Chincoteague

Travel Guide
Chincoteague which includes general coastal views
Browse unique shops, see wild ponies and bike along beautiful trails in this charming island town.

Chincoteague, also known as Chincoteague Island, is a long barrier island with quaint inns, excellent restaurants and wonderful natural scenery. Located on the Virginia Eastern Shore, the town is best known for its Chincoteague ponies, which are led across the channel from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island in an annual swim. Eat fresh oysters, discover interesting museums and embark on scenic hikes in the nearby wildlife refuge.

You may recognize Chincoteague as the setting of Marguerite Henry's children's book Misty of Chincoteague, which was later made into a movie. Published in 1947, the book was inspired by a real pony named Misty. Look for the bronze statue of Misty on Main Street. Plan your visit in late July to watch the famous yearly pony swim.

Take a guided boat cruise or go kayaking in Chincoteague Bay and look for dolphins swimming in the water. When you’re ready for a break, dine at one of the town’s many fine seafood restaurants. Try meals that include oysters, blue crabs or clams, all area specialties.

Head to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge to explore more than 14,000 acres (5,700 hectares) of pristine beaches, marshes and forests. Stretching across the southern third of Assateague Island, directly off Chincoteague Island, the refuge provides a habitat for hundreds of different species. Walk along the 3-mile (5-kilometer) self-guided wildlife loop, looking for wild ponies, snowy egrets, blue herons and the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel.

Climb to the top of Assateague Island Lighthouse for wonderful views over Chincoteague. Built in 1833, this 142-foot-tall (43-meter) lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and still functions as a navigational light. See the lighthouse’s original lens at the Museum of Chincoteague, which is dedicated to the island’s history. View models of historic fishing vessels and old tools once used in the oyster trade.

Chincoteague is located south of the Maryland-Virginia line, across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Washington, D.C. Enjoy your escape to this laid-back resort island.

Where to stay in Chincoteague

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Piney Island

While visiting Piney Island, you might make a stop by sights like Maui Jack's Waterpark and Museum of Chincoteague.

Piney Island
Comfort Suites Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort
Comfort Suites Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort
2.5 out of 5
4195 Main St, Chincoteague, VA
The price is RM559 per night from 14 Apr to 15 Apr
RM559
per night
14 Apr - 15 Apr
Stay at this hotel in Chincoteague. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,008 reviews)
"From check in to check out, this was an amazing experience. One of the best experiences at a hotel we’ve ever had. The check in was smooth, the room was extremely clean and comfortable, and every one of the staff greeted us and made us feel welcome."

Reviewed on 24 Mar 2024

Comfort Suites Chincoteague Island Bayfront Resort
Key West Cottages
Key West Cottages
3 out of 5
4251 Main Street, Chincoteague, VA
The price is RM780 per night from 31 Mar to 1 Apr
RM780
per night
31 Mar - 1 Apr
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Chincoteague. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (210 reviews)
"Such a new feeling!"

Reviewed on 18 Mar 2024

Key West Cottages
Refuge Inn
Refuge Inn
3 out of 5
7058 Maddox Blvd., Chincoteague, VA
The price is RM592 per night from 7 Apr to 8 Apr
RM592
per night
7 Apr - 8 Apr
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Chincoteague. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,001 reviews)
"Really like the establishment, it was had nice indoor pool and found the hotel warm and inviting. I like the bath soaps and decorations throughout the place."

Reviewed on 11 Mar 2024

Refuge Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Key West Cottages
Key West Cottages
3 out of 5
4251 Main Street, Chincoteague, VA
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Chincoteague. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (210 reviews)
"Such a new feeling!"

Reviewed on 18 Mar 2024

Key West Cottages
Blufin Bungalows & Marina
Blufin Bungalows & Marina
3 out of 5
2477 Main St, Chincoteague, VA
Stay at this 3-star vacation home in Chincoteague. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Chincoteague Channel and Assateague ...
Blufin Bungalows & Marina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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