WACHAPREAGUE VA TRAVEL GUIDE CONTENTS
Location | Directions | Fishing| Places to Eat | Things to Do | Places to Stay | Weather | FAQ | Population | Zip Code
The town of Wachapreague, Virginia, is a quaint town located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. It has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1872.
It is called home by just over 200 year-round residents. It is beautifully surrounded by farmland and undisturbed marshland and barrier islands.
Hotels in Wachapreague VA
Where is Wachapreague VA?
It is located on the eastern shore of Virginia, in Accomack County. Known for its natural beauty and great fishing, it is situated close to the neighboring towns of Melfa, about 9 miles southwest, and Onley, approximately 11 miles northwest.
If you’re interested in visiting Chincoteague Island during your stay, it is 46 miles to the north.
How to get there
The town is along the seaside portion of the Eastern Shore of VA peninsula, or the east side of Route US13. If you are traveling from the Virginia Beach, VA area, you are 75 miles away, or 1 hour and 30 minutes from Wachapreague.
If you have never traveled on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, just know that US13 is the main highway going north and south. It has dual lanes throughout the entire stretch, so traffic is not much of an issue.
For visitors starting out to the north or at the Maryland state line, your travel time will be just over 40 minutes or 33 miles to reach Wachapreague.
Flounder Capital of the World
Wachapreague is a major attraction for anglers from all parts of the United States. Due to its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, as well as being protected by barrier islands, it is home to amazing fishing.
As you put your boat in the water at the Wachapreague Town Marina, the Atlantic Ocean is just 5 miles away. The waterway is protected by Swash Bay and Bradford Bay, as well as Parramore Island.
The spring flounder season is a really big event here. This year (2023) marks Capt. Zed’s 32nd Annual Spring Flounder Tournament. The top prize is over $5000! If flounder fishing is your forte,’ here is the link to this exciting fishing tournament.
How many marinas are located in Wachapreague Virginia?
There are three marinas located in town. They are all located within a few blocks of each other.
- Wachapreague Marina – located at 15 Atlantic Ave
- Island House Marina & Trident Tackle – located at 17 Atlantic Avenue
- Town Marina – Port of Wachapreague – located at 32 Atlantic Avenue
Places to eat
While you need to grab some grub before heading out for the day, there are a handful of local eateries that have you covered.
Wachapreague General Store & Deli
This little gem of a store has everything you need to fill refuel your belly and get on with your day. The Wachapreague General Store & Deli features made-to-order breakfast and lunch, plenty of cold beverages, as well as some grocery staples to get you by.
During the summer season, you will find them open each day. Hours may be limited during the winter. Just know if the fish are biting, they’re open.
Debbie’s Market
Located at the Island House Marina and Trident Tackle Shop, Debbie’s Market serves breakfast, lunch, hot and cold beverages, and fishing bait. They also carry a small selection of toiletries and household items.
Island House Restaurant
For fine dining and fresh catch entrees, the Island House Restaurant has you covered. They specialize in fresh local seafood, certified Angus beef burgers, and delicious prime rib.
The Wachapreague Inn Restaurant features an award-winning dining experience and memorable atmosphere. The restaurant is located on the Wachapreague waterfront, providing a stunning waterfront view and Virginia barrier islands.
Wachapreague Beaches
When it comes to local beaches, there are several popular destinations just a few miles away from the marinas. Most of these seaside destinations are accessible by boat only, with the exception of Burtons.
- Parramore Beach
- Cedar Island Beach
- Little Beach
- Burtons Shore Beach
Things to do
Wachapreague offers a variety of activities throughout the year, including fishing tournaments and outdoor activities. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience, so pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden Eastern Shore treasure!
Easter Egg Hunt from the Easter Bunny
What better way to kick off Easter than by getting your family involved in the hunt?
The Easter Egg Hunt is held each year at Powell Park, bringing local families together for a great time.
Annual Spring Flounder Tournament
The Annual Spring Flounder Tournament is a great way to spend the weekend, featuring cash payouts and prizes including a $5000 top prize and $1000 for second place.
Fireman’s Carnival
The annual Fireman’s Carnival is a tradition that locals love to attend. It’s famous for its clam, oyster, and crab sandwiches.
Nightly bingo, carnival rides, and local entertainment round out this event that has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike!
Open nightly Wednesday through Saturday from 7:00 pm until 10:30 pm. Carnival usually runs from the middle of June through the first week of July.
July 4th Parade
Join the fun! The July 4th parade is a must-see for the whole family. The parade, which runs down Main Street to Atlantic Avenue, features golf carts, bikes, pets, firetrucks, coast guard boats, and whatever shows up to have fun.
Pumpkin Carving Contest
The Wachapreague General Store hosts an annual pumpkin carving contest. Local children and adults get to show out their skills and win gift cards, ice cream, or other prizes.
Oyster Roast
The Oyster Roast features live music and a whole lot of fun! Proceeds benefit The Navy Seal Foundation. They’ll be serving up oysters, clams, pulled pork, and all the fixings.
This event is held on the first Saturday of November.
Fishing Charters
Wachapreagu opens the doors to exceptional fishing experiences along the East Coast. Here, anglers reel in various species such as yellowfin, bluefin and big eye tuna, wahoo, and dolphin, as well as mako and thresher sharks.
The nearby canyons offer an adrenaline-pumping adventure with white and blue marlin. The in-shore and near-shore waters teem with diverse catches including flounder, seabass, tautog, bluefish, rockfish, and speckled trout.
Charters are available here. It’s a great way to discover what Wachapreague fishing opportunities have to offer.
Here are a few local fishing charters to check out:
- Teaser Sport Fishing
- Daytrippers
Weather
It is usually warm and cozy with temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 90s, making it perfect for a day to wet a line or walk along a beach. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
Summer here is also known for its higher humidity levels. However, there is always some breeze coming off the ocean, so the heat is typically not intense.
During late fall and most of the winter, temperatures can range from the low 30s to the high 40s. It can get chilly outside, but it is usually quite bearable.
Local Tide Charts
If you’re planning on spending your day near or on the water, it’s always important to check the latest tide forecast. This will inform you about the possible tides and tides in the next few days.
Places to stay
Rentals
Wachapreague Inn Apartments
Are you traveling with a large group or family, and want to stay together? Wachapreague Inn Apartments has 2 units available for parties of up to 6.
Teasers Fishing Lodge
Are you looking for a unique lodging experience while in town? Consider Teaser Fishing Lodge. It provides a peaceful and affordable option near the water for your stay in Wachapreague.
West End House
The West End House is located on Main Street, just a few blocks from the marinas. It includes the use of bikes so you can explore the area, daily housekeeping, and free breakfast.
Hotels
Wachapreague Inn
Located in the heart of Wachapreague and just across the street from the marinas, the Wachapregue Inn features several lodging arrangements to meet your needs.
The Inn has 21 rooms available, so supply is limited during the summer months.
FAQs
Yes. A variety of cold beverages are available, including beer, in the stores near the marina.
Based on the latest census data, there are 230 residents of this community.
The distance from Ocean City to Wachapreague is 74 miles or 1.5 hours of driving time. If you are in Wachapreague, the distance to Ocean City or Virginia Beach is the same.
Population
As of 2021, the population is 254.
Zip Code
The zip code is 23480.
Hope you enjoyed our Wachapreague VA Travel Guide. Be sure to leave a comment below. Thank you!
