Perfect location! By Beach, Harbor & Town! Gorgeous Gingerbread Upstairs Aptmt

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Apartment

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

9.8

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

Barbecue grill

Pet-friendly

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Free WiFi

Check-in time

4:00 PM

Check-out time

10:00 AM

Explore the area

Oak Bluffs, MA

Oak Bluffs Harbor5 min walk
Oak Bluffs Ferry Terminal5 min walk
Inkwell Beach8 min walk
Hyannis, MA (HYA-Barnstable Municipal)112 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

About this property

July and August: Turnover day is generally Friday.

This lovely, in-town, impeccably renovated 1800's historic Oak Bluffs upstairs apartment is adored by all who stay here. With original architectural details and a warmth brought forth by owner Sharon, the apartment is truly an oasis in the heart of Oak Bluffs.

The apartment has a sunlit living room with beautiful breezes through many new windows flanking both sides, a kitchen, full bath with standing shower, and a lovely and spacious sunlit bedroom with meditation nook and skylight.

The house is very special, with beautiful energy from all the wonderful people who have stayed there and graced its walls. Up to four people are welcome in this apartment. The living room has a very comfortable full size sofa bed.

Surrounded by all the vibrant and colorful life of Oak Bluffs in every direction, there is never a need to commute into town for the island's most popular events. The August Fireworks, Illumination night, concerts on the park are all around the corner.

The apartment is a very short walk along beautiful Ocean Park from the ferry, a couple of blocks from the islands exceptional transportation system, a couple of blocks to Inkwell Beach, a block from exceptional restaurants and bars, practically next door to performances at the Tabernacle or Union Chapel, a block from the Methodist Campgrounds with their spectacular and colorful historic Gingerbread houses, a few blocks from the Harbor with its magnificent sunsets and waterfront restaurants and nightlife, and the ice cream shops, arcade, movie theatres and live local music of Circuit Ave. The breathtaking bike path from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown, with water on both sides, begins just a few blocks from the house, and running and walking paths through nature trails are a short jog away. Oak Bluffs truly has everything, and in my heart is the jewel of Martha's Vineyard Island.

Most guests find this home to be a generally quiet oasis for being right in the center of town, but just a reminder that the house IS in the center of town, just not on the main shopping drag. ;)

One more IMPORTANT thing for you dog owners:
We LOVE dogs and this property is selectively dog friendly (sorry, no cats)! If you'd like to bring your doggo along, you must ask us first, so we can be sure you agree to our pet guidelines. THANK YOU!

House Story:

I fell in love with this house the minute I saw it. It took me a full winter to be able to be able to call it my own, because when I made the offer the owner was concerned about disappointing someone else, though they had was no contract at all. She was so kind, she spent a few months trying to find this person, who was out of the country and difficult to track down. In the meantime, she knew how much I loved the house, and after several long months she called to say it was mine if I still wanted it, and I could take a few days to let her know. I told her I didn’t even need a few minutes. No other house that I had seen captured my heart as this one had.

It took great amounts of work to prep this house to be my massage center, as it would be for some years before I could make it my home. One day, at my other massage center in Vineyard Haven, I interviewed a lovely massage therapist from Louisiana. I had no idea she had MV ties, but I instantly adored her and her work and hired her on the spot and sent her here to do a massage. Twenty minutes passed, and the phone rang. “You are not going to believe this, Sharon, but this is the house my grandmother grew up in.”

Oma (grandmother in German), came right over the next day from West Tisbury, where she then summered, brought me this photo of her parents and this house as it was in 1908, and gave me a tour of the house, telling me where all the original details used to be. Oma was beautiful, and her granddaughter is beautiful, as was the previous owner. I just kept feeling that it was no wonder that it feels so special in here. Since that time, my friends, family and guests have only added to that feeling. Time and time again, people walk in and comment on the energy of the home. I feel it deeply myself.

