Martha’s Vineyard isn’t just about sandy beaches and charming lighthouses—it also boasts serious Hollywood cred.
From mechanical sharks and political scandals to romantic dramas and indie thrillers, the island has starred in blockbuster hits, award-winning films, and cult classics. Whether you're a diehard movie buff or just curious about famous filming locations, this list highlights 15 movies that used Martha’s Vineyard as their on-screen muse—plus where to find those iconic spots in real life.
Here’s your guide to the movies filmed on Martha’s Vineyard and how to experience them yourself.
1. Jaws (1975)
The blockbuster that launched summer thrillers and changed how we feel about swimming in the ocean. Steven Spielberg used Edgartown, Menemsha, and Chilmark as the fictional Amity Island, and the result was legendary.
Filming Locations:
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Jaws Bridge (officially American Legion Memorial Bridge) – Scene of the estuary attack
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Downtown Edgartown – Served as the heart of Amity
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Menemsha Harbor – Where Quint’s boat, the Orca, was docked
Fun Fact: Spielberg nearly quit during filming due to constant malfunctions with the shark and bad weather, but the chaos paid off.
Bonus: In 2024, swimmer John R. Dudas made headlines for swimming from Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard to raise awareness for shark conservation—an attempt to repair Bruce the shark’s legacy.
2. The Inkwell (1994)
A powerful coming-of-age story set in Oak Bluffs, this film celebrates the legacy of Inkwell Beach and the tight-knit African American community that made the island a summer haven.
Location to visit: Inkwell Beach in Oak Bluffs
3. Sabrina (1995)
Starring Harrison Ford and Julia Ormond, this romantic drama features sweeping Vineyard scenery. Scenes were filmed in Chilmark and Vineyard Haven, including a seaside cottage once owned by Billy Joel.
4. Stuck on You (2003)
This Farrelly Brothers comedy starring Matt Damon and Greg Kinnear as conjoined twins brings humor and weirdness to Oak Bluffs, with the island offering both charm and laughs.
5. The Ghost Writer (2010)
Roman Polanski used the Vineyard during the off-season to give his political thriller the right amount of isolation and tension. Moody landscapes and stark architecture create an unforgettable atmosphere.
6. The Bostonians (1984)
This period drama, directed by James Ivory, brought 19th-century New England to life with the Vineyard’s historic architecture and natural beauty as its supporting cast.
7. Jumping the Broom (2011)
A wedding-weekend dramedy with some scenes filmed in Nova Scotia, but clearly inspired by the Vineyard’s legacy as a destination for celebration and community. It highlights ferry rides, family drama, and Black joy.
8. Clear History (2013)
Larry David plays a failed marketing executive turned Vineyard recluse. While much of the movie was filmed elsewhere, the aerial shots and a few scenes on the island add Vineyard flavor.
9. Chappaquiddick (2017)
A dramatized retelling of the Ted Kennedy scandal, this film was shot using real-life Vineyard locations like the Chappaquiddick Ferry and Dike Bridge for added authenticity.
10. Off Season (2017)
A moody indie horror film that utilized local spots like Flat Point Farm and Nip ’n’ Tuck Farm in West Tisbury. Creepy and atmospheric, with unmistakable Vineyard texture.
11. Da Sweet Blood of Jesus (2014)
A modern vampire tale directed by Spike Lee, featuring scenes at Martha’s Vineyard Airport and a solitary beach house. It’s visually striking, eerie, and unexpected.
12. The Love Letter (1999)
Kate Capshaw and Tom Selleck star in this charming rom-com, with island bookstores and cozy corners setting the scene. Perfect for fans of nostalgic late-90s love stories.
13. In the Bedroom (2001)
This Oscar-nominated drama filmed parts of the story on the island. The Vineyard's quiet, coastal aesthetic added depth to this emotional, slow-burning story.
14. Reservation Road (2007)
A tragedy-heavy drama, this film used the Vineyard’s serene visuals to contrast the emotional weight of its story. Heartbreaking and beautifully shot.
15. Annabel Lee (1921)
Yes, even back in the silent film era, the Vineyard had on-screen magic. Based on Edgar Allan Poe’s poem, this haunting black-and-white drama used the island’s natural beauty to full effect.
Planning Your Own Vineyard Film Tour? Here's Where to Go
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Jaws Bridge – Beach Road between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown
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Menemsha Harbor – Chilmark
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Inkwell Beach – Oak Bluffs
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Flat Point Farm – West Tisbury
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Chappaquiddick Ferry – Memorial Wharf, Edgartown
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Dike Bridge – Chappaquiddick Island
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Martha’s Vineyard Airport – West Tisbury
Want to stay where the movie magic happens? Book your stay at Bad Kitty, located right in Edgartown—home to Jaws scenes and just minutes from multiple iconic locations.
FAQ: Movies Filmed on Martha’s Vineyard
What movies were filmed on Martha’s Vineyard?
More than 15 films including Jaws, The Inkwell, Sabrina, and The Ghost Writer were filmed either entirely or partially on the island.
Where was Jaws filmed?
Jaws was filmed primarily in Edgartown, Menemsha, and Chilmark. Specific spots include Jaws Bridge and Menemsha Harbor.
Can I visit the locations from these movies?
Yes! Most filming locations like beaches, bridges, harbors, and towns are publicly accessible and make for great photo ops.
Is Martha’s Vineyard still used for movies?
Yes. While not a year-round production hub, its scenery and coastal charm make it a top pick for film crews looking for authenticity.
Hollywood Loves the Vineyard (and So Will You)
Whether you’re a Jaws fanatic, a rom-com enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good story with a great view, Martha’s Vineyard delivers. With a filmography as diverse as its landscapes, the island proves again and again that it’s not just a backdrop—it’s a star.
Ready to walk where the stars stood? Book your stay at Bad Kitty and start your own story.
