Aquinnah Cliffs

Look out over layered clay cliffs above the Atlantic at the western tip of Martha's Vineyard, beside the Gay Head Light.

Aquinnah Circle, off State Rd, beside Gay Head Light · Aquinnah, MA

About Aquinnah Cliffs

The clay cliffs of Aquinnah rise about 150 feet above the Atlantic at the western tip of Martha's Vineyard, their tilted bands of clay, sand and gravel laid down over millions of years. You can take in the view from the overlook at Aquinnah Circle, next to the red brick Gay Head Light, or walk the dune path down to Moshup Beach. The cliffs are owned by the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe and are a National Natural Landmark, so climbing them and taking clay are prohibited.

#clay cliffs
#scenic overlook
#martha's vineyard
#beach
#lighthouse

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What's around here?

The closest stops to Aquinnah Cliffs, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

Museums
Aquinnah Wampanoag History Museum
Under $25
A museum run by the Aquinnah Cultural Center that presents Wampanoag art, history, and culture through rotating exhibits.
Steps awaySwitch it up: Museums
Attractions
Family Favorite
Island Alpaca
Under $25
Self-guided tours of a Martha's Vineyard alpaca farm with a store selling farm-raised yarn and goods.
13 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions
Sightseeing
Iconic
Martha's Vineyard
No admission fee
A ferry-only island retreat of gingerbread cottages, clay cliffs, and harbor towns.
Transit: reachable by public transit
14 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing
Sports & Outdoors
Outdoor Adventure
Shawme-Crowell State Forest
Check prices
Camp under pitch pines at the start of Cape Cod and hike or ride horses on more than 15 miles of forest roads and trails.
33 mi awayMore like this
Sports & Outdoors
Outdoor Adventure
Bass River Kayaks and Paddle Boards
$25–$50
Kayak and paddleboard rentals on Cape Cod's Bass River, with gear and instruction included.
Transit: reachable by public transit
40 mi awayMore like this
Sports & Outdoors
Family Favorite
Cape Cod Rail Trail
No admission fee
25 flat, paved miles of old railbed from Yarmouth to Wellfleet, cranberry bogs, kettle ponds, and the Cape's favorite family bike ride.
Transit: reachable by public transit
43 mi awayMore like this