is peaceful and quiet. Perfect for sitting outside with a book. Nobnocket even loans out yoga mats, as the secluded backyard is perfect for an early morning practice.
Nobnocket Inn: The Food
One of the many highlights of our stay was the delicious breakfast we enjoyed each morning. Breakfast always includes fresh fruit and yogurt parfait with homemade granola. Coffee, juice and a breakfast entree, alternating between savory and sweet, are also offered. The first morning of our stay we enjoyed blueberry french toast with sausage. The second morning we were served delicious ham and cheese scones. Simon and Annabelle inquired about any dietary restrictions prior to our visit, and are happy to work around any allergies or restrictions guests may have.
While the Inn does not serve lunch or dinner, Simon and Annabelle are a great resource for recommendations on where to go to eat. They will even help you make reservations. (We did take their recommendation to visit waterfront restaurant Garde East in downtown Vineyard Haven for dinner one night, and had a wonderful meal.)
Nobnocket Inn: The Location & Things to Do
Nobnocket is located within walking distance from the ferry port in downtown Vineyard Haven. Once there, it’s very easy to walk downtown to Main Street as we did several times during our stay. Nobnocket is also quite close to the Mink Meadows Golf Club, which my husband enjoyed during our visit. A public nine-hole course, it’s a great way to sneak in a quick round or two while staying on the island.
The Inn also offers complimentary bike rentals, which are a great way to see the island. Simon noted that Martha’s Vineyard has many hidden trails that he or Annabelle can direct you to. Many lead to beaches or ponds that would be otherwise hard to find, like Cedar Tree Neck, Great Rock Bight, Phillips Preserve and Menemsha Hills. He said they also recommend that guests try to catch one of the stunning Martha’s Vineyard sunsets, either on the water with Black Dog Tall Ships (which leave from Vineyard Haven) or from the land at Gay Head Light, Menemsha Harbor, Lambert’s Cove Beach or West Chop.
Nobnocket Inn: Tips for Visiting Like a Local
- While the Inn is within walking distance from the ferry terminal, consider taking a cab or Uber if you have heavy bags. We walked with our bags and golf clubs, and arrived a bit sweaty.
- The area is home to wild turkeys, which you’ll likely see if you walk to town. They largely ignored us, but can be a bit startling if you’re not expecting to see them.
- Public transportation is plentiful on the island. From Vineyard Haven, you can easily take the bus to Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. We mostly utilized Uber to get around, which we found to be fast, easy and affordable.
- Utilize Simon and Annabelle for recommendations while you’re visiting. They’re very knowledgable about the local area. They’ll happily give you the inside scoop on where to go to avoid crowds, advise on hidden gems you should be aware of, and help you make reservations at the local restaurants.
- Visiting for a special occasion? Work with Annabelle and Simon to have a flower arrangement or bottle of champagne placed in your room prior to arrival. They can also arrange for in-room massages if you’re looking for extra R&R during your stay.
- Both Luxury Grand rooms, and one of the Luxury Suites, offer gas fireplaces – a great option if you’re visiting during the cooler months.
- Most guest rooms are located on the 2nd floor of the Inn, requiring a walk up a short flight of stairs. If you have trouble with stairs, there is one room on the first floor (a Luxury Grand room).
- A great option for couples, there is a maximum occupancy of two people per room. Children aged 16+ are welcome.
Nobnocket Boutique Inn
60 Mount Aldworth Road
Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Phone Number: (508) 696-0859
Website: www.nobnocket.com
Instagram: @nobnocket
Categories: Bed & Breakfasts, Cape Cod & The Islands, Lodging, Martha's Vineyard