25 Best Things to Do in Chincoteague

This charming coastal paradise is full of natural beauty, exciting adventures, and unforgettable experiences. We’ve put together a list of the top 25 things to do while you’re here, so you can make the most of your time on this beautiful island. Grab your sun hat, put on your flip-flops, and let’s explore Chincoteague!

1. Visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Home to the famous wild ponies, this refuge offers a chance to see them up close, along with other amazing wildlife. Wander the trails and explore the diverse habitats of this picturesque sanctuary.

2. Attend the Pony Swim

Witness the thrilling annual Pony Swim in July, where wild ponies swim across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague. Join the festivities that follow, including the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company’s carnival and auction. The year, Wednesday, July 26, 2023, will mark the 97th year of Chincoteague’s annual Pony Swim.

3. Experience Sunrise at Assateague Island National Seashore

Discover miles of pristine beaches and take in a beautiful sunrise. With its tranquil atmosphere, it’s an ideal time for beachcombing and relaxing by the ocean.

4. Take a boat tour

Enjoy a guided boat tour around the island, spotting wildlife, learning about history, and soaking up the views. Discover hidden treasures and hear fascinating stories from experienced local captains.

5. Check out the Chincoteague Island Waterman’s Memorial

Pay your respects to local fishermen and sailors who have lost their lives at sea. This touching memorial is a reminder of the island’s strong connection to the ocean.

6. Visit the Chincoteague Island Library

Discover the island’s history and enjoy a good book in this quaint, historic library, located at 4077 Main Street. Participate in engaging events and programs offered throughout the year.

7. Climb the Assateague Lighthouse

Enjoy a spectacular view of the island and surrounding waters from atop this historic lighthouse. The vibrant red and white structure is a beloved landmark on the island.

8. Rent a bike

Explore the island at your own pace, taking in the sights and sounds on a leisurely bike ride. There are several Chincoteague bike rentals. Pedal through charming neighborhoods and scenic trails, stopping for snapshots along the way. Sun Scooters next to Chincoteague Beachwear at 6303 Maddox Blvd, has a large selection to choose from.

9. Go kayaking

Paddle through the serene waters of Chincoteague and Assateague, exploring marshes and creeks teeming with wildlife. Guided tours and rental options are available for all skill levels. Assateague Adventures and Chincoteague Kayak Tours are good places to start.

10. Discover Fresh Seafood at Ray’s Shanty Seafood Market

Experience the true taste of the sea at Ray’s Shanty Seafood Market, a renowned destination for seafood lovers located just outside of Chincoteague on Rt. 175.

Ray’s Shanty offers a wide variety of fresh seafood at their seafood market, including fish, shrimp, crabs, clams, and oysters. They also feature a restaurant where you can savor its delicious seafood dishes, such as crab cakes, steamed shrimp, and clam chowder. Be sure to get the hushpuppies as well!

11. Attend the Chincoteague Oyster Festival

Celebrate the island’s oyster heritage and enjoy tasty oyster dishes at this annual event. The festival also features live music, crafts, and fun activities for the whole family. The event is usually held during the first week in October and is located at Tom’s Cove Park.

12. Savor Delicious Dishes at Bill’s Prime Seafood and Steaks

Dive into a world of flavor at Bill’s Prime, located at 4040 Main Street, a Chincoteague Island staple offering the freshest local seafood, hand-cut steaks, and delightful pasta dishes.

Pair your meal with a selection from their international wine list, or enjoy a refreshing beer or cocktail. You will definitely want to save room for their incredible desserts!

13. Chincoteague Wildlife Loop

Stroll through scenic trails on the Chincoteague Wildlife Loop and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. Keep an eye out for native plants and wildlife, including white-tailed deer and various bird species. This paved 3.25-mile loop offers enjoyment and numerous opportunities to visitors.

14. Go fishing

Cast your line into Chincoteague’s abundant waters and try your luck at catching a tasty dinner. Enjoy a day of angling from the shore or join a guided fishing trip for a memorable experience. Try your luck on Chincoteague Bay or surf fishing from Assateague Beach.

