Travel: Martha’s Vineyard

Posted By: KK on 08/26/11 9:03 AM | Categories: Travel

Late August and into the fall is the perfect time for a get-a-way to Martha’s Vineyard. Just ask Michelle and Barack Obama, who recently dined at the Beach Plum Inn, a cosy inn and restaurant, romantically perched on a hill with an unparalleled view of the Menemsha Harbor. If you want to feel like a local, check into the Beach Plum or the Menemsha Inn where, your hosts Bob and Sara Nixon will make you feel like an island insider and happily arrange all of your activities from meals at the legendary Homeport Restaurant, to passes to the great beaches, to fishing charters with the best captains on the Eastern Seaboard.

This laid back retreat is all about the escape and the Islanders are way too cool to care about celebs – the raison d’etre here is the rugged coastline, miles of beaches, and the invigorating salt air. For what to wear on the vineyard, we took the First Lady’s lead and went shopping at J. Crew to find the perfect pieces to weather any storm. At this point, Hurricane Irene is a certainty and we urge everyone to follow the instructions of their local authorities. Having been through one in the Hamptons years ago, you realize the raw power that the storm can pack as it slams into the coast and beyond.

J. Crew Picks for Martha’s Vineyard and Fall Weekends

Top to Bottom: J. Crew Coastline-stripe Tee ($98), Excursion Quilted Vest ($98), Matinee Trench ($125), Leather Fedora ($275), High-waisted Skinny Jean ($125), Sperry Top-Sider Albatross Boots ($185)

Whether you are an old salt or new to the sport, when on the Vineyard, you must get out on the water and fish! And if you are really lucky, Uncle Bob Nixon may show you his “secret spots” Don’t forget the Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Derby taking place from September 11 to October 15. Here is a all-in-one Saltwater Fly Outfit from Orvis.

Streamline Saltwater Outfit ($165)

Great video about salt water fly-fishing with Helios Rods.

One of our favorite shops up-island is The Simon Gallery to find out what photographer, Peter Simon has be up to and to see his wife Ronni Simon‘s collection of jewelry inspired by the island. Her artful use of semi-precious stones and freshwater pearls create unique woven and wearable pieces of art.

One of our favorite pieces is this Pearl & Crystal Quartz Cuff $475. Notice intricate the crystal closure.

These woven Lariat Necklaces are also a terrifically versatile piece, it come is many shades and has endless possibilities. $465

To see Ronni’s entire line, go to RONNI SIMON JEWELRY.

The works of Peter Simon, the legendary photographer who has captured some of the most iconic moments of a generation, is also on view in the gallery. His website is full of images and chronicles of his interesting life. Peter is currently offering Photo Workshops on the Vineyard, September 8th to llth and Columbus Day Weekend in October. For more information, go to PETER SIMON.