Chincoteague Island, VA

Discover Your Love of CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE, COASTAL CUISINE, HISTORY & WILD PONIES ARE A ROAD TRIP AWAY

Winding across the fivemile causeway to our secluded little paradise island, it is clear to see how Chincoteague Island received the moniker, “Beautiful Land Across the Water.” The vibrant colors of every season and unique sounds of over 300 species of birds and waterfowl in the wetlands welcome the weary traveler into our peaceful village where everything moves at a quieter pace. Southern hospitality awaits in a land miles away from ordinary, as the marshland gives way to the Atlantic Ocean and you find yourself in nature’s playground.

World renowned for our ninetyseven-year history of the wild pony roundup, swim, and auction, we are

also widely known for our pristine beaches, miles of nature trails and waterways to explore by kayak or chartered cruise, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, fishing, crabbing, and even rocket launches. On nearby Wallops Island, home of NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility, Electron rockets fulfill deep space missions and sounding rockets conduct scientific research. Chincoteague Island offers several launch viewing locations for the space lover, as numerous missions are scheduled throughout the year.

Drive, bike, or walk from Chincoteague Island to Assateague Island, VA, home of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island National Seashore. Hike or bike nature trails while searching for wildlife, world-famous Chincoteague Ponies, and migratory birds as they travel the Atlantic Flyway in the spring and fall. Visit the majestic Assateague Lighthouse here, too, with its bold red and white stripes. The natural and pristine beach offers hours of enjoyment on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to surf, swim, surf fish, and beachcomb. Outdoor adventure to tranquil relaxation can all be found here.

Culinary roots run deep in the rich and abundant oyster and clam shoals surrounding Chincoteague Island, making them, along with blue crabs, a favored fare any month of the year. The catch of the day from local waters can be rockfish, flounder, drum, shark, or tuna, depending on the season. Aqua farms produce delectable bivalves in the salty waters of Toms Cove. Eat for dinner what was growing in the water just a few hours earlier. It doesn’t get any fresher than that for the exceptional farm-to-table experience! Complemented by Eastern Shore grown veggies, your true coastal meal is complete. Top off your dining experience with homemade ice cream or soft-serve deliciousness at one of our premier ice cream shops!

Partake in island events throughout the year, including a spring Seafood Festival and award-winning fall Oyster Festival (celebrating 50 years in 2023), showcasing local, coastal cuisine. The Easter Decoy & Art Festival features local decoy carvers and artisans telling their stories through wood carvings, sea glass, pottery, fine oils, acrylics and more. Their talent comes steeped in tradition and captures the essence of coastal life. Concerts, movies, community theater, classes, programs, and lectures fill the calendar to fully immerse in the culture.

Unique galleries, boutiques, specialty shops, and bookstores provide retail therapy while museums and walking tours offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history. Carefully crafted itineraries and self-guided tours await enjoyment. A variety of wonderful accommodations promises the perfect space to rest and rejuvenate, so more memories can be made once the sun rises.

Experience the history, legend, and natural beauty of Chincoteague Island’s serene fishing village located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. This small island will take you away to another time - a time where the pace is slower, the fun is simpler, and the memories are priceless!

You’ll LOVE where they take you! Plan your 2023 vacation getaway at VisitCIVA.com