To top off all of this wonder, the last bit of amazement for me was the dog in the photo - a dog with a half black and half white face, split down the middle. On the other side of the couch, you can see the photo of my dog, Haffa, at the time. A dog with a half black and half white face, split down the middle, almost 100 years later.

Life is magical, mysterious and beyond imagination.

If these dates are not available, please send us a message. We have other beautiful properties.

(Please note: We do have a guest-centered and considerate cancellation policy. Please see our attached cancellation policy for details.)

Property manager

Sharon Strimling

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Barbecue grill

Hot tub

Air conditioning

Microwave

Kitchen

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a deadlock

Property registration number C0132252210

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Oak Bluffs

Located in Oak Bluffs, this apartment is in the city centre and by the sea. Woods Hole Ferry Terminal and Island Queen Ferry are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Inkwell Beach and Old Silver Beach. Flying Horses Carousel and Oak Bluffs Fishing Pier are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and hiking.

Oak Bluffs, MA

What's nearby

Circuit Avenue - 2 min walk
Oak Bluffs Harbor - 5 min walk
Oak Bluffs Ferry Terminal - 5 min walk
Oak Bluffs Town Beach - 7 min walk
Inkwell Beach - 8 min walk

Getting around

Vineyard Haven, MA (MVY-Martha's Vineyard) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

‪Lookout Tavern - ‬6 min walk
‪Nancy's Restaurant - ‬5 min walk
‪Portuguese American Club - ‬3 min drive
‪Offshore Ale Co. - ‬2 min walk
‪Martha's Vineyard Chowder Company - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Perfect location! By Beach, Harbor & Town! Gorgeous Gingerbread Upstairs Aptmt pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Perfect location! By Beach, Harbor & Town! Gorgeous Gingerbread Upstairs Aptmt?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Perfect location! By Beach, Harbor & Town! Gorgeous Gingerbread Upstairs Aptmt?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Perfect location! By Beach, Harbor & Town! Gorgeous Gingerbread Upstairs Aptmt located?

Located in the heart of Oak Bluffs, this apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Circuit Avenue and Inkwell Beach. Cottage Museum and Ocean Park are just steps away.

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Wendy B.

13 Feb 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great “Work-cation”

Turned a lemon into lemonade. We shipped a fireplace to a builder Martha’s Vineyard that got damaged. Decided to deliver the replacement unit ourselves and make a short vacation out of it. We could not have picked a better place to stay! The apartment was spotless and right downtown. We brought our top sales dog with us and he loved being on the beaches off season. We had such a great time and highly recommend staying at this cozy abode. The property owners were delightful.

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joe T.

7 Nov 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

My wife and I were in Oak Bluffs for the weekend and had a wonderful stay. Sharon was very responsive and helpful with anything we needed. The apartment is charming, perfect for the two of us. It was very clean, well decorated, and located right in the heart of Oak Bluffs, so a very short stroll to Circuit Ave, Ocean Park, Inkwell, the Oak Bluffs ferry, the harbor; anything you will need. We would definitely stay again.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandra E.

1 Nov 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

40th Anniversary Get Away

Awesome property conveniently located in Oak Bluff. Quaint and comfortable.

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Stephen F.

15 July 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Centrally located for all MV experiences

Centrally located for all MV experiences. Close to island transit stops.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Mitch R.

3 Aug 2018

Wonderful summer holiday

Beautiful updated house. Sharon is so accommodating always gets back to us so quickly if we have any questions. She’s always willing to help if we need anything

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Marie N.

26 Oct 2017

Lovely and just right to walking all around Oaks Bluff

We were on our Honeymoon, we brought our puppy, and it was just the right size and location to walking everywhere. we did have our car, so we were able to explore the rest of the island. I will say the street is a busy one, so there is a lot of traffic. Also noise at night from street from late night party-ers can be heard. The only reason I did not give a 5. I loved that we could have a little food prep at our unit (full size refrig) as I have certain food allergies.

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Joanna O.

