Chincoteague Island Virginia of one of the most visited Eastern Shore of Virginia travel destinations, along with Cape Charles and Onancock.
Hotels in Chincoteague Island VA
Located on the Delmarva Peninsula along the East Coast, you’re in the heart of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. It is surrounded by the Chincoteague Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. And yes, this is the home of those famous wild ponies.
Know before you go
Welcome to Chincoteague Island Virginia – Photo credit: Rick Huey
⌚ Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)
✈️ Nearest Airport: Salisbury (SBY) Airport is 30 miles to the north, Reagan Washington (DCA) (111.8 miles), Baltimore Washington International (BWI) (112.2 miles), and Norfolk VA Airport (ORF) (99.7 miles) to the south.
Day at the beach, Assateague Island, VA
🚙 Car Rentals: Enterprise Rent-A-Car, 1242 Ocean Hwy, Pocomoke City, MD 21851 – 19.0 miles from Chincoteague Island, VA
What’s the best time to visit?
☀️ For the best weather: The peak tourist season is between the beginning of June and the end of August. The summer weather is at its best during this time. Assateague Island beach and nature trails are just under 5 miles away. The perfect destination for wildlife photographers and nature lovers!
Wild ponies in the marsh.
🐎See the wild horses. The Chincoteague Island Pony Swim is held on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July. This year the swim will be on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.
🏖️ For the best value: September – November. If you are shopping for cheap Chincoteague hotel deals, the peak summer rates drop considerably after Labor Day, the first Monday in September. Moreover, the weather continues to be amazing during this period. Additionally, the ocean remains pleasantly warm, and, as a bonus, you’ll have an abundance of space on the beach all to yourself!
Where is Chincoteague Island located?
How to get to the Island. The town of Chincoteague Island is located in Virginia. It’s a coastal town located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. It is 15 miles south of the Maryland state line, and 91 miles from Virginia Beach, VA.
Chincoteague Island Map
What state is Chincoteague in?
Chincoteague Island is in the state of Virginia. It is one of three states that make up the Delmarva Peninsula.
Besides visiting the island, you will find other fun and interesting things to do on the Eastern Shore of Virginia in these towns: Wallops Island, Wachapreague, and Parksley.
What’s the closest airport?
Salisbury Airport (SBY) is located about 30 miles to the north, in Salisbury, Maryland. It is a regional airport with connecting hubs in Philadelphia, PA, and Charlotte, NC.
What is the best way to get to your hotel?
There are no private shuttles or buses from the Salisbury Airport (SBY).
If you plan to use air travel to vacation on Chincoteague Island, I recommend renting a car at the Salisbury Airport.
There are currently (3) national brand car rental agencies located on-site. The hours of operation can be limited, so call ahead to ensure your rental plans go smoothly.
Can you drive there?
Yes. You can drive to the Island. The only route to get there is using Route 175. Most travelers reach the island using Route 13, the only main highway on the Delmarva Peninsula.
Driving on the Chincoteague Causeway – Photo by Rick Huey
If you are traveling from the north heading south, you will take a left onto Route 175 at the “T’s Corner” traffic light. No other turns are needed. This road will take you straight there.
If you are traveling from the south heading north, you will take a right onto Route 175 at the “T’s Corner” traffic light.
Is there a fee to enter Chincoteague Island?
No. There is no fee to enter the Island.
Places to Stay
There are two main areas you will find hotels. They are Maddox Boulevard (also known as Beach Road) and Main Street.
When to come off the bridge leading you onto Chincoteague Island, you come to a traffic light.
Downtown Chincoteague Island.
The road to your left and right is Main Street. Making a right will take you to the downtown area. This is where the majority of hotels are located.
If you continue going straight, the road you are on (Rt. 175) turns into Maddox Boulevard. The bulk of hotels on Maddox Boulevard on located near the Museum of Chincoteague. This is due to its proximity to Assateague Island and the beach.
Are you looking for a budget-friendly hotel on Chincoteague Island? You can find several national hotel chains, such as the Hampton Inn, Comfort Suites, and Best Western on the island. Many of your lodging choices are privately owned hotels.
If you prefer Airbnb destinations, there are plenty of options available to you.
There are numerous choices for visitors seeking long-term stays on the island. They include apartments, bungalows, and plenty of Chinco vacation home rentals.
🐶 Pet-friendly hotels
Is Chincoteague dog friendly? Yes, they are!
Pet parents love to travel with their furry friends. Many travelers with pets use boarding services for out-of-town travel plans. However, over 25% travel each year with their trusty companions.
If you are seeking dog-friendly stays, there are several options available to you. You will want to plan well in advance as pet-friendly stays are in high demand and go quickly.
There are several pet boarding services in the area as well.
Campgrounds
Chincoteague Island is a very popular destination for camping and offers a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Here are the campgrounds to choose from:
Camping Chincoteague Island
Some of the most popular campgrounds include Jellystone Chincoteague Island, Tom’s Cove Park, Pine Grove Campground, and Sun Outdoors (opening June 2023).
Each RV Camping site has its unique features and amenities. Be sure to research each one to find the best fit for your camping needs.
