Chincoteague Island, VA: February 7, 2025: The 2025 Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce & Certified Visitor Center Visitor's Guide is now available and has been distributed worldwide to help you plan your memorable Chincoteague Island getaway. This informative 48-page guide celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Chincoteague Pony Roundup, Swim, and Auction and is the perfect resource to choose accommodation and dining options, recreational activities, culinary experiences, shopping opportunities, and events to enjoy. A map including points of interest is located in the center as a convenient pull out for hiking and biking adventures and a comprehensive directory listing of all chamber members is located in the back of the guide for easy reference when looking for business services.
Nestled along Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Chincoteague Island is a breathtaking coastal paradise that offers an unforgettable getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in a charming seaside setting. Whether you are drawn by the world-famous Chincoteague Ponies, family-friendly atmosphere, pristine beaches, or delicious coastal cuisine, Chincoteague is a destination that has something for everyone.
Chincoteague Island is the gateway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island National Seashore; home to 14,000 acres of sandy beaches, scenic hiking and biking trails, and an incredible array of wildlife. From sunrise to sunset, explore miles of unspoiled coastline, perfect for beachcombing, swimming, surfing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the fresh ocean breeze.
One of the island’s biggest draws is the famous herd of wild Chincoteague Ponies, named the Official Pony of the Commonwealth of Virginia in 2023. Visitors can catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures grazing on the refuge or experience the annual Pony Swim & Auction, held the last Wednesday and Thursday in July, a beloved local tradition that draws thousands each summer.
From kayaking through serene salt marsh waterways to biking along picturesque trails, Chincoteague and Assateague Islands offer endless outdoor activities. Boat tours led by knowledgeable captains offer an opportunity to learn about island history and see the ponies in their natural habitat, dolphins in the surf, and bald eagles perched high atop the refuge trees. Cast your line in ocean and bay waters abundant with rockfish, drum, flounder, and other species of fish as you enjoy a day of surf, inland, or offshore fishing.
Our sister island to the west is home to NASA Wallops Flight Facility where corporate and defense contractors offer various services for aerospace customers. Rocket launches happen throughout the year and can be easily viewed from several locations on Chincoteague Island.
No trip to Chincoteague is complete without indulging in its fresh local coastal cuisine. From fine dining with a casual flare to eateries and food trucks, you can enjoy world-famous Chincoteague 'Salts' oysters, clams, succulent crab cakes, and the fresh catch of the day. Festivals like the Chincoteague Seafood and Oyster Festivals are another fun way to enjoy our local harvest. Our community calendar is filled with all the details on festivals, programs, and events, both big and small, to make your visit special.
Our quaint downtown with waterfront park featuring oversized LOVE chairs is perfect for sunset viewing, and family photo ops. Unique shops and eclectic galleries offer some much-needed retail therapy and the opportunity to find that perfect memento of your island getaway. Pamper yourself with a massage or relaxation room and enjoy conversation over a flavorful cup of coffee or delicious ice cream treat. Whether you stay in a cozy bed & breakfast, waterfront rental, charming hotel or motel, or prefer the camping life, you will feel right at home and reenergized for another day in the "Beautiful Land Across the Water".
Request a print guide today online or call the Chamber office at 757-336-6161. If you prefer to view online, the digital version is available at ChincoteagueChamber.com, the official tourism website of Chincoteague Island. It offers unique search and sharing features and is compatible across all platforms. Upcoming events, interactive map, planned and customizable itineraries, and detailed trolley route are always at your fingertips with the Chincoteague App, which is a free download for Apple and Android users.
The Chincoteague Island Visitor's Guide is placed in all Virginia Welcome Centers, numerous AAA offices and visitor centers in many mid-Atlantic states, at travel, wedding, and motor coach shows along the east coast, in the I-95 Delaware Welcome Centers, and in select Pennsylvania Turnpike Travel Plazas.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Chincoteague Island is the perfect destination. Come for the day or stay the week and experience the magic for yourself. Come Discover your love of Chincoteague Island!
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