Even though there's so much to do in Chincoteague, here are some of our favorites, in no particular order. Looking for a little bit more detail or ideas?
1) Try The Local Food
Chincoteague is home to some of the best fresh seafood in the country! From finger-licking crab feasts to wood smoked BBQ, there's a little something for everyone! We recommend checking out some of Chincoteague's ice cream parlors for a real treat to beat the heat!
2) Explore Our Natural Resources
There are so many different ways to take in the natural beauty of Chincoteague! You could rent a bike or hike along wilderness trails- we recommend the Wildlife Refuge. The Seaside Water Trail is fun as well, you can check out kayak & canoe rentals here. The 14,000 acre Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge also provides an incredible setting for exploring the beach, dunes, marsh, forest, and more.
3) Take a Fishing Charter or Guided Hunting Trip
For those more serious about fishing or hunting, these are some of the local favorites for hunting guides and fishing charters. There are plenty of different hunting & fishing packages to choose from, so make sure to take your time when deciding what works best for you!
4) Go Shopping!
What's a vacation without a little retail therapy? Rain or shine, it's always a good time to explore all of the great shopping in Chincoteague! From small local art boutiques to salons, bookstores and specialty shops, Chincoteague has something to offer every shopper.
5) See the Ponies
Chincoteague is known around the world for their ponies and annual Pony Penning and Carnival, which takes place every July. If you're here during the month of July, check out the full calendar of events.
6) Take a Guided Boat Tour
Scenic Boat Cruises through the Chincoteague and Assateague Channels provide opportunities for bird watching, pony watching, or just relaxing while watching the sun set over the islands. This is one of our favorite ways to take in the natural beauty of Chincoteague!
7) Birding and Wildlife Photography
Are you a lover of photography and nature? Chincoteague is the perfect place to be! Our 14,000 acre Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge will keep you occupied for weeks! You just might be able snap a shot of one of the 300 different species of migratory birds who spend part of the year here. Some of the birds you might see include: snow geese, waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, and song birds.
8) Catch a Gorgeous Sunrise Or Sunset
Enjoy breathtaking sunrises from Veteran's Memorial Park on East Side Drive or venture over to watch the view on Assateague Beach. Our beautiful sunsets can be viewed at the Robert Reed Waterfront Park on Main Street in Historic Downtown or the Donald J. Leonard Waterfront Park across from Chincoteague Combined School.
9) Explore NASA
See a rocket launch for yourself or visit the NASA Visitor Center to get your astronomical fix! Be sure to check out our best rocket viewing sites on Wallops, Chincoteague & Assateague Islands at the bottom of our NASA guide.
10) Check Out The Museums
Who said you can't learn something while on vacation? These museums cover everything from local history to artifacts from trains and railroads left behind since the mid-1800's.
11) Experience The Local Festivals
The Chincoteague Blueberry Festival is held each July and is the largest fine arts & crafts event on Virginia's East cost, making it a must for art and blueberry lovers alike. Art not your thing? Check out the Chincoteague Oyster Festival in October or the Chincoteague Seafood Festival in May. In town during the holidays? Check out our Chincoteague Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade in early December and the Easter Decoy & Art Festival, which is always held the Friday & Saturday of Easter weekend.
Still Looking For Things To Do In Chincoteague?
Take a look at some of our self guided tours and pre-made itineraries which focus on Misty and the Chincoteague Ponies, History, Culinary Delights, and our Small Town Charm or take a themed guided tour.
