Chincoteague Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Chincoteague with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, places to stay, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Chincoteague

Chincoteague is a beautiful barrier island located in Eastern Shore, Virginia. With a small-town culture and rustic charm, Chincoteague is a perfect getaway destination. Known for its wildlife refuge and pony swim, the island has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Chincoteague

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chincoteague Island History Museum - Discover the rich history of Chincoteague with exhibits on local culture, fishing, and more.
  • Island Theatre - Originally built as a silent movie house, now showcases local productions and live musical performances.
  • Captain Timothy Hill House - Built in 1800s, the house is a living example of life on Chincoteague during that time period.

Natural Attractions of Chincoteague: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge - Home to a variety of wildlife including migratory birds and wild ponies.
  • Assateague Island National Seashore - The undeveloped beachfront of Assateague Island provides ample opportunity for outdoor recreation such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and more.
  • Chincoteague Bay Trails - Visitors can explore the island’s beautiful wetlands and coastline on foot or by bike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chincoteague

  • Wildlife Loop - A scenic drive that offers views of the island’s wildlife, including ponies and birds. The road is also bike-friendly.
  • Lighthouse Trail - Winds through the pine forest to the Assateague Island Lighthouse.
  • Tom’s Cove Trail - Offers scenic views of the seashore and coastline.

Best Things to Do in Chincoteague: Activities and Tours

  • Pony Swim - Every summer, the wild ponies swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island, where they are auctioned off for charity.
  • Sunset Cruise - Take a boat ride on Chincoteague Bay to watch the sunset and see the wildlife.
  • Fishing - Chincoteague’s shores and bays offer opportunities for deep-sea fishing, surf fishing, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chincoteague

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive on Chincoteague Island, relax on the beach
Day 2 Visit Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, hike the Wildlife Loop, and see the ponies
Day 3 Take a boat tour of Chincoteague Bay
Day 4 Explore Assateague Island National Seashore and hike the Lighthouse Trail
Day 5 Visit the Chincoteague Island History Museum
Day 6 Fishing trip
Day 7 Depart Chincoteague Island

Food and Drink Scene of Chincoteague

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chincoteague Oysters - Locally farmed and known for their sweet and briny flavor.
  • She-Crab Soup - A delicious seafood soup made with crab meat, cream, and crab roe.
  • Saltwater Taffy - The sweet treat has been a staple of Chincoteague since the early 1900s.

Local Beverages

  • Chincoteague Brewing Company - Located on the island, the brewery serves its own beers that are made from local ingredients.
  • Assateague Ciderworks - Specializes in hard cider made from local apples.

Where to Stay in Chincoteague: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Island Motor Inn - Conveniently located in town and has a pool and a waterfront dock.
  • Best Western - Offers comfortable accommodations and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Refuge Inn - Located near the wildlife refuge and offers rooms with private balconies and marsh views.

What to Buy in Chincoteague: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wild Pony Art - Local artists create beautiful paintings and prints of Chincoteague’s famous wild ponies.
  • Lighthouse Themed Items - Chincoteague’s famous lighthouse is featured on many local souvenirs such as t-shirts, magnets, and postcards.
  • Seafood - Fresh seafood can be purchased from markets on the island to take home and cook.

Local Culture and Customs of Chincoteague

  • Crabbing and fishing are a way of life on Chincoteague, and visitors can participate in these activities as well.
  • The Chincoteague Ponies are a cherished part of the island’s heritage and culture.
  • The island is known for its annual Pony Swim and Auction, which takes place in July.

Best Time to Visit Chincoteague

The best time to visit Chincoteague is between April and October when the weather is warm and many outdoor activities are available. The annual Pony Swim and Auction takes place in July, which is a popular time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chincoteague

Do:

  • Take a boat ride to see the island from a different perspective.
  • Visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and see the ponies.
  • Try the local seafood and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Feed the wild ponies or any other wildlife on the island.
  • Litter on the beaches or in the wildlife refuge.
  • Ignore safety warnings related to water activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chincoteague

  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent when outdoors.
  • Follow safety guidelines when participating in water activities.
  • Be aware of any weather warnings and take appropriate precautions.

Health in Chincoteague

  • There are medical clinics and pharmacies on the island. However, it is recommended to bring any necessary medications with you.
  • Be aware of any food or drink that may cause allergies.

Getting to Chincoteague: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chincoteague

  • Salisbury Regional Airport - located 45 miles away from Chincoteague.
  • Norfolk International Airport - located 100 miles away from Chincoteague.

Bus Stations Near Chincoteague

  • Greyhound Bus Station located in Salisbury, Maryland- 45 miles away from Chincoteague.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - renting a car is a great option for those wanting to explore the area outside of the island.
  • Shuttle Services - Some hotels may offer shuttle services from nearby airports.

How to Get Around in Chincoteague

  • Walking - The island’s small size makes it easy to explore on foot.
  • Biking - Bike rentals are available on the island and there are many bike-friendly routes to explore.
  • Car - Car rentals are available on the island and are a great way to explore the area outside of the island.

Where to Go Next from Chincoteague: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ocean City, Maryland - known for its boardwalks, amusement parks, and lively nightlife.
  • Virginia Beach, Virginia - a popular beach destination with many attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia - Step back in time and explore this historic town.

Conclusion

Chincoteague is a perfect destination for those looking for a small town feel and a close connection with nature. With its beautiful wildlife, outdoor adventures, and local culture, it’s no wonder why it’s a favorite among travelers. Plan your visit by using this comprehensive guide, and get ready for an unforgettable experience on Virginia’s barrier island.

Deer and geese on the bayside wetlands Deer and geese on the bayside wetlands