Overview of Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague
Secluded relaxation and unique natural attractions combine with maritime history, outdoor recreation and world-famous events in Chincoteague, Virginia. Located along Virginia’s scenic Eastern Shore, this barrier island invites travelers to relax and enjoy its Atlantic Ocean setting of seashore, nature and Chincoteague things-to-do.
Chincoteague Hotels
Chincoteague hotels range from small inns and boutique hotels to family-friendly resorts and luxury waterfront accommodations. Your family or group will find comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities located within close proximity to all of the island’s best attractions and Chincoteague restaurants.
The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Chincoteague Island features spacious rooms and suites dressed in modern décor. At the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Chincoteague Island, you’ll enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a business center and an outdoor pool and deck that overlook Chincoteague Bay. Marriott’s Fairfield Inn is close to local shops, attractions and restaurants.
The Refuge Inn is set in a secluded yet convenient spot among pine trees, picnic tables and ponies. Choose from queen rooms, deluxe rooms or suites with private patios or balconies, flat screen televisions and elegant décor. Amenities include an indoor/outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, complimentary continental breakfast, bike rentals and an on-site pasture with wild ponies.
Chincoteague Camping
If you’re looking for a camping spot, look no further than KOA Chincoteague. With great views, KOA Chincoteague has RV and tent camping sites, a playground, a kayak launch, a pool, bike rentals, fun events and lots of other services and amenities to make your trip an experience to remember. There are also beach cottages if you’re not the “roughing it” type. It’s within easy access to the beaches, trails and wild ponies of Assateague Island National Seashore.
Chincoteague Restaurants
The island’s Atlantic Ocean address makes it a prime spot to indulge in seafood, but you’ll find plenty of culinary choices to suit every member of your traveling party.
Bill’s Seafood Restaurant, Gary Howard Seafood and AJ’s on the Creek specialize in fresh seafood selections such as crab cakes, scallops and steamed shrimp as well as steak, prime rib and Italian choices. If you’re craving sandwiches, comfort food or all-day breakfast, check out the Chincoteague Diner and Restaurant. The Island Creamery and Mister Whippy are known far and wide for their ice cream and dessert choices.
Chincoteague Things to Do
Visitors come from far and wide to see the famous Chincoteague ponies
Nature, history and aerospace come together along Virginia’s Eastern Shore. NASA’s Wallop’s Flight Facility, the oldest rocket launch facility in the United States, is located at Wallops Island just south of Chincoteague. There is a visitor center, and you can sometimes catch a view of the Antaras-A1 lift off. The marshland of Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge is also located along this six-mile stretch.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is located on nearby Assateague Island National Seashore. This nearly 14,000-acre stretch of land is home to a variety of animals, birds and the famous Chincoteague wild ponies.
It’s not known for sure whether the ponies at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge descended from ponies that arrived via a shipwrecked Spanish galleon or if they were simply the outcome of 17th century practices of farming without fences. Regardless, they are one of the most popular sights on the island as well as the inspiration for Marguerite Henry’s 1947 book “Misty of Chincoteague.” The world-famous Chincoteague Pony Swim takes place in late July.
Entrance to the Assateague Light.
Along with the beach area at Assateague Island, you can hike and bike along nature trails and visit the red and white striped Assateague Lighthouse, which dates to 1833. Fishing and horseback riding are allowed in designated areas.
Other attractions on the island include the Chincoteague Pony Centre, the Museum of Chincoteague Island and the Oyster and Maritime Museum.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family-friendly vacation or a group getaway, you’re sure to find something for everyone in Chincoteague.