📆 Events Calendar
When planning on a vacation, here are some key dates to keep in mind:
March
☘️ Search for Shamrocks
Join a popular scavenger hunt adventure on the Island to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
🐎 Spring Pony Roundup
This is a spring event to monitor the health of the pony herd. Also, this event identifies any new foals that have been born since the previous Pony Penning.
April
🦆 Annual Easter Decoy & Art Festival
The Easter Decoy & Art Festival celebrates the history and craft of decoy carving. Local and national artists showcase their work including fine art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, stained glass, and pottery
⛱️National Parks Free Entrance Day
Save the date! April 22. On five days in 2023, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone.
May
🦐 Annual Chincoteague Seafood Festival
Held annually on the first Saturday of May. This is a very popular event featuring fresh local seafood, arts & crafts, and so much more!
The majority of them involve being in or near the Atlantic Ocean, Toms Cove, or the Assateague Inlet. Yet, there for plenty of activities for those with other interests.
While it does rain on occasion here, there is no shortage of things to do that don’t involve the beach.
Here are a few ideas…
🎣Visit the Museum of Chincoteague Island – This museum features exhibits on the history of the island, including the famous wild ponies, the local fishing industry, and much more.
🚀 Check out the NASA Wallops Visitor Center. It is located just a few miles off the island. The visitor center features exhibits on the history and future of space exploration, as well as hands-on activities the whole family will enjoy.
NASA Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center – Photo by Rick Huey
🎨 Visit an art gallery – The Island is home has several art galleries showcasing the work of local artists. Check out the Island Arts Gallery or Sundial Books and Gallery for a unique and inspiring indoor experience.
🍦 Stop by the Island Creamery – If you see a long line in the front, you’re at the right spot! This local ice cream shop serves up a large assortment of incredible homemade ice cream. A delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth on a rainy day.
📚 Head to the Chincoteague Island Library – This library has a great selection of books, magazines, and DVDs. It also offers free Wi-Fi and public computers.
If you are looking for a nice evening out on the town, maybe to take in some music or just some couples time together, there are several places for you to check out.
Don’s Seafood offers great food and nightly music – Photo credit: Rick Huey
The majority of places you will find are located in the heart of downtown. There are several bars and restaurants within walking distance of each other.
🍺 Best Bars
The are several bars and restaurants with bars on the Island. There are several pubs offering a variety of local craft beers. The Island is even home to a local brewery, Black Narrows Brewing.
I recommend you check out the Ropewalk Chincoteague, Don’s Seafood, and Steamer’s.
Are you a wine aficionado? There is no shortage of establishments that serve your favorite pinot noir, the best rose wine, and of course, a fine glass of Cabernet Sauvignon!
Enjoy a bowl of steamed shrimp – Photo by Rick Huey
For those travelers who prefer non-seafood dining choices, you will find a variety of ethnic cuisine such as Italian, Mexican, and Asian.
Many restaurants here serve classic American dishes like burgers, fries, and cold sandwiches.
Channel Bass Inn, Chincoteague, VA – Photo credit: Rick Huey
There are also several upper-scale dining experiences available for those with a more sophisticated palette.
Famous Pizza and Sub Shop – Photo by Rick Huey
During the summer beach season, you will find several food trucks throughout the island. They offer the ultimate in casual dining, with a wide range of menus.
Many of these food trucks can be found on your way to the beach on Maddox Boulevard.
Running Routes
Hey there, fellow runners!
If you’re looking for a place to jog where the scenery is just as stunning as your stride, then you’re in luck. This little slice of paradise off the coast of Virginia is home to some seriously awesome running routes.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to get a little exercise on your beach vacation, there are plenty of running routes to enjoy here. So, slip into those sneakers, grab a water bottle (or two!), and let’s go explore the best running routes the Island has to offer. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed!
Many people confuse Chincoteague and Assateague Islands VA or consider them the same location. There is a short bridge connecting the two islands.
There is also an Assateague Island MD and VA. They are two separate locations and are managed by different government agencies.
Assateague Island Va is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, while the portion of the island is managed by the National Park Service as Assateague Island National Seashore. The State of Maryland manages two miles of the Maryland district as Assateague State Park.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Sign – Photo by Rick Huey
How to Get to Assateague Island
Assateague Island Virginia is a 37-mile island that extends from Maryland into Virginia. You can enter the island by traveling by car, bike, or walking across the bridge onto the Island.
There is only one road to travel to cross over to Assateague Islan. Simply stay on Maddox Boulevard, cross the short bridge over the Chincoteague Inlet, and you’re there!
Where Is the Best Place to See the Chincoteague Ponies?
One of the highlights of traveling here is catching a glimpse of the wild ponies. But where is the best place to see them?
Assateague Island is 37.8 miles long and runs from the Ocean City Inlet to the north, and down to the Assateague Island hook on the south end
To see the ponies in Virginia, you will have the best luck sightseeing from one of the Island cruises. The boat captains know what visitors want to see and where the top spots are to view them. That’s #1.
You can often see them while driving to the Assateague Island beach. If you are heading to the beach, they are most often visible to the south. There are several pull-off spots for viewing. That’s #2.