15. Visit the Island Creamery

Treat yourself to a delicious, homemade ice cream cone from this beloved local spot, located at 6243 Maddox Blvd. Choose from a wide variety of flavors, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Locally inspired Wallops Rocket Fuel (homemade fresh chocolate ice cream mixed with cinnamon and chili pepper), Marsh Mud (Double strength chocolate ice cream), and Oreo (yep, Oreos and ice cream). Finally, for the coffee lovers in the crowd, don’t sleep on Java Jolt (Strong coffee ice cream with homemade brownie chunks and chocolate-covered espresso beans).

16. Shop at Chincoteague Art Galleries

Browse unique, handcrafted souvenirs made by local artists. Bring home a one-of-a-kind piece to remember your Chincoteague adventure.

17. Take a photography tour

Capture the island’s stunning landscapes and wildlife on a guided photography adventure. Learn tips and tricks from professional photographers to improve your skills. A good photographer to start with is Colin Hocking.

18. Eat a sunset dinner at RopeWalk

Ropewalk, located at 6262 Marlin Street, offers a unique dining experience with a great location for sunset viewing.

Start your meal with an array of mouth-watering appetizers, like the Crab Cake Eggrolls or Seared Ahi Tuna. Indulge in our signature salads, such as the Seafood Cobb Salad or Asian Tuna Salad, before diving into our impressive selection of handhelds, including the Crab Cake Sandwich and Delmarva Burger.

Don’t forget to treat yourself to a refreshing Crush or a decadent dessert, such as the Raspberry New York Cheesecake or Mississippi Mud Cake. Ropewalk Chincoteague offers live entertainment and specials throughout the week, so there’s always something exciting happening.

19. Savor Tacos at Pico Taqueria

Indulge in crazy-good, creative tacos at Pico Taqueria, a local favorite at 6560 Maddox Blvd, on Chincoteague Island. Made with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor, their tacos offer a unique twist on traditional Mexican fare.

With its casual atmosphere and friendly service, Pico Taqueria is a must-visit spot for taco lovers visiting the island.

20. Explore the Chincoteague Island Farmers Market

Shop for fresh, local produce, handmade crafts, and more at this lively market, located at 6309 Church Street. Held seasonally, it’s a great opportunity to support local businesses and farmers.

21. Attend a rocket launch viewing

Watch a rocket soar into space from the nearby NASA Wallops Flight Facility. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the world of space exploration.

22. Cycle Along the John Tarr Bay to Beach Bike Trail

Experience Chincoteague Island’s natural beauty by cycling along the John Tarr Bay to Beach Bike Trail. This scenic trail takes you on a journey through the island’s picturesque landscapes, from serene bayside views to the stunning beaches of Assateague Island. It’s perfect for cyclists of all skill levels, providing a safe and enjoyable way to explore the island.

Here is a link to the bike trail map.

23. Visit the Chincoteague Pony Centre

Learn about the island’s famous ponies, and even take a pony ride! This interactive experience is perfect for visitors of all ages.

24. Go birdwatching

Grab your binoculars and go birding. Discover the incredible variety of bird species that call Chincoteague home. The island is a hotspot for birdwatchers, thanks to its diverse habitats and migratory bird populations. Use this birdwatching checklist to help you get started.

25. Relax on Chincoteague Island Beaches

Yes, I saved one of the best activities for last! Unwind and soak up the sun on Chincoteague’s pristine sandy shores. Whether you’re building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or simply reading a book, the island’s beaches are the perfect place to relax.

Time to Create Unforgettable Memories

There you have it – our top 25 things to do on Chincoteague Island, Virginia! Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking some relaxation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this coastal gem. So go ahead, dive into these fantastic experiences, and make lifelong memories on your unforgettable Chincoteague Island adventure. See you on the island!

If you find the weather doesn’t want to cooperate with your plan, be sure to read our 25 Best Rainy Day Activities on Chincoteague Island!

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Hope you enjoyed our article on the 25 Best Things to Do in Chincoteague. Be sure to leave a comment below if you agree with our selections or if you have additional items we can add. Thank you!