Woods Hole
A world-renowned scientific village β home to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), the Steamship Authority ferry to Martha’s Vineyard, and a vibrant year-round community.
History & Overview
Woods Hole is a small but internationally significant village at the southwestern tip of Falmouth. The village is known worldwide as one of the premier centers for ocean science and marine biology.
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), the NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center, and the U.S. Geological Survey's Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center are all located here. The village is also the departure point for the Steamship Authority ferry to Martha's Vineyard, making it a transportation hub year-round.
Voting
Check the MA Secretary of State voter lookup or contact the Falmouth Town Clerk at (508) 495-7350. Falmouth uses Open Town Meeting.
Your Elected Officials
Your state legislators represent this community on Beacon Hill. Check which precinct you are in at sec.state.ma.us to confirm your exact representatives.
Key Locations
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
World's largest independent ocean research institution. Ocean Science Exhibit Center open to the public.
Steamship Authority Ferry Terminal
Year-round ferry service to Martha's Vineyard. The primary connection to the island.
Woods Hole Science Aquarium
The oldest public aquarium in the U.S. (NOAA-operated). Free admission. Features local marine life.
Public Beaches
π Stoney Beach
A small beach in Woods Hole village with views of Great Harbor. Free access.
Essential Services
| Service | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Woods Hole Post Office | Woods Hole | ZIP: 02543 |
| Woods Hole Library | 581 Woods Hole Rd | Website |
Local Favorites & Useful Spots
Locally loved spots and useful stops in and around Woods Hole.
Demographics
β Back to Falmouth Town Page
Resources
The 10.7-mile paved bike path from Falmouth Village terminates right here in Woods Hole — the only bike trail on Cape Cod that runs along the ocean. Passes through salt marshes, cranberry bogs, and offers stunning Vineyard Sound views. Free to use, bike rentals available in Falmouth Village.
