About Us

Chincoteague Island seven miles long and three miles wide is a small, family-oriented vacation distention along the coast of Virginia. Visitors to the island can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, clamming, bird watching, nature cruises, eco tours, biking, hiking, boating, kayaking, shopping, miniature golf, Chincoteague ponies, the pony swim, fireman's carnival, Chincoteague decoy and art show, Chincoteague Center's arts and crafts show, the oyster festival and more. The island is known for its quaint shops and art galleries.

Located within minutes of Chincoteague is Assateague Island, which is occupied by Assateague National Sea Shore which offers miles of pristine beach on the east coast. And Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge which is one of the most popular refuges in the United States, especially among bird watchers.

Assategue's wild ponies are the property of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. The "saltwater cowboys" round up the horses annually during the Pony Penning on the last Wednesday and Thursday of July. The ponies are driven across a narrow part of the Assateague Channel at slack tide on Wednesday, corralled and auctioned off on Thursday. The children's book Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry made the event famous.

The Refuge offers miles of nature trails that are perfect for hiking and bicycling. The lighthouse trail leads up a hill to the Assateague lighthouse. This is a short hike with a spectacular view at the top. The lighthouse sometimes features tours and other events.

Not to be missed the Herbert H. Bateman and Administrative Center. This state-of-the-art facility boasts 5,000 square feet of exhibits, a 150 seat auditorium, and a classroom/wet lab. The center is characterized by "green architecture" and is fun and educational for families and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Beautifully landscaped and skillfully interpreted, the facility is one of a kind where people and wildlife meet.

Visitors will find miles of unspoiled beaches and friendly people. Yet only a three hour drive from Washington DC.