First Impressions & Architecture
Stepping off the ferry and onto Kelley Street in Edgartown is a sensory transition that immediately signals you have arrived somewhere distinct. Here, perched directly across from the iconic Chappaquiddick Ferry slip, lies Faraway Martha's Vineyard. This property is not just another coastal New England inn; it is a masterclass in historical revitalization. Anchored by the historic Kelley House—a hospitality landmark dating back to 1742—the resort is a sprawling, multi-building campus that effortlessly bridges nearly three centuries of island heritage with a vibrant, bohemian-infused modernity. As one of the oldest continuously operating hospitality sites on Martha's Vineyard, the property carries immense historical weight, yet under the careful curation of its modern designers, it feels remarkably fresh, alive, and utterly unpretentious.
The architectural narrative is one of respectful juxtaposition. The exterior retains its classic white clapboard charm, steeply pitched rooflines, and timeless maritime vernacular that defines historic Edgartown. However, the moment you cross the threshold, the visual vocabulary shifts dramatically. The design team has orchestrated a brilliant dialogue between classic New England bones and a sultry, global-nomad aesthetic. Think sun-bleached woods juxtaposed with rich terracotta, vintage maritime maps paired with Moroccan textiles, and crisp nautical stripes warmed by earthy, sun-drenched palettes. The sprawling courtyard campus invites exploration, functioning almost like a private village within the town. Meandering brick pathways connect the various guest houses, the central pool area, and the legendary tavern, all enveloped by lush, meticulously manicured landscaping that frames glimpses of the harbor just steps away. It is an architectural triumph that honors the maritime soul of Edgartown while injecting a heavy dose of cosmopolitan, design-forward energy into the island's hospitality landscape.
The Room Experience
Accommodations at Faraway Martha's Vineyard extend far beyond the standard hotel room template, offering a deeply textured residential feel that encourages you to linger. Spread across the historic campus, each room and suite possesses a distinct footprint dictated by the property's centuries-old architecture, ensuring that no two stays are ever quite the same. Walking into a Deluxe King Room, the immediate impression is one of tactile luxury and curated warmth. The color palette leans heavily into soothing organic tones—warm sand, deep olive, muted terracotta, and crisp oceanic whites—which serve as a serene backdrop for an eclectic collection of custom furnishings and vintage finds.
The beds are sanctuaries of comfort, dressed in premium, high-thread-count linens and topped with artisanal throw blankets that nod to global textile traditions. Lighting is thoughtfully layered, utilizing brass sconces, mid-century ceramic table lamps, and rattan pendant fixtures that cast a soft, flattering glow across the room as the coastal sun begins to set. Hardwood floors are softened by vintage-style flatweave rugs, and thoughtful architectural details—such as original exposed ceiling beams in the historic buildings—are highlighted rather than hidden. Technology is seamlessly integrated without disrupting the aesthetic; smart flat-screen televisions and silent climate control systems are tucked discreetly into custom millwork.
The bathrooms continue the theme of understated indulgence. Outfitted in sleek terrazzo or classic subway tile with contrasting dark grout, they feature oversized walk-in rain showers with exceptional water pressure, custom brass fixtures, and plush, oversized bath sheets. Guests are treated to an array of locally sourced, organic bath amenities packaged in amber glass bottles that elevate the daily routine into a spa-like ritual. Many rooms offer private or semi-private outdoor seating areas overlooking the central courtyard or the quiet residential streets of Edgartown, providing the ideal perch for a morning espresso or a quiet read in the afternoon salt breeze. Every square inch of the living space has been optimized for comfort, visual pleasure, and a profound sense of place.
Signature Amenities & Atmosphere
The beating heart of Faraway Martha's Vineyard is its lush courtyard campus, a sun-drenched oasis that redefines the traditional Vineyard resort experience. Centered around a sparkling outdoor swimming pool flanked by stylish striped loungers and fringed umbrellas, this communal space radiates a laid-back, Mediterranean-meets-Montauk energy. By day, the pool deck is a tranquil haven where guests lounge with a book, shielded from the bustling summer crowds of downtown Edgartown just a block away. The atmosphere is effortlessly chic, soundtracked by a curated playlist of indie-folk and downtempo beats that set a relaxed, vacation-tuned cadence.
