For More Than 100 Years, Vacationers Have Summered in Katama Along South Beach’s Shore
Before the days of air conditioning, the old Mattakeset Lodge was an ideal place to spend the summer months. Opened in 1873, the Lodge was popular for its clambakes, dances under the stars and, most importantly, its unique south-facing location by the sea that was consistently cooled by the gentle sea breezes during the heat of summer. It was one of the island’s earliest resorts.
For more than 20 years at the end of the 19th century, the Mattakeset Lodge was reached by the Martha’s Vineyard Railroad, a narrow gauge line that ran from the Oak Bluffs steamship wharf to the hotel’s front lawn. The railroad, though ultimately a financial flop, took vacationers on a spectacular ride along the island’s coast on its way to Edgartown and then to Mattakeset.
Early writings about the Lodge mention its well appointed facilities, including its own farm, steam laundry, twice-daily mail, tennis courts, billiards, bowling, bath-houses, and a rooftop promenade with views of Katama Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
The hotel closed towards the end of the century and pieces of the building were floated down the Bay to Edgartown to be reused.
Read one summer guest’s review of the Mattakeset Lodge at Vineyard Gazette’s Time Machine.
During World War II, Mattakeset’s region of Katama served as a U.S. Naval Air and Sea Base. After the war the site was developed into the Katama Shores Inn, which was removed in 1999 to make way for today’s Winnetu.
In the summer of 2000, the Snider family opened the Winnetu Oceanside Resort, carefully designed to reflect the Vineyard’s late-nineteenth century shingle-style character while providing all the modern conveniences guests expect today.
Through changes in seasons and passing of years, the Vineyard experience remains timeless and enduring. Hop a boat, leave the mainland behind, and enjoy what generations of visitors have come to our shore to seek.
Looking to head into Edgartown? Our signature Water Taxi cruise can get you there in style. Enjoy your night out and your ride there!
Opening day is tomorrow! It’s wonderful to see the lobby filled with old and new friends as we welcome in our first guests this weekend. Let the summer begin!
Chocolate covered strawberries, a bottle of prosecco, a couples massage, and so much more is waiting for you at Winnetu! The perfect vacation is on us when you sign up for our Couples Package.
Bring the ENTIRE family on vacation and treat your pup to our Pup & Play package! We’ll supply you with everything you need for your furry friend, including our special biscuit basket. 🐾
South Beach is Katama’s backyard. For Winnetu guests, this iconic Vineyard beach is as easy as a hop, skip, and jump down our private beach path.
The Winnetu team met up with @signatureoysterfarm last week to take a tour of their farm and taste this season’s oysters. Farmed right here in Katama Bay, it doesn’t get any fresher than this. As always, they’ll be on @thedunesmv’s menu this year so you can try them for yourself.
#winnetu #mv #marthasvineyard
It’s May and that means Winnetu is back in only 10 days! We can’t wait to spend another sun-filled season with you. 🌼 🌊
🔎 Employee Spotlight 🔍 Meet Tim, our head concierge! He knows absolutely everything about Martha’s Vineyard, and nearly everyone too. Tim has been part of Winnetu’s family since 2008 and loves meeting all the guests that visit.
Fun fact: Tim is from Edgartown, and enjoys everything from visiting South Beach to hiking at Cedar Tree Neck!
Capture your favorite moments by booking family portraits at Winnetu! Working with @randibairdphoto is a great way to bring your vacation memories home with you. 📸
Adventure awaits! Winnetu’s private beach path leads you directly from the hotel lawn, right to this very spot at South Beach. It’s like your own slice of oceanfront heaven.
Here’s a reminder to stop and smell the flowers! 🌺🌷🌼
Dispatch from the Caribbean: Have you seen the dreamy accommodations at our sister resort in the #USVI? Tap the link in our bio to learn about @lovangoresort’s Treehouse, Glamping, and Villa accommodations.
#USVI #Caribbean #StJohn #Lovango
One of the most enjoyable ways to get around the island is on a bicycle. No need to bring your own, M.V. Bike Rentals has you covered. Your bike will be ready and waiting at Winnetu so you can begin exploring!
Grab some rackets and get ready to put your skills to the test on our tennis courts! Need a few pointers? Join our complimentary tennis clinics every Monday, Wednesday and Friday starting June 14th. 🎾
Make your family memories of Martha’s Vineyard and Edgartown. Share with us your favorite activity in Edgartown.
Our taxi trades wheels for waterviews… Cruise between Edgartown and Winnetu on our signature water taxi. 🌊
Anybody else get this excited about our chocolate chip cookies? 🍪 Looking forward to lemonade and cookies, each afternoon in the lobby this season.
Our antique fire truck is the best ride on the island! Who wants to go for a spin?!
We love getting feedback from our guests and hearing about their stays! Share your experience on Tripadvisor and reminisce about warmer days.
80 days until Winnetu is back for another season filled with clambakes and sunset cruises! 😍
No car, no problem! The Island Queen Ferry is the best (and most fun) way to get to and from Winnetu. Learn more about our Island Queen VIP package by visiting our website.
📸 @islandqueenmv
Just around the corner from Winnetu is the stunning Katama Airfield. If you’re looking for incredible views and wonderful food, visit @katamakitchen and get a front row seat to the planes coming and going.
📸 @katamaairfieldtrust
📸 @marthasvineyardeats
We can already picture you devouring our signature dishes at Dunes this summer. ☺️ Check out the 360 views of our dining room and picture yourself there too!
📸 @mindybriar
Our incredible staff is what makes Winnetu feel like home for so many. We’re lucky to have our Martha’s Vineyard family consist of such kind and helpful people.
Inspired by the Islands, @Tuckernuck’s new resort collection made its debut in a photoshoot at our sister resort, @lovangoresort, in the #USVI last month. Their fresh spin on American style is the perfect look to pack next time you’re on your way to Martha’s Vineyard. Use promo code LOVANGO20 at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase. Offer valid February 1-28, 2022. Not applicable on sale items or previous orders.
