📍 Location & Geography
Oak Bluffs is a town located on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Dukes County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated on the northeastern shore of the island, facing the Nantucket Sound. The town is known for its unique Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and its vibrant, bustling harbor area.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts are approximately 41.4549° N latitude and 70.5618° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Oak Bluffs is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. The town covers a total area of about 20.9 square miles, of which 7.8 square miles is land and 13.1 square miles is water, as per the United States Census Bureau.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Oak Bluffs has a population of approximately 4,799 people. The town has a diverse demographic, with a mix of different races and ethnic backgrounds. The median age of the residents is around 47 years.
🏛️ History
Oak Bluffs was first settled in 1642 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1880. The town was originally a part of Edgartown until it was separated and named Cottage City. In 1907, it was renamed Oak Bluffs, named after the groves of mature oak trees found within the town. Oak Bluffs is known for its “gingerbread cottages,” which were originally built in the mid-19th century as part of a Methodist summer camp meeting.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Oak Bluffs is known for its scenic beauty, with a variety of natural landscapes including beaches, parks, and forested areas. The town is home to several conservation areas and wildlife habitats. The Farm Pond Preserve, a 22-acre protected area, is a popular spot for bird watching. The town’s beaches, including Inkwell Beach and Joseph Sylvia State Beach, are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
🏫 Education
Education in Oak Bluffs is managed by the Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools district. The town has a public elementary school, the Oak Bluffs School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, located in the nearby town of Oak Bluffs.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Oak Bluffs is facilitated by a network of roads, bike paths, and ferry services. The Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority provides public bus service throughout the town and the rest of the island. The Steamship Authority operates ferry services to and from the mainland, with the Oak Bluffs terminal being one of the main points of entry to Martha’s Vineyard.
📜 Trivia & Events
Oak Bluffs is famous for its annual Grand Illumination Night, a tradition since the 1860s, where the town’s historic gingerbread cottages are adorned with colorful lanterns. The town is also home to the Flying Horses Carousel, the oldest operating platform carousel in the United States. The town was a favorite vacation spot of the Obama family during Barack Obama’s presidency.