13 Aug 2017

Lovely, cozy space; excellent location; super charming building

We loved it. Cozy, lovely, convenient.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Silke S., Madison

13 July 2017

Lovely flat in the heart of Oak Bluffs

This is a beautifully appointed unit with charm to spare and plenty of space for the two of us. The location was very central, which also meant that there was plenty of road and other noise from pedestrians. This is the only reason I give this property only 4 stars. It is minutes away from shopping, restaurants, the harbor area, the beach and ferry landing. There are wonderful idyllic neighborhoods for walking and enjoying the unique architecture and history of this area. Sharon is very attentive and gives very detailed and helpful instructions regarding the property, parking, getting there and for the area. She also surprised us with various welcome treats. Unlike other VRBOs we have stayed in, this felt like a true home and not a rental unit. As first timers to Martha's Vineyard (MV), we arrived by private vehicle, which I would not do the next time we visit. There is fantastic public transport by bus, rental bikes and plenty of taxis if you want to reach more obscure places. You can get to MV by ferry from near the T.F Green airport in Providence Rhode Island. We will definitely be back! We would highly recommend this unit as a comfortable home base for your vacation.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Pia D.

21 May 2017

Fantastic location and great pet friendly rental

Fantastic location in Oak Bluffs, convenient to everything you want to see and eat. The oak bluffs beach and park area is about a 5-10 minute walk. Great restaurants within a 2 minute walk, and shops just as close. Amenities were decent, small kitchenette, and bathroom but get the job done. The deck is great. Wish there was an AC unit closer to the bedroom as it was unseasonably warm and the apt was a bit stuffy the first day. But that cleared up with the AC unit in living room and the opening of windows in a few hours and we thoroughly enjoyed the rest of our trip. Working with the owner was simple and we highly recommend this rental. We look forward to returning soon.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

17 Oct 2016

Wonderful location, charming cottage

Wonderful place in the middle of oak bluff, walking distance to everything in the area. 2nd floor very clean and nicely done, good mix of rustic charm and new. The Bed is increadible by the way!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2016

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas B.

21 Sept 2016

quaint, beachy, comfy,great location

Sweet little spot in a great location, literally steps from the best of Oak Bluffs. Sharon is a great host and on top of everything. She goes the extra mile to see that you have a great time and all the comforts of home. Perfect for a romantic getaway as my wife and I were spending our anniversary. Highly recommended.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2016

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Shannon L.

21 July 2016

Can't wait to return...AGAIN

My husband and I previously stayed in the downstairs unit with our son, and we had a really wonderful, memorable trip that inspired us to come back. So, this summer, since we’re childfree, we decided to rent the upstairs unit. The accommodations were just perfect for the two of us, with plenty of space to hang out together and/or do our own thing if we wanted (e.g., my husband watched TV in the living room while I read in bed). Notably, Sharon attends to every detail, both functionally and aesthetically. She ensures that guests have all the amenities they may need, including two baskets of toiletries in the bathroom closet in case one forgets sunscreen, lotion, etc. Also, for example, we made breakfast every morning and the kitchen is well stocked with utensils and dishes. Lastly, Sharon is incredibly responsive to any questions that guests may have. We asked a few questions and she responded in a very timely manner. However, I should note that ALL of the info we needed was actually in the materials we received prior to our stay and was provided on the kitchen table in booklet form. Next time, we’ll be sure to read everything thoroughly before picking up the phone to text!! :-) My husband and I left on Monday and are already looking forward to returning next year. We couldn't ask for a better place to stay in terms of location, space/amenities, and owner!!!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Mitch R.

20 July 2016

Great location and wonderful hostess. Right in the middle of everything

Our 2nd year at this property. Great location !!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jack G.

9 June 2016

Cute house with a perfect location all around!

