Waterfront Escapes: Chincoteague & Assateague Islands

Downtown streetscape of Chincoteague, Virginia

Boutiques, eateries, and art galleries line historic downtown Chincoteague (pronounced shink-a-teeg), while unspoiled surrounds await on the neighboring 37-mile-long barrier island of Assateague, shared by Maryland to the north and Virginia on the southern end. “The beaches of Assateague Island offer a unique experience, as they exist primarily in an undeveloped setting,” says Michael Dixon, visitor services and outreach supervisor at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Brown Chincoteague pony and yellow flowers

In addition to providing sanctuary for the famous ponies, the refuge protects and manages about 14,000 acres of Assateague’s sand dunes, salt marshes, and maritime forest in partnership with the National Park Service. Along with waterside recreation and trail hiking, bird-watching ranks high among popular activities.