If you’ve strolled down North Water Street in Edgartown lately, you might have done a double-take. That sprawling, shingled landmark at the corner of Kelley Street—the one everyone knows as the Kelley House—looks different. Not just "new coat of paint" different, but fundamentally changed.
Honestly, the transformation has been a bit of a shock to the system for long-time Vineyard visitors. This isn't just a hotel; it’s a 280-year-old piece of American history that predates the Boston Tea Party. But as of 2026, the name "Kelley House" is technically a subtitle. The property has been reimagined and relaunched as Faraway Martha’s Vineyard.
Is it still the same place where sailors once found refuge? Sorta. But it’s also something entirely new.
Why the Kelley House Name Changed
In late 2020, a Boston-based real estate firm called Blue Flag Partners picked up the property for about $19.6 million. They didn't just want to fix a few leaky pipes. They saw a disjointed collection of buildings and a parking lot that wasn't living up to its prime harbor-side potential.
The renovation was massive. They basically took the buildings down to the studs. We’re talking new wiring, structural overhauls, and a complete aesthetic flip. The goal was to turn a slightly tired three-star inn into a high-end four-star boutique resort.
They brought in a "muse" for the interior design: Carly Simon.
Since Simon is an island icon, the designers used her 1970s "boho-chic" vibe to influence the rooms. Think vintage record players in every suite, custom mid-century furniture, and Byredo bath products. It’s a far cry from the floral bedspreads of the 1990s.
What’s Actually New at Faraway Martha’s Vineyard
The layout of the campus has seen the biggest shift. If you remember the old pool that sat awkwardly near the street, it’s gone. It’s been replaced by a much more private, guest-only pool tucked into a central courtyard.
- The Pelican Club: This started as a pop-up but is now a permanent fixture. It’s an outdoor sushi and cocktail bar that feels more like a tropical oasis than a colonial tavern.
- The Rooms: There are 58 rooms spread across the main house and several "Captain's Houses" like the Carriage House and Chappy House.
- Public Pathways: One cool thing they did was open up a path through the property, so it feels less like a walled-off fortress and more like part of the Edgartown fabric.
The Newes From America: Did They Keep It?
This was the biggest fear for locals. If you’ve ever had a burger and a beer at The Newes From America, you know it’s sacred ground. The pub dates back to 1742 and has those low ceilings and rough-hewn beams that you just can't fake.
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The good news? They kept it.
Blue Flag knew that closing The Newes would have been a PR disaster. They preserved the colonial character but gave the menu a bit of a refresh. It still feels like a cave in the best way possible. It’s the one part of the Kelley House history that feels truly untouched by the "boutique-ification" of the rest of the block.
A Legacy of Name Changes
People get defensive about the name "Kelley House," but history shows this place is a bit of a shapeshifter.
- It started in 1742 as The Tavern.
- It’s been called Marcy House and Vineyard House.
- For a while, it was the Sea View House.
- It only became the "Kelley House" in 1891 when William Kelley married Elizabeth Johnston.
So, while "Faraway" feels modern and maybe a little "corporate" to some, it’s just the latest chapter in a very long book.
Practical Advice for Your Visit
If you’re planning to stay or just visit the grounds, here’s the reality of the 2026 experience.
Parking in downtown Edgartown is still a nightmare. The hotel has some spots, but if you’re just coming for sushi at the Pelican Club, leave the car at your rental and take the VTA bus or a bike.
The hotel is now a "campus" experience. You aren't just staying in one building; you might be in a suite across the street. This means a lot of walking, so don't bring those massive suitcases if you can help it.
Also, the prices have definitely shifted. This is a luxury property now. Expect to pay "Edgartown 2026" prices, which—let’s be real—are never cheap.
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Actionable Steps for Travelers
- Book The Newes early: Even with the renovations, the pub fills up fast. They don't always take reservations for small groups, so aim for a "late lunch" or "early dinner" to snag a booth.
- Check the "House" location: When booking, ask specifically which building your room is in. If you want harbor views, you’ll want the upper floors of the main building or the Mizzen Top suites.
- Visit the Library: Even if you aren't staying there, the new lobby library is a great spot to see how they balanced the historic architecture with the new double-height ceilings.
- Look for the Victrola: Every room has a Bluetooth-enabled turntable. Stop by a local thrift shop or a record store before you arrive to grab some vinyl for the true "Carly Simon" vibe.
The Kelley House in Edgartown isn't gone; it’s just evolved. Whether you love the new "Faraway" branding or miss the old-school charm, the bones of 1742 are still there, holding up the corner of the harbor.