My wife and I came here for part of our honeymoon. We had stayed in a hotel on Nantucket for a few days before getting to Matha's Vineyard and were so relieved to have a little more space in the upstairs unit. The upstairs unit was the perfect size for our needs. It was great to use the deck on nice evenings and retreat to the living room or bedroom to hang out and relax. Sharon keeps the place in immaculate condition and has everything you need to enjoy your stay. On top of that the house is mere feet away from all the amenities of Oak Bluffs. We enjoyed exploring Oak Bluffs as well as the other towns on Matha's Vineyard which are all very accessible from the town. It's definitely on our list to come back and we would plan to stay here again!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2016

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Misty H.

20 Oct 2015

Amazing!

The apartment is fabulous--great location! Easily fit a family of 3. Very bright with tons of natural light. We never heard the downstairs tenants. Sharon is great! Quickly responded to questions. Helpful booklet on where to eat on the island. Thank you Sharon!

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2015

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Nadine C.

5 Oct 2015

Great getaway!

This apartment was the perfect place for me to come for a short stay, and retreat. It is so comfortable, I can't even tell you, that bed is the best! You would be surprised how quiet it is even though it's in town. An easy walk to everything, and very charming! I will definitely be back!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Candice H.

17 Sept 2015

The Perfect Stay!

My boyfriend and I were looking for a weekend getaway on the Vineyard. We came across an opening at Sharon's Gingerbread Apartment for 1 night (this is very rare, as Sharon usually only rents out the house for weeks at a time). Even though we only stayed for 1 night, Sharon made sure everything was perfect for us. The house is so charming and the perfect space for 2 people, Restaurants and Shoppes are just steps away which made our brief stay even more convenient . I cannot thank Sharon enough for her kind hospitality. I would definitely recommend this adorable little apartment. Can't wait to come back next year! :)

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lauren R.

31 July 2015

A perfect MV vacation!

We had a perfect vacation in Martha's Vineyard this year and much of that was thanks to this perfect house! We rented both apartments and my parents stayed upstairs while we stayed downstairs (my husband and I and our 2 young boys). This was a great set-up since everyone had their own space but it was easy to get together too for meals, etc. The house is exactly as it looks in the pictures - it is very well taken care of and it is fully stocked with everything you could need. We could have packed so much less. :) The location is ideal, especially for families with small kids. It is just feet from the grocery store, restaurants, ice cream (really everything), steps away from the park where we spent most nights running around/flying a kite, and very short walk to Inkwell Beach. And finally, Sharon was wonderful to work with. She was very helpful with questions before booking and responsive to questions leading up to the stay. She even sends out a comprehensive email ahead of time with recommendations galore. This was our third rental on MV and it was the easiest/best rental experience we have had. Highly highly recommend Sharon's wonderful home!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Roberta A.

29 May 2015

Beautiful retreat in the heart of Oak Bluff fun

The property was lovely and many special touches made our stay wonderful!! Our trip was half retreat for two moms with their teens daughters to celebrate some milestones and this was an ideal setting to do that. The fact that the cottage is so close to amazing restaurants and fun tourist attractions made it even better for all four of us! Thanks so much, Sharon!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

bruce n.

22 Nov 2014

Fantastic place

I stayed in the upstairs apartment for two weeks in October and it was perfect. It's not huge, but beautifully maintained, and great for one or two people - and ideal as a writing retreat. It's right off the main business district of Oak Bluffs so no car is required and everything is at your doorstep. And Sharon (the owner) is absolutely cool and relaxed and great fun to hang out with - and always available in case of problems. The kitchen is small but with all necessities and totally suited my needs - with a funky vintage stove/sink/fridge combo unit. Plus, there's a back deck for warmer months. I definitely recommend it.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly S.

22 Oct 2014

Great apartment and great stay!

We had a lovely stay in Sharon's apartment. The apartment was charming with character but clean and up to date. Location was awesome.....in town, close to the beach, bike paths, and public transportation. Sharon was beyond helpful with planning fun activities and recommending restaurants. Thanks again for a great stay.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Denise G.

18 Oct 2014

Paradise! It was worth every penny spent!!!

