Obama gets early start on Vineyard vacation

CHILMARK, Mass. – President Barack Obama’s summer vacation has begun.

Obama arrived on the Massachusetts island of Martha’s Vineyard on Friday, a day earlier than originally scheduled, for a 17-day break before he plunges into a busy September and fresh battles with the Republican-controlled Congress over Iran, spending and other issues.

Obama, Michelle Obama, daughter Sasha and dogs Bo and Sunny flew aboard Air Force One to the Coast Guard station on Cape Cod, before boarding helicopters for the short hop to Martha’s Vineyard, the summer hangout for the wealthy just to the south.

The president arrived at his vacation home in Chilmark, the same seven-bedroom, nine-bathroom property he rented last year, after a 20-minute drive over the picturesque island’s gently rolling hills and verdant green spaces.

White House press secretary Josh Earnest said Obama realized he could spend Friday night on the island after all and “get started on his vacation first thing (Saturday) morning” so he decided to go for it.

The president tries to lie low during vacation, and aides said he was not expected to make any news during his stay.

With no official appearances scheduled, Obama will fill his days with leisurely rounds of golf, beach outings, bike rides and hikes with his wife and daughters, and dinner with Mrs. Obama and their friends at some of the island’s top restaurants.

He traveled with a small group of aides, including national security adviser Susan Rice, senior adviser Valerie Jarrett and others, who will update him as developments warrant.