Martha’s Vineyard is known for its charming blend of local shops offering unique and memorable gifts. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, exploring the island’s variety of boutique stores and specialty shops is a rewarding experience.

I’ve found that the best gift shops on Martha’s Vineyard offer a range of island-inspired items, from handcrafted products to distinctive souvenirs that capture the spirit of the place. This article highlights five shops that stand out for their quality, selection, and local flavor.

1) C’est La Vie

I found C’est La Vie to be a charming gift shop tucked away on Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs. The moment I stepped inside, I noticed a carefully curated selection of unique items that made it clear this store values quality over quantity. It’s the kind of place where every item seems thoughtfully chosen.

The shop offers everything from small keepsakes to artistic home décor, which makes it easy to find something special for yourself or as a gift. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with friendly staff ready to help without being intrusive. I appreciated how easy it was to browse at my own pace.

Compared to other local shops, C’est La Vie stands out for its distinct, tasteful inventory. It’s clear they support local artisans and have a knack for finding products that feel personal and authentic. This makes it a good stop if you want a genuine Martha’s Vineyard souvenir or a unique present.

Rating: 4.8 (140 reviews)
Location: 51 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
Contact: (508) 693-6181

2) Martha’s Vineyard Beach Boutique – Unique Gifts and Beach Supplies

When I visited Martha’s Vineyard Beach Boutique, I found a well-curated selection of items perfect for anyone who loves the beach lifestyle. The shop offers a variety of thoughtful gifts, from swimwear to unique souvenirs. The space is laid-back but organized, making it easy to browse.

What stood out were the two escape rooms they now feature. I hadn’t expected that at a gift shop, but it adds a fun, interactive element that makes this place great for groups or birthday parties. Booking is straightforward through their website.

The staff were helpful and seemed knowledgeable about local favorites and beach needs. Whether you want a new beach cover-up or a memorable keepsake, this boutique covers those bases well. It’s located in Edgartown’s Winter Street area, which is convenient if you’re exploring the town.

Rating: 5 (1 review)
Location: 23 Winter St #15, Edgartown, MA
Contact: (508) 988-5228
Website: Visit Website

3) Sanctuary

I found Sanctuary to be a thoughtfully curated gift shop focused on inspirational and spiritual items. The selection includes jewelry, candles, carved stones, and home decor, all chosen with wellness and mindfulness in mind. It feels like a place where every item has a story or a meaningful purpose.

The shop carries a unique line of Martha’s Vineyard-inspired gifts that stand out for their local charm. Many products are made by small businesses, including some crafted within the United States, highlighting a commitment to quality and community support.

I appreciated the personal touch in the packaging and customer service, which reflected the shop’s dedication to a positive shopping experience. It’s clear they’ve built strong relationships with artisans over 25 years, which adds to the authenticity of their collection.

If you’re searching for gifts tied to life events like birthdays or recoveries, this shop offers options that feel thoughtful and heartfelt. Its focus on spiritual encouragement sets it apart from typical gift stores.

Rating: 4.6 (22 reviews)
Location: 42 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
Contact: (508) 693-9600
Website: Visit Website

4) Off Main

When I visited Off Main, I found it to be a compact gift shop with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The shop offers a curated selection of locally made products and unique souvenirs. It’s the kind of place where you can easily find something thoughtful without feeling overwhelmed by choices.

The staff was friendly and ready to help me find items that represented the spirit of Vineyard Haven. I appreciated the mix of classic gifts and more specialized, artisanal pieces. It felt like browsing through a well-organized boutique rather than a typical tourist trap.

Off Main’s location on Main Street makes it an easy stop while exploring the town. It’s convenient if you want to pick up a last-minute gift or a keepsake that captures Martha’s Vineyard’s charm without straining your budget.

Rating: 4.3 (12 reviews)
Location: 76 Main St, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Contact: (508) 696-5354

5) Beach House

I stopped by Beach House during my visit to Vineyard Haven and found it to be a charming gift shop. The store offers a thoughtful selection of both local and international housewares that felt unique and well-curated. It’s a spot where you can find something special for your home or a meaningful gift.

The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it easy to browse through the items without feeling rushed. The staff was friendly and available if I had any questions, which added to the experience. Although their website is still under construction, the shop itself has plenty to offer.

If you prefer, you can always call ahead at the number listed for specific inquiries before heading over. Its convenient location on Main Street makes it an easy stop when exploring the town.

Rating: 4.7 (21 reviews)
Location: 30 Main St, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Contact: (508) 693-6091
Website: Visit Website

What Makes Martha’s Vineyard Gift Shops Unique?

Martha’s Vineyard gift shops stand out for their focus on authentic local culture and meaningful products. Each shop reflects the island’s character through the items offered, emphasizing quality, creativity, and respect for the environment.

Local Artisans and Curated Products

I find that many gift shops on Martha’s Vineyard showcase the work of local artisans. This means you won’t just find typical souvenirs but handcrafted goods like jewelry, pottery, and textiles made by island residents. Shops often carefully select pieces that tell a story or highlight traditional skills.

This focus on curation creates a shopping experience that feels personal and intentional. You’re likely to discover items that are unique to the island and not available elsewhere, supporting small businesses directly. It’s a way to bring home something truly authentic and crafted with care.

Island-Inspired Merchandise

Many shops carry products inspired by the island’s coastal environment and lifestyle. You’ll find sweatshirts, scarves, artwork, and home décor reflecting the colors, landscapes, and sea life of Martha’s Vineyard. Items often use local symbols or natural materials.

This merchandise creates a strong sense of place. Whether it’s a candle scented with sea salt or a print of a lighthouse, these items are designed to capture the island’s atmosphere. I appreciate how these goods help me connect emotionally with the island even after I leave.

Sustainable and Ethical Gifting Options

Sustainability is a key value among Martha’s Vineyard gift shops. Many prioritize products made with eco-friendly materials and ethical labor practices. This often includes organic textiles, recycled materials, and items that avoid excess packaging.

Supporting these shops means making a choice that respects the environment and local community. The island’s focus on sustainability aligns with a broader commitment to preserving its natural beauty. I feel confident giving gifts that reflect this awareness and responsibility.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Martha’s Vineyard Gift

When selecting a gift from Martha’s Vineyard, focus on matching the item to the recipient’s tastes and interests. It’s also important to consider practical aspects like shipping options and packaging to ensure the gift arrives in excellent condition.

Considering the Recipient’s Interests

I always start by thinking about what the person enjoys or collects. For someone who loves art, I look for locally made jewelry or prints from galleries such as Martha’s Vineyard Glassworks. If they prefer practical yet charming items, handcrafted pottery or candles from small boutiques like Seven Sisters can be a good choice.

Personalization adds value. Gifts that reflect the island’s culture, such as items made by local artisans or products connected to well-known spots, tend to resonate more. I avoid generic souvenirs and instead focus on unique, meaningful pieces that remind the recipient of Martha’s Vineyard’s character.

Shipping and Packaging Advice

Shipments require extra care. I recommend choosing shops that offer sturdy packaging specifically designed for fragile items like glassware or ceramics. If you’re ordering remotely, check if the store provides tracking and insurance options to avoid delivery issues.

I also advise verifying the delivery times, especially during holidays, since demand can slow shipping. If possible, I prefer local stores that can prepare gift baskets or curated collections, which are usually well-packaged and ready to send without extra effort on your part.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!