Beyond the pool, the property's layout encourages moments of discovery. Shaded seating nooks, fire pits that glow invitingly as evening descends, and hidden garden paths offer plenty of space for privacy or socializing. The service ethos among the staff matches the physical environment: warm, intuitive, and remarkably unstuffy. From the moment you check in—often greeted with a refreshing welcome beverage—the team anticipates needs with a relaxed island grace. Whether you require a last-minute reservation at a notoriously booked-up local restaurant, beach towels and a cooler for a day at South Beach, or local tips on the best hidden bike trails, the concierge and front-of-house staff execute hospitality with genuine warmth and local expertise.
Food, Drink & Local Nightlife
Culinary offerings at Faraway are anchored by a powerful sense of local history blended with contemporary mixology. The crown jewel of the property’s food and beverage program is none other than The Newes from America, one of the island's most legendary and beloved historic pubs. Stepping into The Newes is like stepping back in time; low ceilings, timeworn exposed brick walls, and heavy timber framing create an atmosphere of immediate coziness and conviviality. Long a gathering place for locals, sailors, and travelers alike, the pub serves up a stellar array of comforting tavern classics elevated with fresh, regional ingredients, alongside an impressive lineup of local craft drafts on tap and seasonal ales. It is a quintessential island institution that retains its authentic soul while benefiting from the property's overarching design refresh.
For those seeking a more elevated, nocturnal vibe, the newly introduced Pelican Club cocktail lounge offers a sultry contrast to the rustic charm of the pub. Tucked away within the campus, the Pelican Club channels a sophisticated, vintage-tropical aesthetic with velvet banquettes, low lighting, and an inventive cocktail menu that showcases artisanal spirits, house-made infusions, and fresh coastal produce. It is the premier spot on the eastern side of the island to sip a meticulously crafted mezcal negroni or a local-berry-infused spritz before heading out into the Edgartown night. Together, the robust duality of the rustic pub and the sultry cocktail lounge ensures that guests never have to leave the property to experience the pinnacle of Vineyard nightlife.
Who This Stay Is For
- Design Aficionados: Travelers who prioritize boutique aesthetics, mid-century modern furnishings, and thoughtful architectural curation over cookie-cutter luxury resorts.
- History Buffs & Tradition Seekers: Those who appreciate staying in spaces with a profound sense of place, specifically celebrating the 1742 heritage of the Kelley House.
- Location-Conscious Explorers: Guests who want to be mere steps away from the upscale boutiques and dining of downtown Edgartown, as well as the immediate convenience of the Chappaquiddick Ferry.
- Couples & Solo Travelers: People seeking a romantic, bohemian-chic escape that balances vibrant socializing around the pool and pubs with quiet, luxurious private sanctuaries.
Practical Travel Notes
- Location: Situated on Kelley Street, directly facing the Chappaquiddick Ferry slip in Edgartown, Massachusetts. The downtown core is entirely walkable.
- Pricing: Rates average around $495 per night during peak season, placing it squarely in the upscale ($$$) boutique category. Shoulder seasons offer significant value.
- Getting Around: A car is entirely unnecessary if you plan to stay local to Edgartown and explore Chappaquiddick via the ferry. Bicycles are widely rented and recommended for island exploration. For venturing further to Aquinnah or West Tisbury, local shuttle buses and rideshares are available.
- Best Time to Visit: July and August offer peak summer weather and bustling energy, while June and September provide glorious, quieter weather with a more relaxed local pace.
Verdict
Faraway Martha's Vineyard achieves a rare hospitality feat: it successfully revitalizes a venerated historic landmark without losing a single ounce of its storied soul. By fusing the 1742 heritage of the Kelley House with a vibrant, bohemian design narrative, the property has established itself as one of the most exciting stays in New England. With its unbeatable walkable-core location right at the Chappy Ferry, stellar culinary offerings spanning the legendary Newes from America pub and the sultry Pelican Club, and an inviting pool-centered campus, it delivers chic, design-forward luxury that breathes thrilling new life into Edgartown.