Fun Things to Do in Chincoteague | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Chincoteague Travel Guide
Quick overview of Chincoteague with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Chincoteague Travel Videos
- Plan Chincoteague Trip
- Things To Do In Chincoteague
- Tours And Activities In Chincoteague
- Best Time To Visit Chincoteague
- Flight Calendar For Chincoteague
- Best Areas To Stay In Chincoteague
- Hotels Map Of Chincoteague
- Transportation To Chincoteague
- Nearby Destinantion From Chincoteague
Welcome to Chincoteague, a charming island town located on the eastern shore of Virginia. Known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and rich history, Chincoteague offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. This picturesque destination is famous for its annual Pony Swim, where wild ponies swim across the channel from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island. Visitors can also explore the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, home to a diverse range of bird species and other wildlife. With its quaint downtown area, delicious seafood restaurants, and breathtaking sunsets, Chincoteague is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.
Chincoteague Travel Videos
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Things To Do In Chincoteague
Chincoteague offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main things to do in Chincoteague is to explore the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers hiking and biking trails for visitors to enjoy. Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the refuge, as it is a habitat for many species of birds.
Another highlight of Chincoteague is the annual Pony Swim. This event takes place in July and involves wild ponies swimming from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island. Visitors can watch this spectacle and even participate in the pony auction that follows.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Chincoteague Island History Museum is a must. This museum showcases the rich history of the island, including its fishing and oystering traditions. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance which features local artwork and exhibitions.
Chincoteague is also known for its beaches. Assateague Island National Seashore offers miles of pristine sandy beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and relax. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular water activities in the area.
Additionally, Chincoteague offers charter fishing trips for those who enjoy angling. Visitors can book a fishing excursion and try their luck at catching striped bass, flounder, or bluefish.
Lastly, shopping and dining are also popular things to do in Chincoteague. The downtown area is filled with boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. Visitors can explore the local shops and indulge in delicious seafood dishes.
Tours And Activities In Chincoteague
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Best Time To Visit Chincoteague
The best time to visit Chincoteague is during the spring and fall seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as beachcombing, birdwatching, and biking. Additionally, spring is the time when the famous Chincoteague Pony Swim takes place, which is a must-see event for visitors. Fall is also a great time to visit as it offers beautiful foliage and the opportunity to witness the annual migration of various bird species. However, it is important to note that Chincoteague can get quite crowded during these peak seasons, so it is advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
Flight Calendar For Chincoteague
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Chincoteague.
Best Areas To Stay In Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a beautiful coastal town located in Virginia. It offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Chincoteague:
1. Downtown Chincoteague: This area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. It is home to numerous hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Staying in downtown Chincoteague allows easy access to the town's charming shops, restaurants, and attractions.
2. Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge: Nature enthusiasts will love staying near the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. This area offers a range of accommodations, including campgrounds and cabins. It provides a unique opportunity to be surrounded by the refuge's diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
3. Assateague Island: For beach lovers, staying on Assateague Island is a must. This area offers stunning oceanfront accommodations, including hotels and vacation rentals. It is the perfect place to relax on the beach, go for a swim, or explore the island's famous wild ponies.
4. Waterside: If you prefer a waterfront experience, consider staying in the Waterside area. This neighborhood offers accommodations with picturesque views of the Chincoteague Bay. It is a peaceful and serene location, ideal for those seeking a tranquil getaway.
5. Pony Swim Area: Every year, Chincoteague hosts the famous Pony Swim event. Staying in the Pony Swim area allows you to be close to all the action. This area offers a range of accommodations, including hotels and vacation rentals, and provides easy access to the event and other attractions.
Overall, Chincoteague offers a variety of accommodation options in different areas, catering to various preferences. Whether you want to be in the heart of downtown, surrounded by nature, or near the beach, there is a perfect place for you to stay in Chincoteague.
Hotels Map Of Chincoteague
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Chincoteague.
Transportation To Chincoteague
There are several transportation options to Chincoteague.
1. By Air: The nearest major airport is Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY), located about 45 miles away from Chincoteague. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach Chincoteague.
2. By Train: The closest Amtrak train station is in Salisbury, Maryland, which is approximately 45 miles away from Chincoteague. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach your destination.
3. By Bus: Greyhound and other bus companies provide service to nearby cities such as Salisbury or Ocean City. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Chincoteague.
4. By Car: Chincoteague is accessible by car via Route 13, which runs along the Eastern Shore of Virginia. If you are coming from a farther distance, you can take Interstate 95 or other major highways to reach Route 13.
5. By Ferry: There is a ferry service operated by the Chincoteague Island Ferry that connects Chincoteague to the mainland. The ferry departs from the town of Greenbackville, Virginia, and takes passengers and vehicles across the Chincoteague Bay to Chincoteague Island.
Please note that availability and schedules may vary, so it is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date information.
Nearby Destination From Chincoteague
1. Assateague Island: A beautiful barrier island known for its wild ponies and pristine beaches.
2. Ocean City: A popular beach resort town with a lively boardwalk and vibrant nightlife.
3. Salisbury: A historic city with charming architecture, museums, and a thriving arts scene.
4. Pocomoke City: A small town nestled along the Pocomoke River, offering outdoor recreational activities and a quaint downtown area.
5. Snow Hill: A picturesque town known for its well-preserved historic district and scenic river views.
6. Onancock: A waterfront town with a charming downtown area, art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants.
7. Crisfield: A waterfront community famous for its seafood industry and access to the Chesapeake Bay.
8. Princess Anne: A historic town with beautiful Victorian architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
9. Berlin: A charming small town known for its vibrant arts scene, antique shops, and picturesque Main Street.
10. Cambridge: A waterfront city with a rich maritime history, beautiful parks, and a vibrant downtown area.