If you’re a fan of the movie Jaws or just love exploring film locations, this shared Jaws tour on Martha’s Vineyard might catch your eye. It’s designed to give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most iconic spots from the movie, all without breaking the bank. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of info from travelers who’ve been and from the tour provider to give you a solid picture of what to expect.
What I really like about this experience is how accessible it is—at just $130 per person, it offers a compact, four-hour journey that covers key filming sites. Plus, the guided commentary is often praised for being both fun and informative, with guides sharing unpublished stories that add a special touch. However, since it’s a smaller tour with a maximum of 10 travelers, it’s quite intimate, but that also means booking early is a smart move—most travelers book about three months in advance. If you’re into movies, history, or just want a unique way to see Martha’s Vineyard, this tour could be a great fit.
That said, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include lunch or tips, so plan accordingly. And if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this is more of a focused, niche experience rather than a comprehensive island tour. It’s perfect for those who love Jaws, are interested in filming stories, or want a relaxed, guided trip with a small group. Now, let’s break down what you’ll experience and whether it’s worth your time.
- Affordable price point: At $130, this tour offers good value for a niche experience.
- Expert guides: Travelers repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge, especially about the film and the island.
- Filming locations: Highlights include Chief Brody’s house, Menemsha, Aquinnah Cliffs, and the famous Jaws Bridge.
- Flexible stops for photos: Plenty of opportunities to snap pictures at iconic sites.
- Limited inclusions: No lunch or gratuities included, so bring snacks and tips if you wish.
- Short, manageable duration: Four hours makes it easy to fit into a day without too much commitment.
Overview and Booking
The tour kicks off at 11:00 am from 1 Seaview Ave, Oak Bluffs. It’s designed as a shared experience with a small group—no more than ten travelers—making for a more personal vibe. The tour is mobile ticket, so you can store it on your device and skip the paper hassles. Most guests book about 83 days in advance, which suggests it’s quite popular among Jaws fans and island explorers alike.
The cost is $130 per person, which, considering the tailored nature of the stops and the stories shared, is fairly reasonable. Remember, this doesn’t include lunch or gratuities, so plan for those separately.
What’s Included
You’ll receive a comprehensive history of the movie Jaws, shared by guides who are often praised for their storytelling. Some guides, like Matt Taylor, are especially well-regarded for their deep knowledge and personal connections to Martha’s Vineyard. His background as an author on the filming of Jaws adds extra credibility and flavor to the tour.
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What’s Not Included
- Lunch: You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to grab a bite after the tour.
- Tips/gratuity: Not included, so if you love the guide’s storytelling, consider tipping.
The Stops and Highlights
Chief Brody’s House and Beaches
The tour begins with a visit to Chief Brody’s house and the beaches used in the film. This is a great chance to snap some photos, especially if you’re a Jaws enthusiast. These locations give you a feel for the movie’s setting and how the island’s scenery contributed to the story. The guide will share stories that aren’t published elsewhere, enriching your understanding of filming challenges and fun facts.
Menemsha
Next up is Menemsha, a picturesque fishing village where Captain Quint’s house was. You’ll also see the famous green buoy, a visual cue for the movie. The stop is about 10 minutes long, with free admission, giving you enough time to walk around and soak in the scenery. Expect the guide to share tidbits about the filming here, making it more than just a quick photo op.
Aquinnah Cliffs
The Aquinnah Cliffs are the next stop, offering breathtaking views and an important location in the film—where the Amity sign was placed. It’s a 15-minute visit with free admission. The cliffs give you a stunning backdrop to discuss the island’s natural beauty and how it was used creatively in the movie.
The Jaws Bridge and Amity Ville
One of the main attractions is crossing over the Jaws Bridge, which is among the top five attractions on Martha’s Vineyard. Here, you’ll get close to the bridge, and there’s time to take more photos. The guide will tell stories about its filming and significance. Afterward, there’s an option to return by public bus (#13) if you want to revisit the bridge later.
Additional Tips
- Bring a bathing suit and towel if you want to dip your toes or relax at certain stops. The tour mentions the possibility of returning via bus, making it easy to extend your stay if desired.
- The entire itinerary is designed to give you a mix of photo opportunities, film background stories, and scenic views.
All New Shared Jaws tour Budget Friendly
“Matt Taylor, the guide, was superb. The author of a fine book on the filming of Jaws, he has strong family ties to Martha's Vineyard and knows it w…”
What Travelers Are Saying
Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of the guides. One noted, “Matt Taylor… sought to customize the tour to our interests, and provided a wealth of stories,” highlighting the personal touch. Another reviewer called Dave “a great tour guide with some great stories about the locations and cast,” making the experience engaging and fun.
The overall feedback is that this tour hits the sweet spot for fans of Jaws and those interested in Martha’s Vineyard’s film history. The small group size, combined with knowledgeable guides, creates an intimate and informative outing.
Considering the price of $130, this tour offers a fair value. It’s not a full-day adventure but rather a focused exploration of key film sites paired with local stories. The stops are well-chosen, and the guide’s insights turn what might be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience. The fact that many travelers say they’d recommend it and would do it again speaks volumes.
If you’re a Jaws fan, this is practically a must-do. If you’re interested in Martha’s Vineyard’s scenery and film history, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. However, if you prefer a more comprehensive island tour or need a longer experience, you might want to look into other options.
This experience suits travelers who love movies, especially Jaws, and want a themed activity that’s easy to fit into a day. It’s also great for those who appreciate guided storytelling, as the guides are highly praised for their knowledge. The small group setting makes it ideal if you prefer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. It’s suitable for most travelers, but note that children under 8 need car seats—so plan accordingly.
This Jaws filming location tour offers a compelling glimpse into the making of one of the most iconic movies ever, set against the beautiful backdrop of Martha’s Vineyard. The mix of scenic stops, insider stories, and the chance to see movie locations up close makes it a worthwhile addition for film buffs and island visitors alike.
While it’s not a comprehensive island tour, it strikes a good balance for a half-day outing—especially considering its budget-friendly price. The knowledgeable guides are the real stars, bringing stories to life and making you feel like part of the island’s movie history. If you’re looking for a charming, themed experience with minimal hassle, this tour is definitely worth considering.
What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including travel time between stops.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1 Seaview Ave, Oak Bluffs, and returns to the same location at the end of the trip.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, children under 8 require car seats. It’s best suited for fans of the film or those interested in Martha’s Vineyard’s scenery.
Are there any included meals?
No, lunch is not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.
What makes this tour stand out?
The guides’ knowledge, especially about the film and island stories, is highly praised, making this a rich, engaging experience for Jaws fans.
If you’re craving a fun, themed way to explore Martha’s Vineyard, this Jaws tour offers a mix of movie magic and island charm that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a dedicated film buff or just looking for a unique local experience, it’s a solid choice.
