Chincoteague Island Virginia: Assateague Beaches, Pony Swim & More

Chincoteague Island is a beautiful island located in the Eastern Shore of Virginia. It is a combination of natural beauty with small-town hospitality which is known for wild ponies, unspoiled beaches, fresh seafood etc. It provides a traditional coastal experience than other places in Virginia. If one has deep interest in tourism, outdoor experiences and wildlife viewing opportunities, then Chincoteague is considered as a peaceful destination for travel.

The main attractions of this place are Ponies which roam freely near Assateague Island. Maritime forests, salt marshes, and migratory birds are also found here. If you want to feel natural beauty and rich heritage. Then, Chincoteague Island is best for planning your trip.

History of Chincoteague Island

Chincoteague island has a rich and layered history made by Native American heritage, colonial expansion, maritime industries etc. ‘Chincoteague’ name is derived from a native american word which means ‘A Beautiful Land across Water’. This island was a place of native american tribes which also includes Algonquian speaking peoples before the arrival of European. They relied on hunting, fishing and shellfish harvesting in the coastal areas and bays.

In 1608, John smith, english explorer brought european attention to this area by mapping parts of Eastern shores of Virginia. During the 17th century, it was not properly settled. They depend on grazing and farming only. But, by the 18th century, residents shifted their way of living to fishing and oystering.

During the 19th century, it became famous for its oysters. By the 20th century, it became a tourism spot which helped to update the local economy. In 1943, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge was established which helped in preserving the natural environment of the Island. Now, it has become a popular destination for vacation which balances its heritage as a working waterfront community. Its history reflects a deep connection between land and sea which defines the Island’s character.

Assateague Island & Wildlife

This Island is located 37 miles from Virginia to Maryland. This place is known for wild horses, pristine white-sand beaches and also for coastal habitat. Most of the Maryland district is under the National Park Service. The Virginia district is under the U.S. Fish & Wildlife service for management. Assateague has become a tourist place where visitors come to relax from their daily life routine. According to research, over 1 million visitors come annually to Assateague.

Assateague Island is famous for its Ponies which are seen on the beaches, marshes, grazing on grasses. Around 300 species of birds are also found here. Great blue herons, piping plovers, snowy owls, ospreys, peregrine falcons etc. are some of the birds found on the land of Assateague. Visitors may also see dolphins and crabs near the surrounding water of the Island.

The Famous Chincoteague Ponies

Chincoteague ponies are stocky, having short legs, thick manes and large-round bellies. Around 150 ponies live on the Virginia side and 80 ponies live on the Maryland side. There are two different agencies for managing herds of ponies that are Assateague Island National Seashore & Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Assateague island’s environment is harsh for Ponies. To sustain themselves from this environment, ponies eat almost all day just to get proper nutrition. Ponies mainly eat saltwater cord grass in which salt content is high. They drink water twice as compared to normal horses to manage the salt of the cord grass. Because of their salty diet, their bellies look swollen. Due to this, they are generally smaller than normal horses. Each year, Virginia organises Pony Swim, which is known all over the world. During this event, Ponies swim across the Assateague channel to Chincoteague Island. This event is part of ‘Pony Penning day’.

Things to do on Chincoteague Island

Chincoteague Island is a great coastal place which is widely known for its ponies and clean beaches. Here are some other activities also mentioned that visitors may experience in Chincoteague.

• Wildlife Refuge: Visitors may enjoy by watching ponies and migratory birds. Herons, egrets can also be seen using binoculars.

• Chincoteague Pony Swim: If you are visiting in July, you must see a World famous event. A unique tradition where thousands of Ponies swim across the water channel .

• Water Activities: Swimming, Kayaking are some of the ways one can enjoy its vacation in Chincoteague.

• Assateague Beach: A large sandy beach is good for swimming, shell collecting or just sitting near the beach.

• Visit Museum of Chincoteague Island: To learn about the Island’s history, culture & heritage, one should visit the local museum.

• Biking: To explore the Island through riding, biking is the best way. Rental Bikes are easily available.

From wildlife views to beach experience and fresh seafood, Chincoteague Island provides a fantastic combination of natural beauty and heritage which keeps people to visit again and again because of its beauty.

Best Time to Visit Chincoteague Island

Late spring to early fall is considered as the best time to visit here. During late spring, it is considered the best time for the birdwatchers. There are many migratory birds and different types of bird species present which are the main attractions of Chincoteague island. Bald eagles and peregrine falcons are some of the birds which one can see during springs.

In summer, the highest numbers of tourists come to visit Chincoteague Island. Pony Swim is the main attraction of Summers which attracts tourists to visit Chincoteague. This season is known best for sunset view and night time kayaking tours. It gives a unique experience of the island’s wildlife to tourists. If one loves to see ponies, early morning time is best for pony view.

In Fall, crowds are less, hotels and lodges rate decreases, and the weather gets cooler. It is also another best time to visit Chincoteague Island. One can enjoy with their families and friends by sitting in fresh air, sunny days and also having campfires.

Where to Stay on Chincoteague?

Chincoteague Island provides a large variety of lodges and hotels. They provide shady campgrounds to luxury rooms with three times meals also. Many of the hotels provide heated pools and fitness centres also. Apart from this, many of the lodges also provides convenient access to local attractions, shopping and also restaurants. Here are some of the top rated hotels which provide large variety of facilities with great infrastructure:

• Comfort Suites Chincoteague
• Refuge Inn
• Miss Molly’s Inn Bed & Breakfast
• The lighthouse Inn
• Seashell Motel
• Channel Bass Inn and Restaurant

Dining on Chincoteague Island

Some restaurants near the Island provide seafood, crab feasts, tasty breakfasts, and snacks. Oysters, clams, and crabs are the main dishes of many restaurants. Many restaurants also provide gourmet sandwiches, and wood smoked barbeques. Here are some of the top restaurants which offers delicious food:

• Bill’s PRIME Seafood & Steaks
• AJ’s on the Creek
• The Ropewalk
• Don’s Seafood Restaurant
• Blackfin Island Grill & Tapas Lounge

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Chincoteague island is known for its ponies, beaches and sea-foods. If you are coming for the first time, don’t miss to watch the ponies. They roam freely on the nearby Assateague Island National Seashore & best time to watch them is early morning. Keep binoculars with yourselves and keep a safe distance with them.

Beaches are also the main attractions of this island because they are clean, less crowded and natural too. Keep sunscreen cream, shades and a large amount of water with yourselves. You may also rent bikes for exploring Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. It is also perfect for exploring birds and deers. You must try local seafood which includes oysters, blue crabs etc.

The best season to visit the Island is late spring and summer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chincoteague is a peaceful destination for vacation. If you are planning to visit in the upcoming year. Then, you must plan your trip during Pony Swim which may give you a beautiful experience. In this content, we’ve tried to cover all the important doubts about this place. This trip may give you a beautiful experience in your life.