Finally, you may see them working on the beach and through the parking lots. That’s #3.
If you travel to the Maryland side of Assateague Island, it is very common to see ponies walking on the beach. Caution – They are also not shy about looking for snacks in beach bags.
Where is the Chincoteague Beach?
The term “Chincoteague Beach” is Assateague Island, VA. The Virginia section of Assateague Island is technically designated as Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Thus, the name “Chincoteague Beach” is used by locals and tourists alike.
Is Assateague Island open to the public?
Yes. Assateague Island Va is open to the public 7 days a week but closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Is there a Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge entrance fee?
Yes. You can buy a daily pass, as well as a weekly pass and a yearly pass. Prices start at $10 for a day trip to Assateague Island. Weekly passes are $25 and a pass for the entire year cost $45.
Horses Assateague Island
There are wild horses on both, the Maryland and Virginia portions of Assateague Island. However, the ones on the Virginia side get much more attention, thanks in large part to the popular “Misty of Chincoteague” book and movie, as well as the annual pony swim.
Tours
The Island offers a variety of tours for you to explore its natural beauty and unique attractions. Here are popular tours you will find:
The Island is known for its abundance of wildlife, including wild ponies, migratory birds, and other animals. Wildlife tours allow you to observe these animals in their natural habitat. This is great for photographers, artists, and birdwatchers.
Assateague Island tours provide an opportunity to explore the waters surrounding Chincoteague Island from a unique perspective. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the wild ponies on nearby Assateague Island.
Kayak tours are a very popular way to explore the area’s waterways and get a close-up view of the local wildlife. It’s also a good way to get a workout in! Guided kayak tours, as well as kayak and paddle board rentals, are available.
Learn about the local history and culture for a walking tour. These tours include visits to local landmarks, museums, and other points of interest.
Are you the type of person that likes a good ghost story? Chincoteague ghost tours offer a different twist from regular tours, providing a fun way to learn about the island’s haunted places and legends.
Wild ponies are a major attraction. Pony tours allow you to see them up close in their natural element. Some tours even allow visitors to watch the annual pony swim from a front-row seat on a boat in the channel!
Is Chincoteague Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Chincoteague Island, Virginia was once a quiet fishing village. Now it’s become a vibrant destination that warmly welcomes visitors. It has plenty of mouthwatering local seafood, plenty of places to stay, unique shopping experiences, and fun-filled family activities. It’s a fantastic place to visit all year round, but it truly shines as one of the top-notch summer destinations on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
FAQs
Is there a police station?
Yes. The town has full-time law enforcement officers as well as a police station.
Are there laws for electric scooters?
Yes. No person under the age of 14 years old is permitted to drive any electric personal assisted mobility device, which includes a motorized skateboard or scooter, or class three power-assisted bicycle unless under the immediate supervision of a person who is at least 18 years old.
How many people live there?
As of 2021, the population is 3306.
Is Chincoteague Island a dry town?
No. Alcohol can be purchased and consumed on the Island. However, nearby Assateague Island is a different story. Alcohol use is prohibited on Assateague Island, VA.
Chincoteague and marijuana
As of July 2021, adults in Virginia who are 21 or older, are allowed to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and up to 4 cannabis plants per household without penalty. It is still illegal to use it in public on Chincoteague and Assateague Island VA.
Does it have cell phone coverage?
Yes. The Island has very good cell phone coverage for Verizon, AT&T, and T-Moible customers for the majority of the island.
Is Chincoteague State Park Camping permitted?
All visitors must leave the island unless they have an overnight fishing pass. There is no camping available in the Virginia district of Assateague Island. Commercial campgrounds are available on the neighboring island of Chincoteague, Virginia.
Is the lighthouse on Assateague Island still used?
Yes. The lighthouse is one of only 20 lighthouses along the East Coast still in use.
Can you climb to the top of the Assateague lighthouse?
Yes. However, it is only open during the summer season for tours.
Is Chincoteague Trails End campground in Chincoteague?
No. It is located in Horntown, Virginia.
Where is the lighthouse located?
The lighthouse is located on Assateague Island. It is accessible by car, bike, or foot. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for an incredible panoramic view!
Are the wild horses on Assateague Island, MD considered to be Chincoteague ponies?
No, the ponies on the Maryland side of Assateague Island are not considered Chincoteague ponies.
The ponies are a specific breed of feral ponies that are found on the Virginia side of Assateague Island and are managed by the local volunteer fire company.
The ponies on the Maryland side are also feral, but they are managed by the National Park Service as part of the Assateague Island National Seashore. These ponies are known as Assateague Island ponies and are considered a separate breed from the Chincoteague ponies.
While the Chincoteague and Assateague ponies share a common ancestry, they have developed distinct physical and behavioral characteristics due to their separate management and environmental conditions. Visitors to Assateague Island can observe both breeds of ponies and learn about their unique histories and habitats.
Population
As of 2021, the population is 3306.
Zip Code
The zip code is 23336.
Hope you enjoyed our Chincoteague VA Travel Guide. Be sure to leave a comment below. Thank you!