Sharon was a wonderful host and very easy to work with. The location is superb. Close to shops, restaurants, market, ferry, bus stop and anything else you could possibly need. I can't imagine any other location as convenient as this home is. The apartment was an absolute slice of heaven. Everything was comfortable and clean. I felt so much at home and had a hard time leaving. I hope to visit again soon. Oak Bluffs was the place to be and Sharon's home is the place to stay.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Keisha G.

24 July 2014

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!!!!!! CHARMING APT.

Where do I begin, Oak Bluffs is a little slice of Heaven. I stayed in the upstairs apartment of this beautiful Gingerbread house, which was well appointed. Sharon, the owner of this lovely home was very accommodating and helpful. She made sure my family and I were comfortable. Her home exceeded my expectations. This house is in the perfect location; across the street from Back Door Donuts, which is an experience in itself, "Apple Fritter" YUM!!!, just saying. Circuit Avenue, the main strip is right around the corner from this delightful home and has many shops/restaurants that definitely should be explored. To sum it up everything is within walking distance. My family and I can't wait to return because our stay was so wonderful! :)

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tamara N.

25 May 2014

Perfectly located, warm and charming apartment!

We booked this rental months ago to celebrate our anniversary and Sharon worked with us on our date to pick the right weekend with her existing reservations and was very accommodating, even though we started to creep into the peak season timeframe. She was extra available in the days leading up to our arrival and made sure we were comfortable throughout our stay. The apartment itself is located basically in the dead center of oak bluffs, close to everything and we enjoyed walking the main drag, visiting the beautiful open park and running along the waterfront. It is perfectly appointed with whatever you need and the grill works great! Sharon provided plenty of things-to-do and places-to-eat recommendations. We also discovered that it is a stone's throw away from Back Door Donuts, which makes the most incredible apple fritter in the whole wide world, so definitely visit that if you are in the mood to indulge (you can share it between about 20 people and still get a bite!). Overall, highly recommend for a couple!!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Rachel S.

13 May 2014

A Special Gem!

My husband and I had a fantastic time staying in this lovely gingerbread house! The location is great, just a block from restaurants, or the ocean! Even though it was off-season, we had a great time being close to all the quaint houses and shops. We loved being able to walk to coffee, then bringing that coffee over to the ocean-side. Host Sharon is fantastic! She is very accommodating to any special request and truly wants your time to be enjoyable. Her upstairs unit that we stayed in was very clean and had everything you need for a nice getaway...and you can't beat the hot tub! If we are ever back from Minnesota, we will definitely call up Sharon to stay here. FAB!

About the host

Hosted by Sharon Strimling

I have lived on Martha's Vineyard full time for 20 years now, but vacationed there as a child. Martha's Vineyard has always been a very special place to me, and I love it dearly. I found this home about 14 years ago and fell in love with it immediately. A massage therapist on Martha's Vineyard, voted 'Best of the Vineyard' in the Vineyard Gazette, I once did massage out of this house, and people adored being there for their massages! You will see - the home is a true, historic beauty, and has a special feeling to it as well.

My favorite morning routine is to go for a run through the beautiful nature trails a short jog away, have a healthy smoothie in the hot tub, and then walk down the street to the local coffee shop for a wonderful cup of tea and to say hi to the locals gathering there.
My nieces and nephews on the other hand, get far more excited about the late afternoon or after dinner walk down to the arcade and ice cream shop to lick their ice cream cones while watching the nightlife walk by on Circuit Ave!
Oh - and of course, the movie theater down the street calls to them from time to time as well!

Why they chose this property

There is no location on Martha's Vineyard like downtown Oak Bluffs, and nowhere in the world I would rather be. With the coffee shops, restaurants and shops in town, the beach just a couple of blocks away, Ocean park separating the house from the ocean, the Tabernacle a block in the other direction, the Flying Horses carousel for children, Union Chapel with its performances and the harbor just down the street, it just doesn't get any better than this. I will never look to be in any other location on Martha's Vineyard than in the charming and lively town of Oak Bluffs!